Luxurious air travel has become increasingly expensive, making business-class or first-class flights a distant dream for many. Moreover, long airport waits, often due to delayed or canceled flights, can be tedious. Typically, travelers sit on uncomfortable chairs, paying for food and WiFi, all while surrounded by noise. However, there's a silver lining if you own a credit card offering airport lounge access. Enjoy the comfort of airport lounges for free and escape the chaos of the terminal. Below, check out the best credit cards for airport lounge access to see if you have one in your wallet.
Credit Cards for Limited Free Visits to the Airport Lounge
If your credit card includes airport lounge access, why not use it? Use your card's benefits to enjoy free WiFi, comfortable seating, and a few hours of relaxation in a quiet environment. Now is the time to indulge in some luxury, savor complimentary food and drinks, and unwind on a recliner. Let's explore the well-known credit cards that offer free visits to airport lounges.
Credit Cards | Number of Complimentary Lounge Access | Joining Fees |
---|---|---|
HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card | - 12 complimentary visits to domestic airport lounges - 6 complimentary lounge access outside India |
INR 2500 + Taxes |
ICICI Bank Sapphiro Credit Card | - 2 Complimentary Visits to International Lounges - 4 additional free access to airport lounges in India per quarter |
INR 6500 + Taxes |
Club Vistara SBI Card Prime | - 8 Free Visits to the Domestic Airport Lounges - 4 Additional Free Visits under the Priority Pass Program |
INR 2999 + Taxes |
YES BANK RESERVE Credit Card | - 6 free international airport lounge visits per calendar year. - 3 complimentary lounge visits per quarter in India |
INR 1999 + Taxes |
Yes First Preferred Credit Card | - 4 free airport lounge visits outside India - 2 complimentary airport lounge visits in India |
INR 999 + Taxes |
TATA Neu Infinity HDFC Credit Card | - 4 complimentary international lounge access per calendar year. - 8 complimentary domestic lounge access per calendar year. |
INR 1499 + Taxes |
SBI Card Elite | - 6 complimentary airport lounge visits outside India under the Priority Pass Program - 2 complimentary domestic airport lounge visits every quarter |
INR 4999 + Taxes |
Kotak Royale Signature Credit Card |
- 8 free visits to the domestic airport lounges in a year with a maximum of 2 per quarter |
NIL |
RBL Bank Platinum Maxima Credit Card | - 8 visits to airport lounges in India, with a limit of 2 visits per quarter | INR 2000 + Taxes |
Amex Platinum Travel Credit Card |
- 8 domestic airport lounge visits in a year across India |
INR 3500 + Taxes |
RBL Bank Platinum Plus Supercard |
- 2 free visits in a year at domestic lounges |
INR 999 + Taxes |
RBL Bank Money Tap Black Credit Card |
- Up to 4 complimentary airport lounge visits with a maximum of 1 visit per quarter |
INR 3000 + Taxes |
AU Zenith + Credit Card | - 16 complimentary international lounge access using Priority Pass. - 16 complimentary domestic lounge access in a year |
INR 4999 + Taxes |
RBL Bank World Max Supercard | - 6 free airport lounge access in a year - A maximum of 2 visits per quarter |
INR 2999 + Taxes |
Axis Bank Select Credit Card |
- 12 free airport lounge access outside India via Priority Pass Membership. |
INR 3000 + Taxes |
Axis Bank Vistara Signature Credit Card |
- 2 free airport lounge access within India |
INR 3000 + Taxes |
HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card
The HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card has a joining fee of Rs. 2,500. It's great for frequent travelers because it provides free access to select airport lounges across India. This feature allows cardholders to relax and enjoy comfortable spaces during their travels, making it a good choice for both business and leisure trips.
- Enjoy 12 complimentary airport lounge access annually within India.
- Get up to 6 complimentary accesses globally using the Priority Pass
Terms and Conditions
- If you exceed the 6 complimentary visits, you will be charged US $27 + GST per visit.
- If you use your Priority Pass for lounge access within India, you will be charged US $27 + GST per visit.
ICICI Bank Sapphiro Credit Card
With the ICICI Bank Sapphiro Credit Card's AMEX program, enjoy complimentary lounge visits and relax comfortably. This card has a joining fee of ₹5,000 and a renewal fee of ₹5,000. Take a look at the schemes related to domestic and international airport lounge access.
- Get the DragonPass membership and enjoy 2 international visits to the airport lounges.
- Enjoy 2 spa sessions at the selected airports.
- 2 free access to the airport lounges by presenting an ICICI Sapphiro Card at the entry.
Terms and Conditions
- The worth of an Annual DragonPass Membership is $99.
- Any accompanying member at the lounge is chargeable with the entry fee.
Club Vistara SBI Card Prime
You can apply for the Club Vistara SBI Card Prime at just a joining fee of ₹2999 + taxes. The renewal fee of the card is the same as the joining fee. You can enjoy domestic airport lounge access through this card. You can increase the number of visits by taking the complimentary priority pass membership.
- Enjoy 8 complimentary visits in a year at the domestic airport lounges.
- In the complimentary priority pass membership program, you can enjoy 4 additional visits to the airport lounges.
Terms and Conditions
- A maximum of 2 visits can be taken in a quarter.
- The complimentary priority pass membership is available at a price of $99.
Yes First Preferred Credit Card
Enjoy food and drinks in the airport lounges through the Yes First Preferred Credit Card. This credit card is available at a fee of ₹999 plus applicable taxes. The renewal fee for this card is also the same. Have a look at the number of free access that you can take to the airport lounge..
- Enjoy 4 free visits to the airport lounges outside India.
- Get 2 complimentary domestic airport lounge visits every quarter.
Terms and Conditions
- Visiting more than 4 times is chargeable.
- The access to the lounges will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis.
SBI Card Elite
This credit card gives you the facility to enjoy free airport lounge access. There is a one-time joining fee for the card that is ₹4,999 followed by a yearly renewal fee of ₹4999. You can easily relax in the airport lounges for free if there is some time left on the connecting flight.
- Avail 6 complimentary airport lounge visits outside India under the Priority Pass Program.
- Get 2 complimentary domestic airport lounge visits every quarter.
Terms and Conditions
- A usage fee of $27 plus taxes applies for SBI Card ELITE visits to Priority Pass lounges beyond the complimentary access.
- Only Primary Card Holders are eligible for Priority Pass.
Axis Bank Vistara Signature Credit Card
The Axis Vistara Signature credit card is available at a joining fee of ₹3000 and an annual renewal fee of ₹3,000. There are some complimentary visits included in this card that can make you relax on recliners in airport lounges.
- Enjoy two complimentary lounge access at select airports within India.
Terms and Conditions
- The lounge benefits can be availed if you spend a minimum of Rs. 50,000 in previous 3 calendar months.
Kotak Royale Signature Credit Card
The Kotak Royale Signature Credit Card allows you to access the Airport Lounges where you can rest on a recliner, enjoy food, and relieve some of the traveling stress. This card is available with a zero joining fee and a renewal fee of ₹999.
- Get 2 free access to the airport lounge per quarter on your credit card.
- Enjoy food, wifi, television, resting area, newspaper, and many other facilities.
Terms and Conditions
- Additional fees are to be paid if you take a massage, spa or enjoy alcoholic drinks.
RBL Bank Platinum Maxima Plus Credit Card
The Platinum Maxima Plus Credit Card by the RBL bank has a joining fee of ₹2,000 and you can use this card to enjoy all the facilities in the airport lounges. All lounges included in the Mastercard Program are covered.
- 2 free access to the domestic airport lounges in India per quarter.
- Enjoy 8 access for free in a year.
Terms and Conditions
- The program is available exclusively to cardholders with a valid MasterCard or Visa Card issued in India.
- Lounge access is provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Amex Platinum Travel Credit Card
With the Amex Platinum Travel Credit Card, you have access to complimentary WiFi and can relax on recliners in airport lounges. Make your journey comfortable and this credit card is available at a joining fee of ₹3,500 plus taxes and a renewal fee of ₹5,000 plus taxes.
- Enjoy 8 free visits each year to airport lounges across India, with a limit of 2 complimentary visits per quarter.
Terms and Conditions
- Program access is restricted to Cardmembers with a same-day airline ticket, allowing security clearance and lounge entry.
- Lounge access is first-come, first-served and depends on space availability.
RBL Bank Platinum Plus SuperCard
This card would be beneficial for those who don’t travel frequently via Air. The fees of the RBL Platinum Plus Supercard is ₹999 plus applicable taxes and the renewal fee is ₹999 plus taxes. As the number of free visits is limited to 2 therefore, the rare travellers can use this card.
- 2 complimentary visits to all the major airport lounges in India per year.
Terms and Conditions
- One can take a maximum of 1 visit per quarter.
RBL Bank MoneyTap Black Credit Card
This credit card will allow you to visit the airport lounges present across India. It covers all the lounges that come under the Mastercard program and it is one of the best credit cards for airport lounge access. The fees of the RBL MoneyTap Black Credit Card are ₹3,000 plus applicable taxes and the renewal fee is also the same.
- Enjoy all the services at the Airport lounges by presenting this credit card at the entrance.
- The cardholder is allowed to take 1 free visit to the lounges per quarter.
Terms and Conditions
- Any other member accompanying the cardholder has to pay the applicable charges.
- After 4 free visits in a year, the entry of the primary cardholder into the lounge is chargeable.
RBL Bank World Max SuperCard
If you are using the RBL World Max Supercard then enjoy domestic airport lounge access free of cost. This card has a fee of ₹2,999 plus applicable taxes. Relax at your favourite domestic lounge when the flight is delayed or canceled.
- Visit the domestic airport lounges 6 times for free using this credit card.
Terms and Conditions
- You can only take a maximum of 2 visits per calendar quarter.
Axis Bank Select Credit Card
The Axis Bank SELECT Credit Card comes with a joining fee and an annual renewal fee of Rs. 3,000. This card is an excellent choice for frequent travelers, offering superb airport lounge access. Cardholders can enjoy the luxury of relaxing in premium lounges across various airports, making travel more comfortable and enjoyable.
- Get up to 12 complimentary international airport access through Priority Pass Membership.
- Enjoy 2 complimentary domestic lounge visits per quarter on spends of Rs. 50,000 in the last 3 months.
Terms and Conditions
- The Priority Pass will automatically renew if you spend Rs. 3 lakh or more in the year preceding your card's anniversary.
AU Zenith + Credit Card
The AU Zenith+ Credit Card is a premium metal card and an enhanced version of the AU Zenith Credit Card, designed for frequent travelers and high spenders. The Zenith+ offers several improvements over the Zenith, including a lower forex markup fee, more free lounge visits, and additional benefits.
- Get 16 complimentary international airport lounge visits in a year using Priority Pass.
- Get 16 complimentary domestic airport lounge visits in a year.
Terms and Conditions
- For both domestic and international airport lounges within India, a Priority Pass usage fee of $27 applies.
- For international lounges outside India, a fee of $27 plus taxes will be charged after exceeding the complimentary visits.
Tata Neu Infinity HDFC Credit Card
HDFC Bank and Tata Neu have teamed up to offer the 'Tata Neu Infinity HDFC Bank Credit Card.' This card includes free access to airport lounges, making it a great choice for people who travel often and enjoy relaxing in comfort while they wait for their flights.
- Enjoy 4 complimentary international lounge visits.
- Get 8 complimentary domestic lounge visits each calendar year.
Terms and Conditions
- If you go over the 4 complimentary visits (one per quarter), each additional visit will cost US $27 plus GST.
- Guest visits using Priority Pass are also charged at US $27 plus GST per guest per visit.
YES BANK RESERVE Credit Card
The YES Bank RESERVE Credit Card comes with a joining fee of Rs. 1,999 and offers complimentary access to both international and domestic airport lounges. If you are looking for a relaxing space at airports around the world, this is the ideal card for you.
- Get 6 complimentary international airport lounge visits per calendar year are available for the primary cardmember.
- Enjoy 3 complimentary domestic lounge visits per quarter.
Terms and Conditions
- Complimentary lounge access is available only for primary cardholders.
- Post exhaustion of complimentary lounge access quota applicable charges and taxes will apply.
Credit Cards with Unlimited Airport Lounge Access
Here, you'll find the top credit cards offering unlimited access to airport lounges. For some travelers who fly frequently, these benefits are invaluable, although not everyone may find unlimited lounge visits necessary. The individuals having the following credit cards can only enjoy unlimited access.
Name of Card | Features |
---|---|
Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card | - Unlimited Domestic Airport Lounge Access - 8 free visits to the international lounges with the priority pass card. - The fee of this card is ₹12,500 + Taxes |
HDFC Diners Club Black Credit Card | - Unlimited Domestic Airport Lounge Access at more than 700+ lounges in India and Worldwide. - The Add-on cardholder can also enjoy this benefit. - Applicable joining fee of this card is ₹10,000 + taxes |
HDFC Infinia Credit Card | - Get unlimited lounge access to over 1,000+ airports present in India and outside India under the priority pass program. - This card is available at a fee of ₹12500 plus applicable taxes. |
ICICI Emeralde Credit Card | - Enjoy unlimited domestic Airport Lounge Access. - Get unlimited visits to the international airport lounges. - Experience unlimited Spa Access in Airport Lounges. - The annual fee of this credit card is ₹12499 |
Amex Platinum Charge Credit Card | - Enjoy Lounge Access, free wifi, free foods, and drinks at over 1300+ airport lounges. - ₹60000 plus Taxes is the annual fee of this card. |
Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card
The Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card has a joining fee of Rs. 12,500 and is great for frequent international travelers because it offers unlimited access to lounges around the world. This card makes traveling more comfortable and convenient, making it a good choice for people who travel a lot.
- Get unlimited access to international lounges and 4 additional guest visits per year with a Priority Pass card.
- Get unlimited domestic lounge access at select airports in India.
Terms and Conditions
- Unlimited domestic lounge access is available with a minimum spend of Rs. 50,000 in the past three months.
- To bring a guest to the lounge, the primary cardholder must be traveling with them.
HDFC Diners Club Black Credit Card
The HDFC Diners Club Black Credit Card comes with a joining fee of Rs. 10,000 and offers unlimited access to domestic and international lounges. This card is perfect for frequent travelers who value comfort and convenience while traveling within and across the country.
- Enjoy unlimited access to 1000+ lounges in India as well as outside India for primary and add-on card members.
Terms and Conditions
- Additional charges may apply for meals, drinks (especially alcoholic beverages), and services such as naps, massages, and spa treatments.
- Participating airport lounges may also enforce a maximum stay policy, typically 2-3 hours, to avoid overcrowding.
HDFC Infinia Credit Card
The HDFC Infinia Credit Card has a joining fee and an annual renewal fee of Rs. 12,500. It offers complimentary access to both international and domestic airport lounges, making it ideal for frequent travelers who appreciate comfort and convenience on their journeys.
- Enjoy unlimited complimentary lounge access at over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide with Priority Pass.
- This benefit is also extended to additional Priority Pass holders.
Terms and Conditions
- Guest visits using Priority pass will be charged at USD 27 + GST per visit per guest.
ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card
With a joining fee of Rs. 12,499, the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card provides unlimited access to both domestic and international airport lounges. If you are a frequent traveler, then you should try this card out for seamless lounge experiences across the globe.
- Enjoy unlimited free access to international airport lounges through the Dreamfolks membership program.
- Enhance your travel experience with unlimited free access to select airport lounges across India.
Terms and Conditions
- Domestic lounge access is valid for up to 3 hours per visit.
Amex Platinum Charge Credit Card
With the Amex Platinum Charge credit card you get access to over 1,300 plus airport lounges across 130+ countries. The card comes with a joining fee of Rs. 60,000. Some lounges include the Centurion, Priority Pass lounges, and more.
- Get access to airport lounges across 130+ countries.
- Get access to gourmet cuisines, Wifi, and other exclusive services while you wait for your flight.
Top Reasons for Visiting the Airport Lounge
Here are the key reasons to visit an airport lounge when traveling by air:
Flight Delay:- Sometimes due to some technical problem the flights get delayed. So, it becomes tiring for the passenger to wait on the stiff benches for hours. Therefore, it is better to visit the airport lounge and spend time relaxing in a recliner.
Flight Canceled:- The bad weather usually cancels the flight that is about to take off. Therefore, until the time of rescheduling, you can wait comfortably in the Airport Lounges for free.
Large Time Difference Between Flights:- In many countries, connecting flights are a necessity, and travelers often schedule a significant buffer time between flights for security. During this downtime, you can head to an airport lounge to relax comfortably and escape the bustle of the terminal.
Take a Power Nap:- Nearly every airport lounge features recliners, offering a comfortable spot for you to relax and catch a quick nap if you're feeling tired. You can get this facility for free if your credit card has an offer of a free visit to the airport lounges.
Feeling Hungry:- Almost every airport lounge provides free food and drinking facilities to its visitors. So, if you are feeling hungry, then you can have healthy food in the lounge.
Facilities Available in the Airport Lounges
Here are the amenities that you can enjoy at airport lounges:
- Free WiFi facility that will help you to do internet-related work on the laptop, mobile, and tablets
- Relax on comfortable and soft recliners.
- Watch Television while relaxing on the sofas.
- Eat Healthy foods and drink juices and soft drinks.
- Read the newspapers and magazines in the lounge.
- Spa Services are also available at some lounges.
- Get a massage in the lounge to relieve some stress.
How to Use Your Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access?
Here are the steps to access airport lounge facilities using your credit card:
- Go to the airport from which you will depart.
- Inquire about complimentary lounge access at the reception.
- Provide your credit card details and complete the required formalities.
- Pay any convenience fees, and have your boarding pass stamped.
- Enjoy the benefits of the airport lounge.
How to Apply for a Credit Card with Complimentary Lounge Access through Wishfin?
Here's how to apply for a credit card that offers lounge access through Wishfin:
- Visit the Wishfin official website.
- Navigate to the 'Cards' section to check your eligibility for a travel card. If you qualify, proceed to apply. If not, continue to the next option.
- Select a card that provides airport lounge access and click on 'Apply'.
- Confirm your eligibility.
- If eligible, your credit card application will be processed. The bank will then send the credit card to your registered address within two to three working days.
Check Out Airport Lounge Access Benefits from Different Banks
Decision Time
Now, you have the list of best credit cards for Airport Lounge access. First, you should decide whether you travel domestically or internationally. Then, according to that, choose the card for yourself. If you are a domestic traveller then you can take those credit cards that have free visits to the domestic airport lounges. For free access to the international airport lounge, you can choose the card according to it.
On the other hand, analyze your travelling frequency. If you are a frequent traveller then you can take the credit cards with unlimited access to the airport lounges. Otherwise, for two or four free visits you can take the card that has a low joining fee. The ball is in your court and now you have to decide the appropriate card for yourself.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What are the typical costs for airport lounge access in India?
In India, lounge access fees start at approximately Rs. 1,000 per visit, though this can vary depending on the airline.
2. Which credit cards offer the best airport lounge access in India?
Top choices for airport lounge access in India include the SBI ELITE Credit Card, HDFC Regalia First Credit Card, HDFC Superia Credit Card, and Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card.
3. How can I access airport lounges in India?
You can access airport lounges in India by either purchasing access directly at the lounge or by using a credit card that provides complimentary access.
4. Is complimentary airport lounge access possible?
Yes, many credit cards offer free lounge visits as a benefit, allowing cardholders to access airport lounges at no extra cost.
5. Which credit card provides the best lounge access in India as of 2024?
For frequent travelers seeking refuge from busy airport terminals, cards like the HDFC Regalia First Credit Card, InterMiles ICICI Bank Sapphiro Credit Card, SBI ELITE Credit Card, American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card, and Axis Bank Vistara Infinite Credit Card are among the best in India for lounge access. These lounges offer amenities such as comfortable seating, charging stations, and complimentary refreshments.