Ensuring a smooth and comfortable voyage is of the utmost significance in contemporary travel. Credit cards that provide access to airport lounges have become essential companions for travel enthusiasts and frequent travellers in India. As 2024 commences, looking at the 10 most prestigious credit cards offering abundant supplementary advantages and access to exclusive airport lounge access is pertinent.
SBI Elite Credit Card
Annual Fee: Rs. 4,999
The SBI Elite Credit Card distinguishes itself as a comprehensive product by providing a variety of perks beyond lounge access. This card accommodates multinational travellers with its minimal foreign exchange markup fee of 1.99%. A bewildering assortment of benefits justifies the annual fee:
Lounge Access Benefits:
- Complimentary Priority Pass Membership.
- 6 international and 2 domestic lounge visits per quarter.
Other Benefits:
- Welcome gift voucher worth Rs. 5,000.
- Complimentary Club Vistara Membership.
- 5X rewards on dining, grocery, and departmental store spending.
- Free movie tickets worth Rs. 6,000 per year.
Conclusion: The SBI Elite Credit Card provides many lifestyle benefits and lounge access, justifying the annual fee.
HDFC Diners Club Privilege Credit Card
Annual Fee: Rs. 2,500 (Waived off on spending Rs. 3 lakh in the previous year)
The HDFC Diners Club Privilege Credit Card combines various advantages with a low annual fee, making it an appealing choice for individuals looking for a good balance of cost and features. Among the highlights are:
Lounge Access Benefits:
- Access to 1,000+ airport lounges globally.
- 12 complimentary airport lounge visits annually.
Other Benefits:
- Complimentary memberships of Amazon Prime, MMT BLACK, Times Prime, and Dineout Passport.
- Vouchers on reaching spending milestones.
- 4 reward points per Rs. 150 spent across all categories.
Conclusion: The HDFC Diners Club Privilege Credit Card emphasises travel, shopping, and rewards and is a flexible alternative for individuals wishing to maximise advantages without paying a high annual fee.
Axis Bank Select Credit Card
Annual Fee: Rs. 3,000 (Nil for Burgundy Clients)
The Axis Bank Select Credit Card bills itself as a lifestyle card with several perks. With a low annual charge, it stands out among credit cards with international lounge access. Among the notable characteristics are:
Lounge Access Benefits:
- Complimentary Priority Pass Membership.
- 6 international and 2 domestic lounge visits per quarter.
Other Benefits:
- Amazon Voucher on the first card transaction.
- Discounts on BigBasket and Swiggy.
- 10 Axis EDGE reward points per Rs. 200; 2X points on retail shopping.
- 6 complimentary golf rounds in a year.
Conclusion: A balanced combination of lifestyle perks, access to international lounges, and a reasonable annual fee characterise the Axis Bank Select Credit Card.
SBI Prime Credit Card
Annual Fee: Rs. 2,999 (Waived off on spending Rs. 3 lakh in a year)
By providing a combination of domestic and international perks, the SBI Prime Credit Card is positioned as one of the top credit cards in India for access to airport lounges. It also offers travel benefits, a comprehensive reward programme, and lounge privileges:
Lounge Access Benefits:
- 4 international and 8 domestic lounge visits annually.
Other Benefits:
- Welcome e-gift voucher worth Rs. 3,000.
- 10 reward points per Rs. 100 on dining, groceries, departmental stores, and movies.
- Milestone benefits such as Pizza Hut vouchers and Yatra or Pantaloons vouchers.
Conclusion: For individuals searching for a comprehensive credit card experience, the SBI Prime Credit Card is an outstanding option, owing to its emphasis on travel benefits and appealing reward programme.
YES FIRST Preferred Credit Card
Annual Fee: Rs. 999 (Waived off on spending Rs. 2.5 lakh in a year)
The Yes First Preferred Credit Card is characterised by its advantageous perks and minimal annual fee. In addition to lounge access, it provides a variety of lifestyle benefits that render it an attractive option for a variety of purposes, including:
Lounge Access Benefits:
- Complimentary Priority Pass Membership.
- 4 international and 2 domestic airport lounge visits per quarter.
Other Benefits:
- 8 reward points per Rs. 100 on all categories except select categories.
- 2X rewards on travel and dining spends.
- 4 complimentary rounds of golf and a 25% discount on BookMyShow.
Conclusion: Through its cost-effectiveness and extensive benefits package, the Yes First Preferred Credit Card accommodates individuals in search of an ideal equilibrium between rewards and expenses.
ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card
Joining Fee: Rs. 12,000
Annual Fee: Rs. 5,000
As our investigation into the top credit cards that grant access to airport lounges in India for 2023 progresses, the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card emerges as the focal point due to its exceptional attributes and exclusive perks:
Lounge Access Benefits:
- Complimentary Priority Pass Membership.
- Unlimited domestic and international lounge access for the primary cardholder and one add-on member.
Other Benefits:
- Exclusive concierge service.
- Complimentary Club Marriott membership.
- 2 complimentary rounds of golf every month.
- Movie benefits with BookMyShow.
Conclusion: Tailored to individuals pursuing luxury, the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card rationalises its elevated interest rates through premium services and unmatched exclusivity.
Kotak Mahindra Bank Royale Signature Credit Card
Joining Fee: Rs. 4,999
Annual Fee: Rs. 4,999
At a competitive annual fee, the Kotak Mahindra Bank Royale Signature Credit Card presents a combination of travel and lifestyle perks, positioning it as a well-rounded option:
Lounge Access Benefits:
- Complimentary Priority Pass Membership.
- 4 international lounge visits per year.
Other Benefits:
- Milestone rewards on annual spending.
- Dining and movie benefits.
- Fuel surcharge waiver.
- Concierge services.
Conclusion: Applicating a harmonious blend of lifestyle benefits and lounge access, the Kotak Mahindra Bank Royale Signature Credit Card accommodates individuals searching for a versatile and cost-effective credit card option.
IndusInd Bank Pinnacle Credit Card
Joining Fee: Rs. 12,999
Annual Fee: Rs. 5,999
Plunging into the realm of lifestyle and travel perks, the IndusInd Bank Pinnacle Credit Card emerges as an alluring option for those in search of a premium credit card experience:
Lounge Access Benefits:
- Complimentary Priority Pass Membership.
- Unlimited domestic and international lounge access for the primary cardholder.
Other Benefits:
- Complimentary Club Marriott membership.
- Milestone rewards and accelerated reward points.
- Golf privileges.
- Personalized concierge services.
Conclusion: Designed for individuals seeking an exceptional experience, the IndusInd Bank Pinnacle Credit Card provides unrestricted access to lounges and various upscale services.
Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card
Joining Fee: Rs. 5,000
Annual Fee: Rs. 5,000
As we progress in our investigation, we find that the Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card provides adaptability and an extensive array of advantages for entertainment, travel, and lifestyle:
Lounge Access Benefits:
- Complimentary Priority Pass Membership.
- Unlimited domestic and international lounge access for the primary cardholder.
Other Benefits:
- 5 reward points on every Rs. 150 spent.
- Milestone benefits on annual spending.
- Golf privileges.
- Exclusive discounts on dining and lifestyle.
Conclusion: The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card delivers a comprehensive rewards programme and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for individuals seeking a versatile credit card experience.
Citi Prestige Credit Card
Joining Fee: Rs. 20,000
Annual Fee: Rs. 20,000
In the concluding analysis of the leading credit cards that grant access to airport lounges in India in 2023, the Citi Prestige Credit Card emerges as the most prominent card due to its exceptional attributes and unmatched exclusivity:
Lounge Access Benefits:
- Complimentary Priority Pass Membership.
- Unlimited domestic and international lounge access for the primary cardholder and two guests.
Other Benefits:
- Complimentary night stays at participating hotels.
- Access to Citi Prestige Concierge.
- Air miles conversion for travel.
- Comprehensive travel insurance coverage.
Conclusion: By charging a premium annual fee, the Citi Prestige Credit Card targets a specialised demographic searching for an exceptional credit card experience with unparalleled privileges and benefits.
Conclusion
Within the multifaceted realm of credit cards that grant access to airport lounge access in India, every card presents an exclusive assortment of attributes and advantages. The selection process is contingent upon personal inclinations, travel patterns, and way of life considerations. These 10 most prestigious credit cards in 2024 provide a variety of options to enhance your travel and lifestyle, whether you prefer a premium experience with unlimited lounge access or a balance between rewards and affordability. Leverage your priorities to guide your decision-making process, and allow your credit card to be a reliable travel companion throughout the coming year.
Applying for credit cards with the best airport lounge access involves a few simple steps. Here’s a general guide:
Research and Choose a Card
Peruse credit cards that provide optimal airport lounge access according to your preferences and requirements. Annual fees, hospitality networks, and supplementary benefits are all pertinent considerations.
Check Eligibility
It is advisable to thoroughly examine the eligibility prerequisites for each credit card, encompassing income restrictions, credit score requirements, and other pertinent variables. Ensure you satisfy these requirements before applying.
Gather Required Documents
Acquire essential documentation, including but not limited to verification of identity, address, and income, that the financial institution may request throughout the application procedure.
Visit the Bank’s Website
Navigate to the bank’s official website, which offers the desired credit card.
Navigate to the Credit Cards Section
Navigate to the bank’s website and locate the “Credit Cards” or “Apply for a Credit Card” section.
Choose the Desired Card
Please choose the credit card that provides the most advantageous access to airport lounges. Examine the fees, benefits, and terms and conditions associated with the card.
Fill Out the Online Application
Fill out the application form on the website by providing precise personal and financial details. Please furnish the mandatory information, including your full name, contact details, employment status, and economic particulars.
Upload Documents
Upload the required documentation, including but not limited to salary receipts, PAN cards, Aadhar cards, or any other documents specified by the bank.
Submit the Application
Submit the registration after completing the form and uploading the required documents.
Wait for Approval
The bank will evaluate your eligibility and creditworthiness and review your application. You may monitor the progress of your application online; however, this may require some time.
Receive the Credit Card
The bank will issue the credit card upon approval of your application. It is possible to obtain both the physical card and activation and usage instructions.
Activate and Enjoy Lounge Access
Activate your credit card using the instructions provided. Upon activation, the selected credit card will grant airport lounge access privileges according to its terms.
Before applying for a credit card, thoroughly review all terms and conditions, including fees, interest rates, and information regarding lounge access. It is prudent to adhere to the particular instructions furnished by the bank throughout the application process, as these may vary marginally between banks.
FAQs
Can I apply for these credit cards with a moderate credit score?
Although credit score requirements differ, many premium credit cards have higher expectations, particularly those that provide access to airport lounges. It is prudent to review the eligibility requirements for each credit card and, if necessary, improve your credit score.
Do I need a high income to qualify for these credit cards?
Although certain premium credit cards may impose more stringent income prerequisites, some alternatives have more reasonable criteria. Consider evaluating a variety of credit cards to locate one that corresponds to your financial situation and income level.
Are the lounge access benefits limited to specific airports or available globally?
Generally, the benefits of lounge access extend internationally as well as domestically. Nevertheless, the particular facilities and networks may differ among credit cards. Verify that the information on each card corresponds to your travel preferences and intended destinations.
