For frequent travelers, the Chase Sapphire Reserve offers more than just travel points and premium perks. One of the most valuable features bundled with the card is its complimentary Priority Pass Select membership. This benefit opens the doors to over 1,300 airport lounges around the world, providing a quieter and more comfortable environment than typical gate areas. From free food and drinks to showers and Wi-Fi, the Chase Sapphire Reserve Priority Pass benefit significantly enhances the travel experience, especially for those who spend considerable time in airports.
Understanding Priority Pass and Its Value
What is Priority Pass?
Priority Pass is a global network of airport lounges and experiences designed to make travel more enjoyable. Members gain access to a range of amenities, which can include:
- Complimentary snacks and beverages
- Free high-speed internet
- Comfortable seating areas
- Shower facilities (in select lounges)
- Quiet workspaces
- In some airports, credits at participating restaurants
This service is particularly beneficial for travelers facing long layovers, delays, or simply seeking a quieter place to relax or work before a flight.
Types of Priority Pass Memberships
Normally, Priority Pass offers several membership tiers ranging from Standard to Prestige, with annual fees varying from about $99 to $469. However, when you have a Chase Sapphire Reserve card, you receive the Priority Pass Select membership at no additional cost. This exclusive version includes unlimited access for the cardholder and up to two guests per visit.
How to Enroll in Priority Pass with Chase Sapphire Reserve
Steps for Activation
The Priority Pass membership is not automatically activated when you receive your Chase Sapphire Reserve card. To use this benefit, you must manually enroll through your Chase account.
- Log in to your Chase account.
- Navigate to the Ultimate Rewards section.
- Select your Chase Sapphire Reserve card.
- Find the Card Benefits menu and click Activate Priority Pass.
- Fill out the necessary information and confirm your request.
Once activated, your Priority Pass card will arrive by mail in about 12 weeks. You can also access your membership digitally via the Priority Pass app.
Digital Membership Card
After enrollment, you can download the Priority Pass app and log in using your membership credentials. This app lets you browse available lounges, view lounge details, and use a digital card for entry at most locations perfect if you don’t have your physical card on hand.
Where Can You Use Priority Pass?
Worldwide Lounge Access
Chase Sapphire Reserve Priority Pass members have access to lounges in major international airports, including those in cities like London, Tokyo, New York, Los Angeles, Paris, Singapore, and many others. Whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, chances are high there’s a lounge you can enter.
Dining and Retail Credit Locations
In addition to lounges, Priority Pass includes select airport restaurants where members can receive credits (typically $28$32 per person) toward meals. These credits can be used at participating locations in airports such as LAX, JFK, and DEN.
However, it’s worth noting that Chase began limiting restaurant access in 2019. As of now, Chase Sapphire Reserve Priority Pass memberships no longer include restaurant credit access. This makes it slightly less versatile compared to some other credit card Priority Pass programs that still allow this feature.
Guest Policy and Additional Access
Bringing Guests
With your complimentary Priority Pass Select membership from Chase Sapphire Reserve, you can bring up to two guests free of charge. Additional guests are typically charged a fee (usually $32 per person), which will appear on your Chase credit card statement if applicable.
Family and Business Travelers
This makes the Chase Sapphire Reserve an ideal card for those who travel with companions or family. You don’t need multiple memberships your Priority Pass account covers a small group with ease.
Limitations and Considerations
No Restaurant Credit
As mentioned earlier, Chase removed restaurant credits from the Priority Pass Select membership. If restaurant access is important to you, other premium cards like the Amex Platinum may still offer this feature.
Busy Lounges and Access Denied
Not all lounges guarantee entry. During peak travel times, especially at busy airports, lounges can restrict entry due to capacity. Having a Priority Pass doesn’t mean you’ll always get in, although many travelers report consistent success finding access.
Guest Restrictions May Vary
While two guests are generally allowed for free, some lounges may impose their own guest policies or restrict access altogether due to local rules or crowd control efforts.
Comparing Value to Annual Fee
Maximizing the $550 Annual Fee
The Chase Sapphire Reserve carries a $550 annual fee, which might seem steep at first glance. However, when you factor in:
- $300 annual travel credit
- Priority Pass lounge access
- Travel insurance and protections
- 3x points on travel and dining
- Points transfer to travel partners
It becomes clear that the lounge benefit alone can be worth hundreds of dollars annually for regular travelers. If you take even a few international or domestic trips per year, the Priority Pass Select membership can justify a significant portion of the fee.
Making the Most of Your Membership
Download the App
The Priority Pass app is incredibly helpful for finding lounges near your gate. It includes user reviews, photos, and operating hours, making it easier to plan your airport visit.
Arrive Early
To ensure access, arrive at the airport early especially in major hubs where lounges can fill up fast. This strategy increases your chances of getting in and lets you relax or work without stress.
Know Your Airport
Not every terminal may have a participating lounge. Knowing which terminal you’ll be departing from can help avoid long walks or missed access opportunities. Some lounges are after security, while others may be located landside (before going through security).
The Chase Sapphire Reserve Priority Pass benefit is a valuable asset for frequent travelers looking to enhance their airport experience. While the loss of restaurant credits has slightly limited its scope, the sheer number of lounges and convenience it provides still makes it one of the best credit card lounge programs available. When used strategically, it can provide hundreds of dollars’ worth of comfort, services, and travel satisfaction every year. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or even with family, having lounge access makes all the difference and the Chase Sapphire Reserve delivers on that promise.