Quick Verdict

  • The Ixigo AU Credit Cardⓘ wins for travel spend with its 5% effective return on travel category purchases.
  • The LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ matches the Ixigo card for everyday spend with a 0.5% base reward rate.
  • Both cards have no joining or annual fees, but the Ixigo card requires Rs 8,333 monthly spend to waive fees on lounges, while LIC Classic has a lower Rs 20,000 monthly spend gate for lounges.
  • Pick the Ixigo AU cardⓘ if you want strong travel rewards and occasional domestic lounge access; choose LIC Classicⓘ if you want a simple, no-fee card with fewer lounge visits and a good first card option.

Side by Side

DetailIxigo AU Credit CardⓘLIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ
Annual feeNil (lifetime free)Nil (lifetime free)
Joining feeNil (lifetime free)Nil (lifetime free)
Fee waiver on spendRs 1.00 lakh (Rs 8,333 monthly)Not recorded
Reward rate0.5% base; 5% travel; 1% UPI0.5% base
Reward typepointspoints
Domestic lounge4 per year2 per year
International loungeNoneNone
Forex markup3.5%3.5%
Best suited fortravel, UPI-RuPay, loungelifetime free, first card, lounge

Rewards Compared

The Ixigo AU Credit Cardⓘ offers a base reward rate of 0.5%, which means Rs 50 back on every Rs 10,000 spent in general categories. However, if you focus your spending on travel-related expenses, this card significantly boosts rewards to 5%, yielding Rs 500 on Rs 10,000 spent, a tenfold increase over the base rate. Additionally, UPI payments earn 1%, or Rs 100 per Rs 10,000, making it a versatile card for those who mix travel and digital payments.

On the other hand, the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ provides a flat 0.5% return across all spends, resulting in Rs 50 rewards per Rs 10,000 spent. There are no enhanced category rates, so while it is consistent and simple, it lacks the travel-specific upside that the Ixigo card delivers. Both cards offer rewards in points, but the Ixigo card’s category bonuses make it more lucrative for travellers.

Fees Compared

Neither the Ixigo AU Credit Cardⓘ nor the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ charges a joining or annual fee, making them both attractive for cost-conscious users. The Ixigo card, however, specifies a fee waiver condition based on spending Rs 1.00 lakh annually, which breaks down to about Rs 8,333 per month. Meeting this threshold is necessary to maintain the no-fee status and access lounge benefits. The LIC Classic card does not explicitly mention an annual fee waiver threshold, implying it remains free regardless of spend.

For lounge access, the Ixigo card limits domestic lounge visits to four per year, with a quarterly spend gate of Rs 30,000. The LIC Classic card allows two domestic lounge visits annually with a lower monthly spend gate of Rs 20,000 for lounges. Both cards have the standard 3.5% forex markup on foreign currency transactions, which is a significant cost if you travel internationally.

Which One Should You Pick

Choose the Ixigo AU Credit Cardⓘ if you are a frequent traveller looking to maximize rewards on travel expenses and want some domestic lounge access. Its 5% travel category rewards and welcome benefits including a Rs 1,000 ixigo Money voucher make it valuable for those who spend heavily on flights, hotels, and related travel services. However, you should be comfortable meeting the Rs 8,333 monthly spend requirement to waive fees and unlock lounge privileges.

The LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ is better suited for first-time credit card users or those who want a straightforward, no-fee card with consistent rewards on all spend. With fewer lounge visits and no enhanced category rewards, it is ideal for everyday purchases without the need to monitor spending thresholds. Its lifetime free status and simple reward structure appeal to conservative spenders.

In conclusion, travellers and UPI users should lean towards the Ixigo AU Credit Cardⓘ for its superior travel rewards and lounge access. Those seeking a hassle-free, no-cost credit card without category complexities should pick the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ. Avoid the Ixigo card if you do not spend regularly enough to meet the waiver or do not prioritize travel perks. Skip the LIC Classic if you want more category-based rewards or more frequent lounge access.

What to Check Before You Apply

  • Confirm the exact spending caps required to waive fees and access lounges, as these impact cost-effectiveness.
  • Verify the redemption value of points to ensure rewards translate into meaningful benefits.
  • Understand the forex markup of 3.5% if you plan to use the card abroad, as this fee can add up.
  • Check which airport lounges are accessible and how the quarterly or monthly spend gates apply for lounge visits.

FAQ

What are the joining and annual fees for these cards?+
Both the Ixigo AU Credit Cardⓘ and the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ have no joining or annual fees, making them lifetime free cards.
Do these cards offer any welcome benefits?+
The Ixigo AU Credit Cardⓘ provides 1000 reward points plus a Rs 1,000 ixigo Money voucher on the first transaction within 30 days, while the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ does not offer any welcome benefits.
How many domestic lounges can I access with these cards?+
The Ixigo AU Credit Cardⓘ allows four domestic lounge visits per year, subject to spending Rs 30,000 quarterly, whereas the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ permits two domestic lounge visits annually with a monthly spend gate of Rs 20,000.
Are there any forex charges on international transactions?+
Yes, both cards charge a forex markup of 3.5% on foreign currency transactions, which is standard but can be costly for frequent international travellers.
Which card is better for everyday spending?+
Both cards offer a base reward rate of 0.5%, but the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ is simpler with no category restrictions, making it better for straightforward everyday use without tracking category spends.