Most people are familiar with the common travel benefits offered by credit cards. These usually include reward points or miles, airport lounge access, discounts on flights and hotels, and special travel booking offers. While these benefits are useful, credit cards offer much more than what is commonly noticed.
Many powerful travel perks remain underused simply because cardholders are unaware of them. These lesser-known benefits can significantly improve your travel experience while also helping you save money. Let us explore how credit cards can make your travel smoother, more comfortable, and cost-effective beyond just miles and lounges.
Whenever you make an international transaction, credit cards charge a foreign exchange mark-up fee. This fee usually ranges up to 3.5 percent of the transaction amount. However, certain travel-focused credit cards offer low or even zero forex mark-up, helping you save on every overseas spend.
For example, zero forex cards such as Federal Scapia, AU ixigo, and IDFC FIRST Mayura do not charge any forex fee on international transactions. Over multiple purchases during international travel, these savings can add up and make a noticeable difference to your overall travel budget.
If you frequently travel abroad or shop on international websites, choosing a low forex credit card is one of the smartest financial decisions you can make.
Premium and travel-centric credit cards often partner with leading hotel chains to offer complimentary or discounted hotel loyalty memberships. These memberships can unlock exclusive benefits such as room upgrades, free breakfast, early check-in, late check-out, bonus reward points, and even complimentary nights.
Co-branded hotel cards like Marriott Bonvoy HDFC and HSBC Taj Credit Card are excellent for frequent hotel stays. General premium cards such as HDFC Infinia, Axis Reserve, and ICICI Emeralde Private Metal also offer complimentary hotel memberships along with other luxury benefits.
Some cards also allow reward points to be converted into hotel loyalty points at attractive conversion ratios, further increasing your travel value.
Airports can be stressful, especially during peak travel hours. While lounge access helps, certain premium credit cards take airport comfort to the next level with airport assistance and concierge services.
These services may include express check-in, fast-track immigration and security clearance, assisted airport transfers, and meet-and-greet services. Such facilities can save time, reduce stress, and make your airport experience far more comfortable and seamless.
These benefits are particularly useful for international travellers, business travellers, and families.
Car rentals provide flexibility during travel but can be expensive. Many credit cards offer exclusive discounts on car rental services through partnerships with popular brands such as Europcar, Avis, Zoomcar, and Hertz.
These benefits are often linked to card networks like Visa and Mastercard. For instance, some cards offer rental discounts as part of their welcome benefits or ongoing offers. Simply using your eligible credit card and applying the relevant promo code can help you save significantly on transportation costs during travel.
Unplanned events such as medical emergencies, natural disasters, or airline-initiated cancellations can disrupt travel plans and result in financial losses. Certain premium credit cards offer trip cancellation cover, which reimburses booking expenses up to a specified limit.
Cards like IDFC FIRST Mayura provide this protection, offering peace of mind and financial safety in unexpected situations. This benefit is especially valuable when booking non-refundable flights or hotel stays.
Many travel and premium credit cards come with complimentary travel insurance that protects cardholders against various travel-related risks. Coverage may include compensation for flight delays, loss or delay of baggage, loss of travel documents, and overseas medical emergencies.
This built-in insurance acts as a safety net while travelling and eliminates the need to purchase separate travel insurance for short trips. However, it is important to check coverage limits, exclusions, and claim procedures before relying on this benefit.
Credit card travel benefits extend far beyond reward points and lounge access. Features like low forex mark-up, hotel privileges, airport assistance, car rental discounts, trip protection, and travel insurance can significantly enhance your overall travel experience.
By understanding and strategically using these lesser-known benefits, you can travel smarter, reduce unnecessary expenses, and enjoy a more comfortable journey every time.
Your credit card is more than just a payment tool. When used correctly, it becomes a powerful travel companion that offers convenience, protection, and premium experiences. Take time to explore your card’s benefits and unlock value that goes well beyond miles.