Compare the Scapia and Niyo travel credit cards to find the best choice for Indian travelers in 2024. Learn about forex fees, travel perks, and rewards to maximize your travel savings.

Scapia vs Niyo: Compare Which is the Best Travel Credit Card for Indians in 2024

Choosing the right travel credit card can make a significant difference in your travel experience and savings. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison of Scapia and Niyo travel cards, focusing on key factors like forex fees, rewards, and lounge access, to help you make the best choice for your travel needs.

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Why a Travel Credit Card?

For international travelers, a well-chosen travel credit card can lead to huge savings on foreign transaction fees, enhanced travel rewards, and exclusive perks such as airport lounge access and travel insurance. By selecting a card that matches your travel style, you can maximize rewards and minimize fees.

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Comparing Scapia, and Niyo Travel Cards

Here’s a breakdown of each card’s offerings, ideal for Indian travelers in 2024:

Feature	Scapia Travel Card	Niyo Global Card
Foreign Transaction Fee	Zero forex markup	Zero forex markup
Airport Lounge Access	Unlimited domestic lounge (₹10,000 monthly spend)	Select international lounges in India (₹50,000 quarterly spend)
Rewards on Travel Spending	20% Scapia Coins on Scapia app bookings, 10% on general spends	Cashback with limited options
Redemption Options	Redeem Scapia Coins on Scapia app only	Cashback into savings account
Annual Fees	None	None

Detailed Review of Each Card

1. Scapia Travel Credit Card

Scapia offers premium benefits that include zero forex markup, high travel rewards, and convenient domestic lounge access, making it ideal for frequent domestic and international travelers.

• Pros:
  • Zero Forex Fees: Save on foreign transactions with no forex markup.
  • High Rewards on Travel: 20% Scapia Coins on travel bookings via the Scapia app, and 10% on other eligible spends. Scapia Coins can be redeemed within the app.
  • Domestic Lounge Access: Unlimited access to lounges within India, unlocked with a minimum ₹10,000 spend per month.
• Cons:
  • Scapia Coins can only be used for bookings made within the Scapia app.
• Best For: Travelers seeking zero forex fees, premium domestic lounge access, and high rewards on travel booked through the Scapia platform​
  
  

2. Niyo Global Card

Niyo offers a seamless, low-cost travel experience with zero forex markup, no annual fees, and high flexibility, making it ideal for travelers who prioritize simplicity and cost savings over high-end perks.
The Niyo SBM Secured Credit Card offers unique benefits, including up to 7% annual interest on linked fixed deposits (FDs) with a 12-month tenure. This card is secured against the FD amount, which also acts as the credit limit. For cash withdrawals, the charges are ₹500 or 2.5% of the transaction amount (whichever is higher) plus GST

• Pros:
  • Zero Forex Markup: Enjoy international purchases without extra fees.
  • Complimentary Lounge Access in India: Get access to international lounges in India when you spend ₹50,000 or more each quarter.
  • Savings Account with Interest: Linked to a high-interest Niyo Global savings account, allowing you to earn up to 7% interest annually.
• Cons:
  • Limited rewards and redemption options.
• Best For: Cost-conscious travelers looking for low fees, straightforward usage, and savings account benefits​

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Key Benefits of Each Travel Credit Card

Forex Savings

• Niyo and Scapia offer zero forex markup, making them ideal for international transactions and purchases abroad. This can save you up to 3-4% on each foreign transaction compared to standard credit cards with forex fees.

Airport Lounge Access

• Scapia provides unlimited domestic lounge access with a monthly ₹10,000 spend. While Niyo offers access to select international lounges within India, if you spend ₹50,000 per quarter. Lounge access can make layovers more comfortable, especially for frequent travelers.

Travel Rewards and Cashback

• Scapia stands out with 20% rewards on travel bookings and 10% on general purchases. Atlys may also offer flexible point-to-mile conversions, which can be valuable for those who frequently fly.
  

Tips to Maximize Your Travel Credit Card Benefits

1. Pay in Local Currency

• Avoid selecting “pay in INR” when abroad, as this incurs Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) fees. Opting for local currency allows you to use your card’s forex advantage.

2. Use Lounge Access Benefits

• Lounge benefits, especially if traveling frequently, can make a big difference. Ensure you meet the spend requirement if using Scapia or Niyo for lounge perks.

3. Track and Redeem Rewards Smartly

• Redeem rewards for travel-related expenses whenever possible. Scapia Coins can be used for travel bookings on the Scapia app

4. Monitor Spending for Fee Waivers

• Scapia’s lounge access and rewards are unlocked with certain spend levels. Staying aware of these can ensure you get maximum benefits without additional costs.

5. Utilize Real-Time App Features for Security

• Niyo’s app allows real-time tracking, lock/unlock features, and transaction notifications, which are useful for managing security while traveling.

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Big News in Travel Finance: Atlys X IndusInd Card is Here!

The Atlys X IndusInd Card is set to revolutionize the travel industry with its cutting-edge features and seamless digital experience:

1. Completely Digital Onboarding: Apply for your travel card without hassle—no paperwork, just a few clicks.
2. Quick Issuance: Get your card delivered in just 4-5 days.
3. Powered by Matrix and IndusInd Bank: This collaboration ensures reliability and access to premium services.
4. Zero Forex Markup: Enjoy international spending at the best rates, with no additional markup fees.
5. Easy Application: Simply apply for the card through the Atlys app for an intuitive and streamlined process.

Stay tuned for more details upon launch. Subscribe to get a detailed review and explore how this card could be a game-changer for travelers!

Conclusion

Each travel credit card in this comparison caters to different needs:

• Select Scapia if you’re a frequent traveler looking for premium perks, zero forex fees, and a high rewards structure within the Scapia app.
• Decide on Niyo if you’re a budget-conscious traveler who values forex savings and doesn’t need extensive rewards or premium lounge access.

Selecting the right travel credit card can make a significant impact on your travel experience, providing both savings and added comfort. Choose wisely, and enjoy your travels!