10 Best Credit Cards for Online Shopping In India 2024

Having the appropriate credit card can be extremely beneficial in the fast-paced world of today, where convenience is crucial. Discovering the ideal credit card can revolutionize your shopping experience, regardless of your level of experience or desire to optimize your benefits.?

But how can you pick the finest option when there are so many to select from? Let's examine the best 10 credit cards for online shopping in India and discover each one's special characteristics and advantages.

10 Best Credit Cards for Online Shopping

1. HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card
2. SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card
3. ICICI Bank Amazon Pay Credit Card
4. Axis Bank Buzz Credit Card
5. Citibank Cashback Credit Card
6. Standard Chartered Super Value Titanium Credit Card
7. American Express Membership Rewards Credit Card
8. HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card
9. RBL Bank ShopRite Credit Card
10. Kotak Mahindra Bank PVR Gold Credit Card

1. HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card

The HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card is a premium option designed for those who value luxury and extensive benefits. It offers a generous reward points system, with 4 reward points for every Rs. 150 spent, making it a top choice for frequent shoppers. Additionally, it comes with travel benefits like complimentary airport lounge access and emergency medical cover, providing a comprehensive package for high spenders. The card also offers exclusive dining privileges, ensuring that your lifestyle needs are well-catered to.

• Joining Fee: Rs. 2,500 (plus applicable taxes)
• Renewal Fee: Rs. 2,500 (plus applicable taxes)
• Best Suited For: Frequent travelers and high spenders
• Welcome Benefits: 2500 reward points as a welcome gift

2. SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card

The SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card is perfect for avid online shoppers, offering 10x reward points on purchases made with partner brands like Amazon, BookMyShow, and Cleartrip. This card stands out with its attractive welcome gift of an Amazon e-voucher worth Rs. 500 and an annual fee waiver on spending Rs. 1 lakh. With a focus on maximising rewards for online transactions, it is an excellent choice for those who frequently shop on the Internet.

• Joining Fee: Rs. 499 (plus applicable taxes)
• Renewal Fee: Rs. 499 (plus applicable taxes)
• Best Suited For: Online shoppers
• Welcome Benefits: Amazon e-voucher worth Rs. 500

3. ICICI Bank Amazon Pay Credit Card

The ICICI Bank Amazon Pay Credit Card is a must-have for Amazon enthusiasts. It offers 5% cashback on Amazon India for Prime members and 3% for non-Prime members, making it highly rewarding for frequent Amazon shoppers. This card is lifetime free, with no joining or renewal fees, which adds to its appeal. Additionally, you can earn 2% cashback on 100+ Amazon Pay partner merchants, further enhancing its value proposition.

• Joining Fee: None
• Renewal Fee: None
• Best Suited For: Frequent Amazon shoppers
• Welcome Benefits: None, but ongoing high cashback rates

4. Axis Bank Buzz Credit Card

Axis Bank Buzz Credit Card is designed for fashion-forward individuals who love online shopping, particularly on Myntra. The card offers a 10% discount on Myntra twice a year and earns you 2 points for every Rs. 200 spent. Additionally, you get a Rs. 1,000 Myntra voucher as a welcome gift. This card is perfect for those who prioritise fashion and enjoy shopping for the latest trends online.

• Joining Fee: Rs. 750 (plus applicable taxes)
• Renewal Fee: Rs. 750 (plus applicable taxes)
• Best Suited For: Fashion shoppers and online spenders
• Welcome Benefits: Rs. 1,000 Myntra voucher

5. Citibank Cashback Credit Card

The Citibank Cashback Credit Card is a practical choice for those who want straightforward cashback on everyday expenses. It offers 5% cashback on movie tickets, telephone bill payments, and utility bill payments, making it ideal for regular use. The card has an easy cashback redemption system, with cashback automatically credited to your account each month. With a low annual fee, it is an accessible option for many.

• Joining Fee: Rs. 500
• Renewal Fee: Rs. 500
• Best Suited For: Everyday expenses and bill payments
• Welcome Benefits: None, but ongoing cashback on various categories

6. Standard Chartered Super Value Titanium Credit Card

Standard Chartered’s Super Value Titanium Credit Card stands out with its significant cashback offers. It provides 5% cashback on fuel purchases, telephone bills, and utility bill payments, making it highly beneficial for essential expenditures. The card also offers rewards on all other spends, ensuring you get value out of every transaction. It's an excellent choice for those looking to save on everyday essentials.

• Joining Fee: Rs. 750 (plus applicable taxes)
• Renewal Fee: Rs. 750 (plus applicable taxes)
• Best Suited For: Fuel and utility bill payments
• Welcome Benefits: None, but ongoing cashback on essential spends

7. American Express Membership Rewards Credit Card

The American Express Membership Rewards Credit Card offers an exceptional rewards program, earning 1 reward point for every Rs. 50 spent. Cardholders can also earn up to 1,000 bonus points monthly by making four transactions of Rs. 1,000 or more each month. The card provides access to exclusive Amex deals and discounts, catering to those who value premium benefits and superior customer service.

• Joining Fee: Rs. 1,000 (plus applicable taxes)
• Renewal Fee: Rs. 4,500 (plus applicable taxes)
• Best Suited For: High spenders and those seeking premium rewards
• Welcome Benefits: 4,000 Membership Rewards points on spending Rs. 2,000 within 60 days

8. HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card

HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card is a versatile option offering attractive rewards and benefits. New cardholders can enjoy up to Rs. 2,000 cashback on spending Rs. 10,000 in the first 2 months. The card also provides 2 reward points per Rs. 150 spent and exclusive dining offers. It’s a well-rounded card that caters to a variety of shopping and lifestyle needs.

• Joining Fee: None
• Renewal Fee: None
• Best Suited For: General shoppers and dining enthusiasts
• Welcome Benefits: Up to Rs. 2,000 cashback on spending Rs. 10,000 in the first 2 months

9. RBL Bank ShopRite Credit Card

RBL Bank ShopRite Credit Card is tailored for grocery shopping, offering 20 reward points for every Rs. 100 spent on groceries. It also provides a 1% fuel surcharge waiver on fuel transactions, making it economical for everyday use. The annual fee is waived on annual spends of Rs. 1 lakh, adding to its appeal for regular shoppers.

• Joining Fee: Rs. 500 (plus applicable taxes)
• Renewal Fee: Rs. 500 (plus applicable taxes)
• Best Suited For: Grocery shopping and everyday expenses
• Welcome Benefits: None, but ongoing high reward points on grocery purchases

10. Kotak Mahindra Bank PVR Gold Credit Card

Kotak Mahindra Bank's PVR Gold Credit Card is perfect for movie buffs, offering 1 free PVR movie ticket on spending Rs. 10,000 in a month. Cardholders earn 1 reward point per Rs. 100 spent and receive 2 PVR movie tickets as a welcome gift. This card is ideal for entertainment enthusiasts who frequently watch movies.

• Joining Fee: Rs. 999 (plus applicable taxes)

• Renewal Fee: Rs. 999 (plus applicable taxes)
• Best Suited For: Movie enthusiasts and entertainment seekers
• Welcome Benefits: 2 PVR movie tickets

Credit Cards For Shopping: Features and Benefits

1. Reward Points and Cashback: Many credit cards offer reward points or cashback on purchases, allowing you to earn while you spend. These rewards can be redeemed for various products, vouchers, or even used to offset your credit card bill.
2. Exclusive Discounts and Offers: Shopping credit cards often come with exclusive discounts and offers from partner brands and retailers. This can include discounts on apparel, electronics, dining, and travel, providing significant savings over time.
3. Welcome Benefits and Bonuses: Most shopping credit cards offer attractive welcome benefits such as bonus reward points, cashback, or gift vouchers when you sign up and make your first purchase. These initial perks can provide a substantial boost to your rewards earnings.
4. Annual Fee Waivers: Some credit cards waive the annual fee if you meet a certain spending threshold within a year. This can make the card effectively free to use, adding more value to your shopping experience.
5. Enhanced Shopping Security: Credit cards for shopping often come with added security features like fraud protection, zero liability on lost cards, and secure online transaction systems. This ensures that your shopping experiences are safe and secure, both online and offline.

Credit Cards For Shopping: Rewards and Cashback

1. HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card

4 reward points for every Rs. 150 spent

2500 reward points as a welcome gift

Complimentary airport lounge access and other travel perks

2. SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card

10x reward points on online spending with partner brands like Amazon, BookMyShow, and Cleartrip

Amazon e-voucher worth Rs. 500 as a welcome gift

Annual fee waiver on annual spends of Rs. 1 lakh

3. ICICI Bank Amazon Pay Credit Card

5% cashback on Amazon India for Prime members, 3% for non-Prime members

2% cashback on 100+ Amazon Pay partner merchants

Lifetime free credit card with no joining or renewal fees

4. Axis Bank Buzz Credit Card

10% off on Myntra twice a year

2 reward points for every Rs. 200 spent

Rs. 1,000 Myntra voucher as a welcome gift

5. Citibank Cashback Credit Card

5% cashback on movie tickets, telephone bill payments, and utility bill payments

Automatic monthly cashback credit

Low annual fee of Rs. 500

6. Standard Chartered Super Value Titanium Credit Card

5% cashback on fuel purchases

5% cashback on telephone and utility bill payments

Rewards on all other spends

7. American Express Membership Rewards Credit Card

1 reward point for every Rs. 50 spent

Up to 1,000 bonus points monthly

Exclusive Amex deals and discounts

8. HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card

Up to Rs. 2,000 cashback on spending Rs. 10,000 in the first 2 months

2 reward points per Rs. 150 spent

Exclusive dining offers

9. RBL Bank ShopRite Credit Card

20 reward points for every Rs. 100 spent on groceries

1% fuel surcharge waiver on fuel transactions

Annual fee waived on annual spends of Rs. 1 lakh

10. Kotak Mahindra Bank PVR Gold Credit Card

1 free PVR movie ticket on spending Rs. 10,000 in a month

1 reward point per Rs. 100 spent

2 PVR movie tickets as a welcome gift

How to Earn and Redeem Credit Card Reward Points for Shopping:

#A How to Earn Credit Card Reward Points for Shopping:

1. Regular Purchases: Earn points for every rupee spent on eligible purchases.
2. Bonus Categories: Accelerate points by shopping in designated categories like groceries, fuel, or online purchases.
3. Welcome Bonuses: Receive points as a welcome gift upon card activation or meeting initial spending thresholds.
4. Promotional Offers: Take advantage of special promotions offering extra points for specific merchants or transactions.
5. Referral Programs: Earn points by referring friends or family members who successfully apply for the same credit card.

#B How to Redeem Credit Card Reward Points for Shopping:

1. Online Redemption: Use points to shop directly on the credit card issuer's rewards portal.
2. Gift Cards: Exchange points for gift vouchers from popular retailers or brands.
3. Statement Credit: Apply points towards reducing your credit card bill for recent purchases.
4. Merchandise: Redeem points for a variety of products available in the rewards catalogue.
5. Travel Rewards: Use points to book flights, hotels, or other travel expenses through the credit card's travel portal.

Credit Card For Shopping Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a credit card tailored for shopping in India, individuals generally need to meet certain criteria:

• Age: Applicants must typically be at least 21 years old.
• Income: A minimum income threshold is often required, varying by card issuer and type of card.
• Credit Score: A good credit score, usually above 750, demonstrates creditworthiness.
• Employment Status: Stable employment with a regular income stream is preferred.
• Residency: Indian citizenship or residency is usually required.
• Documents: Proof of identity, address, and income documents such as PAN card, Aadhaar card, salary slips, and bank statements are necessary for verification.

Documents Required

To apply for a credit card for shopping in India, you typically need the following documents:

• Identity Proof: Copy of PAN card, Aadhaar card, passport, or driver’s license.
• Address Proof: Recent utility bills (electricity, water, gas), Aadhaar card, passport, or rent agreement.
• Income Proof: Salary slips, bank statements showing salary credits, Income Tax Returns (ITR), or Form 16 for salaried individuals. For self-employed individuals, audited financial statements or ITRs may be required.
• Photographs: Passport-sized photographs for KYC purposes.
• Application Form: Completed and signed credit card application form provided by the bank or financial institution.

Credit Card For Shopping Annual Fees and Charges

HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card

• Annual Fee: Rs. 2,500 (plus applicable taxes)
• Renewal Fee Waiver: Spend Rs. 3 lakh or more in the previous year to waive the renewal fee.

SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card

• Annual Fee: Rs. 499 (plus applicable taxes)
• Renewal Fee Waiver: Annual fee waived on spending Rs. 1 lakh or more in a year.

ICICI Bank Amazon Pay Credit Card

• Annual Fee: Lifetime free credit card (no annual or renewal fee).

Axis Bank Buzz Credit Card

• Annual Fee: Rs. 750 (plus applicable taxes)
• Renewal Fee Waiver: Spend Rs. 1 lakh or more in the previous year to waive the renewal fee.

Citibank Cashback Credit Card

• Annual Fee: Rs. 500
• Renewal Fee Waiver: The annual fee remains unchanged with no specific waiver mentioned.

Standard Chartered Super Value Titanium Credit Card

• Annual Fee: Rs. 750 (plus applicable taxes)
• Renewal Fee Waiver: No specific criteria are mentioned for renewal fee waivers.

American Express Membership Rewards Credit Card

• Annual Fee: Rs. 1,000 (plus applicable taxes)
• Renewal Fee Waiver: No specific criteria are mentioned for renewal fee waivers.

HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card

• Annual Fee: None (lifetime free card)
• Renewal Fee Waiver: Not applicable as the card is lifetime free.

RBL Bank ShopRite Credit Card

• Annual Fee: Rs. 500 (plus applicable taxes)
• Renewal Fee Waiver: No specific criteria are mentioned for renewal fee waivers.

Kotak Mahindra Bank PVR Gold Credit Card

• Annual Fee: Rs. 999 (plus applicable taxes)
• Renewal Fee Waiver: No specific criteria are mentioned for renewal fee waivers.

Other Fees & Charges

In addition to annual fees and renewal fee waiver criteria, here are other common fees and charges associated with credit cards for shopping in India:

1. Interest Charges: Applied on outstanding balances if the full amount is not paid by the due date.
2. Fees for Late Payment: Applied when the minimum payment is not made by the deadline.
3. Cash Advance Fees: Applied when a credit card is used to withdraw cash.
4. Fees for foreign transactions: Applied to purchases made using foreign money.
5. Overlimit fees: Applied when a card's expenditure exceeds its credit limit.
6. GST: Goods and Services Tax, which is levied on a range of costs and levies.
7. Card Replacement Fees: Charged for issuing a replacement card in case of loss or damage.
8. Balance Transfer Fees: Applied when transferring outstanding balances from another credit card.

How To Activate Credit Cards For Shopping?

Activation via Net Banking:

1. Enter your login information to access the online banking interface of your bank.
2. Go to the card services or credit card area.
3. Click on the "Activate a New Credit Card" option.
4. Input the necessary information, including the card number, CVV, and expiration date.
5. To confirm your identification, follow the on-screen instructions, which can involve an OTP verification.
6. Your credit card will be activated for use after verification.

Activation via Mobile App:

1. On your smartphone, launch the mobile banking app for your bank.
2. Navigate to the app's card services or credit card area.
3. See whether you can activate a new credit card.
4. Input the card's number, CVV, and expiration date.
5. Finish all identity verification procedures, including the OTP verification.
6. After verification is complete, your credit card will be activated and made available for use.

Activation via Activation Page:

1. Go to the page your bank provides for activation (it's normally available via their official website).
2. When requested, enter the required information, such as the card number, CVV, and expiration date.
3. Use an OTP or other necessary verification techniques to confirm your identity.
4. Fill out the form and adhere to any further directions that appear on the activation page.
5. Upon successful completion and verification, your credit card will be enabled for online purchases.

Credit Cards For Shopping Login/Net Banking

For managing your credit card for shopping through net banking, here are the steps to access your account:

1. Log in: Visit your bank's official website and navigate to the net banking login page.
2. Enter Credentials: Input your user ID and password provided by the bank.
3. Navigate to Credit Cards: Once logged in, find and click on the 'Credit Cards' section.
4. View Account Details: Access your credit card account to view transactions, statements, and current balances.
5. Make Payments: Use net banking to make payments towards your credit card bill, either in full or with the minimum amount due.
6. Manage Settings: Update personal information, set alerts, or activate additional security measures for your credit card.
7. Check Rewards: Monitor reward points earned and explore redemption options available through net banking.

How To Compare Credit Cards For Shopping & Choose The Best One?

When comparing credit cards for shopping and selecting the best one to suit your needs, it's essential to consider several key factors. Start by identifying your spending habits and preferences: evaluate whether you frequently shop online or in-store and which categories like groceries, dining, or travel you spend the most on.?

Look at the rewards and benefits each card offers—whether it's cashback, reward points, or discounts—aligning them with your typical spending patterns can maximise your savings. Next, assess the fees associated with each card, including annual fees, interest rates, and any additional charges like foreign transaction fees or late payment penalties.

Pay attention to introductory offers and promotions, such as welcome bonuses or zero annual fees for the first year, which can add immediate value. Consider the card issuer's reputation for customer service and the accessibility of their mobile app or online banking platform for managing your card efficiently.?

Lastly, read reviews and compare the terms and conditions of each card to ensure it fits your financial goals and lifestyle seamlessly. Taking these steps will empower you to make an informed decision and choose the credit card that best enhances your shopping experience while optimising your financial benefits.

Conclusion

Choosing the best credit card for shopping involves thoughtful consideration of various factors such as rewards, fees, promotional offers, and issuer credibility. By aligning these factors with your spending habits and financial goals, you can maximise benefits and savings while enjoying a seamless shopping experience. Remember to regularly review your card's features and benefits to ensure it continues to meet your evolving needs.

FAQs

Q1. How do I know which credit card rewards are best for me?

Ans: Evaluate your spending habits to determine which categories earn the most rewards. Choose a card that offers rewards in areas where you spend the most, whether it's groceries, travel, or online shopping.

Q2. What should I consider when comparing annual fees?

Ans: Look beyond the initial cost. Consider the value provided by rewards, benefits, and fee waivers. A higher annual fee may be justified if the benefits outweigh the cost, especially if you can maximize rewards and perks.

Q3. Are there hidden fees I should watch out for?

Ans: Yes, be aware of fees such as foreign transaction fees, overlimit fees, and cash advance fees. Read the fine print and terms of service to understand all potential charges associated with the credit card.

Q4. How can I ensure I choose a reputable credit card issuer?

Ans: Research the issuer's reputation for customer service, reliability, and transparency. Check reviews from other cardholders and ensure the issuer provides robust support and security measures for your peace of mind.