/offerpages/3e8313d905a9402d9d5fcc3058f62d6d.png)
/blog/b1645bcca7a947ab9165387a59c5137f.jpg)
Finding the best credit card for international travel is essential if you want to save money on foreign exchange charges, earn higher rewards on foreign spending, and enjoy global airport lounge access while travelling abroad. Whether you're flying for business, leisure, study, or frequent multi-country trips, choosing the right card directly impacts your overall travel cost.
With rising forex markup (usually 3.5% on regular cards), high international ATM fees, and expensive airport experiences, travellers today are searching for good credit cards for international travel that offer lounge access, travel insurance, reward points on USD-based spends, and low or zero forex fees.
In this guide, we compare the best credit cards for worldwide travel, explain why they matter, evaluate features like lounge access, travel insurance, forex markup, and bring you accurate details of India’s top credit cards for overseas use.
Let’s break it down step-by-step.
Table of Contents:
- Why You Need a Credit Card for International Travel
- Best Credit Cards for International Travel
- Forex Markup Comparison Table
- Other Top Credit Cards for International Travel
- Best Credit Card for International Travel Based on Traveller Type
- Key Features to Look for in an International Travel Credit Card
- Fees & Charges to Consider Before Using Cards Abroad
- Which International Travel Credit Card Should You Choose?
Why You Need a Credit Card for International Travel
A credit card for international travel is more than a convenience—it protects you financially, reduces costs abroad, and gives you global access to services you might not get with cash or a debit card.
1. Lower Forex Charges Compared to Debit Cards
Debit cards typically charge 3.5%–4% forex markup, while top travel credit cards reduce this to 0%–2%, saving ₹3,500–₹4,000 on every ₹1 lakh spent overseas.
2. International Lounge Access
Premium travel cards offer unlimited or multiple free lounge visits worldwide through networks like Priority Pass, DragonPass, or Diners Club. A single international lounge visit can cost ₹2,000–₹5,000, so this benefit alone can save frequent flyers tens of thousands annually.
3. Global Acceptance & Emergency Support
Credit cards have higher acceptance rates abroad and offer:
- Emergency cash assistance
- Instant card blocking
- International concierge
- Overseas card replacement
These support systems are crucial for travellers in unfamiliar countries.
4. Rewards on Forex Spends
Good international credit cards offer 2%–5% return on foreign transactions through reward points, air miles, or cashback equivalents.
5. Travel Insurance Coverage
You get insurance covering:
- Lost baggage
- Travel delay
- Missed connection
- Overseas medical emergencies
- Lost passport assistance
This protection is lifesaving during unexpected situations abroad.
Also curious about airport lounge access abroad? This guide on credit cards with Priority Pass explains which cards offer international lounges and how the membership works.
Best Credit Cards for International Travel
Below are the top 5 best credit cards for international travel, offering strong rewards, low forex charges, global lounge access, and essential travel benefits that make overseas spending more affordable.
1. HDFC Infinia Credit Card (Metal Edition)
The HDFC Infinia Credit Card (Metal Edition) is HDFC Bank’s flagship super-premium card designed for high-spending global travellers. With top-tier lounge access, a strong rewards structure, and elite international benefits, it is highly suited for frequent flyers. Its SmartBuy rewards and global privileges make it one of the most valuable cards for overseas travel.
/content-assets/53f2c7514cec43e2a41c2d59fbf4c61c.png)
- Joining Fee: ₹12,500 + GST
- Annual Fee: ₹12,500 + GST
- Forex Markup: 2%
- Reward Rate: 3.3% approx. on general spends
Key Features & Benefits
- Up to 10X (33%) reward points on HDFC SmartBuy bookings, including hotels and flights.
- 1 Reward Point = ₹1 or 1 Air Mile (excellent conversion ratio).
- Domestic: 2 complimentary visits per quarter (after ₹50,000 spend); International: Unlimited via Priority Pass.
- Complimentary Club Marriott membership (1st year + milestone-based).
- Low forex markup of 2%, significantly lower than standard cards.
- Priority check-in, baggage assistance, and fast-track services at select airports.
- Unlimited complimentary golf games and lessons at HDFC partner golf courses in India and abroad.
- Excellent for global frequent flyers who want a single premium travel card.
Why it’s among the best credit cards for international travel:
The Infinia has one of the strongest reward structures in India with unlimited lounge access, low forex fee, and powerful hotel/flight benefits.
2. Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card
The Axis Atlas Credit Card is a premium travel-focused card that rewards users through the Edge Miles program, making it ideal for redeeming flights and hotel stays. With tier-based benefits and global lounges, it suits both leisure and business travellers, and its wide partner network makes international redemption highly flexible.
/content-assets/93058f577fc74fed9b98b55fcf0eeab8.jpg)
- Joining Fee: ₹5,000 + GST
- Annual Fee: ₹5,000 + GST
- Forex Markup: 3.5%
- Reward Rate: Base earn of 2 EDGE Miles per ₹100 spent; up to 5 EDGE Miles per ₹100 on travel/direct bookings
Key Features & Benefits
- Earn Axis Edge Miles, redeemable for 15+ airline and hotel partners.
- Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers earn the same 2 EDGE Miles per ₹100 on general spending, with higher tiers unlocking milestone bonuses and additional lounge access.
- Airport lounge access:
- 18 domestic lounges
- 12 international lounge visits annually
- 5% reward rate on travel spends via the Axis Travel Edge portal.
- Comprehensive travel insurance, including lost baggage and flight delays.
Why it’s good for worldwide travel:
Ideal for travellers who redeem points for air miles and prefer flexible reward partners.
3. RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card
The RBL World Safari Credit Card stands out as India’s only mainstream credit card offering 0% forex markup, making it perfect for frequent foreign travellers. Its travel-focused rewards, insurance cover, and zero-forex structure make it highly cost-efficient for international purchases.
/content-assets/cfcad20108274f66a68ac0a67979a1aa.jpg)
- Joining Fee: ₹3,000 + GST
- Annual Fee: ₹3,000 + GST
- Forex Markup: 0% (zero forex card)
- Reward Rate: 2% rewards ONLY on domestic spends; ZERO rewards on international transactions
Key Features & Benefits
- Zero forex markup — saves 3.5% on every foreign transaction.
- 2 complimentary international lounge visits per year via Priority Pass, plus 2 domestic lounge visits per quarter.
- Free MakeMyTrip discount vouchers worth up to ₹3,000 annually.
- Complimentary domestic lounge access (2 per quarter).
- Free travel insurance worth up to $250,000.
- 3,000 bonus points on joining.
Why it’s among the best credit cards for travelling abroad:
Perfect for students, tourists, and frequent travellers who want zero forex charges without paying huge annual fees.
4. Federal Bank Scapia Credit Card
The Federal Scapia Credit Card is a zero-fee, zero-forex travel card designed for young travellers and digital-first users. With unlimited 0% forex markup and strong travel cashback rewards, it offers excellent value for international spending without any charges.
/content-assets/b6cc64a2a6d94a9ca6f1d8cb2655fc8a.jpg)
- Joining Fee: ₹0
- Annual Fee: ₹0
- Forex Markup: 0% (zero forex)
- Reward Rate: Cashback in Scapia Coins
Key Features & Benefits
- Unlimited 0% forex markup on all international spends.
- Earn up to 4% value back (20 Scapia Coins per ₹100 spent; 5 Coins = ₹1) on travel bookings made through the Scapia app.
- Get unlimited domestic lounge access and additional airport privileges like dining and shopping credits when you spend ₹10,000 in the previous month (Visa variant).
- Instant issuance and 100% digital onboarding.
- EMI options for travel spends.
Why this card shines:
A zero-fee, zero-forex card with solid travel rewards — the best budget-friendly international travel credit card.
5. ICICI Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card
The ICICI Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card is a luxury international travel card designed for premium users who want exceptional airport privileges, concierge services, and low-forex international benefits. Its elite global lounge access and luxury wellness perks make it perfect for high-end international travellers.
/content-assets/4a53828dac2844d8a6200a7395c11c12.jpg)
- Joining Fee: ₹12,000 + GST
- Annual Fee: ₹12,000 + GST
- Forex Markup: 2%
- Reward Rate: 3%
Key Features & Benefits
- Unlimited global lounge access via Priority Pass.
- Exclusive airport services: meet & greet, porter assistance, fast-track immigration.
- 24/7 global concierge for travel planning.
- Complimentary luxury wellness benefits (spa, health check-ups).
- High-end travel insurance, including trip delays and lost baggage.
Why it’s ideal for luxury travellers:
Low forex markup + unlimited lounge access + concierge makes it a luxury-focused international travel credit card.
Forex Markup Comparison Table
| Credit Card | Forex Markup | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| RBL World Safari | 0% | Budget travellers, students |
| Scapia Federal | 0% | Frequent travellers on a budget |
| ICICI Emeralde Private | 2% | Luxury travellers |
| HDFC Infinia | 2% | Frequent flyers |
| Axis Atlas | 3.5% | Rewards/miles enthusiasts |
Other Top Credit Cards for International Travel
In addition to top international travel credit cards, there are other cards that offer low foreign exchange fees, global lounge access, and strong returns on overseas transactions. Below is a quick comparison to help you pick the right travel card.
| Credit Card | Annual Fee | Forex Markup | Features & Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| HSBC TravelOne | ₹4,999 | 3.5% |
|
| AU Bank Zenith+ | ₹4,999 | 0.99% |
|
| HDFC Diners Club Black Metal | ₹10,000 | 2% |
|
| IDFC FIRST WOW! | ₹0 | 0% |
|
| Axis Burgundy Private | Waived | 0% |
|
Best Credit Card for International Travel Based on Traveller Type
Choosing the best credit card for international travel depends heavily on your travel frequency, spending patterns, and journey purpose.
1. For Frequent Flyers (Business/Work Travel)
| Card Name | Annual Fee | Forex Markup |
|---|---|---|
| HDFC Infinia Credit Card (Metal Edition) | ₹12,500 + GST | 2% |
| HDFC Diners Club Black Metal Credit Card | ₹10,000 + GST | 2% |
| Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card | ₹5,000 + GST | 3.5% |
Why: High reward rates, unlimited lounges, and strong travel insurance.
2. For Budget Travellers & Students
| Card Name | Annual Fee | Forex Markup |
|---|---|---|
| RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card | ₹3,000 + GST | 0% (Zero Forex) |
| Scapia Federal Bank Credit Card | ₹0 | 0% (Zero Forex) |
Why: You save 3.5% forex markup on every foreign transaction.
3. For Luxury Travellers
| Card Name | Annual Fee | Forex Markup |
|---|---|---|
| ICICI Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card | ₹12,000 + GST | 2% |
| Axis Bank Burgundy Private Credit Card | Invite Only | 0% (Zero Forex) |
Why: Concierge, meet-and-greet, low forex fees, luxury hotel privileges.
4. For Air Miles Collectors
| Card Name | Annual Fee | Forex Markup |
|---|---|---|
| Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card | ₹5,000 + GST | 3.5% |
| HSBC TravelOne Credit Card | ₹4,999 + GST | 3.5% |
Why: Best conversion rates to airline and hotel partners.
5. For Occasional Travellers
| Card Name | Annual Fee | Forex Markup |
|---|---|---|
| AU Bank Zenith+ Credit Card | ₹4,999 | 0.99% |
| IDFC FIRST WOW! Credit Card | ₹0 | 0% (Zero Forex) |
Why: Low annual fees with controlled forex costs — ideal for occasional trips.
Key Features to Look for in an International Travel Credit Card
Choosing the best credit card for worldwide travel requires evaluating features that directly reduce your overseas spending and improve travel comfort.
-
Low Forex Markup (Preferably 0%–2%)
Most cards charge a 3.5% markup, which becomes nearly 4% after GST. A low-forex or zero-forex card can save you ₹3,500–₹4,000 on every ₹1 lakh spent abroad.
-
Free International Lounge Access
Aim for cards offering at least 6–12 international lounge visits annually. This saves money on airport meals and offers a quieter place to work or rest during long layovers.
-
Rewards on International Spends
Good travel cards give 2%–5% effective return on foreign transactions. These rewards can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, or statement credit, reducing your overall travel costs.
-
Travel Insurance Coverage
A strong card should include coverage above $250,000 for medical emergencies, trip delays, and lost baggage. This protection is crucial when travelling abroad, where costs can be significantly higher.
-
Air Mile Conversion Options
Cards with airline/hotel transfer partners offer more value for frequent flyers. Converting points to miles can help you book premium cabins or discounted hotel nights worldwide.
-
Emergency Assistance & Concierge
Premium cards provide 24/7 emergency support for travel planning, lost documents, or urgent bookings. For business and luxury travellers, this ensures smoother trips and quick problem resolution.
Fees & Charges to Consider Before Using Cards Abroad
Understanding the hidden costs of international credit card usage helps you avoid unnecessary expenses on foreign trips.
-
Forex Markup
This is the biggest fee on overseas spending and ranges from 0% to 3.5%. Choosing a low-forex card directly reduces every international transaction cost.
-
Cash Withdrawal Fee
Using your credit card at international ATMs usually attracts a 2%–3% fee plus interest from day one. Avoid withdrawing cash abroad unless absolutely necessary.
-
Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC)
Always pay in the local foreign currency instead of INR. Choosing INR triggers higher conversion charges and a poor exchange rate imposed by the merchant’s bank.
-
Late Payment Charges
Interest on international transactions accrues faster, and missing a due date can significantly increase your total bill. Always pay your statement on time during or immediately after travel.
-
GST on Forex Markup
An 18% GST is added to the markup fee, making expensive cards even costlier. This means every ₹1,000 markup attracts ₹180 extra, increasing your effective travel spend.
Which International Travel Credit Card Should You Choose?
Your ideal card depends on your budget, lifestyle, and travel patterns. Here’s a quick comparison table to make your decision easier:
| Traveller Need / Preference | Best Credit Card Options | Why This Card Fits You |
|---|---|---|
| Zero Forex Fees |
|
Avoids 3.5% forex markup, ideal for students & budget travellers |
| Top-Tier Lounge Access |
|
Unlimited worldwide lounges + high rewards |
| Maximum Air Miles Collection |
|
Best transfer ratios to global airline & hotel partners |
| Premium Global Travel Services |
|
Concierge, meet & greet, luxury travel privileges |
| Best Value for Money |
|
Good lounge access + low forex markup at a mid-range fee |
Note: If you travel 3–4 times a year and want the strongest all-around international travel benefits, HDFC Infinia or Axis Atlas are the top picks for global travel.
Conclusion
Selecting the best credit card for international travel can significantly reduce your travel expenses, enhance your airport experience, and offer unmatched privileges abroad. With the right card, you save on forex charges, enjoy free lounge access, earn strong rewards on foreign spends, and get global insurance protection.
Whether you want luxury, budget-friendly benefits, zero-forex markup, or reward-heavy air miles, there’s a suitable option for every type of traveller. Evaluate your travel habits and pick a card that aligns with your needs to maximise value every time you fly.
Also, compare the best credit cards in India on Finology Select to find the right option for overseas spending and your travel needs.
.
FAQs
-
Which is the best credit card for international travel from India?
The HDFC Infinia Credit Card is the best overall option due to low forex markup, unlimited lounge access, and excellent rewards. For zero-forex needs, RBL World Safari and Scapia Federal are great.
-
Which credit card has zero forex charges for travelling abroad?
The RBL World Safari Credit Card and Scapia Federal Bank Credit Card offer 0% forex markup, making them the best credit cards for travelling abroad without extra charges.
-
Which travel card gives the highest rewards on international transactions?
HDFC Infinia, HDFC Diners Black, Axis Atlas, and HSBC TravelOne provide some of the highest reward rates on international spends, making them good international credit cards for frequent flyers.
-
Is it safe to use credit cards abroad?
Yes, using a credit card for international travel is safer than using cash as it offers fraud protection, chargeback support, and emergency assistance.
-
Which is the best credit card for worldwide travel with lounge access?
HDFC Infinia, ICICI Emeralde Private, and Axis Atlas offer extensive international lounge benefits, making them ideal for worldwide travellers.
