Is lounge access still worth it?

Once upon a time, lounges were an elite perk reserved for the hardened traveler or all-out big spenders. It wasn’t easy to get access unless you’d done the miles or spent enough. Today, almost anyone can access a lounge or two by opening a card or paying an entry fee.

But are they worth it? As with many of my tips, it depends.

If you dropped $400 on a premium card solely for lounge access and travel only once a year, it’s a resounding no. You could have paid $35 for day access (or gotten Priority Pass outright) and been done with it.

But if you travel with your family three or four times a year, it could be a massive yes.

Think about it: A family of four grabbing lunch before the flight could tally up to $100 – if not more. The Capital One Venture X gifts Priority Pass and Plaza Premium lounge access with two free guests per trip. Plus, it’s free to add an authorized user that can also enjoy these perks.

Now, your whole family is in the lounge munching away instead of getting price gouged at a crowded Chili’s To Go. And when you consider the annual $300 travel credit, you’re only $100 in the hole before you even get there. Simple.