In today's world, credit cards aren't just about credit limits; they come with a lot of benefits to attract customers. One of the most sought-after perks is complimentary international airport lounge access. As more people explore the world for work and leisure, having access to these exclusive lounges can make a significant difference in travel experiences.
Why Does International Lounge Access Matters?
International lounges, found in major airports, offer comfort for selected individuals, including those with specific memberships, frequent flyers, and travellers in business or first class. While memberships like Priority Pass and Dream Folks may require usage fees, certain credit cards offer free airport lounge access as a built-in benefit, making your travel experiences more enjoyable.
Choosing the Right Credit Card for You
With a lot of credit cards in the market offering airport lounge access, it can be challenging to pick the right one. Different card issuers partner with various lounge programs, both in India and abroad. To simplify your decision-making, here's a list of some of the best credit cards for international lounge access:
Why Does International Lounge Access Matters?
International lounges, found in major airports, offer comfort for selected individuals, including those with specific memberships, frequent flyers, and travellers in business or first class. While memberships like Priority Pass and Dream Folks may require usage fees, certain credit cards offer free airport lounge access as a built-in benefit, making your travel experiences more enjoyable.
Choosing the Right Credit Card for You
With a lot of credit cards in the market offering airport lounge access, it can be challenging to pick the right one. Different card issuers partner with various lounge programs, both in India and abroad. To simplify your decision-making, here's a list of some of the best credit cards for international lounge access:
- Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card
- Joining Fee: Rs. 12,500 + GST
- Renewal Fee: Rs. 12,500 + GST
- Best Suited For: Movies
- IDFC FIRST Wealth Credit Card
- Joining Fee: Nil
- Renewal Fee: Nil
- Best Suited For: Shopping
- Axis Bank SELECT Credit Card
- Joining Fee: Rs. 3,000 + GST
- Renewal Fee: Rs. 3,000 + GST
- Best Suited For: Travel
- SBI ELITE Credit Card
- Joining Fee: Rs. 4,999 + GST
- Renewal Fee: Rs. 4,999 + GST
- Best Suited For: Movies
- HDFC Bank Regalia Gold Credit Card
- Joining Fee: Rs. 2,500 + GST
- Renewal Fee: Rs. 2,500 + GST
- Best Suited For: Shopping
- Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card
- Joining Fee: Rs. 5,000 + GST
- Renewal Fee: Rs. 5,000 + GST
- Best Suited For: Travel
- AU Bank Zenith+ Credit Card
- Joining Fee: Rs. 4,999 + GST
- Renewal Fee: Rs. 4,999 + GST
- Best Suited For: Travel
- HDFC Bank INFINIA Metal Credit Card
- Joining Fee: Rs. 12,500 + GST
- Renewal Fee: Rs. 12,500 + GST
- Best Suited For: Travel
- IndusInd Bank Pinnacle World Credit Card
- Joining Fee: Rs. 14,999 + GST
- Renewal Fee: Nil
- Best Suited For: Travel
- Yes Bank First Exclusive/RESERVE Credit Card
- Joining Fee: Rs. 1,999 + GST
- Renewal Fee: Rs. 1,999 + GST
- Best Suited For: Travel
- Lifetime Free Card – IDFC FIRST Wealth Credit Card: Ideal for frequent flyers, this card offers four complimentary international and domestic lounge access each quarter. It's a lifetime free card, making it a cost-effective choice.
- Entry Level – Axis Bank SELECT Credit Card: With a reasonable joining fee of Rs. 3,000, this card offers two complimentary domestic and six international lounge accesses per year, making it suitable for occasional travellers.
- Lifestyle – RBL World Safari Credit Card: This card provides a 0% foreign currency markup on foreign transactions, making it beneficial for work-related travel. It offers free Priority Pass membership for two international lounge visits each year.
- Premium – HDFC Bank INFINIA Credit Card: For those valuing a luxurious lifestyle, this invite-only card offers unlimited international lounge access for primary and supplementary cardholders, along with additional perks like one plus one on buffets at ITC Hotels.
