Travelling on Qantas' oneworld partner American Airlines in the US for a month-long period, and not always booked in business or first class? You may find the airline's new monthly Admirals Club lounge pass for US$99 (A$92) worthwhile.

Australian travellers who aren't high-level Qantas Frequent Flyers, business class passengers or Qantas Club members may also find the deal useful: Admirals Club memberships give you access to Qantas Clubs in Australia if you're flying Qantas. (PDF, 1MB)

However, playing strictly by the rules, Admirals Club members must show a card to be admitted to the Qantas Club -- and monthly members don't get a card. British Airways' lounges are also included in the Admirals Club membership.

While Admirals Clubs annual memberships are US$500 (A$476), and single access pass is US$50 (A$47), the monthly pass is a good deal for business travellers making several flights within a month. 

Admirals Clubs aren't as good as Qantas business lounges, but they're among the best domestic lounges in the US. 

With the deal, you'll get the benefits of the Admiral's Club:

• priority assistance in the event of flight delays or cancellations (useful in the event of summer thunderstorms creating problems)
• wi-fi access
• alcoholic drinks in international Admirals Clubs
• house wines & beers in US locations
• food available for purchase in US locations (which sounds very stingy to Australian travellers, admittedly)

You'll also be able to bring in two guests or family members.

But don't pick up the membership if you're already a Qantas Gold or Platinum Frequent Flyer, or a member of the Qantas Club. You'll already have access to the Admirals Club with your membership card.

To sign up, head to www.aa.com/admiralsclub, approach an Admiral's Club front desk, or ring Admirals Club Member Services at +1-800-237-7971. You can also try American's general Australian number: (07) 3329 6060.

(Tip of the hat to the always-informative mile blogger Ben Schlappig at One Mile at a Time.)