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Rentless
The best HR advice comes from people who’ve been in the trenches.
That’s what this newsletter delivers.
I Hate it Here is your insider’s guide to surviving and thriving in HR, from someone who’s been there. It’s not about theory or buzzwords — it’s about practical, real-world advice for navigating everything from tricky managers to messy policies.
Every newsletter is written by Hebba Youssef — a Chief People Officer who’s seen it all and is here to share what actually works (and what doesn’t). We’re talking real talk, real strategies, and real support — all with a side of humor to keep you sane.
Because HR shouldn’t feel like a thankless job. And you shouldn’t feel alone in it.
Hi 👋🏻
While travelling, a credit card plays a big role. Be it a national or an international trip.
And the credit card companies want to make money out of us, that’s why we also choose cards that benefit us, be it lounge access, be it travel miles, or any kind of discount.
So today, I’ll talk about all of the travel credit cards and help you choose the right one.
All-arounder cards:
These cards offer the best value-back for frequent travellers who spend across various categories.
Axis Atlas credit card: Often cited as one of the best for airline miles, it offers up to 10% value-back on travel spends. It features a unique tier-based structure and allows redemption across 15+ airline and hotel partners.
HDFC Infinia credit card: An invite-only card, it provides elite benefits like unlimited global lounge access and 0% forex markup for international spends.
HDFC Diners Club Black (metal edition): Offers unlimited lounge access and high reward rates (3.33% base). It is a strong alternative to Infinia with a lower annual fee.
HSBC TravelOne credit card: Known for instant reward redemption into air miles or hotel points at a 1:1 ratio. It provides a balanced mix of domestic and international lounge visits.
Best for international travel (low forex fees):
If your primary goal is to save on foreign currency transactions, these cards are ideal:
Niyo SBM credit card: Features 0% forex markup and is particularly popular with budget travellers and students.
IDFC FIRST Mayura credit card: Offers zero forex markup and extensive lounge/spa access, including one guest visit per quarter.
AU Zenith+ credit card: Provides a very low forex markup of 0.99% and 16 complimentary international lounge visits per year.
RBL World Safari credit card: Another reliable option with zero forex markup.
Best co-branded cards (airlines & hotels)
For loyalty to specific brands, these offer the highest returns:
Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Bank credit card: Best for hotel stays, offering a free night award upon joining and points specifically for the Marriott network.
Axis Bank Vistara Signature: Tailored for Vistara flyers with premium economy ticket vouchers as milestone rewards.
IndusInd Bank Avios Visa Infinite: A unique card that lets you choose between Qatar Airways and British Airways as preferred partners.
MakeMyTrip ICICI Bank credit card: Best for those who book primarily through MakeMyTrip, offering high ‘MyCash’ rewards and a low 0.99% forex fee.
Budget & domestic travel options
Federal Bank Scapia credit card: A lifetime-free card offering unlimited domestic lounge access (on spend) and zero forex markup.
Airtel Axis Bank credit card: Provides cashback on travel-related online spends and 4 domestic lounge visits for a low annual fee.
IRCTC SBI Card Premier: The top choice for frequent train travellers in India, offering 10% value-back on train tickets.
Rentless picks
The absolute ‘best’ (if you qualify)
HDFC Infinia credit card: If you meet the high income/spending criteria, this is the undisputed winner.
Why: It is the only card that effectively offers 0% net forex cost (2% fee offset by 3.33% base rewards) while providing unlimited global lounge access for you and a guest.
The best for earning free flights
Axis Atlas credit card: Pick this if your goal is to maximise air miles through a variety of partners.
Why: It offers a high 10% value-back on travel spends and a superior 1:2 redemption ratio for 15+ airline and hotel partners.
Note: As of March 2026, some users have reported temporary issuance pauses. If unavailable, HSBC TravelOne is the top alternative for flexible miles.
Thank you!
The ‘best’ travel credit card ultimately depends on your spending habits, travel frequency, and preferred airlines or hotels. Always evaluate annual fees, reward redemption options, and recent policy changes before applying, as benefits and availability can change over time.
Thanks for reading. See you on Tuesday!
See ya!
