An airport lounge provides a welcome sight for many. Its benefits can include free food and drink, space to work or relax, and often a private bathroom away from crowds.

Third-party lounges can be a helpful solution when you aren't flying to an airport with a specific credit card- or airline-affiliated lounge. The Club lounges are just that — and they're available in several airports around the U.S.

They're especially worth learning about since many credit cardholders have access to them without even realizing it.

What is a Club lounge?

In addition to airline-run and credit card-branded lounges — like the Centurion Lounge — The Club lounges are another type of lounge option for flyers.

Some airlines require you to be flying with them to gain access to their own lounges. If you're not, a third-party lounge like The Club lounge, accessible via credit card benefits like Priority Pass, can be invaluable during a long airport wait.

These lounges typically have open bars with complimentary snacks and drinks, including alcohol. You’ll also find designated work spaces, free wireless internet, free food and, sometimes, showers.

Who can access The Club lounges?

Any traveler in an airport with a Club lounge can access them. These locations don't require travel on any particular airline the way some airline-affiliated lounges do, and they also sell day passes in case you don’t have a credit card that grants you access.

All Club lounges in the U.S. participate in Priority Pass, which means if you buy a Priority Pass subscription or have a credit card that comes with it, you’re in. In fact, The Club lounge network is actually run by the same company that owns Priority Pass, the Collinson Group.

How much does it cost?

The cost for a Club lounge day pass is usually $40 or $45, although you can score a discount if you purchase a bundle of at least 10 passes using its group rate offer.

Travelers can purchase a day pass in advance or at the door. If you're buying a day pass in advance, remember to bring a printout or screenshot.