Airport lounge access has long been one of the biggest attractions for credit card users.
But now, banks are changing the rules.
Earlier, many users could enjoy free lounge access simply by owning a credit card.
Now, most banks are linking this benefit to how much customers actually spend using the card.
This means lounge access is slowly shifting from a basic feature to a premium reward for active users.
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Banks Increase Minimum Spending Requirement
Several major banks, including HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, and SBI Card, have updated their airport lounge policies.
Under the new rules, users may need to spend between ₹50,000 and ₹75,000 every quarter to qualify for free airport lounge access on many mid-range credit cards.
The move comes as airport lounges are seeing a sharp rise in visitors, increasing operating costs and overcrowding.
According to experts, banks are not removing the benefit completely.
Instead, they want to offer the facility mainly to customers who actively use their cards.
Lounge Access Now Depends on Smart Spending
People who earlier took credit cards mainly for free lounge access may now need to rethink their spending strategy.
Instead of spending extra money just to meet the required limit, experts suggest focusing on cards that match your actual lifestyle and spending habits.
For example:
Frequent travelers may benefit more from travel-focused credit cards that offer better travel rewards and lounge benefits.
Regular shoppers or occasional travelers may get better value from cashback or rewards-based cards.
Experts Advise Reward Optimization
Financial experts say the smartest approach is to use the right card for the right expenses.
Adhil Shetty, CEO of BankBazaar, says linking lounge access to spending ensures that premium benefits are provided to active users.
He also advises customers to regularly track their card spending to remain eligible for such perks.
Santosh Agarwal, CEO of Paisabazaar, believes users should focus on maximizing reward points through normal monthly spending instead of making unnecessary purchases just to unlock lounge access.
What Credit Card Users Should Do Now
If airport lounge access is important to you, it has become more important than ever to understand your card’s updated policy.
Users should:
Check the latest spending criteria for lounge access
Track quarterly spending regularly
Choose cards based on their lifestyle needs
Avoid unnecessary spending only for rewards
With banks tightening benefits, smart credit card usage is now the key to getting maximum value.