Travel tips from your Plane Jane
Guide

Can I Upgrade My Alaska Lounge Membership? The Ultimate Guide To Vip Access

Jane is the creator and editor of Plane Jane Trips, a website dedicated to sharing travel tips and tricks for air travel on a budget. With over 15 years of experience planning affordable getaways, Jane loves helping fellow travelers save money while still enjoying memorable vacations.

What To Know

  • Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore the benefits of lounge access, upgrading your Alaska lounge membership can elevate your airport experience.
  • The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card and the Alaska Airlines Business Visa Signature® credit card both offer Alaska Lounge+ Membership as a cardholder benefit.
  • Yes, you can access Alaska Lounges with a partner airline ticket if you have an Alaska Lounge+ Membership or elite status.

As an Alaska Airlines frequent flyer, you may have enjoyed the comfort and convenience of Alaska’s airport lounges. But what if you’re looking to elevate your lounge experience even further? The question “can I upgrade my Alaska lounge membership?” is common among travelers seeking enhanced benefits and exclusive perks.

Membership Tiers

Alaska Airlines offers two lounge membership tiers:

  • Alaska Lounge+ Membership: Provides access to Alaska Lounges at select airports.
  • Alaska Lounge+ Premium Membership: Includes all the benefits of Alaska Lounge+ Membership, plus access to exclusive Premium Lounges at select airports.

Upgrade Options

1. Purchase Alaska Lounge+ Premium Membership:

The most straightforward way to upgrade is to purchase an Alaska Lounge+ Premium Membership. It costs $600 per year and grants access to Premium Lounges, which offer a more premium experience with amenities such as upgraded food and beverage offerings, dedicated workspaces, and private restrooms.

2. Elite Status:

Alaska Airlines elite status members automatically receive complimentary Alaska Lounge+ Premium Membership. Elite status is achieved by earning a certain number of miles or segments flown within a calendar year. The higher your elite status, the more benefits you’ll enjoy, including lounge access.

3. Credit Card:

Some Alaska Airlines credit cards, such as the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card, offer Alaska Lounge+ Membership as a cardholder benefit. These cards typically have an annual fee, but they may provide additional perks like mileage bonuses and priority boarding.

Benefits of Upgrading

Upgrading to Alaska Lounge+ Premium Membership offers several benefits:

  • Access to Premium Lounges: Enjoy exclusive lounges with enhanced amenities, including upgraded food and beverage options, private workspaces, and premium restrooms.
  • Priority Boarding: Board the plane earlier with Zone 1 or Zone 2 boarding priority.
  • Complimentary Guest Passes: Bring a guest or family member into the lounge with you for free.
  • Exclusive Discounts: Receive discounts on Alaska Airlines flights, merchandise, and partner services.

Considerations

Before upgrading, consider the following factors:

  • Frequency of Travel: If you travel frequently and would use the lounge access regularly, upgrading may be a worthwhile investment.
  • Budget: Upgrading to Alaska Lounge+ Premium Membership comes with an annual fee of $600. Ensure it fits your budget before making a decision.
  • Alternative Lounges: Explore other lounge options at airports, such as Priority Pass lounges or airline-operated lounges. These may offer a more cost-effective way to access airport lounges.

In a nutshell: Enhancing Your Travel Experience

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting to explore the benefits of lounge access, upgrading your Alaska lounge membership can elevate your airport experience. With exclusive access to Premium Lounges and additional perks, you can enjoy a more comfortable and convenient journey.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. Can I upgrade my Alaska Lounge+ Membership for a single trip?

No, lounge membership upgrades are only available on an annual basis.

2. How do I purchase an Alaska Lounge+ Premium Membership?

You can purchase the membership online through Alaska Airlines‘ website or by calling their customer service line.

3. How can I earn Alaska Airlines elite status?

You can earn elite status by flying a certain number of miles or segments with Alaska Airlines or its partner airlines within a calendar year.

4. Which credit cards offer Alaska Lounge+ Membership?

The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card and the Alaska Airlines Business Visa Signature® credit card both offer Alaska Lounge+ Membership as a cardholder benefit.

5. Can I use guest passes to bring more than one guest into the lounge?

No, each guest pass is valid for one guest only.

6. Do I need to make a reservation to access the lounge?

No, you do not need to make a reservation. Simply present your lounge membership card or boarding pass at the lounge entrance.

7. Are there any blackout dates for lounge access?

Yes, there may be blackout dates during peak travel periods. Check Alaska Airlines’ website for specific dates.

8. Can I access Alaska Lounges with a partner airline ticket?

Yes, you can access Alaska Lounges with a partner airline ticket if you have an Alaska Lounge+ Membership or elite status.

9. What amenities are available in the Premium Lounges?

Premium Lounges offer upgraded food and beverage options, dedicated workspaces, private restrooms, and other exclusive perks.

10. Can I upgrade my Alaska Lounge+ Membership to a higher tier?

There is no higher tier than Alaska Lounge+ Premium Membership.

Was this page helpful?

Jane

Jane is the creator and editor of Plane Jane Trips, a website dedicated to sharing travel tips and tricks for air travel on a budget. With over 15 years of experience planning affordable getaways, Jane loves helping fellow travelers save money while still enjoying memorable vacations.
Back to top button