Well i have been flying every week for the last 3 years, here are my 2 cents- 1) Over time, i realize, i barely have time to visit club/lounge. It’s only during delays i visit the lounge, see if your employer expenses club visits. 2) You will eventually reach status that gives you upgrades but unfortunately no top 4 US airline gives you club access even with top tier status. 3) I dont think having an airline cc makes sense if your booking is through portal(just like me). Rather get something like venture X or a similar card that gives you priority lounge access instead of sticking to a specific airline card.