best credit card for airport lounge access: Top Picks & Perks Guide

Key takeaways:
 

• Cardholders can save between ₹10,000 to ₹25,000 every year through complimentary airport lounge access, exclusive travel deals, and welcome rewards
  .
• Cards with zero foreign exchange markup, such as Scapia and Axis Atlas, are especially useful for international travellers, as they eliminate additional currency conversion charges.
   
• Many credit cards also offer extra privileges like travel insurance, bonus reward points, complimentary meals, and access to quiet airport lounges for added comfort.
   
• There are suitable card options for every type of user, whether salaried individuals, business owners, or those starting out with a fixed deposit-backed credit card.

A Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access provides free or discounted entry into airport lounges, enhancing comfort during air travel.

Neha, a freelance travel blogger from Pune, travels twice a month for both personal and sponsored trips. Her average monthly spend on flights, hotels, and restaurants is ₹35,000. She recently got the HDFC Regalia Gold, one of the Best Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access. 

Last month, she relaxed in a Delhi airport lounge for 3 hours, completely free, saving ₹2,000 in lounge entry fees. She also earned 3,500 reward points worth ₹700 on travel-related purchases. Over the year, she expects to save at least ₹25,000 through free lounge visits, travel discounts, and reward redemptions, all thanks to her credit card.

In this blog, you'll discover everything about the Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access, including top cards, benefits, eligibility, charges, and smart tips to choose the right one.

Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access: Overview

Airport lounges offer peace, privacy, food, and relaxation, something most travellers crave during long wait times. However, lounge access isn’t always free. That’s where a Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access helps. These credit cards offer complimentary or discounted access to both domestic and international lounges.

Airports in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, have tie-ups with multiple credit card issuers. Over 15.2 crore passengers travelled through Indian airports in 2023, increasing demand for lounge access solutions.

If you fly more than 4–5 times a year, a lounge-access credit card can help you save ₹15,000–₹40,000 annually on food, comfort, and extra services.

Key Highlights of the Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access

Many Indian and global banks offer credit cards with lounge access, each with unique features. Let’s look at a basic comparison of what to expect.

This table gives a quick snapshot of key features across different Best Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access so you can compare and choose wisely: 
 

As seen above, the Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access often has a higher joining fee but provides exceptional value through travel perks, lounge entry, and exclusive bonuses.

Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access

There are many of the best airport lounge credit cards, which incorporate many benefits. Nonetheless, the applicant for this card type needs to cherry-pick a suitable credit card for their travelling requirements. This helps them to save money and also avail the best sublime services from the airport lounge.

1. Axis Atlas Credit Card

This credit card can be redeemed across more than 20 travel partners, including, Qatar Airlines, SpiceJet, and Air Asia. This card is best for frequent air travellers who do not incline any brands. The card works on the following tier-based structure:

• Silver Tier: Spending worth ₹ 300,000 
   
• Gold Tier: Spending worth ₹ 750,000
   
• Platinum Tier: Spending worth ₹ 15,00,000

Airport Lounge Access Benefits:

Below is a breakdown of international and domestic lounge access available under different membership tiers:
 

As the table shows, higher-tier cardholders enjoy more lounge visits, both in India and abroad.

Other Benefits

• 2 EDGE Miles for every ₹ 100 spent on various categories.
   
• 2 EDGE Miles for every ₹ 100 spent on travel above ₹ 2,00,000 lakhs.
   
• 5 EDGE Mile for every ₹ 100 spent on travel up to ₹ 2,00,000 lakhs.
   
• 2,500 bonus EDGE Miles on the first transaction within 37 days after card activation.
   
• The EDGE Miles can also be converted into loyalty points.

Fees and Other Charges

The table below gives a detailed view of the charges linked with this credit card: 
 

This fee structure shows that while the card offers premium features, it also comes with fixed annual costs and charges for late payments. 

2. Axis Horizon Credit Card

This is the latest inclusion from the Axis Bank, exclusively for travellers with airport lounge benefits. All the EDGE Miles can be redeemed at a 1:1 point-to-mile conversion ratio across various travel partners. This credit card comes with the welcome benefits as a bonus in international and domestic lounge access.

Airport Lounge Access Benefits:

This credit card offers generous airport lounge access for both international and domestic travellers, based on the card network and usage: 

• 8 complimentary international lounge visits every year, with a maximum of 2 visits per quarter. 
   
• 32 complimentary domestic lounge visits every year, with a maximum of 8 visits per quarter, only for Visa Signature cardholders.
   
• Mastercard World cardholders get 24 free domestic airport lounge visits each year, limited to 6 visits per quarter.

With up to 32 domestic and 8 international lounge visits yearly, cardholders enjoy comfort and convenience while travelling across India or abroad.

Other Benefits

Apart from travel perks, the card also rewards spending through EDGE Miles across categories and welcome bonuses: 

• 5 EDGE Miles per ₹ 100 for every transaction on the Travel EDGE portal, as well as on direct airline websites or counters.
   
• 2 EDGE Miles per ₹ 100 on transactions in other categories.
   
• 5,000 EDGE Miles on the first transaction worth ₹ 1,000 or more within 30 days of card issuance.

These rewards help frequent spenders earn valuable points faster, especially on travel bookings and the first transaction after card activation.

Fees and Other Charges

The fees linked to a credit card is important before applying. This includes one-time joining fees and yearly renewal charges. Below is a quick overview of the main costs:
 

The joining and annual fees are fixed at ₹ 3,000 each, making it easy to plan yearly card expenses.

3. IndusInd Bank Avios Visa Infinite Credit Card

This super-premium credit card is one hundred per cent suitable for frequent travellers on Qatar Airways and British Airways. This card is associated with these two reputed airline companies and comes with many premium services and benefits. Each travel locations of the airlines incur rewards when the cardholders pay it through this card.

Airport Lounge Access Benefits:

This card offers both international and domestic lounge access to make air travel more comfortable for frequent flyers: 

• 2 international lounge visits every quarter.
   
• 2 complimentary domestic lounge visits every quarter.

With quarterly access to both international and domestic lounges, cardholders enjoy premium airport comfort throughout the year.

Other Benefits:

The card also offers airline rewards, discounts, and Avios points that benefit regular travellers, especially those flying with Qatar Airways and British Airways.

• 5 Avios for every ₹ 200 transaction at selected international destinations for Point-of-Sale (POS) transactions.
   
• 2 Avios for every ₹ 200 transaction on Qatar Airways and British Airways through the app and website.
   
• 1 Avios for per ₹ 200 transactions online at selected domestic and international destinations.
   
• Flight bookings on Qatar Airways yield a 10% discount to the cardholders, with the airline loyalty programme in Qatar Airways Privilege Club.

These benefits are ideal for travellers looking to save on flights and earn Avios rewards faster through frequent card usage.

Fees and Other Charges

The card comes with high-end features and services, matched with premium joining and annual fees: 
 

While the fees are premium, they reflect the exclusive travel perks and rewards offered by the card.

4. SBI Card Miles Elite

This is the first co-branded travel credit card from the State Bank of India. This credit card is made exclusively for travellers with a wide range of benefits.

Airport Lounge Access Benefits:

This credit card offers generous lounge access benefits for both domestic and international travellers, along with extra rewards on high spending.

• 8 complimentary airport lounge visits at domestic airports, with a maximum of 2 visits every quarter.
   
• Additional domestic lounge visit with the spending on ₹ 1,00,000 lakhs.
   
• 6 complimentary airport lounge visits at international airports, with a maximum of 2 visits every quarter.
   
• The cardholder can have a Complimentary Priority Pass Membership.

The lounge access features make this card highly valuable for regular travellers, especially those who fly both within India and abroad.

Other Benefits

In addition to travel comfort, the card offers welcome credits, higher rewards on travel, and added protection through insurance.

• The card comes with 5,000 travel credits as a welcome benefit.
   
• 3X rewards on every travel spend.
   
• Point-to-Mile conversion facility.
   
• Insurance benefits.

These additional benefits help frequent travellers earn faster rewards and enjoy extra value through insurance and travel credits.

Fees and Other Charges

The card comes with fixed joining and annual charges, along with structured late payment fees based on the amount due: 
 

While the card carries moderate fees, the value it offers through travel benefits, insurance, and rewards can easily outweigh the charges if used well.

4. Scapia Federal Bank Credit Card

In collaboration with Scapia, Federal Bank launched a co-branded credit card, which comes with an abundance of rewards to the cardholders for every travelling spend. This is a lifetime credit card, with zero fees for joining and annual maintenance.  

Airport Lounge Access Benefits:

Unlimited domestic airport lounge access with spending at least ₹ 50,000 per month.

Other Benefits

This credit card offers generous rewards on shopping and travel bookings, along with savings on international transactions:

• The cardholders can avail of 10% Scapia Coins on all purchases online and offline.
   
• 20% Scapia Coins are available to the cardholders when travel bookings are made on the Scapia App.
   
• There are no forex mark-up fees.

These benefits make the card ideal for users who shop frequently and travel internationally, while earning consistent rewards.

Fees and Other Charges

This card is designed to be completely free, with no joining or annual maintenance charges:
 

With zero fees, this card is a cost-effective option for users looking to maximise rewards without paying anything extra. 

5. HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card

This credit card is the latest addition to the credit cards of the HDFC Refalia category. This credit offers wide discounts and offers on the airport lounge services. All the cardholders can avail of several of its services, as well as reward programs, cashbacks, and other offers.

Airport Lounge Access Benefits:

This card offers premium lounge access at both domestic and international airports, helping travellers relax before their journey: 

• The cardholders can have 6 complimentary international airport lounge visits per year, after completing a minimum of four card transactions.
   
• There is availability of 12 complimentary domestic airport lounge visits every year.

These lounge benefits provide comfort and convenience for both domestic and international travellers throughout the year.

Other Benefits

Apart from travel perks, this card offers memberships, shopping rewards, and vouchers to enhance everyday spending:

• Complimentary Swiggy One Membership
   
• Complimentary MMT Black Elite Membership
   
• Welcoming gift voucher of ₹ 2,500 on the payment of joining fees.
   
• The cardholders have 20 reward points per ₹ 150 purchase on Myntra, Marks & Spencer, Reliance Digital and Nykaa.
   
• The cardholders are entitled to receive 4 reward points per ₹ 150 spent on other categories.
   
• The customer will have 5,000 flight vouchers with annual spending of ₹ 5,00,000 and ₹ 7,00,000. These added benefits make the card useful for frequent shoppers, diners, and travellers, offering value through rewards and memberships.

These added benefits make the card useful for frequent shoppers, diners, and travellers, offering value through rewards and memberships.

Fees and Other Charges

This card carries a fixed fee structure, with an option to waive the annual fee based on yearly spending: 

The annual fee can be waived off with high usage, making it suitable for users with regular or premium spending habits.

Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access: Pros & Cons

Every credit card comes with strengths and limitations. While airport lounge cards offer many perks, some require high spending or annual fees to make them truly worthwhile.

Let’s compare the pros and cons of having a Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access:
 

While these credit cards provide excellent value for travellers, users must evaluate annual costs and usage patterns before choosing the right card.

Eligibility Criteria for Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access

Banks set certain eligibility rules before approving a credit card that offers lounge access. These rules help ensure that the cardholder can manage repayment and use the card responsibly.

Here are the standard eligibility criteria for most of the Best Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access:
 

Before applying for any of the Best Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access, ensure you meet the age, income, and credit score criteria. This helps improve approval chances.

Required Documents to Apply for the Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access

When applying for a Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access, the bank needs certain documents to check your identity, income, and financial behaviour. These documents ensure that you are eligible and capable of repaying credit on time.

Here is a list of documents most banks require when you apply for a credit card with airport lounge access:
 

Before you apply for the Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access, make sure you collect these documents. Missing paperwork may lead to delays or rejection.

How to Apply for Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access?

Thanks to digital platforms, applying for the Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access has become easy and paperless. Many banks and fintech apps offer fully online applications.

Here’s how you can apply for your ideal airport lounge credit card in just a few steps:

• Step 1: Choose the Card Based on Your Travel Habits
  Compare cards like Axis Atlas, Scapia, or HDFC Regalia Gold based on lounge visits and annual costs.
   
• Step 2: Visit Bank Website or Partner App
  Go to the official website of the bank or use a trusted third-party credit card marketplace.
   
• Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
  Enter your basic details like name, PAN, address, income, and employment type.
   
• Step 4: Upload the Required Documents
  Submit scanned copies of Aadhaar, PAN, and income proof as required.
   
• Step 5: Complete Video KYC or Tele-Verification
  Some banks may call you or ask for a short video to verify your identity.
   
• Step 6: Wait for Approval and Delivery
  If approved, your Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access is delivered within 5–10 working days.

By following these steps, you can easily apply for your chosen Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access without visiting the bank.

Conclusion

Travelling is not just about reaching your destination; it’s also about enjoying the journey. A Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access ensures your journey begins with comfort, savings, and style. Whether you're a business traveller attending meetings or a solo explorer catching early flights, lounge access adds value.

With features like zero joining fees, travel rewards, and cashback on spending, these credit cards are becoming essential tools for smart travellers. Choose the right card based on your budget, travel frequency, and benefit needs, and enjoy your time at the airport, just like in a luxury hotel lobby.

FAQ:

1. Does any student-focused Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access exist in India?

While there’s no dedicated student-only Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access, some FD-backed or secured credit cards like SBI Unnati or SimpliFi by Fi (linked with a fixed deposit) may allow students to qualify. 

2. Is there a Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access that supports family access as well?

Some premium Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access like HDFC Infinia, Axis Reserve, or SBI Elite, offer lounge access for primary cardholders and add-on cardholders (spouse, parents, or adult children). 

3. Do all lounge access credit cards include both domestic and international visits, or are they separate benefits?
Not all cards offer both. Some cards only cover domestic lounge access, while premium or travel-specific cards (like Axis Magnus or HDFC Infinia) include complimentary international lounge visits through networks like Priority Pass or LoungeKey. 

4. Can supplementary credit card holders also use airport lounge access benefits?
Yes, some premium credit cards extend lounge access to add-on cardholders, but the number of free visits may be shared or limited. 

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LoansJagat Team

‘Simplify Finance for Everyone.’ This is the common goal of our team, as we try to explain any topic with relatable examples. From personal to business finance, managing EMIs to becoming debt-free, we do extensive research on each and every parameter, so you don’t have to. Scroll up and have a look at what 15+ years of experience in the BFSI sector looks like.