Are there any other benefits or downsides I should consider before applying for the Club Vistara SBI Credit Card, especially regarding things like rewards, travel benefits, or fees?
Before applying for the Club Vistara SBI Credit Card, there are definitely a few additional benefits and downsides that you might want to keep in mind, based on my experience.
On the benefit side, one thing I really appreciate about the card is the reward system. You earn 3 CV points per ₹200 spent, which is pretty solid for a co-branded card. If you’re someone who flies with Vistara or Air India frequently, the points can add up quickly and be used for flight bookings, upgrades, or even access to Air India lounges (although, as mentioned, lounge access can be a bit hit or miss). The welcome benefit of a free economy-class ticket is a nice touch, and if you’re someone who plans to travel, this is a perk that can definitely make the card feel more worthwhile.
The travel insurance benefits are also a highlight. The card includes things like air accident cover, baggage loss cover, and flight cancellation cover, which can be really handy if you’re a frequent flyer. Plus, it comes with Priority Pass membership for international lounge access, though keep in mind those visits come at a charge after your complimentary ones are used up.
However, the downsides are definitely worth considering. For starters, the annual fee of ₹1,499 + taxes can be a bit much if you’re not flying with Vistara or Air India regularly. There’s no spend-based waiver, so if you’re not using the card frequently enough, it might not justify the cost. Additionally, I’ve heard mixed reviews about lounge access. While the card gives you 4 complimentary domestic lounge visits annually, some airports and lounges just don’t accept the card, or you could run into issues with the lounge staff not being familiar with the card, which can be frustrating.
Another potential downside is the Air India-Vistara merger. After the merger, there’s a lot of uncertainty about how CV points and voucher redemptions are handled, with some users reporting issues transferring points or redeeming their tickets. If you’re someone who relies heavily on the reward system, this could be a real headache.
Lastly, some users have mentioned that the application process can be a bit tricky. If you already hold multiple SBI cards, you might run into issues with approval, or your credit limit might be scrutinized, so it’s worth taking care of your credit score and making sure you don’t have too many other SBI cards before applying.
Overall, the Club Vistara SBI Credit Card has some great travel benefits, but it’s not without its drawbacks—especially if you don’t fly often with Vistara or Air India, or if you’re someone who might struggle with the annual fee. Consider how much you travel with these airlines and whether the rewards and benefits will actually outweigh the costs before applying.