Schiphol Privium - Worth it?

Schiphol Privium - Worth it?
Photo by Rita Candeias / Unsplash

Schiphol Privium is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol’s premium membership program for travelers who want to move through the airport quickly and with less hassle. It’s been around for over twenty years and has grown into one of the most advanced airport loyalty programs in Europe, with about 60,000 members who care about saving time and traveling more comfortably. The whole idea is built around three things: speed, comfort, and convenience. Whether you’re a frequent business traveler or just want a smoother airport experience, Privium is designed to make your time at Schiphol easier.

Membership Levels:

Privium offers three membership levels, each with its own set of perks and price point:

  • Privium Basic (€180/year) gives you the essentials: access to the Priority security area, which means shorter lines, and iris scan border checks for non-Schengen flights so you can skip the usual passport queues.
  • Privium Extra (€235/year) adds parking benefits on top of the Basic perks. You get to reserve special Privium parking spots close to the terminal and cancel parking reservations for free. This is mostly for people who drive to the airport and want a guaranteed spot.
  • Privium Plus (€305/year) is the top tier. You get everything from the lower tiers, plus access to three exclusive lounges, business class check-in (no matter your ticket), the option to add a partner membership, and use of the Privium Excellence garage with direct terminal access. If you have an American Express Platinum card, this is the tier you get automatically - that’s how I signed up.

Lounges:

There are three main Privium lounges at Schiphol, each with a slightly different vibe. The ClubLounge Departures (pre-security, between Departures 1 and 2) is the main hub - it’s where you sign up, and it has business facilities, a nice buffet, and comfortable seating. In my experience, it’s the nicest of the three. After security, ClubLounge West (non-Schengen, near Pier E) is set up for long-haul travelers, with good food and great views of the terminal. It’s on par with what you get from Priority Pass lounges, just with fewer people around. The ExpressLounge (Schengen, Pier D) is more about getting work done quickly, with work booths and snacks, but honestly, it feels a bit basic for the price, especially compared to the variety and quality of lounges you get with something like Priority Pass.

There’s also a new Privium ExpressLounge at Eindhoven Airport (post-security, gates 11-12), which is basically the same as the Schengen lounge at Schiphol -workspaces, snacks, and a place to relax. One thing Privium does differently: you can use the lounges when you arrive, not just before your flight.

Eindhoven Airport:

If you’re flying through Eindhoven, Privium gets you Fast Track security and access to the ExpressLounge. Privium Plus members get in for free, but anyone else can pay €45 for a visit.

Sign-Up Process:

Signing up is straightforward. Pick your membership tier online, then book an appointment at the ClubLounge Departures. At the appointment, the Dutch Royal Military Police will scan your iris and issue your membership card right away. You’ll need your EU/EEA passport, proof of address, and a credit card. If you want a partner membership, you’ll both need to show proof of living at the same address. Appointments are required, and during busy times you might have to wait a bit, but once you’re done, you get access to all the benefits immediately. When I signed up in February, getting an appointment was easy and the whole process took about 15-20 minutes, including waiting in the lounge.

The Important Question - Is It Worth It?

So, is Privium worth it? For me, the main reasons to join are saving time at security and border control, and having lounge access. During peak times - summer, Christmas, or school holidays - Privium can cut your wait from an hour or more down to just five or ten minutes. When I first joined, I actually beat a friend through security, even though I stopped for my Privium appointment in the lounge.

But if your main goal is lounge access, Privium probably isn’t the best deal. The lounges are fine, but not as good as some Priority Pass options, and Priority Pass works at way more airports, not just Schiphol and Eindhoven. If you want better lounges and more flexibility, Priority Pass (which is €459 for unlimited visits) is likely a better value.

Unless you’re flying through Schiphol more than twice a month or always traveling during the busiest times, Privium probably isn’t worth the price. Parking is usually manageable, and other lounge memberships give you more bang for your buck. The fast-lane access is really only a game-changer if you’re always in a rush or flying at peak times. For most people, paying for fast-track or lounge access only when you need it makes more sense.