Quick Points: Maximize Priority Pass benefits by labeling your cards

Although we cover loyalty programs and credit cards in-depth on TPG every day, sometimes you just want a snippet of useful information that you can put into action on the fly. That’s why we launched the series Quick Points. Every week, we’ll highlight a new or easily forgotten tip that can help you travel more for less.

These days, many premium travel rewards credit cards come with a Priority Pass membership that gives cardmembers access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide.

What's sometimes forgotten, though, is that not all Priority Pass memberships have the same benefits. Some provide unlimited visits, while others do not include access to non-lounge airport venues and perks, such as statement credits at restaurants. Plus, guesting privileges can vary from one membership type to the next. All this said, if you have Priority Pass membership from more than one credit card, it's important to keep track of your Priority Pass cards so you don't incur any unexpected charges.

Since all Priority Pass cards look the same, there's no easy way to tell them apart and distinguish which one came with which of your credit cards. Luckily, there's a simple solution: label them!

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Label your Priority Pass cards

Sometimes the biggest challenges have the simplest solutions. In the case of telling Priority Pass membership cards apart, the easiest option is to label them.

Since the card is black, your best option is to either make a note on the signature box on the back of the card or add a small sticker. If you prefer to use the digital card, you can take a screenshot of the QR code and add a note to it, or add the issuing bank's name to your Priority Pass username (i.e. BenjiAmex).

Related: There is such a thing as a free airport lunch — here’s how to get one

If you've already confused your cards, you should be able to find your Priority Pass membership number via your online credit card account or by calling your bank.

Priority Pass membership rules vary from one credit card to the next so you'll want to review your card's benefits guide for full details. However, as a general rule of thumb, you'll want to note that no American Express-issued Priority Pass memberships include the restaurant benefit.

Most cards offer up to two free guests per visit, though Citi-issued cards, for instance, allow you to bring your entire immediate family. If you accidentally use the wrong card, you might be charged $32 per guest. And remember, stacking multiple Priority Pass memberships at one lounge to bring in extra guests typically isn't allowed.

If you don't already have a card that offers a Priority Pass membership in your wallet, see this guide.