Travel credit cards have revolutionised the way frequent travellers manage their expenses and maximise their benefits. Offering reward points, lounge access, travel insurance, and discounts, these cards are perfect for both leisure and business travellers. If you’re considering one, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed choice.
Types of Travel Credit Cards
Travel credit cards are primarily divided into two categories: co-branded cards and generic travel cards.
Co-branded cards are issued in partnership with specific airlines, hotels, or travel portals, offering rewards and benefits that are closely aligned with these partnerships. These cards are ideal for travellers loyal to particular brands or platforms.
On the other hand, generic travel cards provide rewards across a wide range of travel-related expenses, such as flight bookings, hotel stays, and dining. They offer greater flexibility, making them a preferred choice for travellers who don’t want to be limited to specific brands or platforms.
Vatsal Trivedi, Director at Gopal Tours, emphasises, ’Co-branded cards are ideal for loyal customers of a specific airline or hotel chain, while generic cards cater to those seeking flexibility in their travel plans.’
Key Benefits of Travel Credit Cards
• Reward Points and Air Miles
Earn points on transactions, especially for travel bookings and dining.
Points can be redeemed for airfare, upgrades, or travel perks.
Example: Some cards offer 5X points on bookings through partner platforms.
• Complimentary Lounge Access
Enjoy domestic and international lounge access with amenities like refreshments and Wi-Fi.
• Discounts and Cashback
Save on flights, hotels, and packages booked through partner platforms.
Example: Get up to 15 per cent off at specific hotel chains or cashback on international spends.
• Forex Markup Fee Waivers
For international purchases, some cards reduce or waive forex markup fees, making transactions abroad cost-effective.
Standard fees: 2–3 per cent.
• Travel Insurance
Coverage for lost luggage, trip cancellations, and medical emergencies.
Pro Tip: Always check the insurance limits and coverage details.
Features to Look For
1. Reward Structure
Choose a card with rewards that align with your spending habits, like higher rewards for flights or hotels.
2. Partnerships
Cards tied to specific travel brands offer higher rewards, but generic cards ensure flexibility.
3. Annual Fees
Many cards waive fees if you meet minimum annual spending thresholds.
Example: Fee waivers for spends of ₹2–₹3 lakhs annually.
4. Global Acceptance
Opt for cards recognised worldwide, such as Visa, Mastercard, or AmEx.
5. Expiry Of Reward Points
Some cards offer points with no expiry, ideal for infrequent travellers.
Best Travel Credit Cards in India
1. Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card
• Joining Fee: ₹5,000
• Key Benefits:
• Earn up to 5 EDGE Miles per ₹100 on travel spending.
• Access 12 international and 18 domestic lounges annually.
• Earn Milestone rewards of up to 10,000 bonus EDGE Miles annually.
2. InterMiles HDFC Diners Club Credit Card
• Joining Fee: ₹5,000
• Key Benefits:
• Earn up to 25,000 bonus InterMiles as welcome rewards.
• Avail discounts on Etihad Airways bookings.
• Receive unlimited domestic lounge access.
3. Club Vistara IDFC First Credit Card
• Joining Fee: ₹4,999
• Key Benefits:
• Complimentary Premium Economy tickets.
• Up to 6 CV Points per ₹200 spent.
• Forex markup fee of 2.99 per cent.
4. Air India SBI Signature Credit Card
• Joining Fee: ₹4,999
• Key Benefits:
• Earn up to 30 reward points per ₹100 on Air India bookings
• Receive a complimentary membership for Air India’s Frequent Flyer programme
5. HDFC Diners Club Black Credit Card
• Joining Fee: ₹10,000
• Key Benefits:
• Unlimited airport lounge access.
• 10X reward points on SmartBuy purchases.
• Low forex markup fee of 2 per cent.
Vatsal advises, ’Evaluate your travel habits before selecting a card. For instance, the Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card suits frequent flyers, while the HDFC Diners Club Black is ideal for those seeking luxury.’
Travel credit cards can transform your journeys, offering financial benefits and added comfort. By choosing a card that matches your lifestyle and spending habits, you can unlock a world of rewards and savings.
As Vatsal puts it, ’A good travel credit card is not just a payment tool; it’s your ticket to enhanced travel experiences.’