5 Top Credit Cards for Global Travellers with Zero Forex Markup and Lounge Access

Five credit cards are reviewed for global travellers, including RBL World Safari, HDFC INFINIA, IDFC FIRST Bank Mayura Metal, Axis Bank Horizon, and Kotak IndiGo 6E Rewards. Each card offers unique benefits such as zero forex markup, lounge access, travel insurance, and rewards. The right card depends on individual travel profiles and preferences.

For frequent flyers, selecting the right credit card can significantly enhance travel experiences, ensuring smoother, safer, and more rewarding journeys. This article reviews five lucrative credit card options tailored for Indian travellers, focusing on features like zero forex markup, lounge access, travel insurance, and rewards.

RBL World Safari Credit Card [1]
Marketed as India’s first card designed exclusively for international travel, the RBL World Safari Credit Card offers zero forex markup. Cardholders enjoy complimentary airport lounge visits, a Rs 3,000 MakeMyTrip voucher on activation, and milestone rewards. Comprehensive travel insurance, including cover for lost baggage and medical emergencies abroad, further strengthens its appeal.

HDFC INFINIA Credit Card (Metal Edition) [1]
Designed for high-spending travellers, the HDFC INFINIA metal edition provides unlimited global lounge access, complimentary golf rounds worldwide, and 5X rewards on SmartBuy bookings. Despite a 2 per cent forex markup, the value-added perks, concierge services, and flexible rewards redemption balance the costs.

IDFC FIRST Bank Mayura Metal Credit Card [1]
A relatively new entrant, the Mayura Metal card offers zero forex markup and extensive lifestyle privileges. It provides eight free lounge or spa visits per quarter, trip cancellation cover, and up to 60X reward points redeemable across travel, dining, and retail. Additional benefits include movie and golf privileges, a fuel surcharge waiver, and premium brand tie-ups.

Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card [1]
The Horizon card rewards both travel and everyday spending. Users earn five miles per Rs 100 spent on flight bookings and two miles on regular purchases. It offers 32 domestic and eight international lounge visits annually, a welcome bonus of 5,000 Miles, and travel protection up to Rs 10 lakh. Dining perks through EazyDiner add to its utility.

Kotak IndiGo 6E Rewards Credit Card [1]
For those loyal to IndiGo, this co-branded card delivers direct flight savings. Features include a free welcome ticket worth Rs 3,000, 6 per cent rewards on IndiGo bookings, 3 per cent on dining and groceries, and eight free domestic lounge visits each year. Benefits such as priority check-in and reduced convenience fees make flying with IndiGo more seamless.

Each of these cards caters to different travel profiles, from luxury seekers to budget-conscious flyers. While RBL Safari and IDFC Mayura shine for zero forex markup, HDFC INFINIA and Axis Horizon target premium travellers, and Kotak’s IndiGo card appeals to airline loyalists. Choosing the right one depends on how and how often you travel abroad.

References
[1] https://www.business-standard.com/finance/personal-finance/zero-forex-markup-to-lounge-access-top-5-credit-cards-for-global-travellers-125090500863_1.html