If you are a frequent traveler, having a credit card with access to the free airport lounge will make your journey much more comfortable. Many credit cards offer this perk, but the benefits vary. Some cards are only accessible a few times a year, while others allow unlimited visits to both domestic and international lounges. In this article, we will explore Best credit cards with free airport lounge access worldwide.
Why is access to the airport lounge important?
meanwhile Credit cards offer several travel benefitssome cards have access to the airport lounge.
The airport lounge offers relaxing spaces with premium seats, free food and drinks, high-speed WiFi and sometimes shower facilities. Instead of waiting in a busy terminal, lounge access allows you to work, relax or enjoy a snack before your flight.
While many credit cards offer free access to these lounges, it is important to check the terms, including spending requirements, number of visits allowed per year, and whether access is limited to domestic lounges.
Top 5 credit cards for free lounge access
#1 – HDFC Bank Regalia Gold Credit Card
- Lounge Access: 12 free visits to airport lounges in India per year
- coverage: Available at both domestic and international terminals in India
- How do I use it? To enjoy free access, you will need to swipe your HDFC Bancregalia Gold Credit Card in the lounge
- Annual fee: £2,500 + GST
- limit: Lounge access is limited to India only. Access to the International Lounge is not eligible for the free program
This is a great option for frequent travelers across the country looking for luxury and comfort while traveling.
#2 – American Express Platinum Card
- Lounge Access: Over 1,400 airport lounges in 130 countries
- Best Lounge Network: Includes access to Centurion Lounge, Delta Lounge and Priority Pass Lounge
- Annual fee: £66,000 + GST
- limit: High annual fees. Some lounges may require advance reservations. American Express is not widely accepted everywhere
Although this card has a high annual fee, it offers unparalleled travel perks, making it perfect for business travelers and luxury seekers.
#3 – SBI Card Elite
- Lounge Access:
- International: 6 free visits per year (up to 2 per quarter)
- Domestic: Access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide
- Annual fee: £4,999 + GST
- limit: The number of international lounge visits is limited to six per year. Domestic lounge visits are not included in the free plan
If you frequently travel abroad but don’t want to pay the premium annual fee, this card offers a balance of affordable prices and profits.
#4 – ICICI Bank Sapphiro Credit Card
- Lounge Access:
- International: 2 free visits per calendar year
- Domestic: 4 free access per quarter at selected airport lounges in India
- Membership perks:
- Priority Pass: Access to over 1,400 lounges for those over 145 years old
- Dreamfolks membership: Access to over 650 lounges in over 100 countries
- Annual fee: £6,500 + GST
- limit: Limited international lounge visits. Use of priority pass outside India will be charged after free visits are exhausted
This card is a good option for both domestic and international travelers, offering decent lounge perks with a very high annual fee.
#5 – Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card
- Lounge Access: Free international lounge visit
- Guest visit: 8 guest visits per year with a priority pass card (revised to 4 guest visits per year from April 20, 2024)
- Annual fee: £10,000 + GST
- limit: High annual fees. Guest visit restrictions will be reduced from April 2024
For those who often travel with family and colleagues, this card allows guests to enjoy lounge perks and become valuable travel companions.
If you’re smart enough, you can Use interest-free period with credit card Even with all these cards.
Comparison table: Best credit cards for lounge access
| Credit Card | Annual fee (£) | Domestic lounge access | International Lounge Access | Guest Access | limit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDFC Bank Regalia Gold | 2,500 + GST | 12 visits a year | Not included | no | Domestic access only |
| American Express Platinum | 66,000 + GST | Included | Over 1,400 lounges worldwide | no | High annual fees are not widely accepted |
| SBI Card Elite | 4,999 + GST | Not included | Six visits per year (up to 2 per quarter) | no | Limited international visits |
| ICICI BANK SAPPHIRO | 6,500 + GST | 4 visits per quarter | Two visits a year | no | Limited free international lounge visit |
| Axis Bank Magnus | 10,000 + GST | Included | Unlimited | 8 per year (reduced to 4 in April 2024) | High annual fees and guest visits have decreased |
Things to consider before choosing a credit card for lounge access
Before applying for a credit card with lounge access, keep the following in mind:
- Annual fees and expenditure requirements: Some premium cards offer higher annual fees, but they offer better lounge access around the world. You will also need to spend a certain amount to unlock lounge perks for the next quarter.
- Number of lounge visits: Some credit cards offer unlimited lounge access, while others cap by visiting several times a quarter or annually.
- Domestic vs. International access: Make sure your card offers lounge access to destinations that you travel most frequently.
- Guest Access: If you are traveling with family, a card with access to the guest lounge is a great advantage.
Final thoughts
Select one of Best Credit Cards in India For airport lounges, access depends on your travel needs and spending habits. If you travel abroad frequently, the American Express Platinum card offers extensive access to top-class lounges. If you prefer domestic travel, HDFC Regalia Gold or ICICI Bank Sapphiro Credit Card is the best option.
Before applying, always check the latest terms and conditions on the bank’s official website to maximize your benefits.
Happy trip!
Find out more from myinvestmentideas.com
Subscribe and send your latest posts to email.
