What is a travel credit card?

A travel credit card is designed for frequent flyers and travelers, offering benefits like air miles, complimentary lounge access, hotel discounts, and travel insurance.

How do travel credit cards work in India?

Every time you spend, you earn reward points or air miles. These can be redeemed for flight tickets, upgrades, hotel stays, or travel vouchers. Many cards also provide complimentary airport lounge visits.

What is the difference between a travel credit card and a regular rewards card?

A regular rewards card offers general redemption options like shopping or vouchers, while a travel card focuses on travel-related benefits such as air miles, lounge access, and flight discounts.

Which banks offer the best travel credit cards in India?

Popular issuers include HDFC Bank, SBI Card, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, American Express, and Citi, each with travel-focused cards offering miles, lounges, and bonus perks.

What are air miles and how can I use them?

Air miles are points earned on travel credit card spends that can be converted into airline loyalty miles. You can redeem them for free flights, seat upgrades, or partner rewards.

Do travel credit cards offer free airport lounge access?

Yes, most travel cards provide complimentary lounge access at domestic or international airports, with some offering unlimited access depending on the card tier.

Are there any annual fees for travel credit cards?

Yes, travel credit cards usually carry annual fees ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹10,000, depending on the benefits. Some issuers waive fees if you cross a certain spend threshold.

What other perks do travel credit cards provide?

Besides miles and lounges, you may get free travel insurance, fuel surcharge waivers, hotel discounts, concierge services, and priority check-in.

Do travel credit card rewards expire?

Yes, most points and miles have an expiry period of 2–3 years, depending on the bank or airline loyalty program. Premium cards may offer longer validity or no expiry.

How do I choose the best travel credit card in India?

Choose based on your travel habits. If you fly often with one airline, pick a co-branded card. If you travel across multiple airlines, go for a general travel card with flexible redemption