Updated on: 22 february 2025

Introduction

The HSBC TravelOne Credit Card is HSBC India’s latest travel-focused credit card, designed for users who frequently book flights and hotels. With its seamless reward points transfer to multiple airline and hotel loyalty programs, this card is a promising contender in the premium travel credit card segment. However, does it truly offer the best value for travelers, or are there better alternatives? Let’s dive into a detailed review.

Card Features & Benefits

1. Reward Structure

The HSBC TravelOne Credit Card offers a tiered reward system based on spending categories:

Regular Spends: Earn 2 points per ₹100 spent (~2% reward rate)

Airline, Travel, and Forex Spends: Earn 4 points per ₹100 (~4% reward rate)

Accor Hotel Redemptions: Highest value with up to 7.2% reward rate

Key Highlight: HSBC TravelOne stands out by allowing points accumulation on travel aggregator bookings (e.g., MakeMyTrip, Cleartrip), unlike many competitor cards.

2. Milestone Benefits

Spending ₹12 lakhs annually earns a milestone reward of 10,000 bonus points (~0.8% additional reward rate). However, a single milestone limit makes it less flexible compared to other cards offering multiple tiered milestones.

3. Lounge Access

Domestic: 6 complimentary visits per year via Mastercard

International: 4 visits per year via LoungeKey

No guest access included – a limitation for travelers who frequently travel with companions.

4. Travel & Lifestyle Discounts

15% off on Yatra, Cleartrip, EaseMyTrip, and Paytm travel bookings

10% discount on Zomato orders

Buy 1 Get 1 Free on movies (₹200 off) via District App

20% discount at Adani Duty-Free stores

Golf Benefits via Mastercard Golf Program

These perks add to the overall card appeal, especially for frequent travelers and diners.

Fees & Charges

The forex markup fee of ~4.13% significantly reduces net returns on international transactions, making it less attractive as a travel card.

Rewards & Redemption

HSBC TravelOne points can be transferred to various airline and hotel partners at a 1:1 ratio, offering great flexibility. However, Accor Hotels offers the best value (~7.2%), making it the best redemption option.

Excluded Categories for Reward Points

Certain spending categories do not earn points, including Utilities, insurance, jewelry, government payments, taxes, real estate, and financial transactions, Fuel and e-wallet loads

Who Should Get the HSBC TravelOne Credit Card?

✅ Best for:
✔️ Frequent travelers who book through OTAs like MMT, Cleartrip
✔️ Those who maximize Accor hotel stays
✔️ Users who spend over ₹12L annually for milestone benefits

❌ Not ideal for:
❌ Users who prioritize low forex fees
❌ Frequent international travelers due to the high forex markup
❌ Those preferring airline miles over hotel rewards

How to Apply for HSBC TravelOne Credit Card

Eligibility Criteria:

• Minimum age: 21 years
• Income requirement: ₹6–8 lakh per annum
• Available in select Indian cities

Application Process:

1. Apply online via HSBC India’s website
2. Submit income and identity proof
3. Receive virtual card approval (physical card delivered in 7–10 days)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I get a fee waiver for HSBC TravelOne?

Yes, if you spend ₹8 lakh annually, the renewal fee is waived.

2. What is the best redemption option?

Accor Hotel stays offer the highest redemption value (~7.2%).

3. Does the card offer free lounge access?

Yes, 6 domestic and 4 international lounge visits per year.

4. Is forex spending worth it with HSBC TravelOne?

Not really. The 3.5%+GST forex fee negates the rewards earned.

5. What are the exclusions for reward points?

No points for utility bills, insurance, real estate, fuel, and tax payments.