In the world of travel perks, access to airport lounges is a sought-after benefit, typically linked to premium credit cards. However, a select number of debit cards in India now offer this luxury, catering to travelers who prefer debit over credit. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best debit cards that provide airport lounge access at domestic and international terminals in India.
Annual Fee: Rs 500 (Plus Applicable Taxes)
Features & Benefits: Four complimentary domestic lounge access per year, up to Rs 4,800 cashback annually, 2.5% cashback on online transactions, 1% cashback on offline transactions, and accidental insurance cover up to Rs 10 lakh.
InterMiles HDFC Signature Debit Card
Annual Fee: Rs 750 (Plus Taxes)
Joining Fee: Free
Features & Benefits: Two complimentary lounge access every quarter, 500 InterMiles bonus points within 90 days, up to 7.5% discount on flight bookings via InterMiles, and up to 10% discount on hotel bookings via InterMiles.
HDFC EasyShop Platinum Debit Card
Annual Fee:Rs 750 (Plus Taxes)
Joining Fee: Free
Features & Benefits: Two free lounge access every quarter at Indian airports, daily domestic purchase limit of Rs 5 lakh, daily domestic ATM withdrawal limit of Rs 1 lakh, and cashback on telecom and utility payments.
Axis Priority Debit Card
Annual Fee: Rs 750 (Plus Taxes)
Joining Fee: Free
Features & Benefits: Complimentary lounge access at select Indian airports, 25% discount on movie tickets, and 20% discount on dining at partner restaurants.
ICICI Coral Plus Debit Card
Annual Fee: Rs 2,988 (Plus Taxes)
Joining Fee: Rs 599 + Tax
Features & Benefits: Two complimentary lounge access per quarter on minimum spending, and additional benefits on spending thresholds.
SBI Platinum International Debit Card
Annual Fee: Rs 250 (Plus Taxes)
Features & Benefits: Complimentary lounge access at select airports, bonus points on initial purchases.
Kotak Privy League Signature Debit Card
Annual Fee: Rs 750 (Plus Taxes)
Features & Benefits: Four free airport lounge access per year, fuel surcharge waivers, and dining discounts at partner establishments.
ICICI Coral Paywave Contactless Debit Card
Annual Fee: Rs 599 (Plus Taxes)
Features & Benefits: Complimentary lounge access, and free movie tickets.
IndusInd World Exclusive Debit Card
Annual Fee: Rs 599 (Plus Taxes)
Joining Fee: Rs 299 + GST
Features & Benefits: Two complimentary lounge access per quarter at select airports, and free tickets on quarterly spending.
IDFC First Bank Visa Signature Debit Card
Annual Fee: Rs 299 (Plus Taxes)
Features & Benefits: Two complimentary lounge access per quarter, insurance coverage, and cashback on minimum spending.
Choosing the Right Debit Card Selecting the best debit card for airport lounge access depends on your travel habits, spending preferences, and the additional benefits that each card offers. While some cards offer a higher number of complimentary lounge accesses, others provide attractive cashback and discounts on travel bookings. Consider your priorities-whether it’s frequent domestic travel or occasional international trips-and align them with the features offered by these debit cards. For frequent flyers who prefer debit over credit or simply wish to complement their credit card benefits with a debit alternative, these cards provide a gateway to enhanced travel experiences without the burden of additional credit charges.
Remember to check the latest terms and conditions from the respective banks to ensure the benefits align with your travel needs. In conclusion, while credit cards dominate the narrative of travel perks, these top debit cards in India redefine convenience and luxury for the modern traveller, offering a seamless blend of financial prudence and premium travel benefits. Whether you’re heading to a domestic destination or exploring international shores, these debit cards ensure you travel in comfort and style, making every journey a memorable experience.