In India, several credit cards provide access to these exclusive lounges, making it easier for travelers to enjoy a touch of luxury before their flights. Imagine that you’re at the airport, and instead of waiting in crowded terminals, you’re relaxing in a comfortable lounge with complimentary food, drinks, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or someone who values comfort while traveling, finding the right credit card with international lounge access or domestic access can enhance your travel experience. This blog will guide you through the top 10 credit cards that offer airport lounge access in India, helping you choose the best card for your needs.
| Complimentary airport lounge access is a common feature that helps users avail free access to select lounges at domestic and international airports. This feature is not limited to travel credit cards only; several all-rounder cards also provide free lounge access as an additional benefit. However, the number of free lounge visits in a year varies from card to card. Read on to know about the best airport lounge access credit cards in India. |
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Credit Card for Lounge Access
1. Annual Fee
When selecting a credit card for lounge access, the annual fee is a crucial factor. Some cards may offer extensive lounge benefits but come with high annual fees. Others may provide lounge access with no annual fee.
2. Membership Requirements
Some credit cards require a minimum spending amount or specific membership criteria to access lounges. Understanding these requirements can help you choose a card that aligns with your spending habits and lifestyle.
3. Lounge Networks
The lounge network associated with your credit card is vital. Common networks include Priority Pass, LoungeKey, and Mastercard Lounge. These networks vary in their global reach and the number of lounges they offer.
Top 10 Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access in India
1. SBI Elite Credit Card
SBI Elite Credit Card is one of the top credit cards with airport lounge access in India, providing comprehensive benefits across various categories. Apart from being an excellent choice for domestic and international lounge access, this card also offers a high reward rate and a low forex markup fee of 1.99%. Some of the key features and advantages of this premier lounge access credit card include:
| Factors | Details |
| Joining Fee | ₹4,999 |
| Annual Fee | ₹4,999 |
| Airport Lounge Access | 8 complimentary domestic lounge
6 international lounge access in a year. |
| Welcome Benefit | e- Gift Voucher worth Rs. 5,000 |
2. HDFC Regalia Credit Card
The HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card offers lounge access benefits for both primary and add-on cardholders, along with perks on travel, shopping, and dining. Users can earn accelerated reward points on various popular brands, redeem them against the exclusive Gold Catalogue for travel bookings, and even convert them to Air Miles. The card also has a comparatively low forex markup fee of 2% compared to the usual 3.5% fee on most cards.
| Factors | Details |
| Joining Fee | ₹2,500 |
| Annual Fee | ₹2,500 |
| Airport Lounge Access | 8 complimentary airport lounge access |
| Welcome Benefit | 2500 reward points on joining and renewal |
3. Axis Bank SELECT Credit Card
Axis Bank SELECT Credit Card is a lifestyle-oriented card that provides benefits for grocery, dining, and other purchases. Users can earn substantial reward points on each transaction and bonus points for reaching spending thresholds. Compared to other credit cards with international lounge access, this card offers a relatively low annual fee of Rs. 3,000 (waived for Burgundy clients). Key benefits of this top-tier lounge access credit card include:
| Factors | Details |
| Joining Fee | ₹3,000 |
| Annual Fee | ₹3,000 |
| Airport Lounge Access | 6 complimentary international lounge
2 complimentary domestic airport lounge |
| Welcome Benefit | 10,000 EDGE Reward Points |
4. AU Zenith+ Credit Card
AU Zenith+ Credit Card is a premium version of AU Zenith Credit Card, offering travel benefits for high-spending customers. Cardholders can earn accelerated reward points on travel expenses and redeem them at a 1:1 ratio. The card also provides travel benefits such as complimentary lounge access, low foreign exchange markup fee, and VIP airport services, making it one of the best lounge access credit cards in India.
| Factors | Details |
| Joining Fee | ₹4,999 |
| Annual Fee | ₹4,999 |
| Airport Lounge Access | 16 complimentary international lounge
16 complimentary domestic airport lounge |
| Welcome Benefit | Rs. 5,000 when you activate the card |
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5. TATA Neu Infinity HDFC Credit Card
Tata Neu Infinity HDFC is a co-branded credit card that offers Neu Coins for every purchase, which can be redeemed at select partner brands and stores. Additionally, cardholders can enjoy complimentary lounge access and an annual fee waiver. This card is one of the best airport lounge access credit cards due to its key features.
| Factors | Details |
| Joining Fee | ₹1,499 |
| Annual Fee | ₹1,499 |
| Airport Lounge Access | 4 complimentary international lounge
8 complimentary domestic airport lounges |
| Welcome Benefit | 1,499 NeuCoins on Tata Neu App |
6. SBI Prime Credit Card
The SBI Prime Credit Card offers exclusive benefits tailored for frequent travelers and shoppers. With rewards on every purchase, complimentary lounge access, and insurance coverage, it enhances your spending experience. Ideal for those seeking premium privileges, this card combines convenience and luxury, making it a top choice for discerning users.
| Factors | Details |
| Joining Fee | ₹2,999 |
| Annual Fee | ₹2,999 |
| Airport Lounge Access | 4 complimentary international lounge
8 complimentary domestic airport lounge |
| Welcome Benefit | e- Gift Voucher worth Rs. 3,000 |
7. HDFC Bank Millenia Credit Card
The HDFC Bank Millenia Credit Card is designed for the modern consumer, offering attractive rewards on online shopping, dining, and travel. With cashback benefits, easy EMI options, and complimentary lounge access, it caters to the lifestyle of young professionals, making every transaction rewarding and convenient.
| Factors | Details |
| Joining Fee | ₹1000 |
| Annual Fee | ₹1000 |
| Airport Lounge Access | 4 domestic airport lounge access per year. |
| Welcome Benefit | 1,000 CashPoints as a Welcome Benefit. |
8. HSBC Premier Credit Card (Metal Edition)
The HSBC Premier Credit Card (Metal Edition) offers a premium experience with exclusive privileges for affluent customers. Enjoy luxurious travel benefits, comprehensive insurance coverage, and exceptional rewards on spending. Crafted from durable metal, this card embodies sophistication, making it an ideal choice for those seeking elegance and elite advantages.
| Factors | Details |
| Joining Fee | ₹12,000 |
| Annual Fee | ₹20,000 |
| Airport Lounge Access | Unlimited domestic & 8 international
airport lounge access every year |
| Welcome Benefit | Taj Experience Gift Card Worth Rs 12,000 |
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9. ICICI Emerald Credit Card
The ICICI Emerald Credit Card is designed for affluent individuals, offering a range of exclusive benefits. Enjoy premium rewards on travel, dining, and shopping, along with complimentary lounge access and concierge services. This card enhances your lifestyle with its luxurious perks, making every purchase a rewarding experience.
| Factors | Details |
| Joining Fee | ₹12,000 |
| Annual Fee | ₹12,000 |
| Airport Lounge Access | unlimited free access to airport lounges
through the DreamFolks Membership. |
| Welcome Benefit | Rs. 50,000 in the first month. |
10. American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card
The American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card is tailored for avid travelers, offering exceptional rewards on flights and hotel bookings. Enjoy exclusive access to airport lounges, travel insurance, and personalized concierge services. With its premium benefits, this card elevates your travel experience, making every journey seamless and luxurious.
| Factors | Details |
| Joining Fee | ₹3,500 |
| Annual Fee | ₹5,000 |
| Airport Lounge Access | eight complimentary visits per year |
| Welcome Benefit | 10,000 Membership Rewards points |
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Super-Premium Credit Card with Unlimited Airport Lounge Access
For those who frequently travel internationally and domestically, super-premium credit cards like the HDFC Diners Club Black or Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card offer unlimited access to global airport lounges, making them ideal for high-net-worth individuals seeking luxury and convenience.
| Credit Card | Annual Fee | Lounge Access Benefits |
| HDFC Diners Club Black Credit Card | Rs. 10,000 | Unlimited airport lounge access
worldwide across 1,000+ lounges for primary |
| HDFC Infinia Credit Card | Rs. 12,500 | Unlimited lounge access at 1,000+ airports through Priority Pass membership |
| Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card | Rs. 50,000 | Unlimited international lounge access for primary and add-on member under Priority Pass Program; unlimited domestic lounge visits |
| ICICI Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card | Rs. 12,000 | Complimentary Priority Pass membership with unlimited international lounge access; unlimited domestic lounge access at select Indian airports |
| Axis Magnus Credit Card | Rs. 10,000 | Unlimited complimentary international lounge visits with Priority Pass with 4 additional guest visits per year and unlimited visits to domestic airport lounges |
Also Read: Best International Travel Credit Cards in India
Credit Card with Domestic Airport Lounge Access
For traveler’s who primarily fly within India, cards like the HSBC Visa Platinum or Kotak Royale Signature Credit Card offer excellent value with complimentary domestic lounge visits and no or low annual fees.
| Credit Card | Annual Fee | Lounge Access |
| AU Ixigo Credit Card | Rs. 999 | 16 complimentary domestic airport lounge access every year
1 complimentary international lounge access annually |
| MMT ICICI Platinum Credit Card | Rs. 500 | 1 complimentary domestic airport lounge access per quarter |
| Standard Chartered EaseMyTrip Credit Card | Rs. 350 | 1 complimentary domestic lounge visit per quarter
2 complimentary international lounge visits per year |
| Axis Ace Credit Card | Rs. 499 | 4 domestic lounge visits per year on spending Rs. 50,000 during the previous 3 months |
| HDFC Millennia Credit Card | Rs. 1,000 | 1 complimentary lounge access or a voucher worth Rs. 1,000 on spending Rs. 1 Lakh every quarter |
Tips for Maximising Lounge Access
1. Booking Strategies
Ensure you know which lounges your card gives you access to before arriving at the airport. Book lounges in advance during peak travel times to secure a spot.
2. Guest Policies
Most credit cards allow the primary cardholder to bring guests to the lounge for an additional fee. Familiarize yourself with the guest policies of your card to avoid surprises.
3. Etiquette
While enjoying airport lounges, remember to respect other travelers. Avoid talking loudly, keep your belongings organized, and follow the lounge’s dress code if applicable.
Also Read: 25 Best Credit Cards in India
Conclusion
Choosing the right credit card for airport lounge access, especially when considering the Top 10 Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access, can significantly enhance your travel experience, offering comfort, convenience, and value-added perks. Whether you’re a frequent flyer seeking unlimited lounge access or a casual traveler looking for complimentary visits, there’s a card that suits your needs.
Consider your travel habits, the airports you frequent, and the additional benefits each card offers before making your decision. The HDFC Diners Club Black stands out for frequent international travelers, while the HSBC Visa Platinum offers great value with no annual fee for domestic travelers.
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