Axis Bank Vistara Vs Air India SBI Platinum Credit Card

When it comes to travel, individuals aspire to dedicate their time to exploration, creating lasting memories, and immersing themselves in new culinary experiences and adventures, all without the burden of stress. This pursuit of tranquility and excitement away from the routine of daily life is the primary motivation for travel. Any disruptions during such experiences can significantly impede or even ruin the entire trip. To preemptively address potential challenges during holidays, people diligently save for extended periods and leverage various financial tools, including credit cards. Notably, the Axis Bank Vistara Credit Card and Air India SBI Platinum Credit Card stand out as two particularly advantageous options across various domains.

These credit cards prove highly beneficial for frequent travelers, particularly those who exhibit brand loyalty. Individuals exclusively opting for flights with Vistara or Air India can derive substantial advantages from both these credit cards.

Features and Benefits of Axis Bank Vistara Credit Card and Air India SBI Platinum Credit Card

Axis Bank Vistara Credit Card:

1. Rewards Program:
   • Earn 2 Club Vistara Points for every Rs. 200 spent.
   • No CV for wallet reloads.
   • Redeem accumulated CV points for flights.
2. Welcome Benefits:
   • Upon issuance, you’ll receive a complimentary voucher for an economy class ticket, valid for three months.
3. Milestone Benefits:
   • Spend over Rs. 50,000 within 90 days to earn 1,000 CV points.
   • Earn 1 Economy Class ticket at spending milestones of Rs. 1,25,000, Rs. 2,50,000, and Rs. 6 Lakhs.
4. Travel Benefits:
   • 2 complimentary domestic lounge accesses every quarter.
   • Complimentary Club Vistara Membership.
5. Dining Benefits:
   • Enjoy a 25% discount or up to Rs. 800 at partnered restaurants under the Axis Bank EazyDiner Program.
6. Fuel Benefits:
   • 1% fuel surcharge waiver.
7. Fees and Charges:
   • Joining Fee – Rs. 1,500 + Taxes.
   • Interest Rate – 3.6% per month or 52.86% annually.
   • Foreign Currency Markup – 3.5% of the transacted amount.
   • Cash Advance Charges – 2.5% of the withdrawn amount or a minimum of Rs. 500.
8. Overall Impression:
   • Ideal entry-level card for travelers.
   • Attractive for those interested in the CV brand.
   • Additional benefits make it irresistible.

Air India SBI Platinum Credit Card:

1. Rewards Program:
   • Earn 5,000 reward points at card issuance.
   • Receive 2,000 reward points at membership renewal as an anniversary gift.
   • Accumulate 15 RPs on every Rs. 100 spent on Air India tickets for yourself online.
2. Milestone Benefits:
   • Earn 5,000 RPs upon spending more than Rs. 2 lakhs.
   • Receive 10,000 RPs upon spending over Rs. 3 Lakhs.
3. Travel Benefits:
   • Enjoy 8 complimentary domestic airport lounge accesses, maximum 2 per quarter.
4. Fuel Benefits:
   • 1% fuel surcharge waiver.
5. Fees and Charges:
   • Joining Fee – Rs. 1,499 + Taxes.
   • Interest Rate – 3.5% per month or 42% annually.
   • Foreign Currency Markup – 3.5% + taxes on the amount.
   • Cash Advance Fee – 2.5% or Rs. 500, whichever is higher.
6. Overall Impression:
   • Mid-level card with abundant traveling privileges.
   • Particularly beneficial for those who frequently fly with Air India.

Comparison between Axis Bank Vistara Credit Card and Air India SBI Platinum Credit Card

Axis Bank Vistara Credit Card:

• Joining Fee: Rs. 1,500 + Taxes
• Welcome:
  • Complimentary economy-class ticket
• Interest Rate: 3.6% per month or 52.86% annually
• Rewards:
  • 2 Club Vistara Points on every Rs. 200 spent
  • No CV for wallet reloads
• Dining: 25% discount or up to Rs. 800 at partnered restaurants
• Foreign Currency Markup: 3.5% of the transacted amount
• Travel:
  • 2 complimentary domestic lounge access every quarter
  • Complimentary Club Vistara Membership
• Milestone:
  • Earning 1000 CV points is possible by making purchases exceeding Rs. 50,000.
  • Economy Class ticket on spending more than Rs. 1,25,000, Rs. 2,50,000, and Rs. 6 Lakhs
• Fuel: 1% fuel surcharge waiver
• Cash Advance Charges: Withdrawals incur a charge equivalent to 2.5% of the withdrawn sum or a minimum fee of Rs. 500, whichever is greater.

Air India SBI Platinum Credit Card:

• Joining Fee: Rs. 1,499 + Taxes
• Welcome:
  • 5,000 reward points at card issuance
  • Upon membership renewal, you’ll receive 2,000 Reward Points as a special anniversary token.
• Interest Rate: 3.5% per month or 42% annually
• Rewards:
  • 15 RPs and 5 RPs on every Rs. 100 spent on booking tickets online and through call centers, respectively
  • 2 RPs on every Rs. 100 spent otherwise
  • 1 RP = 1 Air Mile
• Dining: N/A
• Foreign Currency Markup: 3.5% + taxes on the amount
• Travel:
  • You receive eight free visits to domestic airport lounges, with a limit of two visits per quarter.
• Milestone:
  • Upon spending more than Rs. 2 lakhs, earn 5000 RPs
  • Upon spending over Rs. 3 Lakhs, get 10000 RPs
• Fuel: 1% fuel surcharge waiver
• Cash Advance Charges: 2.5% or Rs. 500, whichever is higher

Which credit card suits you best?

1. The Axis Bank Vistara Credit Card and Air India SBI Platinum Credit Card both stand out as excellent travel credit card options.
2. Although the Axis Bank Vistara card is considered an introductory option, and the Air India card is positioned as a mid-tier choice, each card boasts meticulous design and thoughtful features.
3. Although there are subtle distinctions between the two cards, they remain distinct and not identical.
4. These cards are particularly recommended for individuals who have a strong preference for and loyalty towards these specific brands.
5. The primary rationale behind this recommendation is the minimal disparity in features, with the brand itself carrying substantial value.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What sets apart the Axis Bank Vistara Credit Card from the Air India SBI Platinum Credit Card?

A. Each card possesses unique attributes. The Axis Bank Vistara card is considered an introductory option, whereas the Air India card is classified as a mid-range offering.

Q. Do these credit cards cater to frequent travelers?

A. Yes, both cards are designed for travel enthusiasts, offering various benefits and privileges for frequent flyers.

Q. What unique benefits does each card provide for travelers?

A. The Axis Bank Vistara card and Air India SBI Platinum card provide perks such as air miles, lounge access, and discounts on travel-related expenses. However, the details may vary.

Q. Are there any significant differences in terms of rewards and loyalty programs?

A. While there are subtle distinctions, both cards aim to reward loyalty with features such as reward points, bonus miles, and exclusive discounts.

Q. Which card is more suitable for someone new to credit cards and travel rewards?

A. The Axis Bank Vistara Credit Card provides a beginner-friendly opportunity, catering well to those stepping into the realm of credit cards and travel benefits.

Q. Do these credit cards come with any yearly charges?

A. Yes, both cards may have annual fees. The specific amounts and conditions can be obtained from the respective banks.

Q. Do these credit cards offer any insurance benefits for travelers?

A. Both cards may provide insurance coverage, but the extent and type of coverage can differ. It’s advisable to review the terms and conditions for detailed information.

Q. How does the level of commitment to a particular brand influence the suggestion of these credit cards?

A. The recommendation is based on the minimal difference in features, with brand loyalty playing a significant role. Individuals who prefer a specific airline brand may find value in aligning with the corresponding credit card.

Q. Can these credit cards be used internationally, and are there any associated fees?

A. Yes, both cards can typically be used internationally. It’s crucial to verify whether there are any charges for foreign transactions and to review other important details regarding international usage.

Q. What should I consider when choosing between these two credit cards?

A. Consider your travel habits, preferences, and the specific features offered by each card. Additionally, evaluate annual fees, rewards, and any exclusive benefits that align with your needs and lifestyle.