Traveling frequently can be tiring, especially when you have to spend long hours at the airport. But what if you could relax in a premium lounge, enjoy free snacks, drinks, Wi-Fi, and a comfortable seating area without paying extra? Many credit cards in India offer free airport lounge access, making your journey more enjoyable.
Nowadays, several banks provide this benefit, either with unlimited access or a fixed number of free visits per year. Some cards also offer international lounge access, which is an excellent perk for those who travel abroad. However, many people are unaware of these benefits or do not use them properly.
Here’s a detailed look at the best credit cards that offer free domestic and international lounge access, along with their fees and other perks.
1. AU Bank ixigo Credit Card – Free Lounge Visits on Spending Rs.20,000 Quarterly
Key Benefits:
- 16 free domestic airport and railway lounge visits per year.
- 1 free international lounge visit per year.
- No joining or annual fee for a limited period.
Why Choose This Card?
If you are looking for a lifetime free credit card with lounge access, this is an excellent choice. However, you must spend Rs.20,000 per quarter to unlock the lounge visits.
2. Axis Atlas Credit Card – Ideal for Frequent International Travelers
Key Benefits:
- Up to 18 free domestic lounge visits per year (including for guests).
- Up to 12 international lounge visits per year (including for guests).
- Earn 2,700 Edge Miles as a welcome benefit.
Fees:
- Joining and renewal fee: Rs.5,000
Why Choose This Card?
If you travel internationally frequently and want a credit card with guest lounge access, this is a great option.
3. HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card – Popular Choice for Lounge Access
Key Benefits:
- 12 complimentary airport lounge visits per year (domestic and international).
- Get a gift voucher matching the joining fee after payment.
Fees:
- Joining fee: Rs.2,500
- Annual fee waiver on spending Rs.4 lakh in the previous year.
Why Choose This Card?
HDFC Regalia Gold is a mid-range credit card with excellent lounge benefits and an easy annual fee waiver.
4. SBI Elite Credit Card – Luxury Travel Benefits
Key Benefits:
- 2 free domestic lounge visits per quarter.
- 6 free international lounge visits per year (maximum 2 per quarter).
- Get a Rs.5,000 e-gift voucher as a welcome benefit.
Fees:
- Annual fee: Rs.4,999
Why Choose This Card?
If you travel both domestically and internationally, this card offers a balanced number of lounge visits and premium benefits.
5. HDFC Tata Neu Infinity Credit Card – Free Lounge Access with Easy Fee Waiver
Key Benefits:
- 8 domestic lounge visits and 4 international lounge visits per year.
- Earn 1,499 NeuCoins after the first transaction.
Fees:
- No joining fee (limited period offer).
- Annual fee: Rs.1,499 (waived on spending Rs.3 lakh per year).
Why Choose This Card?
A great budget-friendly credit card for lounge access with an easy fee waiver.
6. Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Credit Card – Ideal for Hotel & Travel Lovers
Key Benefits:
- 12 free domestic lounge visits per year.
- 12 free international lounge visits per year.
Fees:
- Joining and renewal fee: Rs.3,000
Why Choose This Card?
If you love traveling and staying at Marriott hotels, this card offers exclusive travel benefits along with lounge access.
7. YES Bank Marquee Credit Card – Best for Unlimited Lounge Access
Key Benefits:
- Unlimited free international lounge access (for primary and add-on cardholders).
- 6 free domestic lounge visits per quarter.
- 2 free domestic lounge visits per quarter for guests.
Fees:
- Annual fee: Rs.9,999
Why Choose This Card?
One of the best premium credit cards for those who travel internationally and want unlimited lounge access.
Things to Consider Before Choosing a Credit Card for Lounge Access
- Check the Eligibility Criteria – Some cards require a minimum income or credit score.
- Look at the Lounge Network – Ensure the credit card covers your preferred airports.
- Check the Annual Fee and Waiver Conditions – Some cards waive fees if you meet spending targets.
- Guest Access – If you frequently travel with family, choose a card that offers guest lounge access.
- Other Benefits – Look for additional perks like reward points, travel insurance, or dining discounts.
How to Use Your Credit Card for Free Lounge Access?
- Visit the eligible airport lounge.
- Show your boarding pass and credit card at the reception.
- The staff will swipe your card to confirm eligibility.
- Enjoy the lounge benefits without any extra charges!
Final Words
Credit cards offering free airport lounge access are an excellent choice for frequent travelers. Whether you want unlimited access, international lounge visits, or budget-friendly options, there is a card for everyone.
Before applying, compare the benefits and fees to choose a card that matches your travel needs and lifestyle.
