Did you know you could save up to ₹20,000 annually on travel expenses just by using the right credit card? For those bitten by the travel bug, having a credit card tailored to travel benefits can make your journeys even more rewarding. Whether it’s cashback on bookings, lounge access, or discounts on dining, these cards cater to every wanderlust’s needs. Let’s uncover the top 5 travel credit cards for 2024 and help you find your perfect travel companion.
1. SBI Card ELITE – Premium Benefits for Frequent Flyers
Why It’s Great: The SBI ELITE card is one of the premium credit cards in India, offering unmatched rewards for frequent travelers.
- Travel Credit Card Benefits: Complimentary access to 6 domestic and 2 international lounges annually.
- Cashback Credit Cards Advantage: Earn up to 5x reward points on travel bookings.
- Dining Discounts: Enjoy up to 20% off at partner restaurants.
- Annual Fee: ₹4,999 (waived on spending ₹10 lakh annually).
Real-Life Scenario: Save over ₹5000 annually on lounge visits and dining perks alone.
CTA: Apply for a credit card online and enjoy premium travel perks!
2. Axis Bank Vistara Infinite Card – Best for Air Miles
Why It’s Great: Perfect for frequent flyers, this card focuses on maximizing air mile rewards and flight benefits.
- Air Miles Rewards: Earn up to 8 Club Vistara (CV) points for every ₹200 spent.
- Travel Benefits: Complimentary business class ticket upon joining and every renewal.
- Lounge Access: Unlimited domestic lounge visits.
- Annual Fee: ₹10,000.
Visual Comparison:
| Feature | Benefit |
| Club Vistara Points | Earn 8 CV points/ ₹200 |
| Complimentary Tickets | 2 Business Class Tickets/year |
| Lounge Access | Unlimited |
CTA: Apply now and unlock luxury travel benefits with Axis Bank.
3. HDFC Bank Diners Club Privilege Card – The Lifestyle Companion
Why It’s Great: For those seeking a mix of travel, dining, and lifestyle perks, this card is a perfect fit.
- Travel Perks: 12 complimentary international lounge visits per year.
- Dining Rewards: Up to 20% discounts at premium restaurants, making it one of the best credit cards for dining.
- Reward Points: Earn 10x points on dining, travel, and entertainment.
- Annual Fee: ₹2,500.
Real-Life Scenario: Imagine saving over ₹5,000 on lounge access and dining annually while earning reward points for your next trip.
4. American Express Platinum Travel Card – Maximize Cashback
Why It’s Great: AmEx’s Platinum Travel Card is designed for those who want to earn significant travel vouchers and cashback.
- Cashback Credit Cards Advantage: Earn 5,000 bonus points on spending ₹1.9 lakh annually.
- Travel Vouchers: Get travel vouchers worth ₹7,700 on achieving milestones.
- Dining Offers: Complimentary Zomato Pro membership.
- Annual Fee: ₹3,500.
How to Earn Cashback with Credit Cards: Use this card for flights and hotels to hit milestone rewards faster.
CTA: Apply for a credit card online and start saving big on your trips.
5. ICICI Sapphiro Visa Credit Card – Dual Delight
Why It’s Great: This dual-network card offers the flexibility of Visa and Mastercard benefits for travelers.
- Travel Credit Card Benefits: Complimentary access to over 20 domestic and international lounges.
- Fuel Cashback Credit Card Perks: 1% fuel surcharge waiver across India.
- Reward Points: Earn 2x points on international spending.
- Annual Fee: ₹4,000.
Real-Life Scenario: Save on every trip abroad with lounge access and reduced forex charges.
How to Maximize Cashback on Credit Cards in India
- Use Category-Specific Cards: Pair a travel card with a cashback card for groceries or dining.
- Leverage Reward Points: Redeem accumulated points for flight tickets or hotel stays.
- Track Your Spending: Stay updated on ongoing credit card cashback offers.
Visual Comparison of Top 5 Travel Cards
| Feature | SBI ELITE | Axis Vistara Infinite | HDFC Diners Club | AmEx Platinum Travel | ICICI Sapphiro |
| Lounge Access | 6 Domestic | Unlimited | 12 International | 8 Domestic | 20+ Global |
| Reward Points | 5x | 8 CV Points | 10x | Milestone Rewards | 2x Overseas |
| Annual Fee (₹) | 4,999 | 10,000 | 2,500 | 3,500 | 4,000 |
Final Thoughts
The right travel credit card can make your journeys smoother and more affordable. Whether you prioritize lounge access, air miles, or cashback, there’s a card tailored to your needs. Compare your spending habits and select a card that offers the most value.
Apply for a credit card online today and make every journey rewarding!
Share Your Experience Which travel card do you use? Let us know in the comments and help fellow wanderlust lovers make the right choice!