Credit cards come with different features and benefits. A travel credit card rewards your everyday spending with points or miles you can use for flights, hotels, and rental cars. With so many options out there, picking the right one is tricky. This guide walks you through the best travel credit cards in India to help you choose wisely.
Things to Keep in Mind When Choosing a Travel Credit Card?
Picking the right travel credit card means matching your spending habits to the rewards you’ll actually use. Look at what matters most to you , frequent flyer miles, cashback on dining, or lounge access. Consider your annual spending and travel frequency to ensure the card’s annual fee is justified by the benefits you’ll use. Check the redemption options; some cards let you transfer points to airlines while others lock you into their own reward portal. Compare foreign transaction fees and forex markup charges, as these add up quickly on international trips. Finally, verify the card’s acceptance globally, especially in countries you visit frequently, since not all Indian cards work everywhere.
, whether it’s flights, hotels, or everyday travel expenses.
- Check the cashback or rewards rate on categories you use most, flights, hotels, or cab bookings
- Compare annual fees against the benefits you get, some cards are lifetime free
- Look for zero forex markup if you spend internationally, it saves real money abroad
- Read the redemption options, can you convert points to cash, gift cards, or just flights
10 Best Travel Credit Cards in India 2025
| Credit Card | Joining Fees | Annual Fee | Welcome Benefits |
| Jupiter Edge UPI Credit Card | Nill | Nill | Worth ₹250 on your UPI & card spends |
| IDFC Wow Credit Card | None | None | None |
| Niyo Global International Travel Card | None | None | None |
| Air India SBI Signature Card | ₹4999 + 18% GST | ₹4999 + 18% GST | Welcome gift of 20,000 reward points. |
| Axis Bank Vistara Signature Credit Card | ₹3000 + 18% GST | ₹3000 + 18% GST | Complimentary premium economy class ticket. |
| Club Vistara SBI Card | ₹1499 + 18% GST | ₹1499 + 18% GST | Receive an economy class ticket. |
| AU Bank LIT Credit Card | Free | Free | Benefits vary by card selection. |
| RBL World Safari Credit Card | ₹3000 | ₹3000 | Earn a ₹3,000 MakeMyTrip voucher when you swipe your card within 30 days of getting it. |
| YES Bank Premia Credit Card | ₹999 | ₹999 | Skip the first year’s fee if you spend ₹20,000 in your first 30 days. |
| InterMiles HDFC Signature Credit Card | ₹2500 | ₹2500 | Get complimentary InterMiles Silver Membership plus 8,000 InterMiles when you sign up. |
Explore the world without breaking the bank.
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Features and Benefits of Best Travel Credit Cards in India
1. IDFC Wow Credit Card
Joining Fees
None
Annual Fee
None
Welcome Benefits
None
Cashback Features & Rewards IDFC Bank’s Wow Credit Card is built for students and frequent travellers. It charges zero forex markup on international transactions, so you save on currency conversion. You earn reward points on every spend. To apply, you’ll need to open a linked fixed deposit account that secures your credit limit and lets you manage finances easily. It’s perfect if you travel abroad often or study overseas.
2. Niyo Global International Travel Card
Joining Fees
None
Annual Fee
None
Welcome Benefits
None
Cashback Features & Rewards The Niyo Global International Travel Card isn’t a traditional credit card, but it’s practical for travellers. Best part: zero forex markup fees on foreign transactions save you money. Setup is instant, and managing your finances while abroad is straightforward, whether you’re adding funds, converting currency, or paying online. There’s no minimum balance requirement, giving you complete flexibility.
3. Air India SBI Signature Card
Joining Fees
₹4999 + 18% GST
Annual Fee
₹4999 + 18% GST
Welcome Benefits
Welcome gift of 20,000 reward points.
Cashback Features & Rewards The Air India SBI Signature Card, co-created by SBI and Air India, rewards frequent Air India flyers while earning points on everyday purchases. Here’s what makes it stand out.
4. Axis Bank Vistara Signature Credit Card
Joining Fees
₹3000 + 18% GST
Annual Fee
₹3000 + 18% GST
Welcome Benefits
Complimentary premium economy class ticket.
Cashback Features & Rewards Axis Bank and Air Vistara partnered to create the Axis Bank Vistara Signature Credit Card. Unlike other travel cards, you earn Club Vistara Points on all spending, not just flight bookings.
5. Club Vistara SBI Card
Joining Fees
₹1499 + 18% GST
Annual Fee
₹1499 + 18% GST
Welcome Benefits
Receive an economy class ticket.
Cashback Features & Rewards SBI partnered with Air Vistara to launch the Club Vistara SBI Card, letting you earn Club Vistara Points on every purchase. If you want an affordable alternative to the Axis Bank Vistara Signature Credit Card, this is worth considering.
6. AU Bank LIT Credit Card
Joining Fees
Free
Annual Fee
Free
Welcome Benefits
Benefits vary by card selection.
Cashback Features & Rewards The AU Lit Credit Card isn’t strictly a travel card, but it’s excellent if you fly often. It’s fully customisable, so you pick the features you need,cashback on your favourite categories, airport lounge access, whatever suits your style.
7. RBL World Safari Credit Card
Joining Fees
₹3000
Annual Fee
₹3000
Welcome Benefits
Get a MakeMyTrip voucher worth ₹3,000 when you use your card within 30 days of issuance.
Cashback Features & Rewards The RBL World Safari Credit Card is perfect for frequent travellers. Though it costs ₹3,000 + GST annually, the card pays for itself,new cardholders get a ₹3,000 MakeMyTrip voucher on first use within 30 days, neutralising the annual fee.
8. YES Bank Premia Credit Card
Joining Fees
₹999
Annual Fee
₹999
Welcome Benefits
Skip the first-year fee if you spend ₹20,000 within your first 30 days.
Cashback Features & Rewards The Yes Bank Premia Credit Card balances rewards and benefits nicely, with an annual fee of ₹999 + GST. Get the first year free if you spend ₹20,000 in 30 days, plus a welcome offer of 25% off BookMyShow movie tickets.
9. InterMiles HDFC Signature Credit Card
Joining Fees
₹2500
Annual Fee
₹2500
Welcome Benefits
Get complimentary InterMiles Silver Membership plus 8,000 InterMiles welcome bonus.
Cashback Features & Rewards The InterMiles HDFC Bank Signature Credit Card is a co-branded card offering solid rewards on hotel and flight bookings, making it ideal for frequent travellers wanting to cut travel costs.
What Are the Eligibility Requirements for Travel Credit Cards?
Getting a travel credit card means meeting specific eligibility criteria set by lenders. While requirements vary across card issuers, here are the commonly considered factors:
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Credit Score
To qualify for travel credit cards, you generally need a good to excellent credit score, typically 670 or higher. A higher credit score improves your chances of approval and getting favourable terms.
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Credit History
Lenders look at your credit history, including how timely you’ve been with payments, the length of your credit history, and any negative marks like late payments or bankruptcies. A positive credit history can increase your chances of approval.
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Income
Your income helps determine if you can repay credit card balances. Premium travel cards might have minimum income requirements, so meeting or exceeding these is important.
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Debt-to-Income Ratio
Lenders assess how much of your monthly income goes toward debt payments. A lower ratio is preferred, as it shows less risk to the lender.
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Stable Employment
Having a stable job history can improve your eligibility. Lenders consider job stability and consistent income as signs of responsible credit management.
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Existing Debt
Lenders review your current debt, such as mortgages, car loans, and other credit cards. While some debt is normal, too much debt relative to your income might be a concern.
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Age
In India, you need to be at least 18 years old to apply for a credit card. Premium travel cards may have higher age requirements.
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Citizenship/Residency
Some credit cards have specific requirements for citizenship or residency. Ensure you meet these before applying.
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Number of Recent Applications
Applying for many credit cards in a short time can hurt your credit score. Be cautious about how often you apply for new credit.
How to Apply for Travel Credit Cards?
Before applying for a travel credit card, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and gather your documents.
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Understand Your Eligibility
Check if you meet the requirements for the credit card you want, such as credit score and income.
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Gather Your Documents
Collect the necessary paperwork, like ID, proof of address, and income verification.
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Visit the Bank’s Website
Go to the website of the bank offering the travel credit card.
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Find the Card
Locate the specific travel credit card you’re interested in.
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Start the Application
Look for a button like “Apply Now” to begin the application process.
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Complete the Form
Fill out the application with accurate personal and financial information.
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Upload Documents
If needed, submit the required documents according to the website’s instructions.
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Read the Fine Print
Review the credit card terms and conditions carefully.
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Submit Your Application
Once everything is complete, send in your application.
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Wait for Approval
The bank will review your application. You might need to provide additional information.
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Activate Your Card
When approved, you’ll receive your card. Follow the steps to activate it.
Want a credit card that fits all your needs?
Find your ideal card with Jupiter’s Edge CSB Bank RuPay Credit Card, which offers travel rewards and flexible features.
Closing Thoughts
The right travel credit card transforms how you travel, turning everyday spending into savings and perks. Pick one that matches your travel style, spending habits, and reward goals. Check annual fees, cashback rates, bonuses, and eligibility requirements carefully. A solid travel credit card unlocks discounts, exclusive benefits, and hassle-free journeys. Manage your credit card bill payment easily on Jupiter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the minimum credit score required to apply for a travel rewards credit card?
Your credit score matters for travel cards,most lenders want to see a score between 650 and 700, though requirements vary by card.
What is a Priority Pass?
Priority Pass is a membership program that gets you into airport lounges worldwide, so you can relax before your flight.
How does credit card travel insurance work?
Travel insurance on your credit card covers expenses charged to the card from when you leave home until you arrive at your destination.
How do I redeem my travel rewards?
Most travel credit cards let you redeem rewards directly through the bank’s website or mobile app. You can typically transfer points to airline or hotel partners, book travel directly, or convert to cash. Check your card’s redemption options as they vary by issuer.
Do I need to use the card actively to keep my rewards?
Rewards typically don’t expire as long as your account remains open and active. However, if your card is inactive for too long, the issuer may close the account. Keep your card active by using it occasionally to avoid losing accumulated rewards.
Can I transfer rewards between travel cards?
Generally, you cannot transfer rewards between different credit cards or issuers. However, many cards allow you to transfer points to partner airlines or hotels. Some cards may offer transfers between your own accounts with the same issuer. Always check your card’s specific transfer policies.
What’s the difference between travel points and cashback?
Travel points are rewards earned on specific travel purchases, redeemable for flights, hotels, or upgrades, and often have higher value. Cashback is a percentage returned directly to your account as money, typically with no restrictions. Travel points offer more value for frequent travellers, while cashback is more flexible and universal.
Why is a travel credit card better than a regular credit card?
A travel credit card earns higher rewards on flights and hotels, offers complimentary airport lounge access, zero forex markup on international spends, and travel insurance. Regular cards provide general cashback without these travel-specific perks, making travel cards far more valuable for frequent flyers.
What if I lose my credit card abroad?
Contact your card issuer immediately to block the card and request an emergency replacement. Most issuers provide 24/7 international support and can arrange a temporary cash advance or expedite a replacement card to your location within a few business days.
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