Quick Verdict

  • For everyday spend, both the LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ and the HDFC Bank Rupay IRCTC Credit Cardⓘ offer the same base reward rate of 0.5%, making them equal in this category.
  • When it comes to travel benefits and domestic lounge access, the HDFC Rupay IRCTC card outshines with 8 domestic lounge visits per year and a higher lounge spend gate, compared to 2 lounges per year on the LIC Classic card.
  • The LIC Classic Credit Card is cheaper to hold overall, with no joining or annual fees, whereas the HDFC Rupay IRCTC card has a Rs 500 joining fee but no annual fee.
  • Choose the LIC Classic card if you want a truly lifetime free card with basic rewards and some lounge access. Opt for the HDFC Rupay IRCTC card if you prioritize travel rewards, more lounge visits, and can comfortably meet the higher spend gate for lounge access.

Side by Side

DetailLIC Classic Credit CardⓘHDFC Bank Rupay IRCTC Credit Cardⓘ
Annual feeNil (lifetime free)Nil (lifetime free)
Joining feeNil (lifetime free)Rs 500
Fee waiver on spendRs 1.50 lakh
Reward rate0.5%0.5%
Reward typePointsPoints
Domestic lounge2 per year8 per year
International loungeNoneNone
Forex markup3.5%3.5%
Best suited forlifetime-free, first-card, loungetravel, upi-rupay, first-card

Rewards Compared

The LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ offers a straightforward 0.5% reward rate across all spend categories. This means for every Rs 10,000 spent, you earn Rs 50 worth of points. There are no elevated category-specific rewards, so the return is consistent but modest.

On the other hand, the HDFC Bank Rupay IRCTC Credit Cardⓘ matches the LIC Classic card’s 0.5% base reward rate on general spending, also yielding Rs 50 for Rs 10,000 spent. However, it significantly boosts rewards on travel-related expenses, offering an effective 5% return, or Rs 500 on Rs 10,000 spent. Additionally, UPI transactions earn 1%, or Rs 100 per Rs 10,000 spent. This makes the HDFC Rupay IRCTC card a far better choice for travel enthusiasts and those who frequently use UPI for payments.

Fees Compared

The LIC Classic Credit Card is completely free, with no joining fee and no annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for those who want a no-hassle, no-cost card.

The HDFC Bank Rupay IRCTC Credit Card charges a joining fee of Rs 500. However, there is no annual fee, provided you meet a spend threshold of Rs 1.50 lakh annually, which breaks down to Rs 12,500 monthly. This makes the card effectively free if you are a regular spender. If you do not meet this spend, you will be charged the joining fee without any waiver, so the card is better suited for those with higher monthly expenses or frequent travel-related spends.

Which One Should You Pick

The LIC Classic Credit Cardⓘ is ideal for those seeking a lifetime free credit card with minimal fuss. It suits first-time credit card users or anyone wanting a reliable card with basic rewards and a couple of domestic lounge visits annually. Since there is no fee, it is a good fallback or secondary card for casual users.

The HDFC Bank Rupay IRCTC Credit Cardⓘ fits travel-savvy customers who want enhanced rewards on travel and UPI spends. It is especially beneficial if you can regularly meet the Rs 12,500 monthly spending required to waive fees and access up to 8 domestic lounges per year. Those who prefer more travel perks and don’t mind the joining fee will find this card rewarding.

In conclusion, skip the LIC Classic card if you want enriched travel rewards and more lounge visits. Avoid the HDFC Rupay IRCTC card if you are a low spender or want a card with zero joining fee. For balanced everyday use and low cost, LIC Classic is best. For travel and enhanced category rewards, choose the HDFC Rupay IRCTC card.

What to Check Before You Apply

  • Verify the monthly or quarterly spend gates carefully to ensure you qualify for lounge access on either card.
  • Understand the redemption value of points, as both cards use points but details on conversions may vary.
  • Calculate if you can meet the Rs 1.50 lakh annual spend requirement on the HDFC Rupay IRCTC card to avoid paying fees.
  • Both cards have a 3.5% forex markup, standard for Indian credit cards, so avoid foreign currency transactions if possible.
  • Check the availability of domestic lounges at your preferred airports, especially since the LIC Classic card only offers 2 visits per year.

FAQ

Are the rewards on these cards equally good for daily expenses?+
Both cards offer a 0.5% reward rate on everyday spends, which is modest but standard for entry-level credit cards.
Can I access international lounges with either card?+
No, neither the LIC Classic Credit Card nor the HDFC Bank Rupay IRCTC Credit Card provides international lounge access.
Is the joining fee on the HDFC Rupay IRCTC card refundable or waived?+
The Rs 500 joining fee on the HDFC Rupay IRCTC card is not waived but you avoid any annual fee if you spend Rs 1.50 lakh annually.
What are the forex charges if I use these cards abroad?+
Both cards apply a 3.5% forex markup on foreign currency transactions, which can add significant cost on international spends.
Do these cards offer any welcome benefits?+
Only the HDFC Bank Rupay IRCTC Credit Card offers a welcome benefit, which is an Amazon voucher worth Rs 500. The LIC Classic Credit Card has no welcome benefit.