The best international credit cards in India offer features and benefits that enhance your global travel experience to a first-class level. They’re designed to function overseas, allowing for payments in foreign countries and purchases from international online merchants.
These cards aim to provide both convenience and enhanced security for users. But if you’re wondering what benefits to expect from an international credit card, here are ten advantages of using one. Examining these benefits closely can help you make an informed choice.
10 Key Advantages of Using International Credit Cards
Take a look at these 10 Key benefits your international credit card should have.
- Worldwide Acceptance
A primary benefit is global acceptance. International credit cards are usually supported by major networks, such as Visa or Mastercard, and are accepted at millions of shops, restaurants, and websites worldwide. This broad acceptance simplifies payments significantly when travelling to different countries.
- Easy and Safe to Use
Carrying a credit card is often safer than carrying cash, especially in other countries. If a card is lost or stolen, the issuers can usually be told to block it, which stops others from misusing it. Paying with a card is also quicker than making a payment with cash.
- Low Foreign Exchange Markup Fees (on select cards)
When a card issued in India is used for a transaction in a different currency, the amount is converted to Indian Rupees. Issuers typically apply a foreign exchange (forex) markup fee, which is 2-5% of the transaction value.
However, some of the best international credit cards in India, such as the ixigo AU Travel Credit Card, are designed to have 0% foreign exchange markup. This results in considerable savings.
- Loyalty Rewards and Travel Miles
Air miles are earned by using travel-focused credit cards or flying with partner airlines. These miles act like points that you can accumulate over time. These can be redeemed for free or discounted flights, seat upgrades, and other travel perks. For frequent flyers, this is one of the key ways a travel credit card adds significant value.
- Free Airport Lounge Access
Access to airport lounges is a great privilege for travellers. Several international credit cards offer complimentary lounge visits, providing comfort and convenience during layovers. For instance, the HDFC Regalia Gold offers 12 complimentary visits every year, enhancing the overall travel experience.
- Travel Insurance Protection
Many international credit cards include valuable, built-in travel insurance policies. These policies typically offer financial protection against travel-related emergencies, such as lost baggage, flight cancellations or delays, and emergency medical expenses incurred while travelling overseas.
- Enhanced Security and Fraud Protection
These cards come with enhanced security features to protect your account and prevent unauthorised use, including:
- PIN verification for payments
- 24/7 customer service support to assist with any issues or concerns
- Advanced fraud detection systems to monitor unusual transactions
- Ability to instantly block your card via the issuer’s mobile app if it is lost or stolen
- Simplified Expense Management
Most modern credit cards are equipped with powerful mobile apps, where you can download your credit card statement directly from the app to keep track of your monthly expenses.
These apps allow you to track spending in real-time, set spending limits, and make timely bill payments. In addition they allow you to adjust security settings—such as turning international usage on or off. For example, the One Credit Card exemplifies a digital-first approach through OneCard App, offering complete control and convenience at their fingertips.
- Discounts and Offers Globally
Issuering companies often collaborate with select hotels, airlines, retail chains, and more to offer special discounts and exclusive offers. With an international credit card, you can avail discounts on restaurants, shopping, entertainment, and hotel bookings in several international locations.
- Credit History Building
Proper use of an international credit card helps build a healthy credit history. A good credit history is crucial for obtaining loans or credit cards in the future. However, you should prioritise choosing a global credit card that best suits your lifestyle and personal requirements from the best international credit cards in India.
Different travel credit cards offer different types of benefits. However, the best perks are the ones that truly enhance convenience and simplify your travel experience. Beyond cards made just for travel, some newer credit cards offer a great overall experience. These cater to diverse requirements, offering comprehensive value rather than focusing on a single benefit.
The One Credit Card is a good example of this new type of credit card. It is offered as a lifetime-free metal card, meaning there are no annual fees, and its sturdy metal design provides a premium feel. The sign-up process is quick and fully digital, with a virtual card available instantly upon approval through the app.
When it comes to rewards, the One Credit Card offers 5X rewards on your top two spending categories each month. The points are credited immediately after purchases and never expire. Additionally, the card has a low foreign exchange fee (around 1%) for using it abroad, which is lower than many standard cards. This makes it a cost-effective option for international spending.
An essential aspect of the One Credit Card is the powerful OneCard App, with benefits like:
- Providing complete control over your credit card
- Allowing you to convert large payments into EMIs
- Enabling you to view your entire payment history, both domestic and international
- Helping you personalise your international travel using the OneTrips feature
- Giving access to a built-in Forex calculator to assist with international payments
- Permitting you to download credit card information, including monthly statements, easily
If these benefits appeal to you and can simplify your financial life, especially for international spending or upcoming travel, it’s worth exploring the One Credit Card. Learn more and apply now via their website or by downloading the OneCard App.
