How to choose the best credit card with airport lounge access

Think credit cards and you would immediately think about getting –

• Access to pre-approved credit

• Reward points on every transaction

• Deals and discounts across merchants

• Exclusive privileges

A complimentary airport lounge access is also a common perk across credit cards. But, with the multitude of options available, you might be spoilt for choice. How do you pick one of the best credit cards with airport lounge access?

There are several parameters to help you narrow down your search. Here’s a look at some of the most important ones.

Tips for choosing one of the best credit cards with airport lounge access

• Lounge network

All credit cards have a specific number of airports that offer lounge access. It may not be valid for all airports. It is ideal to compare this feature when selecting your travel card.

Look at the networked lounge to which the credit card gives access. The larger the network, the better. Also, check whether the airports that you frequent are included in the eligible list. Your lounge access must benefit you if the preferred airports are included.

• Allowed visits

There might be restrictions on the number of complimentary visits allowed annually or quarterly. Moreover, access can be allowed only for domestic airport lounges. You pay a certain fee if you exceed the allowed limit or check into an international lounge.

Look for credit cards which offer unlimited or a high number of visits per quarter/year. Also, if you travel internationally, choose travel cards that also offer international airport lounge access.

• Annual Fee

Credit cards have a joining fee and an annual fee. The joining fee is a one-time charge paid to avail of the card. However, the annual fee is a recurring annual expense to use the card.

The joining and annual fees are additional charges that can be avoided. Look for lifetime free credit cards which involve no annual or joining fee, like IDFC FIRST Bank Credit Cards. With a variety of options, you can get a suitable card with no annual fee.

• Guest access

While cardholders can get complimentary lounge access, guests might not be allowed. You will have to pay a fee if the card doesn’t allow guest access. Check if your credit card allows guest access so that they can also enjoy the luxury of the airport lounge. 

If you travel with your better half or family, let them also enjoy the lounge benefits for a comfortable travel experience.

• Additional benefits

Credit cards offer different additional benefits for your travel bookings. Common examples include complimentary travel insurance, airline statement credits against specified travel spending, concierge services, etc.

Look for travel cards offering these additional benefits. These benefits would give you enhanced privileges every time you travel and upgrade your experience.

Other travel offers on IDFC FIRST Bank Credit Cards

 IDFC FIRST Bank Credit Cards offer exclusive discounts across major travel websites. Enjoy savings on hotel, flight and travel bookings based on your specific credit card variant.

So, book your trip with IDFC FIRST Bank Credit Cards and get a rewarding experience. Claim discounts on travel bookings and complimentary lounge access for comfortable travelling. 

The bottom line

The salient features of different credit cards have a bigger impact while choosing one of the best credit cards with airport lounge access. Compare the different cards across these parameters and make an informed choice. Choose a travel credit card with an excellent rewards and points lounge program and get VIP treatment on each trip.

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.