Best Credit Cards for International Travel from India: Know Your Cards
Best Credit Cards for International Travel from India: Know Your Cards
Are you planning an international trip from India? If yes, then we understand how managing finances abroad can feel overwhelming, with currency exchange fees and unexpected costs adding to the challenge. Solution? A credit card.
A credit card is a financial tool issued by banks or financial institutions that allows you to borrow money to make purchases, pay bills, or withdraw cash up to a pre-approved credit limit. Instead of pre-loading or paying immediately, you can repay the borrowed amount later, typically at the end of a billing cycle. Additionally, credit cards provide various benefits, such as reward points, cashback on transactions, travel perks like lounge access and travel insurance, and discounts on dining and shopping, making them a versatile option for managing expenses effectively.
So, for Indians planning a foreign trip, here we have covered the 11 best credit cards for international travel. We’ll be comparing these cards on the most important features, such as forex markup fee, reward points, ease of use, security, etc.
Here’s a quick list of the 11 best credit cards for international travel from India:
HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card
Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card
ICICI Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card
SBI Card ELITE
IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card
RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card
HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card
American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card
Kotak IndiGo 6E Rewards XL Credit Card
Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Bank Credit Card
HSBC TravelOne Credit Card
Planning a foreign trip? Besides a credit card, make sure to apply for your destination visa in advance to ensure everything is in order for your trip.
Now, let us understand the key features of these 11 cards in a simplified manner.
1. HDFC Infinia Credit Card
The HDFC Infinia Credit Card is a premium card designed for high-net-worth individuals whom the bank invites. With its low foreign currency markup fee, robust rewards, unlimited lounge access, and extensive insurance coverage, it stands out as one of the best credit cards for international travel.
Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits.
Foreign currency markup fee: The HDFC Infinia Credit Card stands out with its low foreign currency markup fee of just 2%.
Rewards on international transactions: The card offers 5 reward points for every ₹150 spent, including international transactions. For purchases made on the SmartBuy platform, you can earn up to 10x reward points, and these points can be redeemed for flight tickets, hotel bookings, or even converted into Air Miles at a 1:1 ratio.
Airport lounge access: Through the Priority Pass program, frequent travellers enjoy unlimited complimentary access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide. Additionally, the card’s partnership with airlines enables Air Miles conversion, allowing you to accumulate points for free flights.
Complimentary travel insurance: The HDFC Infinia Credit Card provides accidental air death cover of ₹3 crores, emergency overseas hospitalisation coverage of up to ₹50 lakhs, and credit shield insurance protection of up to ₹9 lakhs.
Ease of usage abroad: The HDFC Infinia Credit Card’s contactless payment feature allows for quick and secure transactions for amounts under ₹5,000 without requiring a PIN, making it convenient for smaller purchases. Your PIN secures larger transactions and can be converted into Smart EMIs, giving you financial flexibility. The card is accepted across the globe, ensuring seamless payments wherever you travel.
Security features: The HDFC Infinia Credit Card delivers Zero Lost Card Liability coverage (i.e. if you lose your card and report it promptly, you are protected from fraudulent transactions) and real-time alerts, keeping you updated on every transaction via SMS or email.
Customer support accessibility: The card offers 24/7 global concierge services, which include travel itinerary planning, flight or hotel bookings, event planning, private dining arrangements, emergency assistance and international gift delivery. For any issues while travelling abroad, you can contact 022-6171 7606.
Additional perks and benefits: Other perks include a 1% waiver on fuel transactions between ₹400 and ₹1,00,000 and complimentary Club Marriott Membership for the first year, offering up to 20% discounts on dining and stays across the Asia-Pacific region. Get unlimited complimentary golf games at premium courses in India and select international locations (with coaching sessions) and access special deals on flights, hotels, and shopping through the SmartBuy platform.
2. Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card
The Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card is another well-rounded credit card tailored for frequent travellers and individuals who value premium rewards and benefits. Whether you're looking to earn miles or enjoy world-class experiences, this card has much to offer.
Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:
Foreign currency markup fee: The Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card offers a foreign currency markup fee of 1.5% plus taxes.
Rewards on international transactions: The card provides a generous reward structure for various spends, like earning 2 EDGE Miles for every ₹100 spent on eligible transactions (excluding airline, hotel, and TRAVEL EDGE portal spends). New users get up to 2,500–5,000 EDGE Miles as a welcome benefit based on the card issuance date. These miles can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and other travel-related expenses.
Airport lounge access: The card provides access for both primary cardholders and accompanying guests, which can be availed by generating a QR code via the Axis Bank Mobile App.
Complimentary travel insurance: The Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card provides robust travel insurance coverage, including protection against travel-related emergencies (such as loss of checked-in baggage and trip cancellations). Additionally, the card offers comprehensive accident and medical insurance benefits, including emergency hospitalisation coverage for overseas trips.
Ease of usage abroad: The Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card is globally accepted. Its compatibility with contactless payments simplifies purchases abroad. Cardholders can also manage their accounts, track EDGE Miles, and access lounges through the user-friendly Axis Bank Mobile App.
Security features: The card has strong security measures, including fraud protection on unauthorised transactions and real-time updates via SMS or the Axis Bank Mobile App.
Customer support accessibility: The Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card offers 24/7 customer support for card-related queries.
Additional perks and benefits include up to 25% discounts at over 10,000+ restaurants via EazyDiner and the Miles Transfer Program, which easily lets you transfer EDGE Miles to participating airline and hotel loyalty programs.
Recommended read: How to Maximise Rewards with the Axis Bank ATLAS Card.
3. ICICI Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card
The Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card is offered by ICICI Bank as a premium card for Indians who value luxury, convenience, and rewards. With its exclusive Priority Pass lounge access, complimentary Taj Epicure membership, and high-value milestone benefits, the card offers many exclusive benefits.
Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:
Foreign currency markup fee: The ICICI Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card charges a forex markup fee of 2% (excluding GST).
Rewards on international transactions: Using this card, you can earn 6 ICICI Bank Reward Points for every ₹200 spent on retail transactions (excluding government services, fuel, rent, and tax payments) and can redeem reward points across categories such as electronics, luxury products, travel vouchers, and lifestyle items.
Airport lounge access: Complimentary Priority Pass membership for both primary and supplementary cardholders, providing access to 1,300+ lounges globally and at select Indian airports.
Complimentary travel insurance: Feel secure with robust travel insurance coverage, including a personal accident in the air (death only) of up to ₹3 crores and credit shield coverage of ₹1 lakh.
Ease of usage abroad: The card’s global acceptance, paired with complimentary Priority Pass membership and attractive reward point redemption options, ensures seamless usage abroad. Manage the card seamlessly during your travel via the CICI Bank iMobile Pay App and Internet banking services.
Security features: The ICICI Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card provides advanced security features, including fraud protection on unauthorised transactions, real-time alerts for every transaction and the option to block/unblock the card instantly via the iMobile Pay App or Internet banking.
Customer support accessibility: You can call their 24/7 available customer care at 1800 1080 or request services using Online Assist.
Additional perks and benefits: Besides those mentioned above, Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card offers complimentary Taj Epicure Membership, EaseMyTrip vouchers worth ₹6,000 on annual spends of ₹4 lakhs and ₹8 lakhs, EazyDiner Prime Membership offering up to 50% discounts at 3,000+ restaurants in India and Dubai, and refunds of up to ₹12,000 for two transactions annually for hotel, flight, and movie ticket cancellations.
4. SBI Card ELITE
Next in line is the SBI Card ELITE. It offers exceptional value for frequent international travellers with benefits like complimentary lounge access, milestone rewards, dining discounts, and one of the lowest forex markup fees.
Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:
Foreign currency markup fee: The SBI Card ELITE offers one of the lowest Forex markup fees of 1.99%, making international transactions more affordable.
Rewards on international transactions: Earn 5X Reward Points on dining, departmental stores, and grocery spending and earn 2 Reward Points per ₹100 spent on other transactions (excluding fuel). These Reward Points can be redeemed for travel vouchers, lifestyle products, and more, with a value of ₹1 per point.
Airport lounge access: With SBI Card ELITE, you get a complimentary Priority Pass membership with access to 1,000+ lounges worldwide, offering 6 complimentary visits per year (up to 2 visits per quarter). You will also get 2 complimentary visits per quarter at select Indian airport lounges.
Complimentary travel insurance: The SBI Card ELITE provides robust travel insurance coverage, including Fraud Liability coverage of up to ₹1 lakh.
Ease of usage abroad: The card is accepted at over 24 million outlets worldwide, including 3.25 lakh outlets in India. It supports global transactions seamlessly. Managing the card is easy with online options for Flexipay, balance transfers, and reward redemptions.
Security features: The card is equipped with advanced security, including Chip and PIN technology for protection against fraud and real-time fraud liability coverage for peace of mind.
Customer support accessibility: The card offers round-the-clock support through its customer care numbers 1860 500 1290 and 1860 180 1290. Or you can mail it to [email protected].
Additional perks and benefits: Additionally, get a ₹5,000 e-gift voucher from top brands like Yatra, Bata, or Shoppers Stop, complimentary movie tickets worth ₹6,000 annually (₹250 per ticket, two tickets per month), up to 25% off at select restaurants via EazyDiner and other dining platforms, access to complimentary golf games and lessons at select courses across India.
5. IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card
With zero joining fee and low markup fees, the IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card delivers value across travel, shopping, and everyday expenses. Its robust rewards program and free trip cancellation cover further enhance its appeal.
Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:
Foreign currency markup fee: The IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card offers a competitive Forex markup fee of just 1.99%, making it cost-effective for international transactions.
Rewards on international transactions: Earn 1 Reward Point per ₹150 spent and 3X Reward Points on rental payments, government services, education, and wallet loads.
Airport lounge access: Under similar conditions, enjoy 2 complimentary domestic lounge visits per quarter (T&C apply) and 4 complimentary visits per year at select railway terminals.
Complimentary travel insurance: Get free trip cancellation cover of up to ₹10,000 for non-refundable hotel and flight bookings. This benefit can be utilised for up to two claims during the policy period, shared between primary and add-on cardholders.
Ease of usage abroad: The IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card is accepted globally, and you can manage your card via the IDFC FIRST Mobile Banking App.
Security features: Enable or disable online, contactless, and international transactions via the mobile app. Secure usage with real-time updates and advanced security protocols.
Customer support accessibility: IDFC offers 24/7 customer support via multiple channels. If facing any issues, call +91 22 6248 5152 or connect through WhatsApp at 9555 555 555.
Additional perks and benefits: With the IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card, you receive a ₹500 gift voucher from top brands like Amazon and Uber on spending ₹5,000 within 30 days of issuance and 5% cashback up to ₹1,000 on your first EMI transaction within 30 days of card issuance.
6. RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card
The RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card is another cost-effective credit card for Indians visiting abroad. Offering 0% forex markup on international transactions, generous reward points, complimentary lounge access, travel insurance, and concierge services, the card is an excellent choice for frequent travellers.
Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:
Foreign currency markup fee: Unlike any other card, the RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card stands out with a 0% forex markup fee on all international transactions.
Rewards on international transactions: Earn 5 Reward Points for every ₹100 spent on travel purchases and 2 Reward Points for every ₹100 spent on domestic retail transactions. Milestone rewards include up to 15,000 bonus points and vouchers worth ₹10,000 on annual spending of ₹7.5 lakhs.
Airport lounge access: Get 2 complimentary domestic airport lounge visits per quarter at major Indian airports. Complimentary Priority Pass membership unlocks access to 1,400+ lounges worldwide, with 2 free visits annually.
Complimentary travel insurance: Travel worry-free with comprehensive insurance benefits, including personal liability coverage, coverage for trip delays, baggage loss, loss of passport, and dental treatment expenses abroad.
Ease of usage abroad: The card is accepted globally and can be easily managed using the RBL Bank MyCard app.
Security features: Advanced chip-and-PIN technology enhances protection against counterfeiting and skimming. Furthermore, you can instantly block or unblock the card and manage transactions securely through RBL Bank's online portal or customer service.
Customer support accessibility: There is a dedicated 24/7 concierge desk for travel, dining, and lifestyle reservations. You can reach out at +91 22 6232 7777 or [email protected].
Additional perks and benefits: In addition to the benefits mentioned above, get a ₹3,000 MakeMyTrip voucher upon activation, fuel surcharge waiver for transactions between ₹500 and ₹4,000 (up to ₹250 monthly) and four complimentary gold course access annually and one monthly lesson, with discounted rates beyond the complimentary access.
7. HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card
The HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card offers multiple rewards, lifestyle benefits, and travel privileges. Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:
Foreign currency markup fee: The HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card offers a competitive 2% forex markup fee.
Rewards on international transactions: Earn 4 Reward Points for every ₹150 spent on retail purchases, including insurance, utilities, and education, and earn 5X Reward Points at Marks & Spencer, Myntra, Nykaa, and Reliance Digital.
Airport lounge access: Get 12 complimentary annual accesses to lounges across India (domestic and international terminals). Avail 6 Priority Pass lounge visits outside India annually, covering the primary and add-on cardholders. Additional visits are chargeable at $27 + GST.
Complimentary travel insurance: The HDFC Regalia Gold Credit Card offers accidental air death cover of up to ₹1 crore, emergency overseas hospitalisation cover of up to ₹15 lakhs, and credit liability cover of up to ₹9 lakhs.
Ease of usage abroad: The card supports global transactions and is equipped with contactless payment technology for secure and convenient purchases. You can also manage your spending and reward redemptions via SmartBuy or NetBanking.
Security features: You can report your card loss immediately to prevent fraudulent transactions. Enjoy contactless payments, and transactions below ₹5,000 don’t require a PIN.
Customer support accessibility: The card provides 24/7 concierge services for assistance with dining, travel, and lifestyle bookings. You can contact the toll-free number 1860 425 1188 or email at [email protected].
Additional perks and benefits: Get complimentary Swiggy One and MMT Black Gold memberships upon spending ₹1 lakh within 90 days of issuance. Save up to 7.5% on restaurant bills via Swiggy Dineout at 20,000+ restaurants. You also earn ₹5,000 worth of flight vouchers on annual spends of ₹5 lakhs and an additional ₹5,000 voucher at ₹7.5 lakhs, and more such benefits.
8. American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card
The American Express® Platinum Travel Credit Card is designed for Indian travellers who seek value, convenience, and premium travel experiences. With generous travel vouchers, complimentary lounge access, and milestone rewards, this card is ideal for frequent domestic flyers looking to get more from every trip.
Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:
Foreign currency markup fee: The American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card charges a standard Forex markup fee of 3.5% (plus applicable taxes) on international transactions.
Rewards on domestic spending: Earn 1 Membership Rewards® point for every ₹50 spent on eligible categories, excluding fuel, utilities, insurance, and cash transactions. Points can be redeemed for a variety of options, including travel bookings, Taj vouchers, and online gift cards.
Airport lounge access: You can enjoy 8 complimentary domestic lounge visits per year (2 per quarter) across major airports in India, which will provide a relaxing travel experience before your flight.
Complimentary travel vouchers: Spend ₹1.9 lakhs in a membership year to receive travel vouchers worth over ₹7,500; spend ₹4 lakhs to receive vouchers worth ₹11,800 more. Combined, you can earn up to ₹19,300 worth of vouchers per year, redeemable on Flipkart, travel bookings, and more.
Ease of usage abroad: The card is globally accepted and provides support via 24/7 Platinum Assist. You can also easily manage your account and transactions via the American Express App or website.
Security features: The card comes with robust security, including real-time transaction alerts, zero liability for lost or stolen cards once reported, and the ability to block or unblock your card instantly via the app or helpline.
Customer support accessibility: You can access 24/7 Platinum customer service through the number on the back of your card or via secure messaging and live chat on the Amex website or app.
Additional perks and benefits: Enjoy exclusive access to American Express Offers, curated events, and personalised deals. Benefit from dining privileges and special promotions across select partner restaurants, and enjoy redemption flexibility through the Membership Rewards portal. Travel insurance is also included with coverage for delays and missed connections.
9. Kotak IndiGo 6E Rewards XL Credit Card
The Kotak IndiGo 6E Rewards XL Credit Card is built for IndiGo flyers who want to earn fast-track rewards and enjoy exclusive travel benefits with India’s leading airline. Co-branded with IndiGo, this card offers accelerated 6E Rewards, milestone benefits, and value-packed travel perks tailored to frequent domestic travellers who prefer convenience and cost-efficiency.
Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:
Foreign currency markup fee: The Kotak IndiGo 6E Rewards XL Credit Card charges a competitive 2.5% forex markup fee (plus applicable taxes) on international transactions, offering reasonable value for travellers who spend abroad.
Rewards on domestic spending: The IndiGo 6E Rewards Credit Card offers 6% rewards on IndiGo flights booked directly, 3% on dining, groceries, and entertainment, and 2% on other purchases (excluding fuel). Rewards can be redeemed for IndiGo flights, add-ons, and partner redemptions.
Airport lounge access: Enjoy 8 complimentary domestic lounge visits per calendar year (2 per quarter), available across major airports in India, offering a relaxed and comfortable pre-boarding experience.
Complimentary travel privileges: Card activation and joining fee payment grant a ₹1,500 IndiGo 6E Rewards welcome benefit. Annual spending milestones unlock up to ₹5,000 in additional rewards. Complimentary air travel insurance covers trip delays and baggage loss.
Ease of usage abroad: The card is accepted internationally and comes with 24/7 assistance through Kotak Mahindra Bank’s customer care. It also has easy mobile app access to track transactions and rewards, manage card settings, and make payments.
Security features: These include zero liability protection when reporting lost or stolen cards, EMV chip security, and instant card blocking/unblocking through the Kotak Mobile Banking app or helpline.
Customer support accessibility: Contact Kotak’s 24x7 customer service via phone, mobile app chat, or the website. Concierge support is also available for select travel-related services.
Additional perks and benefits: 6E Rewards enhances IndiGo flights with reduced fees and exclusive partner deals across various sectors, saving you money on travel and more. Frequent flyers get personalised offers tailored to their preferences, maximising value and recognising loyalty. Enjoy savings and an elevated travel experience with 6E Rewards.
10. Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Bank Credit Card
The Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Bank Credit Card is India’s first co-branded hotel credit card, designed for frequent travellers and Marriott loyalists who want to earn valuable points, enjoy complimentary hotel stays, and fast-track their elite status. With generous point earning rates, milestone rewards, and travel perks, it’s ideal for those who regularly stay at Marriott properties.
Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:
Foreign currency markup fee: The card charges a Forex markup fee of 3.5% plus applicable taxes on international transactions, which is standard for most lifestyle-focused cards.
Rewards on spending: You earn 8 Marriott Bonvoy points per ₹150 spent at Marriott hotels, 4 points per ₹150 on travel, dining, and entertainment, and 2 points per ₹150 on all other spends, making it rewarding across categories.
Airport lounge and golf access: Enjoy 12 complimentary domestic and 12 international lounge visits each year, along with two complimentary golf rounds per quarter at select premium golf courses.
Welcome and milestone benefits: On joining and payment of the annual fee, you receive a Free Night Award worth up to 15,000 Marriott Bonvoy points along with 10 Elite Night Credits. Additional Free Night Awards can be earned on spending ₹6 lakh, ₹9 lakh, and ₹15 lakh in a card anniversary year.
Elite status perks: Cardholders get complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status, along with 10 Elite Night Credits annually to help fast-track towards Gold Elite or higher tiers in the Bonvoy program.
Insurance and security features: The card provides travel insurance benefits such as coverage for delayed or lost baggage, flight delays, emergency medical expenses, and air accident insurance. It also offers zero liability protection on reporting a lost or stolen card.
Customer support and concierge: Access to HDFC Bank’s 24/7 customer care and concierge services ensures smooth assistance for travel bookings, reservations, and card management. The card also supports contactless payments and offers smart EMI conversion.
Additional perks and benefits: Apart from hotel and travel privileges, the card offers curated lifestyle benefits, discounts on dining and entertainment, and flexibility in redeeming Bonvoy points for hotel stays, experiences, or upgrades.
11. HSBC TravelOne Credit Card
The HSBC TravelOne Credit Card is a global travel rewards card built for frequent flyers who want simplicity, flexibility, and premium travel experiences. With universal reward point redemption across airlines and hotels, complimentary lounge access, and a sleek digital experience, it caters to modern travellers seeking seamless benefits at home and abroad.
Here’s an in-depth look at its features and benefits:
Foreign currency markup fee: The card charges a competitive forex markup fee of 2.99% (plus applicable taxes) on international transactions, slightly lower than the industry standard for travel cards.
Rewards on domestic spending: Earn 2 reward points per ₹100 spent on all domestic transactions and 3 reward points per ₹100 on international spends, with accelerated earning on travel categories booked via partner platforms.
Airport lounge access: Through Priority Pass membership, you can enjoy 12 complimentary domestic airport lounge visits per year (3 per quarter) and 4 complimentary international lounge visits annually.
Complimentary travel privileges: Cardholders receive a complimentary Priority Pass membership, and reward points can be transferred 1:1 to over 20 global airline and hotel loyalty programs, offering exceptional redemption flexibility.
Ease of usage abroad: The card is globally accepted, offers easy redemption across travel programs, and is supported by HSBC’s global network. You can manage transactions, view rewards, and access features through the HSBC India mobile app.
Security features: Equipped with EMV chip and contactless tech, the card also offers instant blocking, fraud protection, real-time alerts, and zero liability on loss or theft once reported.
Customer support accessibility: HSBC customers can access 24x7 customer service, digital support, and chat options via the HSBC app and online banking.
Additional perks and benefits: The card provides complimentary travel insurance covering flight delays, baggage loss, and medical emergencies, ensuring peace of mind while travelling. Enjoy exclusive dining privileges and discounts at partner restaurants nationwide. You also get access to curated experiences, early-bird offers on travel bookings, and special promotions during festivals and sales.
Key Factors to Consider in Choosing the Best International Credit Card
Since you now know the best international travel credit cards in India, let us help you in choosing the right one. Not every card fits every user, so here are the five key factors to make an informed decision.
1. Foreign currency markup fee
The foreign currency markup fee is the charge applied when you make transactions in a foreign currency. A lower markup fee translates to significant savings on international purchases. If you are a frequent international traveller, prioritise a card with the lowest forex markup to avoid hefty conversion fees. For example, the RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card offers a 0% forex markup fee.
2. Rewards and benefits
Evaluate the reward structure for international spending. Cards with robust rewards programs offer points for every transaction, which can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, or cashback. If earning rewards or redeeming points for travel perks matters to you, focus on cards like HDFC Infinia or ICICI Emeralde.
3. Travel-related perks
Lounge access can elevate your entire travel experience, especially during long layovers. Most premium credit cards offer complimentary access to lounges worldwide. If comfort during travel is a priority, choose a card with unlimited or ample complimentary lounge visits. For example, the SBI Card ELITE provides Priority Pass membership, allowing 6 complimentary visits annually to lounges abroad. It also offers 2 domestic lounge visits per quarter, making it versatile for both international and domestic trips.
4. Complimentary travel insurance
Having travel insurance bundled with your credit card adds an extra layer of security, especially when travelling abroad. The travel insurance would protect you from unexpected events like baggage loss, flight cancellations, or medical emergencies. Cards such as the HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card offer emergency overseas hospitalisation coverage of up to ₹50 lakhs, while the RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card goes a step further with insurance for passport loss and dental treatment expenses abroad.
5. Ease of usage and security
An international credit card should be widely accepted and offer advanced security features to prevent misuse. Look for global acceptance, contactless payment options, and fraud liability protection. Moreover, if you’re a first-time user, choose a card that’s easy to manage via mobile apps or online platforms, with robust security protocols.
By now, you have the knowledge of the best international credit card options from India. Now, you can choose from these depending on your travel habits, spending patterns, and the features you prioritise. For high spenders seeking luxury and travel perks, the HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card stands out with its unparalleled rewards and comprehensive benefits. On the other hand, the RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card, with its 0% forex markup fee, is ideal for cost-conscious travellers.
Which is better: a credit card or a debit card for international travel?
A credit card is generally better for international travel due to its benefits, such as lower foreign currency markup fees (in premium cards), travel insurance coverage, and the ability to earn rewards or cashback on foreign transactions. Credit cards also offer better fraud protection, with features like zero lost card liability and instant blocking.
Debit cards, on the other hand, directly access your bank account, making your funds vulnerable in case of fraud or skimming. Additionally, debit cards often have higher forex fees and limited perks.
Which is the best credit card for international travel?
The HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card, Axis Bank ATLAS Credit Card and the SBI ELITE Card are considered one of the best for international travel from India. For cost-conscious travellers, the RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card, with its 0% forex markup fee, is an excellent choice.
What documents do I need to apply for an international credit card?
To apply for an international credit card, you typically need:
Proof of identity: Aadhaar, PAN, or passport.
Proof of address: Aadhaar, utility bill, or rental agreement.
Income proof: Salary slips, bank statements, or ITR filings.
Credit Score: A good score (700 or above) improves your chances of approval for premium cards.
Do I need a separate credit card for every country I visit?
No, you don’t need a separate credit card for each country. Most international credit cards are globally accepted, as they operate on networks like Visa, Mastercard, or American Express. However, ensure your card supports global transactions and doesn’t have a high forex markup fee.
How does the Forex markup fee affect international transactions?
The forex markup fee is a percentage charged on the value of international transactions for currency conversion. For example, if you spend ₹10,000 abroad and your card has a 2% forex fee, you will pay ₹200 extra. Cards like RBL World Safari (0%) and Axis Bank ATLAS (1.5%) minimise these fees, while standard cards may charge up to 3.5%.
What happens if I lose my credit card abroad?
If you lose your credit card abroad, immediately report the loss to your bank using their 24/7 helpline or mobile app. Most banks offer zero lost card liability, protecting you from fraudulent transactions if the loss is reported promptly. Banks may also provide emergency card replacement or assist with temporary funds depending on your card’s features.