Do you want to know a secret? The next time you have a boarding pass in your hands don’t throw it away or forget about it in the seat pocket. You’re going to want to keep it safe. Other than being the golden ticket to getting you on the plane and to your destination, a boarding pass can also get you special travel perks on the ground.
It might not be able to save you from paying $15 for a soggy sandwich 30,000 feet in the air, but it will get you discounts on spa treatments, reduced museum admissions, complimentary cocktails, hotel discounts, and more.
Not all airlines offer this perk, but we managed to round up a few that do, so the next time you’re flying with one of the below carriers, be sure to hold onto that boarding pass, even after you’ve landed.
Etihad Airways
When travellers fly with Etihad Airways and include a stopover in Abu Dhabi, their boarding pass actually doubles up as the Extraordinary Abu Dhabi Pass, offering exclusive deals and discounts on the best activities, experiences, days out and dining in the city.
Pass holders are entitled to up to 25% off food and drink when eating at specific hotels. For example, you can get 25% off at the Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat al Beri, and a complementary Abra ride (Arabian Gondola) across the complex. Other perks include 30% off tickets to Motion Gate, Bollywood Parks, Legoland Park, Legoland Water Park, 35% off pool and beach access at Intercontinental Abu Dhabi, and 20% off at Crowne Plaza Abu Dhabi Yas Island.
British Airways
Flying British Airways? Hold onto your boarding pass to claim deals and discounts at some of London’s fanciest boutiques. You can get 15% off at Bentley & Skinner’s Jewelers in Mayfair, 15% off at Hackett British Menswear, and 10% savings at Floris British Perfumers. After you’ve shopped and dropped, venture over to Hotel Café Royal or Ham Yard Hotel and show your boarding pass to claim a free cocktail or complimentary glass of champagne.
Singapore Airlines
There are very few airports in the world we wouldn’t mind being stranded in, and Changi is one of them. It’s more of a destination than an airport. The iconic waterfall wows travellers every time, not to mention the exemplary retail and dining experiences are always a treat. We have just the ticket to cash in for major savings, or should we say you do. Show your boarding pass at numerous restaurants in the airport and throughout Singapore to claim discounts and deals, such as free dessert.
You can get 20% off treatments at Ikeda Spa, including an onsen bath with a massage or an organic facial, and 20% off tours with Singapore Sidecars. We highly recommend booking a Singapore Vintage Vespa Sidecar experience, it’s a highlight. You can check out a full list of discounts here.
Korean Air
Korean Air’s ‘Excellent Boarding Pass’ is definitely one to take advantage of. Even seven days after landing, travellers can score great deals and dining perks. Get 45% off Lotte-Rent-a-Car reservations and 50% off admission to the Jeju Folk Village. Pass holders can also claim dining perks and complimentary beverages at restaurants. Click here to find out more.
Emirates
If you’re looking for the strongest contender on the list, Emirates is it. My Emirates Pass gives travellers access to offers at over 500 locations in Dubai and across the UAE, so no matter where you are, you’re bound to find a perk on your journey. Perks include getting 20 off at spa treatments across Abu Dhabi and Dubai, including the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, Le Méridien Dubai, The Ritz-Carlton Dubai International Financial Center, and many other luxe properties. You can also claim 20% off at some of the UAE’s best restaurants and popular tourist attractions in the region.
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