Travelling is fun, no doubt about it. But when it comes to booking tickets, hotels, or paying travel bills, one common doubt that pops up is – “Can I travel using someone else’s credit card?”
It might sound like a small thing, but in India, situations like this are quite common. Imagine this: your father has a credit card with better offers, or your friend is getting cashback on travel portals, and you think – “Why not use their card and save some money?” Fair thought, but let’s break it down clearly.
At PrkshAdvisors, we always try to simplify money-related confusions for you. So, let’s understand how this works in real life.
Can You Use Someone Else’s Credit Card to Book Travel?
The short answer is – Yes, you can use it for booking, but there are conditions attached.
When booking flight tickets, train tickets, or hotels online, you can use any person’s credit card as long as you have their permission. For example, if you use your father’s or brother’s card while booking tickets on IRCTC, MakeMyTrip, Yatra, or directly from an airline’s website, the transaction will usually go through smoothly.
But here’s the catch – airlines and hotels sometimes check the card used during booking at the time of boarding or check-in.
What Happens at the Airport or Hotel?
Many people think, “Arre yaar, paisa toh kat gaya, ab flight kaunsi rokega?” But rules are rules.
- Airlines (especially international flights): Some airlines may ask you to show the original credit card used for booking. If the cardholder is not traveling, they might ask for a signed authorization letter and a photocopy of the cardholder’s ID proof.
- Hotels: At the time of check-in, hotels may ask to verify the credit card used for booking. If the cardholder is not present, you may have to give a declaration or provide additional ID proof.
So, if you’re thinking of just using your friend’s credit card without informing them, it can land you in an embarrassing situation.
Is It Legal in India to Use Someone Else’s Credit Card?
Yes, it is legal if the cardholder has given you permission. In India, there’s no restriction on who pays for the ticket, as long as it’s authorized. But using someone else’s card without their permission is fraud, and banks take it very seriously.
For example:
- If your uncle gives you his card to book your Goa tickets, no problem.
- But if you take someone’s card details without telling them, and they complain, it can become a police case.
Tips to Travel Smoothly When Using Someone Else’s Card
Here are some desi tips to avoid trouble:
- Always Take Permission: Don’t just copy card details from someone’s diary. Take their consent.
- Carry Authorization Letter: If the cardholder isn’t traveling, carry a simple signed note stating they allowed you to use their card.
- Keep ID Proof: Both your ID and a photocopy of the cardholder’s ID can be handy.
- Book Through Trusted Platforms: Use well-known sites like MakeMyTrip, Yatra, IRCTC, or directly from airline websites. Don’t fall for shady websites.
- Consider Add-on Cards: If you frequently need your parent’s or spouse’s card, ask the bank for an add-on card. This way, you get a card in your name linked to the main account.
Real-Life Example – Desi Style
Let’s say Ravi from Delhi wants to travel to Bangalore for a friend’s wedding. His father has an HDFC Regalia credit card that offers free lounge access and cashback on flights. Ravi books his flight using his father’s card.
At the airport, the airline staff asks Ravi to show the card used. Luckily, his father had given him a signed copy of his Aadhaar and an authorization letter. No problem at all – Ravi boards happily.
Now imagine the same situation if Ravi didn’t tell his father and just used the details. If the airline had asked for verification, Ravi would have been stuck, maybe even missing his flight.
What If You’re Caught Without Authorization?
Worst case? The airline or hotel can deny you boarding or check-in if you fail to prove authorization. The money you paid may not be refunded. On top of that, the cardholder may face a security alert from the bank.
So, better to play safe than sorry.
Alternatives to Avoid Hassle
- UPI or Debit Cards: In India, UPI is king. If you don’t have your own credit card, just use UPI or debit cards – no one will question you.
- Travel Wallets: Apps like Paytm, Amazon Pay, or PhonePe also allow travel bookings.
- Get Your Own Credit Card: If you travel often, why depend on others? Even starter cards from SBI, HDFC, or ICICI can be useful.
Final Thoughts
So, can you travel using someone else’s credit card? Yes, but only with proper authorization.
It’s like borrowing your friend’s Royal Enfield for a ride – if he gives you permission, no issue. But if you just take it without telling, toh panga ho sakta hai.
At PrkshAdvisors, we always recommend being transparent and safe. If you must use someone else’s credit card, do it with their knowledge and carry the necessary proof. And if you travel often, maybe it’s time to get your own credit card to enjoy all the travel perks without any tension.