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Some of the Best Domestic Travel Credit Cards in India 2025

Roshani Ballal

Travelling across India has become a common affair, not only for business but also for leisure and family reasons. With the increasing number of domestic flights and the rising cost of airfare, having the right credit card can make a notable difference. Domestic travel credit cards are specially curated to reward Indian travellers for their frequent journeys within the country. 

These cards offer flight discounts, cashback, airport lounge access, and reward points on bookings, making your travel smoother and more cost-effective. For the frequent flyer, owning the right credit card is no longer a luxury, it is an essential tool to unlock exclusive travel privileges and significant savings.

What Makes a Credit Card Ideal for Domestic Travel

An ideal credit card for domestic travel in India combines multiple benefits tailored to frequent fliers. When searching for some of the best credit cards for flight booking, here are the essential features to consider:

Flight Benefits

Complimentary flight tickets, discounts on airfare, free seat selection, or airline-specific rewards.

Rewards System

Earn accelerated points, air miles, or cashback every time you book flights, hotels, or make other travel-related payments.

Lounge Access

Complimentary or discounted access to domestic airport lounges enhances comfort while waiting for flights.

Travel Insurance

Personal accident cover, lost baggage insurance, and trip cancellation protection add a layer of security.

Exclusive Offers and Discounts

Partner discounts with airlines and travel portals, including instant savings or gift vouchers on bookings.

Low Forex Charges

For those also spending abroad, cards with low transaction charges on international bookings are beneficial.

Some of the Best Credit Cards for Flight Bookings in India

Booking flights with a suitable credit card can unlock benefits like cashback, reward points, lounge access, and flexible EMI options. The following table summarises popular credit cards known for their useful flight booking rewards and travel benefits in India as listed on Bajaj Markets:

Card Name

Key Flight & Travel Benefits

Lounge Access

Reward Highlights

Annual Fee (INR)

IRCTC RuPay SBI Card

- Cashback on IRCTC flight and train bookings
- Easy EMI support for travel

No

10% points rewarded on IRCTC purchases

Nil

SBI Card PRIME

-Accelerated rewards on flight bookings via partners
-Milestone gifts

4 domestic lounge visits/yr

Welcome gift worth ₹3,000; milestone rewards

₹2,999 + GST

AU Small Finance Bank Vetta Credit Card

Enhanced cashback & discounts on flight & hotel spends

2 domestic lounge visits/yr

Nil

₹2,999 + GST

AU Small Finance Bank LIT Credit Card

Flight booking cashback and fuel surcharge waiver

No

5% cashback on travel and fuel

Nil / Low fee

ICICI Bank Coral Credit Card

Redeem points on flight bookings and partner offers

2 domestic lounge visits/yr

Accelerated rewards on dining and shopping

₹500 + GST

ICICI Bank Expressions Credit Card

Discounts on travel platform spends including flights

No

Flat cashback on lifestyle spends

Nil

ICICI Bank HPCL Credit Card

Fuel surcharge waiver; cashback on travel services

No

Cashback on fuel and travel bookings

Nil / Low fee

MakeMyTrip ICICI Bank Platinum Credit Card

Cashback on flight and hotel bookings via MakeMyTrip

8 domestic lounge visits/yr

Cashback on MakeMyTrip bookings plus gift vouchers

₹999

MakeMyTrip ICICI Bank Signature Credit Card

Higher cashback rates on MakeMyTrip flight bookings

8 domestic + 1 international

Complimentary travel vouchers and higher cashback

₹2,000+

ICICI Bank Manchester United Signature Credit Card

Rewards on travel and flights bookings; exclusive fan benefits

4 domestic lounge visits/yr

Reward points on all spends and Manchester United perks

₹3,000+

IDFC FIRST SWYP Credit Card

Flexible rewards, including flight bookings; no annual fee for first year

1 domestic lounge visit/yr

Accelerated rewards on travel and dining

Nil (waived 1st year)

Disclaimer: Features and fees are indicative and may change. Verify current details on the official websites or Bajaj Markets before applying.

Benefits of Using a Credit Card for Domestic Travel

Using a credit card for domestic travel offers more than just transactional convenience. The following benefits can transform ordinary journeys into rewarding experiences:

  • Lounge Access: Exclusive entry to airport lounges provides a peaceful setting to relax or work before your flight.

  • Travel Insurance: Extensive coverage includes personal accident protection, loss of baggage, or trip delays.

  • Cashback and Reward Points: Redeemable for air miles, free tickets, or on spending at travel and lifestyle partners.

  • Priority Check-ins and Upgrades: Many credit cards for flights offer priority boarding or check-in benefits.

  • Dining and Hotel Discounts: Save on dining and staycations through partner offers.

  • Milestone Gifts and Vouchers: Exclusive vouchers for achieving yearly spending milestones keep you motivated to choose one card for all bookings.

By leveraging a credit card for domestic travel, frequent flyers in India gain comfort, savings, and valuable perks at every stage of their trip.

How to Maximise Benefits with a Travel Credit Card

To make the most out of your credit card with flight benefits, follow these practical tips:

  • Consolidate Bookings: Use a single travel credit card for all bookings to accumulate more reward points rapidly.

  • Utilise Welcome and Milestone Offers: Redeem initial bonuses quickly, and target milestone spends for extra rewards.

  • Track Partner Discounts: Often, exclusive offers apply only on partner portals like MakeMyTrip or Yatra.

  • Redeem Points Regularly: Do not let reward points lapse; check for the expiry date and redeem on flights or hotels.

  • Opt for Cards with Maximum Lounge Access: If you travel often, choose a card offering the highest number of complimentary lounge entries.

  • Stay Alert for Flash Deals: Special deals on airline websites or travel sales help you maximise value from credit card promotions.

Maximising these features ensures the best value from your credit card for domestic travel.

How to Choose the Right Credit Card for Domestic Travel

Choosing the best credit card for domestic travel requires evaluating both your travel habits and the card’s features. Follow these steps to identify your perfect match:

  1. Assess Your Travel Frequency: Frequent flyers benefit most from cards with high lounge access and travel milestone rewards.

  2. Analyse Reward Structure: Determine whether points, miles, or cashback fit your travel and redemption preferences.

  3. Check Airline Partnerships: If you prefer certain airlines, cards offering specific flight benefits with them would be advantageous.

  4. Compare Annual Fees vs. Benefits: High-fee cards often deliver more perks but ensure you will use them enough to justify the cost.

  5. Read the Fine Print: Review terms for point expiry, blackout dates, and exclusions before applying.

  6. Consider Extra Perks: Travel insurance, accident cover, or lost baggage protection add another level of value.

By comparing these criteria, you ensure that your selected credit card for domestic travel perfectly complements your flying lifestyle.

What Does Credit Card Insurance Cover

Credit card insurance can include a wide range of coverage, such as the following:

  • Lost or Stolen Card Liability: Reimburses for losses from lost or stolen cards after promptly notifying the provider.

  • Purchase Protection: Insures newly bought items against theft, loss, or damage for a specified time.

  • Balance Protection: Pays off outstanding debt in case of involuntary job loss, disability, or death.

  • Extended Warranty: Extends the manufacturer’s warranty on purchases.

  • Travel and Accident Protection: Covers accidents, medical emergencies, or travel disruptions funded via credit card.

  • Card Replacement and Document Assistance: Helps expedite replacement cards and important documents.

How to Apply for the Best Credit Cards for Domestic Travel

The secure platform of Bajaj Markets ensures your data stays protected when applying for a credit card online. The site’s card comparison tool helps you pick the best fit. The digital application is straightforward and involves these easy steps:

  1. Click the ‘Check Eligibility’ button on the credit card application page.

  2. Fill in your mobile number, date of birth, and occupation to proceed.

  3. You will receive a One Time Password (OTP) on your registered mobile number. Enter this OTP to continue securely.

  4. Review and confirm your pre-filled information including your PAN card number, address, email ID, and income details.

  5. Browse through the credit card options shown based on your eligibility and pick the one that best suits your needs.

  6. Complete your application by clicking the ‘Submit’ button.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Domestic Travel Credit Cards

Using a travel credit card unwisely can erode potential savings. Avoid these frequent mistakes:

  • Overspending: Do not exceed your limits for the sake of rewards; repay dues fully to avoid interest charges.

  • Ignoring Reward Expiry: Failing to redeem points or miles before they expire results in lost value.

  • Missing Offers: Regularly scan partner portals and emails to catch time-bound discounts or cashback.

  • Carrying Multiple Similar Cards: Focus spending on one card to maximise reward accumulation.

  • Ignoring Terms and Conditions: Always read and follow usage terms, especially blackout dates for redemption.

Building good habits ensures every credit card for domestic travel serves its intended purpose effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best credit card for flight booking in India in 2025?

The best credit card for flight booking varies by individual preferences, but options like Axis Atlas and HDFC Diners Club Black consistently top the lists for their rich travel rewards and lounge access.

Can I redeem my reward points for domestic flight tickets?

Yes, several credit cards for flights allow you to redeem reward points directly for domestic flight bookings or convert them to air miles on partner airlines.

Do travel credit cards provide complimentary airport lounge access?

Yes, the best credit cards for domestic travel typically offer a set number of complimentary lounge accesses at domestic and sometimes international airports each year.

What documents are needed to apply for a travel credit card in India?

You will require identity proof (like PAN, Aadhaar), address proof, and proof of income, such as salary slips, for your application.

Are there travel credit cards with no annual fee?

While most premium travel cards have an annual fee, there are a few entry-level cards that offer flight benefits and have either low or waived annual fees.

Hi! I’m Roshani Ballal
Financial Content Specialist

Roshani has over 6 years of experience and has honed her skills in performance content marketing in the financial domain. She loves diving into research and has crafted and overviewed creative copies, long-form financial content, engaging blogs, and informative articles. She specialises in delivering user-oriented content and solving problems through various content formats. On the side, Roshani enjoys writing poems-that's how she stays creative when she is not crunching numbers.

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