Best Travel Credit Cards for Planning a Road Trip

Why Travel Credit Cards Matter for Indian Travellers

India’s domestic aviation market has recorded unprecedented growth, with passenger traffic surging significantly in recent years. Simultaneously, road trips have gained popularity among millennials and Gen Z, driven by rising disposable incomes and digital connectivity. Whether you’re planning a road trip to Goa or booking domestic flights to Himachal, the right travel credit card can transform your expenses into rewards and benefits.

Travel credit cards offer specialised features like fuel surcharge waivers, airport lounge access, and travel insurance that regular cards don’t provide. For frequent travellers, these benefits often outweigh annual fees, making them essential financial tools for modern Indian lifestyles.

Types of Travel Credit Cards Available in India

Travel credit cards come in several categories, each designed for different user needs and spending patterns.

Airline Co-branded Cards

These cards partner with specific airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, or Vistara. They offer accelerated miles earning on airline purchases and often include benefits like priority check-in and free baggage allowance. However, rewards are typically limited to one airline ecosystem.

Hotel Co-branded Cards

Partnership cards with hotel chains like IHG or Marriott provide enhanced points earning at partner properties. They’re ideal for frequent business travellers but offer limited value for occasional users.

General Travel Rewards Cards

These versatile cards earn points across all travel categories—flights, hotels, fuel, and dining. They provide flexibility in redemption options and work well for users planning a road trip or mixing different travel styles.

Key Features to Evaluate When Choosing Travel Cards

When selecting a travel credit card, focus on features that align with your travel patterns and spending habits.

• Reward Rate: Look for cards offering 2–4% returns on travel expenses, as this ensures that every rupee spent on tickets, hotels, or fuel translates into meaningful rewards.
• Annual Fee vs Benefits: Calculate if the perks, such as lounge access, bonus points, and free vouchers, justify the yearly cost of the card.
• Airport Lounge Access: Since domestic lounge visits can cost ₹2,000 or more per visit, having free or discounted access through your card can save you substantial amounts.
• Travel Insurance: Ensure the card provides coverage for trip cancellations, lost baggage, and medical emergencies so that you are financially protected during unforeseen situations.
• Fuel Surcharge Waiver: This feature is essential for frequent road trips, as it eliminates the 1% surcharge typically levied on fuel purchases and helps lower overall travel costs.

The Airtel Axis Bank Credit Card is a strong option for Indian travellers as it offers cashback on fuel, travel, and utility payments, along with complimentary lounge access—making it especially valuable for frequent road trippers and domestic flyers.

Maximising Value from Your Travel Credit Card

Strategic usage can significantly amplify your card’s benefits beyond the basic reward structure.

• Use for all travel-related expenses: Flights, hotels, dining, and fuel spending help maximise category bonuses.
• Recover annual fees smartly: Use welcome bonuses, reward redemptions, and lounge visits to cover yearly charges.
• Time big purchases wisely: Plan large spends during bonus point promotions to earn extra rewards.
• Leverage milestone rewards: Spend thresholds often unlock extra bonuses, vouchers, or free tickets.
• Book during off-peak seasons: Get better award seat availability and lower redemption rates.
• Don’t pick cards only for welcome bonuses: Evaluate long-term value based on your travel frequency and spending.
• Track reward expiry: Points usually lapse in 2–3 years, so plan redemptions in time.

Before applying for any travel card, check your credit score to understand your eligibility for premium cards with better benefits.

Making the Right Choice for Your Travel Style

The best travel credit card depends on your specific travel patterns and spending habits. Frequent business travellers benefit from premium cards with lounge access and comprehensive insurance, while occasional leisure travellers might prefer no-annual-fee cards with decent reward rates. Whether you’re planning a road trip to Goa or booking frequent domestic flights for work, the right card can enhance your travel experience while providing substantial savings.

The Airtel Axis Bank Credit Card is one of the best choices in India for maximising rewards on fuel, travel, dining, and even utility bills. Apply today and start turning your everyday expenses into travel perks!

FAQs

1. What credit score is needed for premium travel credit cards?

Most premium travel cards require a credit score above 750, though some entry-level options accept scores in the 650-700 range.

2. Can I use travel card rewards for road trip expenses like fuel and hotels?

Yes, most general travel cards offer accelerated rewards on fuel and hotel bookings, making them valuable when planning a road trip.

3. Do travel credit cards charge foreign transaction fees for domestic online bookings?

No, foreign transaction fees only apply to international purchases or bookings made in foreign currencies through international platforms.

4. How long does it take to accumulate enough points for a free domestic flight?

With average spending of ₹50,000 monthly on a 4X travel card, you can typically earn a free domestic flight worth ₹8,000-12,000 within 6-8 months.

5. Are travel insurance benefits adequate, or should I buy separate coverage?

Card-provided travel insurance covers basic scenarios but may have coverage gaps. Consider additional coverage for high-value trips or specific medical needs.