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When it comes to frequent travellers, a credit card offering lifetime free airport lounge access can be a great asset. Not only does it make your travel experience more comfortable, but it also helps you save on additional costs. There are several credit cards with lounge access available in India that are lifetime free and come with low annual fees, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious travellers.
Lounge access can significantly improve your travel experience, making long waits more manageable. Airport lounges provide a quiet and comfortable space for you to relax before your flight. They offer the following amenities:
Comfortable seating
You can escape the busy terminal and enjoy a more peaceful environment
Free refreshments
You can get complimentary snacks, drinks, and meals to keep you refreshed
Business facilities
Many lounges offer workspaces, Wi-Fi, and charging points, so you can stay productive while waiting
Exclusive services
Some lounges provide additional perks like shower facilities, private sleeping pods, and even spa services
Airport lounge access is a feature provided by many credit cards, giving cardholders the ability to enter designated airport lounges at no additional cost. These lounges are typically available in major airports around the world and offer a variety of services to enhance your travel experience.
With credit cards that offer airport lounge access, you don't have to pay for individual lounge entries. This feature is especially useful for frequent flyers, who can access lounges every time they travel. To access these lounges, you usually need to present your credit card and sometimes, a boarding pass for the same-day flight.
When choosing airport lounge access credit cards in India, consider the following key features to ensure you get the most value:
Global Lounge Access
Some cards offer access to lounges worldwide, while others limit access to domestic lounges. Ensure that the card covers the airports you travel to most frequently.
Number of Complimentary Visits
Some cards offer unlimited lounge visits, while others provide a set number of visits per year. Check how many free visits you get and whether the card meets your travel needs.
Additional Travel Perks
Besides lounge access, look for credit cards that offer other travel-related benefits such as travel insurance, concierge services, and discounts on hotel bookings.
Annual Fees and Charges
While some credit cards offer lounge access with no annual fee, others may charge a fee. Compare the benefits and charges to see if the overall value suits your requirements.
Eligibility Criteria
Check the minimum income requirements and eligibility criteria to ensure the card is within your reach.
Lifetime free credit cards with lounge access offer a range of benefits, in addition to the airport lounge perks, making your travel more comfortable and convenient. These cards provide access to premium lounges, along with other travel and lifestyle advantages, all without any annual fees.
Here are some of the popular credit cards for the financial year 2025-2026:
Card Name |
Joining Fee |
Annual Fee |
Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
IndusInd Bank Legend Credit Card |
₹5000 + GST |
Nil |
|
AU Small Finance Bank LIT Credit Card |
Nil |
Nil |
|
Disclaimer: The fees and benefits for these credit cards are subject to change at the issuer’s discretion. Check the issuer’s official website before applying.
Some of the Best Credit Cards with Lowest Annual Fees and Lounge Access
The following table highlights some of the best credit cards for lounge access and lower annual fees, under ₹1,500. These cards also come with additional perks such as reward points, fuel surcharge waivers, and more, all at an affordable cost.
Here are the details:
Card Name |
Joining Fee |
Annual Fee |
Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
ICICI Bank Expressions Credit Card |
₹499 |
₹499 (waived on spending ₹1.5 Lakhs) |
|
Axis Bank MY ZONE Credit Card |
₹500 + GST |
₹500 + GST (from 2nd year onwards |
|
ICICI Bank Manchester United Platinum Credit Card |
₹499 + GST |
₹499 (waived on spending ₹1.25 Lakhs) |
|
ICICI Bank Coral Credit Card |
₹500 |
₹500 (waived on spending ₹1.5 Lakhs) |
|
SBI Card PULSE |
₹1,499 |
₹1,499 |
|
Disclaimer: The fees and benefits for these credit cards are subject to change at the issuer’s discretion. Check the issuer’s official website before applying.
To fully enjoy the airport lounge access provided by your credit card, it's essential to understand how to maximise the benefits.
Here are some practical tips to make the most out of your lounge access:
Use Your Lounge Access on Every Flight
If your card provides lifetime free lounge access, make sure to take advantage of it every time you fly. Whether you're flying domestically or internationally, using lounges can significantly improve your travel experience.
Plan Your Time Well
Arrive at the airport early to allow yourself time to relax in the lounge before your flight. Lounges typically offer a comfortable environment, refreshments, and Wi-Fi, so it’s a good opportunity to unwind or get some work done.
Bring a Guest
Some credit cards allow you to bring a guest or even more, depending on the terms. If your card provides this benefit, invite a travel companion to join you and enjoy the lounge perks together.
Explore Lounge Perks
Beyond the usual amenities like free food and drinks, lounges often offer additional services such as shower facilities, business centres, and sleeping pods. Make sure to explore everything the lounge offers to get the full experience.
Stay Updated on Lounge Access Rules
Many credit cards periodically update their lounge access policies, such as the number of visits or specific lounges you can access. Keep track of these updates to ensure you're getting the maximum benefit from your credit card.
When you have a credit card that offers lounge access, it’s crucial to understand the terms and conditions to avoid any surprises.
Here are some things to check before you start using your lounge access:
Number of Complimentary Visits
Some credit cards provide unlimited lounge visits, while others may restrict you to a certain number per year. Always check the number of visits included in your credit card benefits and know whether extra visits will cost you.
Eligible Lounges
Verify which lounges are covered by your credit card. Some cards give access to specific lounges, while others provide broader access through networks like LoungeKey or Priority Pass. Make sure the card covers the lounges you frequently visit.
Guest Access
Many credit cards allow you to bring a guest into the lounge for free or for a small fee. Check how many guests are allowed and any associated charges for bringing additional people.
Validity and Restrictions
Lounge access is often tied to a specific time frame. For instance, you may only be allowed to access lounges within a certain number of hours before your flight. Some cards may also restrict lounge access to specific categories of travel (e.g., domestic vs. international).
Eligibility Criteria
Ensure you meet the requirements to use lounge access, such as presenting both your boarding pass and your credit card on the day of travel. Some lounges may require additional verification or charge a fee for non-eligible passengers.
Expiry or Changes in Benefits
Some cards change their lounge access benefits over time. It's important to stay informed if the credit card issuer updates or limits the lounge access facilities, especially if this affects your travel plans.
Generally, lifetime free lounge access credit cards do not have hidden charges specifically for lounge entry. However, it’s important to check the terms and conditions of your card for any applicable fees. For example, there may be charges for guest access or additional visits beyond your complimentary allotment.
The number of lounge visits you can access in a year varies depending on the credit card. Some cards offer unlimited lounge access, while others limit the number of free visits annually, typically ranging from 6 to 12 visits per year. It’s therefore essential to check your credit card's terms to know exactly how many free visits you are entitled to and whether additional visits would incur charges.
Several banks in India provide free international lounge access through select credit cards. Some of the top banks offering this benefit include:
HDFC Bank (Regalia and Diners Club Black cards)
ICICI Bank (Sapphiro and Coral cards)
Axis Bank (Vistara Signature and Reserve cards)
SBI Card ELITE
These cards typically offer access to a network of lounges worldwide, through programmes like LoungeKey, Priority Pass, or Visa Airport Lounge Access.
Yes, add-on cards typically allow lounge access, but this may depend on the specific terms of your credit card. In most cases, the primary cardholder's lounge benefits are extended to add-on cardholders, but might require the add-on cardholder needing to travel with the primary cardholder. It's always advisable to verify this with your card issuer, as rules can vary.
Yes, most lounge access credit cards include complimentary meals and Wi-Fi as part of the lounge experience. However, always check the details of the lounge access provided by your card to ensure these services are included.
To check your airport lounge access on a credit card, follow these steps:
Check the card issuer’s official website or the benefits brochure that comes with your card to confirm lounge access
Some networks, like Visa, MasterCard, and Rupee, provide apps or websites where you can easily check which lounges are accessible to you based on your card
If you're unsure, you can always call the customer service number provided by your bank or credit card provider to confirm the lounges available to you.
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Posted on 16 May
Roshani Ballal
Academy by Bajaj Markets
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