Planning a summer getaway? Whether you’re escaping to the serene hills or exploring international destinations, managing expenses is crucial. The right credit card can not only streamline your payments but also offer significant savings and exclusive perks. Here are five top credit cards that can enhance your travel experience:
1. HDFC Bank Regalia Gold Credit Card
The HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card is tailored for frequent travelers, offering a blend of rewards and travel benefits.
Annual Fee: Rs.2,500
Foreign Exchange Markup: 2% on international transactions
Lounge Access: 12 complimentary visits annually to domestic and international lounges within India; six international lounge visits via Priority Pass after four retail transactions
Additional Perks: 5X reward points on select brands like Nykaa, Myntra, Marks & Spencer, and Reliance Digital
This card is ideal for those seeking a balance between affordability and premium travel benefits.
2. IDFC FIRST Wealth Credit Card
A lifetime free card, the IDFC FIRST Wealth Credit Card offers extensive travel privileges without the burden of annual fees.
Annual Fee: None
Foreign Exchange Markup: 1.5% on foreign transactions
Lounge Access: Eight complimentary international lounge visits per year
Rewards: Up to 10X rewards on every spend
This card is perfect for travelers who want premium benefits without recurring costs.
Designed for luxury travelers, the YES Bank Marquee Credit Card offers exclusive perks and low forex charges.
Annual Fee: Rs.9,999
Foreign Exchange Markup: 1% on foreign transactions
Lounge Access: Unlimited international lounge visits for primary and add-on users
Additional Benefits: Comprehensive travel insurance and concierge services
For those who prioritize comfort and luxury during their travels, this card is a worthy companion.
4. AU Bank Zenith+ Credit Card
The AU Bank Zenith+ Credit Card caters to premium travelers with its extensive lounge access and low forex fees.
Annual Fee: Rs.4,999
Foreign Exchange Markup: 0.99% on international transactions
Lounge Access: 16 international lounge visits per year through Priority Pass (four per quarter)
Fee Waiver: Annual fee waived on spending Rs.8 lakh annually
This card is suitable for frequent international travelers seeking premium benefits.
5. Standard Chartered EaseMyTrip Credit Card
A collaboration between Standard Chartered and EaseMyTrip, this card offers travel-centric rewards and benefits.
Annual Fee: Rs.350
Lounge Access: Two complimentary domestic airport lounge accesses per calendar year
Additional Perks: Discounts on flight and hotel bookings through EaseMyTrip
Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, this card provides essential travel benefits at a minimal cost.
Maximizing Credit Card Travel Benefits
To fully leverage the advantages of these credit cards, consider the following strategies:
Understand Reward Structures: Familiarize yourself with how rewards are earned and redeemed. Opt for cards that align with your spending habits to maximize point accumulation.
Utilize Lounge Access: Take advantage of complimentary lounge visits to relax and refresh during your travels. Ensure you’re aware of the access limits and any associated conditions.
Be Mindful of Forex Fees: When traveling internationally, choose cards with low or zero foreign exchange markups to save on transaction costs.
Stay Informed About Promotions: Regularly check for promotional offers related to travel bookings, dining, and shopping to enhance your savings.
Monitor Spending for Fee Waivers: Some cards offer annual fee waivers upon reaching specific spending thresholds. Plan your expenditures to take advantage of these waivers.
Nisha Chawla is a seasoned professional with 15 years of experience in banking, insurance, investment, and the debt sector. Holding a B.Com degree, she has been writing for the past five years, offering valuable insights on banking, loans, and financial schemes. Her passion for writing brings clarity to complex financial topics.
 "Planning a Summer Trip? These 5 Credit Cards Can Save You Big on Travel in 2025")
