Are you planning an international trip from India? If yes, then we understand how managing finances abroad can feel overwhelming, with currency exchange fees and unexpected costs adding to the challenge. Solution? A credit card. 

A credit card is a financial tool issued by banks or financial institutions that allows you to borrow money to make purchases, pay bills, or withdraw cash up to a pre-approved credit limit. Instead of pre-loading or paying immediately, you can repay the borrowed amount later, typically at the end of a billing cycle.  Additionally, credit cards provide various benefits, such as reward points, cashback on transactions, travel perks like lounge access and travel insurance, and discounts on dining and shopping, making them a versatile option for managing expenses effectively.

So, for Indians planning a foreign trip, here we have covered the 7 best credit cards for international travel. We’ll be comparing these cards on the most important features, such as forex markup fee, reward points, ease of use, security, etc. 

Here’s a quick list of the 7 best credit cards for international travel from India:

1. HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card

2. Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card

3. ICICI Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card

4. SBI Card ELITE

5. IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card

6. RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card

7. HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card
   

Planning a foreign trip? Besides a credit card, make sure to apply for your destination visa in advance to ensure everything is in order for your trip. 

Now, let us understand the key features of these 7 cards in a simplified manner. 

1. HDFC Infinia Credit Card

The HDFC Infinia Credit Card is a premium card designed for high-net-worth individuals who the bank invites. From its low foreign currency markup fee to robust rewards, unlimited lounge access, and extensive insurance coverage, it stands out as one of the best credit cards for international travel.

Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits.

1. Foreign currency markup fee: The HDFC Infinia Credit Card stands out with its low foreign currency markup fee of just 2%. 

2. Rewards on international transactions: The card offers 5 reward points for every ₹150 spent, including international transactions. For purchases made on the SmartBuy platform, you can earn up to 10x reward points, and these points can be redeemed for flight tickets, hotel bookings, or even converted into Air Miles at a 1:1 ratio.

3. Airport lounge access: Frequent travellers will enjoy unlimited complimentary access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide through the Priority Pass program. Additionally, the card’s partnership with airlines enables Air Miles conversion, allowing you to accumulate points for free flights. 

4. Complimentary travel insurance: The HDFC Infinia Credit Card provides accidental air death cover of ₹3 crores, emergency overseas hospitalisation coverage of up to ₹50 lakhs, and credit shield insurance protection of up to ₹9 lakhs.

5. Ease of usage abroad: The HDFC Infinia Credit Card’s contactless payment feature allows for quick and secure transactions for amounts under ₹5,000 without requiring a PIN, making it convenient for smaller purchases. Larger transactions are secured by your PIN and can be converted into Smart EMIs, giving you financial flexibility. The card is accepted across the globe, ensuring seamless payments wherever you travel. 

6. Security features: The HDFC Infinia Credit Card delivers Zero Lost Card Liability coverage (i.e. if you lose your card and report it promptly, you are protected from fraudulent transactions) and real-time alerts, keeping you updated on every transaction via SMS or email.

7. Customer support accessibility: The card offers 24x7 global concierge services, which include travel itinerary planning, flight or hotel bookings, event planning, private dining arrangements, emergency assistance and international gift delivery. For any issues while travelling abroad, you can contact 022-6171 7606. 

8. Additional perks and benefits: Other perks include a 1% waiver on fuel transactions between ₹400 and ₹1,00,000 and complimentary Club Marriott Membership for the first year, offering up to 20% discounts on dining and stays across the Asia-Pacific region. Get unlimited complimentary golf games at premium courses in India and select international locations (with coaching sessions) and access special deals on flights, hotels, and shopping through the SmartBuy platform.

2. Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card

The Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card is another well-rounded credit card tailored for frequent travellers and individuals who value premium rewards and benefits. Whether you're looking to earn miles or enjoy world-class experiences, this card has much to offer.

Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:

1. Foreign currency markup fee: The Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card offers a foreign currency markup fee of 1.5% plus taxes. 

2. Rewards on international transactions: The card provides a generous reward structure for various spends, like earning 2 EDGE Miles for every ₹100 spent on eligible transactions (excluding airline, hotel, and TRAVEL EDGE portal spends). New users get up to 2,500–5,000 EDGE Miles as a welcome benefit based on the card issuance date. These miles can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and other travel-related expenses.

3. Airport lounge access: The card provides lounge access for both primary cardholders and accompanying guests, which can be availed by generating a QR code via the Axis Bank Mobile App. 

4. Complimentary travel insurance: The Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card provides robust travel insurance coverage, including protection against travel-related emergencies (such as loss of checked-in baggage and trip cancellations). Additionally, the card offers comprehensive accident and medical insurance benefits, including emergency hospitalisation coverage for overseas trips. 

5. Ease of usage abroad: The Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card is globally accepted. The card’s compatibility with contactless payments simplifies purchases abroad. Cardholders can also manage their account, track EDGE Miles, and access lounges through the user-friendly Axis Bank Mobile App.

6. Security features: The card comes with strong security measures, including fraud protection on unauthorised transactions and real-time updates on all transactions via SMS or the Axis Bank Mobile App.

7. Customer support accessibility: The Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card offers 24/7 customer support for card-related queries. 

8. Additional perks and benefits: Additional benefits include up to 25% discounts at over 10,000+ restaurants via EazyDiner and the Miles Transfer Program, which easily lets you transfer EDGE Miles to participating airline and hotel loyalty programs.

Recommended read: How to Maximise Rewards with the Axis Bank ATLAS Card.

3. ICICI Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card

The Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card is offered by ICICI Bank as a premium card for Indians who value luxury, convenience, and rewards. With its exclusive Priority Pass lounge access, complimentary Taj Epicure membership, and high-value milestone benefits, the card offers many exclusive benefits.

Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:

1. Foreign currency markup fee: The ICICI Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card charges a forex markup fee of 2% (excluding GST). 

2. Rewards on international transactions: Using this card, you can earn 6 ICICI Bank Reward Points for every ₹200 spent on retail transactions (excluding government services, fuel, rent, and tax payments) and can redeem reward points across categories such as electronics, luxury products, travel vouchers, and lifestyle items.

3. Airport lounge access: Complimentary Priority Pass membership for both primary and supplementary cardholders, providing access to 1,300+ lounges globally and at select Indian airports.

4. Complimentary travel insurance: Feel secure with robust travel insurance coverage, including a personal accident in the air (death only) of up to ₹3 crores and credit shield coverage of ₹1 lakh.

5. Ease of usage abroad: The card’s global acceptance, paired with complimentary Priority Pass membership and attractive reward point redemption options, ensures seamless usage abroad. Manage the card seamlessly during your travel via the CICI Bank iMobile Pay App and Internet banking services. 

6. Security features: The ICICI Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card provides advanced security features, including fraud protection on unauthorised transactions, real-time alerts for every transaction and the option to block/unblock the card instantly via the iMobile Pay App or Internet banking.

7. Customer support accessibility: You can call their 24/7 available customer care at 1800 1080 or request services using Online Assist. 

8. Additional perks and benefits: Besides those mentioned above, Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card offers complimentary Taj Epicure Membership, EaseMyTrip vouchers worth ₹6,000 on annual spends of ₹4 lakhs and ₹8 lakhs, EazyDiner Prime Membership offering up to 50% discounts at 3,000+ restaurants in India and Dubai, and refunds of up to ₹12,000 for two transactions annually for hotel, flight, and movie ticket cancellations.

4. SBI Card ELITE

Next in line is the SBI Card ELITE. With benefits like complimentary lounge access, milestone rewards, dining discounts, and one of the lowest forex markup fees, it offers exceptional value for frequent international travellers.

Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:

1. Foreign currency markup fee: The SBI Card ELITE offers one of the lowest forex markup fees of 1.99%, making international transactions more affordable. 

2. Rewards on international transactions: Earn 5X Reward Points on dining, departmental stores, and grocery spending and earn 2 Reward Points per ₹100 spent on other transactions (excluding fuel). These Reward Points can be redeemed for travel vouchers, lifestyle products, and more, with a value of ₹1 per point.

3. Airport lounge access: With SBI Card ELITE, you get a complimentary Priority Pass membership with access to 1,000+ lounges worldwide, offering 6 complimentary visits per year (up to 2 visits per quarter). You will also get 2 complimentary visits per quarter at select Indian airport lounges.

4. Complimentary travel insurance: The SBI Card ELITE provides robust travel insurance coverage, including Fraud Liability coverage of up to ₹1 lakh.

5. Ease of usage abroad: Accepted at over 24 million outlets worldwide, including 3.25 lakh outlets in India, the card supports global transactions seamlessly. Managing the card is easy with online options for Flexipay, balance transfers, and reward redemptions. 

6. Security features: The card is equipped with advanced security, including Chip and PIN technology for protection against fraud and real-time fraud liability coverage for peace of mind.

7. Customer support accessibility: The card offers round-the-clock support through its customer care numbers 1860 500 1290 and 1860 180 1290. Or you can mail it to [email protected].

8. Additional perks and benefits: Additionally, get a ₹5,000 e-gift voucher from top brands like Yatra, Bata, or Shoppers Stop, complimentary movie tickets worth ₹6,000 annually (₹250 per ticket, two tickets per month), up to 25% off at select restaurants via EazyDiner and other dining platforms, access to complimentary golf games and lessons at select courses across India.

5. IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card

With zero joining fee and low markup fees, the IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card delivers value across travel, shopping, and everyday expenses. Its robust rewards program and free trip cancellation cover further enhance its appeal.

Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:

1. Foreign currency markup fee: The IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card offers a competitive forex markup fee of just 1.99%, making it cost-effective for international transactions. 

2. Rewards on international transactions: Earn 1 Reward Point per ₹150 spent and 3X Reward Points on rental payments, government services, education, and wallet loads.

3. Airport lounge access: Enjoy 2 complimentary domestic lounge visits per quarter (T&C apply) and 4 complimentary visits per year at select railway terminals under similar conditions.

4. Complimentary travel insurance: Get free trip cancellation cover of up to ₹10,000 for non-refundable hotel and flight bookings. This benefit can be utilised for up to two claims during the policy period, shared between primary and add-on cardholders.

5. Ease of usage abroad: The IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card is accepted globally, and you can manage your card via the IDFC FIRST Mobile Banking App.

6. Security features: Enable or disable online, contactless, and international transactions via the mobile app. Secure usage with real-time updates and advanced security protocols.

7. Customer support accessibility: IDFC offers one of the best 24/7 customer support via multiple channels. If facing any issues, call +91 22 6248 5152 or connect through WhatsApp at 9555 555 555. 

8. Additional perks and benefits: With the IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card, you receive a ₹500 gift voucher from top brands like Amazon and Uber on spending ₹5,000 within 30 days of issuance and 5% cashback up to ₹1,000 on your first EMI transaction within 30 days of card issuance.

6. RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card

The RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card is another cost-effective credit card for Indians visiting abroad. Offering 0% forex markup on international transactions, generous reward points, complimentary lounge access, travel insurance, and concierge services, the card is an excellent choice for frequent travellers.

Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:

1. Foreign currency markup fee: Unlike any other card, the RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card stands out with a 0% forex markup fee on all international transactions. 

2. Rewards on international transactions: Earn 5 Reward Points for every ₹100 spent on travel purchases and 2 Reward Points for every ₹100 spent on domestic retail transactions. Milestone rewards include up to 15,000 bonus points and vouchers worth ₹10,000 on annual spending of ₹7.5 lakhs.

3. Airport lounge access: Get 2 complimentary domestic airport lounge visits per quarter at major Indian airports. Complimentary Priority Pass membership unlocks access to 1,400+ lounges worldwide, with 2 free visits annually.

4. Complimentary travel insurance: Travel worry-free with comprehensive insurance benefits, including personal liability coverage, coverage for trip delays, baggage loss, loss of passport, and dental treatment expenses abroad.

5. Ease of usage abroad: Accepted globally, the card can be easily managed using the RBL Bank MyCard app. 

6. Security features: Advanced chip-and-PIN technology enhances protection against counterfeiting and skimming. Furthermore, you can instantly block or unblock the card and manage transactions securely through RBL Bank's online portal or customer service. 

7. Customer support accessibility: There is a dedicated 24x7 concierge desk for travel, dining, and lifestyle reservations. You can reach out at +91 22 6232 7777 or [email protected].

8. Additional perks and benefits: In addition to the benefits mentioned above, get a ₹3,000 MakeMyTrip voucher upon activation, fuel surcharge waiver for transactions between ₹500 and ₹4,000 (up to ₹250 monthly) and four complimentary gold course access annually and one monthly lesson, with discounted rates beyond the complimentary access.

7. HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card

The HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card offers multiple rewards, lifestyle benefits, and travel privileges. Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:

1. Foreign currency markup fee: The HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card offers a competitive 2% forex markup fee.

2. Rewards on international transactions: Earn 4 Reward Points for every ₹150 spent on retail purchases, including insurance, utilities, and education, and earn 5X Reward Points at Marks & Spencer, Myntra, Nykaa, and Reliance Digital.

3. Airport lounge access: Get 12 complimentary access annually to lounges across India (domestic and international terminals). Avail 6 Priority Pass lounge visits per year outside India, covering the primary and add-on cardholders. Additional visits are chargeable at $27 + GST.

4. Complimentary travel insurance: HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card offers accidental air death cover of up to ₹1 crore, emergency overseas hospitalisation of up to ₹15 lakhs and credit liability cover of up to ₹9 lakhs.

5. Ease of usage abroad: The card supports global transactions and is equipped with contactless payment technology for secure and convenient purchases. You can also manage your spending and reward redemptions via SmartBuy or NetBanking.

6. Security features: You can report your card loss immediately to be protected from fraudulent transactions. Enjoy contactless payments, and transactions below ₹5,000 don’t require a PIN.

7. Customer support accessibility: The card provides 24/7 concierge services for assistance with dining, travel, and lifestyle bookings. You can reach out to the toll-free number 1860 425 1188 or email at [email protected].

8. Additional perks and benefits: Get complimentary Swiggy One and MMT Black Gold memberships upon spending ₹1 lakh within 90 days of issuance. Save up to 7.5% on restaurant bills via Swiggy Dineout at 20,000+ restaurants. You also earn ₹5,000 worth of flight vouchers on annual spends of ₹5 lakhs and an additional ₹5,000 voucher at ₹7.5 lakhs, and more such benefits. 

Key Factors to Consider in Choosing the Best International Credit Card

Since you now know the best international travel credit cards in India, let us help you in choosing the right one. Not every card fits every user, so here are the five key factors to make an informed decision.

1. Foreign currency markup fee

The foreign currency markup fee is the charge applied when you make transactions in a foreign currency. A lower markup fee translates to significant savings on international purchases. If you are a frequent international traveller, prioritise a card with the lowest forex markup to avoid hefty conversion fees. For example, the RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card offers a 0% forex markup fee.

2. Rewards and benefits

Evaluate the reward structure for international spending. Cards with robust rewards programs offer points for every transaction, which can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, or cashback. If earning rewards or redeeming points for travel perks matters to you, focus on cards like HDFC Infinia or ICICI Emeralde.

3. Travel-related perks

Lounge access can elevate your entire travel experience, especially during long layovers. Most premium credit cards offer complimentary access to lounges worldwide. If comfort during travel is a priority, choose a card with unlimited or ample complimentary lounge visits. For example, the SBI Card ELITE provides Priority Pass membership, allowing 6 complimentary visits annually to lounges abroad. It also offers 2 domestic lounge visits per quarter, making it versatile for both international and domestic trips.

4. Complimentary travel insurance

Having travel insurance bundled with your credit card adds an extra layer of security, especially when travelling abroad. The travel insurance would protect you from unexpected events like baggage loss, flight cancellations, or medical emergencies. Cards such as the HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card offer emergency overseas hospitalisation coverage of up to ₹50 lakhs, while the RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card goes a step further with insurance for passport loss and dental treatment expenses abroad.

5. Ease of usage and security

An international credit card should be widely accepted and offer advanced security features to prevent misuse. Look for global acceptance, contactless payment options, and fraud liability protection. Moreover, if you’re a first-time user, choose a card that’s easy to manage via mobile apps or online platforms, with robust security protocols.

Conclusion

By now, you have the knowledge of the best international credit card options from India. Now, you can choose from these depending on your travel habits, spending patterns, and the features you prioritise. For high-spenders seeking luxury and travel perks, the HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card stands out with its unparalleled rewards and comprehensive benefits. On the other hand, the RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card, with its 0% forex markup fee, is ideal for cost-conscious travellers.