Luxury Hotels available with travel credit card points

How to Choose The Right Travel Credit Cards For Your Income & Spending

Written By
Roshan Nair
Last Updated
Feb 06, 2025
Read
20 min

When you get that call from the bank, pitching yet another credit card, your knee-jerk reaction is probably either "Nah, not interested," or "Sure, but only if it's lifetime-free." Rarely do you pause to ask, "What perks does it offer that are relevant to my lifestyle?" or "Does this fit my spending habits?"

And that's where you, like most cardholders (or deniers), are missing the plot.

Think about it: you have your own unique spending style—be it splurging on gourmet dining, jet-setting across the globe, or indulging in online shopping sprees. Now, imagine if your credit card could turn those expenses into rewards tailored just for you. Sounds like a dream—but it's totally doable.

The trick is to find the right card to complement your lifestyle.

Dive into your spending patterns, figure out where your money flows, and then pick a card that gives you the maximum bang for your buck in those areas.

Which Travel Credit Card to Use Based on Your Income/Spends

I. Income (5 - 12 LPA) + Moderate Spends

1. American Express Membership Rewards Credit Card (MRCC)

American Express Membership Rewards Credit Card (MRCC)
American Express Membership Rewards Credit Card (MRCC)

Key Details:

  • Annual Fee: ₹1,000 plus taxes for the first year, and ₹4,500 plus taxes from the second year onwards.

  • Minimum Annual Income: You'll need to be pulling in at least ₹6 lakh per year to qualify.

  • Ideal Annual Spend: If you're spending ₹1.5 lakh or more annually, you can get the annual fee waived off.

  • Suitable For: This card is great for folks who want a mix of travel perks and lifestyle benefits.

Why get the Amex MRCC?

The Amex MRCC is perfect for you if you’re a low/moderate spender. It helps you rack up rewards on your everyday spends. Swipe it for your regular purchases, and watch those Membership Rewards Points stack up.

The cool part? Use your card four times a month on transactions of ₹1,500 or more, and you'll snag 1,000 bonus points. Do this consistently, and you're looking at a hefty pile of points by year's end. And when it's time to redeem, you've got plenty of options—from shopping vouchers for places like Amazon and Flipkart to travel goodies.

Plus, if you hit that ₹1.5 lakh spend mark in a year, say goodbye to the annual fee. It's a solid pick for those who want to make the most out of their daily expenses without any fuss.

2. SBI Card ELITE

SBI Card ELITE
SBI Card ELITE

Key Details:

  • Annual Fee: ₹4,999 + taxes

  • Minimum Annual Income: Recommended for those with a stable, moderate income (typically ₹6–8 lakh+).

  • Ideal Annual Spend: ₹10 lakh or more to waive off the annual fee and maximise rewards.

  • Suitable For: High spenders who love a mix of travel perks, lifestyle benefits, and entertainment rewards.

Why get the SBI Card ELITE?

The SBI Card ELITE is your all-access pass to premium perks. You start strong with a ₹5,000 welcome e-voucher (Yatra, Hush Puppies, Shoppers Stop—you pick). If you’re into movies, this card hooks you up with 2 free tickets every month (₹6,000/year saved right there).

For travellers? Priority Pass membership with 6 international and 8 domestic lounge visits annually keeps your airport game strong. And if you love splurging on dining, groceries, or shopping, you’ll rack up 5X Reward Points (base rate = 2 reward points per 100 INR spend, with 4 reward points ~ 1 INR).

Hit ₹3L, ₹4L, ₹5L, and ₹8L in annual spending, and you’ll unlock bonus points worth up to ₹12,500. Add in a low 1.99% forex markup for international swipes, and it’s a win-win for big spenders looking to squeeze every perk out of their expenses.

II. Income (12 - 20 LPA) + Higher Spends

1. American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card

(ideal annual income of ₹12 lakhs with minimum annual spend of ₹4 lakhs to unlock maximum milestone rewards)

American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card
American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card

Key Details:

  • Annual Fee: ₹5,000 plus applicable taxes.

  • Minimum annual income for eligibility: 6 lakhs

  • Suitable For: Travel enthusiasts with moderate to high spending, aiming for premium travel vouchers and benefits.

Why get the Amex Platinum Travel Card?

The Amex Platinum Travel Credit Card is tailored for those who love to travel and want to make the most out of their expenditures. Upon joining, spend ₹15,000 within the first 90 days to receive a Welcome Gift of 10,000 Membership Rewards Points, redeemable for Flipkart vouchers or travel bookings worth ₹3,000.

As you continue spending, the rewards get even better:

  • Spend ₹1.9 lakh in a membership year: Earn 15,000 Membership Rewards Points, redeemable for Flipkart vouchers or travel bookings worth ₹4,500.

  • Spend ₹4 lakh in a membership year: Earn an additional 25,000 Membership Rewards Points, redeemable for Flipkart vouchers or travel bookings worth ₹7,500. Plus, receive a Taj Experiences E-Gift Card worth ₹10,000, valid at Taj, SeleQtions, and Vivanta Hotels.

For frequent flyers, the card offers 8 complimentary domestic lounge visits per year, capped at two per quarter, ensuring your airport experience is always comfortable.

2. Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card

(ideal annual income of ₹15 lakhs with ideal annual spend of ₹5-10 lakhs to unlock milestone rewards)

Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card
Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card

Key Details:

  • Annual Fee: ₹5,000 plus applicable taxes.

  • Minimum Annual Income: ₹12 lakh for salaried employees, and ₹15 lakh for self-employed individuals.

  • Ideal Annual Spend: ₹7.5 lakh to achieve Gold tier benefits and ₹15 lakh to reach Platinum tier benefits.

  • Suitable For: High-income individuals who frequently travel and wish to maximise travel-related rewards and benefits.

Why get the Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card?

The Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card is designed for avid travellers aiming to earn and redeem miles efficiently. Upon activation, you receive a welcome bonus of 2,500 EDGE Miles after your first transaction within 37 days.

For your spending, the card offers:

  • 5 EDGE Miles per ₹100 on travel-related expenses, including direct bookings with airlines and hotels, as well as through the Axis Bank Travel EDGE Portal. Note that this accelerated rate applies to monthly travel spends up to ₹2 lakh; beyond this, the rate reverts to 2 EDGE Miles per ₹100.

  • 2 EDGE Miles per ₹100 on all other eligible purchases.

The card operates on a tiered rewards system:

Silver Tier (Annual Spend of ₹3 lakh):

  • 4 international and 8 domestic lounge visits per year.

  • 2,500 EDGE Miles as a milestone benefit.

Gold Tier (Annual Spend of ₹7.5 lakh):

  • 6 international and 12 domestic lounge visits per year.

  • 5,000 EDGE Miles (2,500 as milestone and 2,500 as annual benefits).

Platinum Tier (Annual Spend of ₹15 lakh):

  • 12 international and 18 domestic lounge visits per year.

  • 10,000 EDGE Miles (5,000 as milestone and 5,000 as annual benefits).

EDGE Miles can be redeemed for flight bookings, hotel stays, and experiences via the Axis Travel EDGE platform at a value of ₹1 per mile. Alternatively, they can be transferred to partner airline and hotel loyalty programs, often at a 1:2 ratio, enhancing their value for international travellers.

3. HDFC Regalia Gold

(minimum annual income of ₹18 lakhs with ideal annual spend of 7 lakhs for decent rewards)

HDFC Regalia Gold
HDFC Regalia Gold

Key Details:

  • Annual Fee: ₹2,500 plus applicable taxes.

  • Minimum Annual Income: ₹18 lakh for salaried individuals (₹12 lakh for government employees) and an Income Tax Return (ITR) of more than ₹18 lakh per annum for self-employed individuals.

  • Ideal Annual Spend: ₹4 lakh or more to qualify for the renewal fee waiver and maximise rewards.

  • Suitable For: Individuals seeking a blend of travel perks, shopping rewards, and comprehensive benefits.

Why get the HDFC Bank Regalia Gold Credit Card?

The HDFC Bank Regalia Gold Credit Card is designed for those who desire a premium experience across travel, dining, and shopping. Upon joining, cardholders receive a welcome gift voucher worth ₹2,500.

For rewards, the card offers:

  • 4 Reward Points per ₹150 spent on retail purchases, including insurance, utilities, and education.

  • 5X rewards (20 Reward Points per ₹150) spent at select partners like Marks & Spencer, Myntra, Reliance Digital, and Nykaa.

Accumulated Reward Points can be redeemed through the exclusive Gold Catalogue on SmartBuy, with varying values depending on the redemption choice.

In terms of travel benefits, the card provides complimentary Priority Pass Membership after completing four retail transactions, up to 6 complimentary international lounge visits per year (primary and add-on members combined) and 12 complimentary domestic lounge visits annually.

4. HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Card

(minimum annual income of ₹21 lakhs with ideal monthly spend of 1.35L)

HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Card
HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Card

Key Details:

  • Annual Fee: ₹10,000 plus applicable taxes.

  • Minimum Annual Income: ₹21 lakh (salaried/self-employed)

  • Ideal Annual Spend: ₹5 lakh or more to qualify for the renewal fee waiver and maximise rewards.

  • Suitable For: High-income individuals seeking premium travel benefits, extensive reward points, and exclusive lifestyle privileges.

Why get the HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Credit Card?

The HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Credit Card is tailored for those who desire top-tier benefits across travel, dining, and lifestyle. Upon spending ₹1.5 lakh within the first 90 days, cardholders receive complimentary annual memberships to Club Marriott, Times Prime, Amazon Prime, Swiggy One (3 months), and MMT BLACK.

For rewards, the card offers:

  • 5 Reward Points per ₹150 spent on retail purchases.

  • Up to 10X Reward Points on spends via SmartBuy and 2X on weekend dining.

Accumulated Reward Points can be redeemed for flight and hotel bookings through the SmartBuy platform, with 1 Reward Point equating to ₹1. Additionally, points can be converted to AirMiles with partner airlines at a 1:1 ratio.

In terms of travel benefits, the card provides unlimited airport lounge access to over 1,000 lounges worldwide for primary and add-on card members, and complimentary golf games (up to 6 per quarter) across select courses globally.

Additional perks include a low foreign currency markup fee of 2%, a 1% fuel surcharge waiver on transactions of ₹400 and above (capped at ₹1,000 per statement cycle), and comprehensive insurance coverage, including an air accident insurance cover worth ₹2 crore.

Summary of Mid-Range Travel Credit Cards
Summary of Mid-Range Travel Credit Cards

III. Income (30 LPA+) with Frequent Travel

1. HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card

(minimum annual income of ₹60 lakhs with ideal monthly spend of 3L)

HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card
HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card

Key Details:

  • Annual Fee: ₹12,500 plus applicable taxes. Upon fee realization and card activation, you receive 12,500 reward points as a welcome and renewal benefit.

  • Eligibility: A monthly income of ₹5 lakh for salaried individuals and an annual Income Tax Return (ITR) of ₹60 lakh for self-employed individuals.

  • Ideal Annual Spend: ₹10 lakh or more in the preceding 12 months to qualify for the renewal fee waiver.

  • Suitable For: High-income individuals seeking premium travel benefits, extensive reward points, and exclusive lifestyle privileges.

Why get the HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card?

The HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card is designed for those who desire top-tier benefits across travel, dining, and lifestyle. Cardholders earn 5 Reward Points per ₹150 spent on retail purchases, including insurance, utilities, and education. Additionally, you can earn up to 10X Reward Points on travel and shopping spends made via HDFC Bank’s SmartBuy Platform.

Accumulated Reward Points can be redeemed for flight and hotel bookings via SmartBuy, with 1 Reward Point equating to ₹1. Points can also be converted to AirMiles with partner airlines at a 1:1 ratio.

In terms of travel benefits, the card provides unlimited airport lounge access across the globe for primary and add-on members. Cardholders also enjoy unlimited complimentary golf games at leading courses across India and select courses worldwide.

Additional perks include a low foreign currency markup fee of 2%, comprehensive insurance coverage, and 24x7 global personal concierge services.

2. American Express Platinum Card

(minimum annual income of ₹25 lakhs with ideal monthly spend of 1.5-2L)

American Express Platinum Card
American Express Platinum Card

Key Details:

  • Annual Fee: ₹66,000 plus applicable taxes

  • Minimum Annual Income: ₹25 lakh for salaried individuals and ₹15 lakh for self-employed individuals

  • Ideal Annual Spend: Spend ₹20 lakh or more to get renewal fee waived off and to maximise benefits from this card.

  • Suitable For: High-net-worth individuals seeking unparalleled travel privileges, luxury lifestyle benefits, and premium concierge services.

Why get the American Express Platinum Card?

The American Express Platinum Card is a super-premium charge card designed for those who desire top-tier benefits across travel, dining, and lifestyle. Upon spending ₹15,000 within the first 90 days of membership, cardholders receive a Welcome Gift of 100,000 Membership Rewards Points, redeemable for a variety of options, including luxury hotel stays and premium merchandise.

For rewards, the card offers 1 Membership Rewards Point for every ₹40 spent, except on fuel, insurance, utility payments, cash transactions, and EMI conversions.

In terms of travel benefits, the card provides:

  • Global Lounge Access: Complimentary access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide through the American Express Global Lounge Collection, including The Centurion Lounge, Priority Pass Lounges, and Delta Sky Club Lounges when flying Delta.

  • Hotel Elite Status: Complimentary elite tier memberships with leading hotel chains, such as Hilton Honors Gold Status, Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status, and Radisson Rewards Premium Status, offering benefits like room upgrades and late check-outs.

  • Fine Hotels & Resorts Program: Access to over 1,300 luxury properties worldwide with benefits averaging a total value of ₹44,300 per stay, including room upgrades (when available), daily breakfast for two, guaranteed 4 PM late check-out, and more.

Additional perks include complimentary memberships to exclusive programs like Taj InnerCircle Silver Tier, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards, and I Prefer Hotel Rewards. Cardholders also enjoy complimentary golf access at premier courses, 24/7 Platinum Concierge services, and comprehensive travel insurance coverage, including air accident insurance up to ₹5 crore and overseas medical insurance up to US$50,000 for the first seven days of a trip.

3. Axis Magnus Burgundy

(ideal annual income of ₹30+ lakhs with ideal monthly spend of 2-3L)

Axis Magnus Burgundy
Axis Magnus Burgundy

Key Details:

  • Annual Fee: ₹30,000 plus applicable taxes.

  • Eligibility: Exclusive to Axis Bank Burgundy account holders who meet specific relationship criteria, such as maintaining an average quarterly balance of ₹10 lakh in savings accounts.

  • Ideal Annual Spend: ₹25-30 lakh or more to maximise rewards and benefits.

  • Suitable For: High-net-worth individuals seeking premium travel perks, luxury lifestyle benefits, and exclusive privileges.

Why get the Axis Magnus Burgundy Credit Card?

The Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card for Burgundy is tailored for Burgundy clients desiring top-tier benefits across travel, dining, and lifestyle. Upon activation, cardholders can choose a welcome voucher worth ₹5,000 from options like Luxe gift cards, PostCard Hotels gift vouchers, or Yatra gift vouchers.

For rewards, the card offers 12 EDGE Reward Points per ₹200 spent on eligible transactions. Notably, points can be transferred to partner airlines at a favourable 5:4 ratio, enhancing their value for frequent travellers.

The Axis Magnus for Burgundy Credit Card offers double the partner miles for the same EDGE Reward Points compared to the standard Magnus Card. Plus, with a higher annual transfer limit of 10 lakh EDGE Points (vs. 5 lakh on the regular Magnus), you can maximise conversions and boost your travel rewards like never before.

In terms of travel benefits, the card provides:

  • Unlimited complimentary international lounge access via the Priority Pass program, with 4 additional guest visits per year.

  • Unlimited domestic lounge access at select airports across India.

Additional perks include no cash withdrawal charges, a reduced foreign currency markup fee of 2%, and a 1% fuel surcharge waiver on transactions between ₹400 and ₹4,000 (capped at ₹400 per month).

Summary of Premium-Range Travel Credit Cards
Summary of Premium-Range Travel Credit Cards

IV. Luxury Segment / Ultra-Premium Credit Cards

1. American Express Centurion Card (Black Card) - The God of All Credit Cards

American Express Centurion Card
American Express Centurion Card

The American Express Centurion Card, often referred to as the "Black Card," is an invitation-only charge card designed for individuals seeking unparalleled luxury and exclusive privileges.

  • Annual Fee: $10,000 USD (₹8 lakh INR) joining/annual fee

  • Eligibility: Invitation-only, extended to individuals with significant spending and a longstanding relationship with American Express.

  • Key Benefits:

    • Personal concierge services.

    • Access to exclusive events and experiences.

    • Comprehensive travel benefits, including top-tier hotel memberships and airline privileges.

  • Suitable For: Ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking unparalleled luxury and personalized services.

Exclusive Benefits:

Dedicated Concierge Service: Access to a 24/7 concierge for personalized assistance, including travel bookings, event access, and bespoke experiences.

Travel Privileges:

  • Complimentary Companion Tickets: On select international flights with the purchase of a full-fare ticket.

  • Hotel Benefits: Privileges at luxury hotel chains, including complimentary nights and room upgrades.

  • Airport Lounge Access: Unlimited access to Centurion Lounges and partner lounges globally.

Lifestyle Perks:

  • Personal Shopping Services: Exclusive access to personal shoppers at high-end retailers.

  • Event Access: Invitations to exclusive events, including fashion shows and VIP experiences.

Memberships: Enrollment in elite programs such as Avis President's Club and Sony's Cierge personal shopping service.

Cons:

  • High Fees: The substantial joining and annual fees reflect the exclusivity and premium services offered.

  • Invitation-Only: Prospective members cannot apply directly; invitations are extended based on stringent criteria.

Finding the Right Credit Card For Your Spend Category

1. For Substantial Travel Expenses

I. Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card

(Ideal annual income at least 12 lakhs, with 50K- 1L monthly spends)

This card is tailored for frequent travellers, offering accelerated rewards on travel-related expenses.

Rewards Structure:

  • Base Rate: Earn 2 EDGE Miles per ₹100 spent on general categories.

  • Accelerated Rate: Earn 5 EDGE Miles per ₹100 spent on travel bookings made directly through airlines, hotels, or the Axis Bank Travel EDGE Portal, up to ₹2 lakh per month.

Redemption Flexibility: EDGE Miles can be transferred to over 10 airline and 3 hotel loyalty programs at a 1:2 ratio, effectively doubling their value when redeemed for travel.

Additional Benefits: Tier-based benefits provide complimentary domestic and international lounge access, with the number of visits increasing as you achieve higher spending tiers.

II. HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card

(at least 60 lakhs income and 2-2.5L spends)

Designed for high-net-worth individuals, this card offers unparalleled travel privileges and a robust rewards program.

Rewards Structure:

  • Base Rate: Earn 5 Reward Points per ₹150 spent across all retail categories, including insurance, utilities, and education.

  • Accelerated Rate: Earn up to 10X Reward Points on travel and shopping spends made via HDFC Bank’s SmartBuy Platform.

Redemption Value: Reward Points can be redeemed for flight and hotel bookings via SmartBuy at a rate of 1 RP = ₹1, providing substantial value for travellers.

Additional Benefits: Unlimited complimentary airport lounge access worldwide through Priority Pass, unlimited golf games at leading courses, and a low foreign currency markup fee of 2%.

III. American Express Platinum Card

(at least 25-30L income and 2L monthly spends)

This card is synonymous with luxury travel, offering exclusive benefits that cater to discerning travellers.

Rewards Structure:

  • Base Rate: Earn 1 Membership Rewards Point for every ₹40 spent, except on fuel, insurance, utility payments, cash transactions, and EMI conversions.

  • Bonus Points: Earn 1,000 bonus points by using the card four times a month on transactions of ₹1,500 or more.

Redemption Options: Points can be redeemed for a variety of options, including luxury hotel stays, premium merchandise, and travel vouchers.

Additional Benefits:

  • Complimentary access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, including The Centurion Lounge, Priority Pass Lounges, and Delta Sky Club Lounges.

  • Elite status with leading hotel chains, such as Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status, Hilton Honors Gold Status, and Radisson Rewards Premium Status.

  • Exclusive deals on some of the world’s finest airlines, including Etihad, Qatar Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Air France, KLM, Lufthansa, and United Airlines.

  • Benefits through the Fine Hotels & Resorts Program, offering complimentary perks at iconic 5-star properties, such as guaranteed 4 pm late check-out, room upgrades upon availability, daily breakfast for two, and special amenities worth up to US$100.

The card carries a high annual fee of ₹66,000 plus applicable taxes, but for frequent travellers who can utilize its extensive benefits, it offers substantial value.

2. For Individuals With High Dining Expenditure

I. HDFC Diners Club Black Credit Card

(annual income at least 30 lakhs with 1.35L monthly spends)

This card offers exceptional rewards and benefits tailored for dining enthusiasts.

Rewards Structure:

  • Base Rate: Earn 5 Reward Points per ₹150 spent across all retail categories.

  • Accelerated Rate: Earn up to 10X Reward Points on dining spends made via HDFC Bank’s SmartBuy Platform.

Redemption Value: Reward Points can be redeemed for flight and hotel bookings via SmartBuy at a rate of 1 RP = ₹1, or for dining vouchers, providing substantial value for dining expenditures.

Additional Benefits: Unlimited complimentary airport lounge access worldwide, unlimited golf games at leading courses, and exclusive dining privileges through the Good Food Trail Program.

II. Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card for Burgundy

(annual income at least 36 lakhs with 2 lakhs monthly spends)

Designed for high-net-worth individuals, this card offers premium dining benefits alongside other luxury perks.

Rewards Structure:

  • Base Rate: Earn 12 EDGE Reward Points per ₹200 spent on eligible transactions.

  • Accelerated Rate: Earn 25 EDGE Reward Points per ₹200 spent on dining transactions.

Redemption Options: EDGE Reward Points can be redeemed for a variety of options, including dining vouchers, travel bookings, and merchandise.

Additional Benefits: Unlimited complimentary airport lounge access worldwide, complimentary golf rounds, and a reduced foreign currency markup fee of 2%.

3. For High Spends on Groceries

I. American Express Membership Rewards Credit Card (MRCC)

(Ideal annual income at least 6 lakhs, with 20K monthly spends)

This card offers a straightforward rewards program that benefits everyday spending, including groceries.

Rewards Structure:

  • Base Rate: Earn 1 Membership Rewards Point for every ₹50 spent, except on fuel, insurance, utility payments, cash transactions, and EMI conversions.

  • Bonus Points: Earn 1,000 bonus points by using the card four times a month on transactions of ₹1,500 or more.

Redemption Options: Points can be redeemed for a variety of options, including shopping vouchers for places like Amazon and Flipkart, making it beneficial for grocery purchases.

Additional Benefits: Spend ₹1.5 lakh in a year to get the annual fee waived, and access to exclusive Amex offers and experiences.

4. For Significant Shopping Spends

I. HDFC Diners Club Black Credit Card

(Ideal annual income at least 30 lakhs, with 1.35 lakh monthly spends)

This card offers exceptional rewards for online shopping, especially through partnerships with major e-commerce platforms.

Rewards Structure

  • Base Rate: Earn 5 Reward Points per ₹150 spent across all retail categories, equating to a 3.3% reward rate.

  • Accelerated Rate: Through the SmartBuy platform, earn up to 10X Reward Points on select partners like Amazon, Myntra, Zomato, and Ola. This translates to 50 Reward Points per ₹150 spent, offering a 33% reward rate.

Additional Benefits

  • Milestone Benefits: On spending ₹80,000 in a month, choose two benefits among options like BookMyShow or TataCLiQ vouchers worth ₹500 each.

  • Annual Benefits: Complimentary annual memberships to services like Amazon Prime and Swiggy One upon achieving annual spends of ₹8 lakhs. The card has a high annual fee, but the extensive rewards and benefits can offset this for high spenders.

II. Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card for Burgundy

(Ideal annual income at least 40 lakhs, with 2 lakhs monthly spend)

This card provides substantial rewards for online shopping, especially when purchases are made through the Travel Edge portal.

Rewards Structure

  • Base Rate: Earn 12 EDGE Reward Points per ₹200 spent on cumulative monthly spends up to ₹1.5 lakhs.

  • Accelerated Rate: Earn 60 EDGE Reward Points per ₹200 spent on the Travel Edge portal, up to cumulative transactions of ₹2 lakhs per month.

  • Redemption Value: EDGE Reward Points can be transferred to partner airline and hotel loyalty programs, potentially increasing their value when redeemed for travel. To maximise rewards, significant spending through the Travel Edge portal is required.

Additional Benefits

  • Milestone Benefits: Complimentary domestic flight ticket or a Tata CLiQ voucher worth ₹10,000 upon achieving specific spending thresholds.

  • Annual Fee Waiver: The annual fee of ₹10,000 is waived upon spending ₹15 lakhs in the preceding year.

III. American Express Gold Charge Card

(Ideal annual income at least 6 lakhs, with 20K monthly spends)

This card offers enhanced rewards for online shopping when utilizing the GyFTR platform.

Rewards Structure

  • Base Rate: Earn 1 Membership Rewards Point for every ₹50 spent, except on fuel, insurance, utility payments, cash transactions, and EMI conversions.

  • Accelerated Rate: Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points on purchases made through the GyFTR platform, which partners with various online retailers.

Points can be redeemed for a variety of options, including shopping vouchers for popular online platforms, enhancing the value of rewards for online shoppers.

Additional Benefits

  • Milestone Benefits: Earn 1,000 bonus points by using the card four times a month on transactions of ₹1,500 or more.

  • Annual Fee Waiver: Spend ₹1.5 lakhs in a year to get the annual fee waived.

The card's value is maximised when purchases are channelled through the GyFTR platform.

If you cannot find a card that perfectly matches all your spending categories, prioritize a card that offers the highest returns in your top one or two spending areas to maximise your rewards.

Find a Card For Your Spend, Not a Spend For Your Card

When selecting a credit card, it's crucial to align the card's rewards structure with your existing spending habits, not the other way around. This approach ensures you maximise benefits without altering your financial behaviour. For instance, if a significant portion of your expenses is on travel, a card like Axis Atlas or HDFC Infinia is right for you.

Conversely, choosing a card first and then adjusting your spending to meet its reward criteria can lead to unnecessary expenses, negating the benefits of the rewards earned. So focus on your current spending patterns, select a card that naturally complements your lifestyle, and ensure that the rewards and benefits you accrue are both attainable and genuinely beneficial.

What's the difference between cashback credit cards vs point-based cards? Which one's better?

Cashback cards give you direct money back on your spends, while point-based cards let you earn rewards that can be redeemed for travel, shopping, or vouchers. Cashback is simple and immediate; points offer flexibility but need smart redemption. The better option depends on whether you prefer instant savings or maximized rewards.

What is an ideal credit score for credit card eligibility?

An ideal credit score for credit card eligibility in India is 750 or above. Scores between 700-749 are generally acceptable for most cards, while premium cards may require 800+. A higher score increases your chances of approval and better benefits.

What is the most luxurious credit card?

The American Express Centurion Card (also known as the Amex Black Card) is widely regarded as the most luxurious credit card. It's invitation-only, comes with hefty fees, and offers unparalleled perks like elite travel benefits, personal concierge services, and exclusive access to events worldwide.

What is the future of credit card industry in India?

The future of India’s credit card industry looks promising, driven by digital adoption, personalized rewards, and BNPL (Buy Now, Pay Later) integration. With rising fintech collaborations and contactless payments gaining traction, credit cards will offer more customized, lifestyle-focused benefits. Enhanced regulatory frameworks will also ensure greater consumer protection and financial inclusion.

Can Indian credit cards be used internationally?

Yes, most Indian credit cards can be used internationally if they are enabled for global transactions. Ensure international usage is activated via your bank’s app or customer care. Also, watch out for foreign currency markup fees (typically 2-3%).