Traveling is no longer just a luxury—it’s a lifestyle. Whether it’s that quick Goa trip with friends, a honeymoon to Bali, or a sudden work trip to Delhi, we all know how expensive flights, hotels, and even lounge access can get. That’s where a travel credit card comes to the rescue.
But the big question is: Which is the best travel credit card in India?
Honestly, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The “best” depends on how often you travel, whether you prefer domestic or international trips, and what kind of perks matter most to you—flight miles, hotel discounts, or airport lounge access.
Let’s break it down in simple words so you can choose wisely.
Why Even Consider a Travel Credit Card?
Picture this: you’re standing at the airport, your flight is delayed, and everyone around you is paying ₹600 for a sandwich. But you? You walk into a plush airport lounge, swipe your card, and enjoy unlimited snacks, Wi-Fi, and a cozy seat—all for free.
That’s the magic of a travel credit card. Apart from lounge access, you can also get:
- Air miles or reward points that convert into free flights
- Hotel discounts and vouchers for stays
- Insurance coverage for your travel.
- Priority check-in and other luxury benefits
In short, it makes traveling smoother, cheaper, and a little more stylish.
Top Travel Credit Cards in India
1. HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card
This one is quite popular in India, especially among frequent flyers.
Why people love it:
- Complimentary access to domestic and international lounges
- Reward points on dining, travel, and shopping
- Travel insurance benefits
- Works well for both domestic and international trips
If you’re someone who travels for both work and vacation, this card is a safe bet.
2. SBI Card Elite
SBI has a huge presence in India, and their Elite card is like a VIP pass for travelers.
Highlights:
- Complimentary Club Vistara membership (great if you fly Vistara often)
- Free lounge access at airports in India and abroad
- Movie tickets worth ₹6,000 annually (bonus perk for movie buffs)
- Reward points that can be used for flight/hotel bookings
It’s slightly premium, but perfect if you want both lifestyle and travel benefits.
3. Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card
This card has become quite a hit in recent years.
Best for: Those who travel often and like earning air miles.
Benefits:
- Earn miles (called Edge Miles) on every spend
- Redeem those miles across multiple airlines and hotels
- Complimentary international lounge access
- Tier-based rewards: the more you spend, the more your benefits increase
For people who say “Bhai, mera agla trip toh confirmed hai”—this card is a smart pick.
4. American Express Platinum Travel Card
When we talk about travel perks, Amex is always on the list.
Why it’s popular:
- You get free travel vouchers (Indigo, Taj, and more)
- Free domestic airport lounge access
- Extra points for travel-related spending
- Great customer support (Amex is known for this worldwide)
The catch? Some merchants in India don’t accept Amex, but for frequent travelers, the benefits usually outweigh that issue.
5. Airline Co-Branded Cards (Vistara, IndiGo, Air India)
If you’re loyal to one airline, co-branded cards can save you big.
Examples:
- Axis Vistara Infinite Card: Free business class tickets, Vistara points
- IndiGo 6E Rewards XL Card: Cashback on IndiGo bookings and partner merchants
- Air India SBI Signature Card: Air India miles, upgrades, and discounts
So, if your friends keep saying “Yaar, tu toh hamesha Vistara hi leta hai”—then these are tailor-made for you.
How to Choose the Right One for You
Okay, so now the million-rupee question: Which one should you actually take?
Here’s a simple way to decide:
- Travel Frequency – If you travel 3-4 times a year, HDFC Regalia or Amex Platinum works well. For very frequent travelers, Axis Atlas or SBI Elite makes more sense.
- Airline Loyalty – If you always fly with one airline, go for their co-branded card.
- Domestic vs International – For international trips, pick a card with global lounge access like Axis Atlas or HDFC Regalia.
- Budget – Premium cards have higher annual fees (₹5,000–₹10,000) but also give heavy rewards. If you travel less, go for a basic travel card with lower fees.
My Personal Take
If you ask me, I’d say Axis Bank Atlas is one of the best all-rounders right now because it’s flexible with airlines, has good lounge access, and rewards you more the more you spend. But if you’re just starting out and don’t want to pay high annual fees, HDFC Regalia is a great entry point.
At the end of the day, a travel card should match your travel style. If you’re a “Goa twice a year” type, you don’t need an ultra-premium card. But if you’re hopping flights every month, investing in a premium travel card can save you lakhs in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Travel is all about experiences—meeting new people, trying new food, and exploring new places. A good travel credit card makes those experiences smoother, more affordable, and yes, a bit fancier.
So the next time you’re booking tickets or waiting at an airport, imagine swiping a card that gives you free food, free upgrades, and even free flights. Feels nice, na?
Choose wisely, travel smart, and make your journeys not just memorable but also rewarding.