Best Travel Credit: Maximise Benefits with Credit Cards - A Traveller’s Guide

In today’s world, credit cards have become a must-have for travel enthusiasts. Offering unbeatable benefits and convenience, these financial instruments simplify transactions and take your travel experience to the next level! Maintaining a strong credit score is crucial when applying for travel credit cards, as a higher credit score generally increases the chances of approval and securing favourable terms.

In this guide, we will explore how you can make the most of the travel credit cards.

What are Travel Credit Cards?

Travel credit cards are a type of credit card designed specifically for frequent travellers, offering rewards and benefits tailored to their travel needs. These cards often come with features such as earning points or miles on travel-related purchases, airport lounge access, and travel insurance protections. By using travel credit cards, you can accumulate travel credit that can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and more, making your travel experiences more affordable and enjoyable.

Types of Travel Credit Cards

There are several types of travel credit cards, each catering to different travel preferences and needs:

• General Travel Credit Cards: These cards offer rewards and benefits that can be used for a variety of travel-related expenses, such as flights, hotels, and rental cars. They provide flexibility and are ideal for travellers who do not have a preference for a specific airline or hotel chain.
• Co-Branded Airline Credit Cards: Offered in partnership with specific airlines, these cards provide rewards and benefits tailored to that airline. Benefits may include earning miles on purchases, priority boarding, free checked bags, and discounts on in-flight purchases.
• Co-Branded Hotel Credit Cards: These cards are offered in partnership with specific hotel chains and offer rewards and benefits specific to that hotel chain. Perks may include earning points on stays, free nights, room upgrades, and late check-out.

By understanding the different types of travel credit cards, you can choose the one that best aligns with your travel preferences and maximises your rewards.

Choosing the Right Travel Credit Card

Choosing the right travel credit card can significantly enhance your journey and maximise your rewards. Here are some of the most important things to consider when choosing a travel credit card:

1. Rewards Programmes

The credit card reward points, miles, and cashbacks are redeemable for travel expenses. Consider the flexibility and value of your rewards programme. Some cards offer bonus points for specific travel purchases (e.g. flights, hotels or dining) while others offer a flat rate on all purchases. Make sure your rewards match your travel requirements and spending patterns to get the most bang for your buck.

2. Annual Fees and Interest Rates

Compare the annual fees to the benefits of the credit card. While some premium travel cards may have higher annual fees, they often come with exclusive benefits, such as airport lounge memberships, travel credits, concierge services, etc. Some cards offer up to a certain amount in travel credits or other benefits, which can justify higher annual fees. You can also compare the interest rates on outstanding balances to ensure they match your budget and payment habits.

3. Foreign Transaction Fees

Travel credit cards ideally do not charge foreign transaction fees or charge very low foreign transaction fees when making foreign purchases. Foreign transaction fees accumulate quickly and can have a significant affect your travel expenses.

4. Travel Insurance and Other Perks

Most travel credit cards have travel insurance policies, including trip cancellation / interruption insurance, luggage loss/delay insurance, and medical emergency assistance. Check your card’s coverage and terms to make sure they cover what you need and are compatible with your travel insurance policies. There are also other benefits to consider, such as complimentary airport lounge access, priority boarding access, and statement credits for your travel expenses. All of these can improve your travel experience.

5. Offers

While you are at it, keep an eye out for promotional offers. Many travel credit cards offer generous sign-up bonus miles or bonus points to new cardholders after they meet a minimum spending requirement for their first few months. These introductory offers are a great way to get a head start on your earning rewards and adding value to your account. You can also look out for ongoing promotions. Some travel credit cards have bonus rewards for specific spending categories, or you can get a discount on travel purchases through the travel partners.

To know more about RBL Bank Credit Cards, click here.

Consider Annual Fee Costs

When choosing a travel credit card, it’s essential to consider the annual fee costs. While some cards may offer more rewards and benefits, they may also come with higher annual fees. It’s crucial to weigh the value of the rewards and benefits against the annual fee to ensure that the card is worth the cost. For example, if a travel credit card offers significant travel credits, airport lounge access, and other perks that you frequently use, the annual fee may be justified. However, if you do not travel often, a card with a lower or no annual fee might be more suitable.

Review your Travel Habits

To choose the best travel credit card for your needs, it’s essential to review your travel habits. Consider how often you travel, where you travel to, and what type of travel-related expenses you typically incur. This will help you determine which type of travel credit card is best suited for your needs. For instance, if you frequently fly with a particular airline, a co-branded airline credit card might offer the best travel credit and benefits for you. On the other hand, if you prefer staying at a specific hotel chain, a co-branded hotel credit card could provide the most value.

By understanding what travel credit cards are, the different types of travel credit cards available, and considering annual fee costs and your travel habits, you can make an informed decision when choosing a travel credit card that meets your needs. This way, you can maximise your rewards and enjoy the best travel experiences possible.

Understanding the Rewards System

Maximising rewards and points with your travel credit card is key to getting the most out of your card’s benefits. Here’s how you can make the most of your rewards system:

• Points vs miles: Most travel credit cards provide points to reward you for purchases. These points can be used to pay for travel expenses, from flights to hotel stays to car rentals to more. Points offer a lot of flexibility and can be worth a lot of money depending on your card’s rewards programme. Some travel credit cards offer miles as rewards, especially those that are co-branded with airlines. These miles can be redeemed for flights on the issuing airline or partners. Although miles are often tied to airlines, they can be very valuable for frequent flyers who value airline loyalty. Some cards offer accelerated earning rates, such as earning 2 points per dollar spent on travel-related purchases.
• Earning strategies: Use your travel credit card on daily purchases to earn rewards consistently. From food and drink purchases to shopping and utility costs, spend as much as possible on your credit card to earn points or miles. Many travel credit cards also offer bonus rewards in certain spending categories. These categories may include travel, dining, petrol, groceries, or entertainment. Cardholders can earn a certain number of points per dollar spent in specific categories, such as dining or travel. You can use these categories to earn additional points or miles by matching your spending habits to the card’s rewards structure.

Planning and Booking Travel with Credit Card Rewards

Credit card rewards allow you to plan and book travel with ease. Here is how you can make the most out of your rewards points and miles:

• Points redemption: Travel credit cards offer points redeemable for flights, hotels, and more through their portals.
• No blackout dates: Allowing flexibility in booking with preferred airlines and hotels.
• Conversion options: Some cards offer points convertible to airline miles or hotel loyalty points.
• Transferable benefits: Transferable points can unlock better redemption rates and premium upgrades.
• Exclusive travel portals: Exclusive online travel portals on many cards offer perks like discounted rates and bonus rewards.
• Overall value: These portals enhance the overall value and convenience for cardholders.

Travel-Friendly Features of Credit Cards

When it comes to travelling, a good credit card can make a world of difference. From added security to exclusive benefits, travel-enhancing features can make your trip even better and give you peace of mind while on the move. Let us look at some of the key features that make credit cards essential for travellers:

• Chip and PIN Technology: Provides enhanced security for global transactions. Widely accepted by merchants and ATMs worldwide, reducing the risk of fraud.
• Travel Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive protection against trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage. It offers peace of mind during travel, ensuring financial security against unforeseen circumstances.
• Airport Lounge Access: Complimentary access to airport lounges worldwide with premium amenities. Allows travellers to relax and unwind in a tranquil environment before flights.
• Concierge Services: Personalised assistance for travel arrangements, dining reservations, and event tickets. Adds convenience and support throughout the journey, relieving travellers of logistical burdens.
• Virtual Credit Cards on Banking Apps: Secure online transactions with an extra layer of protection against fraud. Virtual Credit Cards are easily generated and used for online purchases, offering a seamless and secure payment solution for travel bookings.

Smart Spending Habits Abroad

Travelling abroad presents unique financial challenges. Here are key tips to ensure smart spending:

• Currency exchange considerations: Before you travel, know the currency exchange rates of your destination country so you know how much your money will be worth. Check the exchange rates offered by your bank, currency exchange kiosk, or ATM to find the best exchange rate with low fees.
• Security tips for using credit cards overseas: Let your bank know about your travel plans to prevent card blocks due to suspicious activity. Chip-enabled cards offer increased security and are used globally.
• Monitoring transactions and setting alerts: Monitor credit card transactions online or through banking apps. Set up alerts to receive notifications of suspicious activity, allowing prompt action.
• Budgeting: Plan expenses meticulously to avoid overspending.

Managing Credit Card Debt While Travelling

Managing credit card debt while travelling is essential to avoid financial stress. Here's how to stay on top of your finances:

• Budgeting for travel expenses: You will need to budget for accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. Set aside a budget for each category so you do not overspend.
• Paying off balances to avoid high-interest charges: You do not want to pay high interest on your credit card balance, so make sure to pay on time. Use calendar reminders or banking apps to keep track of payment due dates.

RBL Bank's Credit Card Offerings for Travel

Introducing RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card, one of the best travel credit cards and your companion for enhanced travel experiences. For just an annual membership fee of INR 3,000, this card is packed with enticing benefits tailored to excite your inner traveller and adventurer.

Upon acquiring the card, you will receive a generous welcome gift in the form of a MakeMyTrip voucher worth INR 3,000, instantly setting the stage for your next getaway. But that's not all – with every swipe, you'll earn valuable travel points on all your expenditures. These accumulated points can be easily redeemed towards booking flights and hotels, providing you with greater flexibility and freedom to explore the world on your terms.

Whether you're dreaming of a luxurious vacation or an adventurous escape, the RBL Bank World Safari Credit Card is your passport to unforgettable experiences. Don't miss out on the opportunity to elevate your travel adventures and make every journey truly extraordinary.

Experience the freedom to spend globally with the World Safari Credit Card, featuring a 0% markup fee on foreign currency transactions. Enjoy significant savings, equivalent to 4% on all foreign currency exchanges. This is an unbeatable offer that enhances your travel experience while saving you money.

Currency Comparison

Benefits

Delve into a world of exclusive benefits with the World Safari Credit Card, tailored to cater to your every travel need:

• 0% Markup on Foreign currency transactions
• 2 Reward Points for every INR 100 spent
• 5 Reward Points for every INR 100 spent on travel
• Gift Voucher worth INR 10,000 from brands like Taj Experiences, Croma, Amazon, MakeMyTrip & Myntra, every year on annual spends of INR 7.5 Lacs

Conclusion

To sum up, credit cards are a game-changer in terms of convenience, rewards, and overall travel experience. With the right cards, the right rewards, and the right spending habits, you can take your travel to the next level and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with it. Travel the world with peace of mind and make every trip an unforgettable one with the perfect credit card.