Being a smart traveller goes beyond booking budget flights or scoring last-minute hotel deals. Today, your wallet can work as hard as your passport—especially if you use the right travel credit card.
Whether you’re a business jetsetter or a leisure explorer, the right credit card can help you earn points, unlock VIP treatment, and even save you during unexpected travel mishaps. So stay with us as we spotlight the best credit cards in 2025 and why they are a must for Indian travellers.
What Makes a Credit Card Travel-Friendly?
Before we get started with the list, it’s important to understand what separates a regular credit card from one built for travel. Here are the key features you should look for:
- High reward rates on travel-related expenses like flights, hotels, and cab bookings
- Complimentary lounge access at domestic and international airports
- Low or waived forex markup fees, especially for international travel
- Travel insurance coverage, including trip delays, lost baggage, and medical emergencies
- Tie-ups with airlines or hotel chains for faster mile accumulation and redemptions
- Concierge services and emergency support while you’re abroad
Travel credit cards not only help you earn on the go—they also offer peace of mind, making every trip smoother and more secure.
Top 5 Travel Credit Cards for Indian Travellers in 2025
Here’s a curated list of the best credit cards that offer a perfect blend of travel rewards, luxury, and protection. Whether you fly economy or business class, you’ll find an option that suits your travel lifestyle.
1. HDFC Diners Club Privilege Credit Card
Best For: Frequent domestic and international travellers who value lounge access
Key Benefits:
- Up to 5x reward points on flight, hotel, and dining spends
- Complimentary airport lounge access at 1,000+ lounges worldwide
- International travel insurance covering medical emergencies, personal accident, and loss of passport/baggage
- Access to concierge services and international golf privileges
Why it stands out: Offers one of the highest reward point multipliers and a solid mix of lifestyle and travel features.
2. SBI Card ELITE
Best For: Premium travellers who want all-in-one benefits
Key Benefits:
- Free Club Vistara and Trident Privilege membership
- Six complimentary lounge visits (domestic and international)
- Travel insurance for flight delays, missed connections, and lost baggage
Why it stands out: A well-rounded premium card with a broad set of travel and lifestyle privileges, suitable for frequent flyers.
3. American Express Platinum Travel Card
Best For: Air mile enthusiasts and AmEx brand loyalists
Key Benefits:
- Milestone rewards that convert into Indigo flight vouchers
- Travel insurance, including personal accident and emergency assistance
- Membership Rewards points redeemable for travel bookings
Why it stands out: Ideal for Indigo flyers or anyone looking to convert spending into frequent domestic travel.
4. YES FIRST Preferred Credit Card
Best For: Value-conscious travellers seeking high rewards with low fees
Key Benefits:
- 8 reward points per ₹100 on travel bookings
- Complimentary lounge access at select airports
- Built-in travel insurance coverage
Why it stands out: Great for budget-savvy travellers who don’t want to pay high annual fees but still want robust travel perks.
5. Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card
Best For: Collecting and redeeming miles across multiple airlines
Key Benefits:
- Earn Axis Edge Miles redeemable with over 15 international airlines and hotel partners
- Comprehensive travel insurance, including overseas medical coverage
- Complimentary lounge access (domestic + international)
Why it stands out: It’s Perfect for those who prefer flexibility in their flight bookings and want rewards that span multiple carriers.
To get the most out of these credit cards, use it strategically. Especially if you plan international trips to popular visa-free countries for Indian citizens, these destinations often make spontaneous travel easier, and using your card smartly can help you rack up rewards while saving money.
Tips to Maximise Travel Rewards with Your Credit Card
To get the most out of your travel credit card, keep these strategies in mind:
- Book via partner platforms: Many cards offer bonus points when bookings are made through affiliated portals.
- Leverage milestone rewards: Cards like AmEx Platinum Travel offer extra benefits after reaching annual spending targets.
- Track reward points and expiry: Use your bank’s app or website to monitor your reward balance and redemption options.
- Check for rotating offers: Seasonal promotions on flights, hotels, or lounge access can multiply your savings.
- Pair your card with airline loyalty programmes: Double-dip by earning miles on your card and with frequent flyer programmes.
A great travel experience begins before you even step into an airport, and your credit card plays a key role in shaping it, like a passport to smarter, smoother journeys.
Whether exploring Asia, flying to Europe, or enjoying a vacation in Mauritius or Bali, these cards can help you do it better and sometimes even for free. Choose a card that matches your travel style, spending habits, and destination goals. The world is waiting; you might as well earn rewards while you explore it.
