Credit Insights

Unlocking the hidden perks of your Credit Card

Discover the lesser-known Credit Card rewards that can improve your lifestyle.

Key insights

When I first got my Credit Card, I thought it was a grown-up swipe-and-pay game. Pay bills, shop online, maybe get an SMS or two about due dates, end of the story, right?

Turns out, I was sleeping on a whole world of hidden Credit Card perks - Think free airport lounge access, cashback on coffee runs, movie ticket discounts, exclusive sale access, and even complimentary insurance.

All this while I was just using it to order a burger and fries. Let's know some hidden Credit Card benefits.

Top 5 hidden Credit Card perks you should be availing

1. Free airport lounge access

Most mid-range cards give complimentary domestic airport lounge access, either 1–2 times a quarter or even unlimited if you're lucky.

Here’s what I unlocked:

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Unlimited snacks and drinks
  • Charging ports and comfy sofas

2. Dining and restaurant discounts

Feel like you're spending too much online? Your Credit Card can be a lifesaver.

Many cards offer:

  • Cashback or extra reward points on food delivery platforms
  • Up to 20–25% off on select restaurants
  • Dining club memberships bundled with cards

I saved ₹700 in one month just using a 15% off offer on weekend dinners. Small wins, big feels.

3. No cost EMI & exclusive shopping deals

Planning a major purchase? You don’t need to pay upfront.

Your Credit Card benefits can offer you:

  • No-cost EMI options at checkout
  • Access to flash sales or early access events
  • Special discount codes or cashback during festivals

I bought a ₹60,000 phone and paid it off in 6 months; no interest, no stress.

4. Insurance cover (Yes, it exists)

This one is seriously underrated. Credit Card benefits like complimentary insurance can include:

  • Air accident insurance
  • Purchase protection (for lost/stolen goods bought on the card)
  • Lost card liability cover

You might never use it, but knowing it’s there is comforting. Just make sure you know what is included.

5. Fuel surcharge waiver

Fuel expenses add up fast if you can commute by car or bike. But here’s the underrated hack: Most cards offer fuel surcharge waivers with every refill.

It doesn’t sound like much, but over a year, hundreds of rupees are saved automatically.

Maximising rewards without changing your lifestyle

Identify where you spend the most (food, fuel, shopping, etc.) and pick a card that gives you the maximum benefit in that category.

This way, you’re earning Credit Card rewards for your lifestyle.

Tips to maximise hidden Credit Card perks

Some smart tips to unlock Credit Card benefits are:

  • Keep screenshots of high-value purchases for claim purposes.
  • Pay in full, always – perks aren’t worth the interest charges.
  • Set alerts for expiring offers or unused lounge passes.
  • Use UPI with Credit Cards (if supported) for extra points.
  • Stack offers – use bank card offers with app coupons.

Keep these in mind

While perks are amazing, here are a few things you don’t want to ignore:

  • Reward expiry: Some cards let points expire if unused. Keep the expiry in mind for redeeming your points.
  • Annual fee: If your card has a high fee, your Credit Card perks should be worth the cost.
  • Reward rates: Offers can change every quarter. So, always check for the latest updates.
  • Minimum spend requirements: Many perks (like lounge access) kick in only after a monthly/quarterly spend.

Regularly reviewing your Credit Card benefits is as important as using the card itself.

The bottom line: Swipe smarter

Your Credit Card isn’t just about “minimum due”. If used wisely, it’s one of the most powerful financial tools in your wallet, which can reward you, protect you, and unlock experiences you didn’t know you could access.

So, go ahead and explore your Credit Card benefits today. Enjoy and tap into your hidden Credit Card perks.

Disclaimer: This article is intended solely for informational purposes. The views expressed in this article are personal. Axis Bank and/or the author shall not be liable for any direct or indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader arising from reliance on the content herein. Readers are advised to consult a qualified financial advisor before making any financial decisions. Axis Bank does not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of any third-party content or links included in this article.


By Axis Bank Learning Hub Team

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