Yes, lounge access is worth it if you fly enough to use it multiple times per quarter and you pick a card/network that matches your home airport and routes.
Why this is trending now:
- 2026 has more rules: visit caps, guest fees, and tighter access structures, so “one premium card fits all” is less true than before.
Worth-it checklist:
- You can realistically use lounges 10+ times/year (even more if you bring guests and that’s still allowed on your setup).
- The card gets you into the lounges you’ll actually encounter (not just “lounge access” as a vague promise).
Not worth it if:
- You mostly take short nonstop flights and rarely arrive early or connect.
- Your nearest terminals don’t have compatible lounges.
Last Updated: 18th Feb , 2026.