Travel is becoming more popular than ever. Many people now enjoy short staycations, domestic trips, and even international holidays. As travelling increases, people are also looking for credit cards that provide rewards on flights, hotels, and travel bookings.
Two popular options in this segment are the Axis Horizon Credit Card and the HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card. Both cards offer travel rewards, lounge access, and lifestyle benefits.
If you are planning to apply for a travel credit card, this comparison will help you understand which card may suit your spending habits better.
Annual Fees and Welcome Benefits
The Axis Horizon Credit Card is a relatively new card launched after the Citi–Axis merger. It was introduced as a lighter alternative to the Axis Atlas Credit Card.
On the other hand, the HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card is a well-known card that has been popular among travellers for several years.
Annual Fee Comparison
Another important difference is the annual fee waiver condition.
- Axis Horizon Credit Card: No annual fee waiver based on spending.
- HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card: Annual fee can be waived by spending ₹4 lakh in a year.
Welcome Benefits
Both cards offer welcome benefits, but the structure is different.
The Axis Horizon Credit Card offers 5,000 EDGE Miles, which can be transferred to travel partners such as Accor and airlines. This can provide strong value if used strategically.
However, the HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card requires a higher spend of ₹1 lakh within the first 90 days to unlock its welcome benefits.
Reward Points Comparison
Both cards offer rewards, but their earning structure is different.
The Axis Horizon Credit Card focuses more on travel spending, especially flight and hotel bookings through the Axis Travel Edge portal.
The HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card offers accelerated rewards on selected shopping brands.
Rewards Structure
Overall, the Axis Horizon Credit Card is more suitable for people who spend frequently on flights and travel bookings.
Airport Lounge Access
Airport lounge access is one of the most important benefits for frequent travellers.
Domestic Lounge Access
This means the Axis Horizon Credit Card offers significantly more domestic lounge visits.
International Lounge Access
The Axis Horizon Credit Card again provides more frequent international lounge access compared to the Regalia Gold card.
Milestone Benefits
This is one area where the HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card has an advantage.
Milestone Rewards (Regalia Gold)
The Axis Horizon Credit Card currently does not offer milestone benefits, which may be a drawback for users with higher spending.
Which Credit Card Is Better?
Both credit cards offer useful travel benefits, but the best option depends on your spending habits.
Axis Horizon Credit Card is better for
- Frequent travellers
- Users who book flights regularly
- People who want more airport lounge access
- Users comfortable transferring EDGE Miles to travel partners
HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card is better for
- People who shop frequently on partner brands
- Users who want milestone rewards
- Cardholders looking for an annual fee waiver option
Bottom Line
The Axis Horizon Credit Card and HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card are both strong options in the travel rewards segment.
The Axis Horizon Credit Card stands out for its strong travel rewards, airline spending benefits, and higher lounge access limits. Meanwhile, the HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card offers milestone rewards and a lower annual fee.
If your spending is mainly on flights and travel bookings, the Axis Horizon Credit Card may offer better value. However, if you prefer a card with milestone benefits and partner brand rewards, the HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card can be a good option.
You can also explore more best travel credit cards and choose the one that fits your spending pattern and travel needs.
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