If you’ve ever sprinted through an airport terminal chasing a toddler while hauling three carry-ons and a diaper bag, you know that the “journey” isn’t always part of the fun. For our family, the real vacation doesn’t start when the plane takes off—it starts the moment we step inside an airport lounges. It is one of the favorite things about our travel experience
Having a quiet, comfortable space to decompress, grab a snack, and recharge our devices (and our sanity) before a long-haul flight is an absolute game-changer for family travel.
That is why I was so excited to see the results of the 2026 Priority Pass Excellence Awards. Priority Pass analyzed over 700,000 member reviews to crown the best airport lounges in the world, and the winners this year are focusing heavily on what matters to us most: comfort, calm, and incredible local food.
Here are the standout spots you’ll want to book into for your next family adventure.
The Global Champion of Airport Lounges: Escape Lounge at Portland International (USA)
If your travels take you to or through the US, the Escape Lounge at Portland International Airport just snagged the title of Global Lounge of the Year.
What makes it so special? Instead of feeling like a sterile, cookie-cutter transit hub, the space is packed with local Portland artwork, regional materials, and a layout that balances relaxation with functionality.
- Why families will love it: It feels less like an airport and more like a cozy, vibrant living room. The focus here is on a personalized, welcoming environment—exactly the kind of grounding energy you need when traveling with kids.
The Asia-Pacific Winner Airport Lounges: Lounge Fukuoka (Japan)
Closer to home for many of our regional trips, Lounge Fukuoka at Fukuoka International Airport was named the APAC Lounge of the Year.
- The Vibe: It features a bright, open layout with a beautiful, calming wood-toned aesthetic.
- The Best Part: It offers close-up, front-row views of the runway and parked aircraft. If your kids are obsessed with airplanes, this will keep them entertained for hours while you sit back and relax.
- The Food: They serve authentic local specialties like Tonkotsu Ramen and Kashiwa Rice. Feeding picky eaters at the airport can be a nightmare, but fresh, comforting noodles usually win everyone over. (Plus, there’s seasonal local sake for the parents and Costa Coffee for that much-needed caffeine boost!)
One to Watch: KoCoo Lounge at Tokyo Narita (Japan)
If you’re flying through Tokyo Narita, keep an eye out for the refreshed KoCoo Lounge, which won the APAC One to Watch award. It’s been heavily upgraded over the last year to significantly raise its game in comfort and overall experience, making it a perfect pitstop for families looking to rest between connections.
Elevating the Travel Experience
According to Priority Pass, there is a massive shift happening right now. Travelers are moving away from just wanting “convenience” and are instead looking for meaningful airport experiences. We want spaces that feel like an extension of the destination, featuring local designs and thoughtfully curated food.
When you travel with family, a great lounge transforms an airport from a stressful hurdle into a memorable part of the trip. With Priority Pass now offering access to over 1,800 lounges and experiences globally, finding a quiet corner for your crew has never been easier.
Next time you’re planning a family vacation, do yourself a favor and factor in some lounge time. Your peace of mind will thank you!
Have you visited any of this year’s award-winning lounges, or do you have a personal favorite that keeps your family sane during travel?
