The Game-Changer: Credit on UPI
Until recently, UPI payments were solely a debit affair, linked directly to your bank account. The game has changed with the introduction of RuPay credit cards on UPI platforms. This innovation allows you to make QR code payments directly from your credit card,
merging the convenience of UPI with the significant reward benefits of credit cards. Every small transaction, which previously offered no rewards, now becomes an opportunity to accumulate points. This transforms your everyday budget into a strategic tool for unlocking travel perks, including vouchers for flights.
How to Get Started: Linking Your Card
Linking your RuPay credit card to a UPI app is a simple, one-time process. First, ensure you have a RuPay credit card; many major banks like HDFC, ICICI, Axis, and SBI offer them. Then, open your preferred UPI app—such as Google Pay, PhonePe, or Paytm—and navigate to the payment settings. Look for an option like "Add RuPay Credit Card." You will be prompted to select your bank and enter the last few digits of your card and the expiry date. After verifying with a one-time password (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number, you can set a new UPI PIN specifically for your credit card transactions. Once linked, you can select your credit card as the payment method whenever you scan a merchant QR code.
Choosing the Right Card for Travel Rewards
Not all credit cards are created equal when it comes to travel benefits. To maximise your chances of earning flight vouchers, focus on cards that offer either a high reward rate on general spending or a favourable points-to-air-miles conversion. For example, co-branded cards like the Tata Neu Infinity HDFC Bank Credit Card offer NeuCoins that can be used within their ecosystem, while cards like the Axis Bank Atlas are known for their strong air mile conversion ratios. Some cards, like the Yatra SBI Card, provide direct travel vouchers as welcome benefits or upon reaching spending milestones. Before choosing a card, analyse your spending habits. If you spend heavily on specific categories like dining or groceries, find a card that offers accelerated rewards for those spends.
From Daily Spends to Air Miles
The key is to channel as much of your regular, planned spending as possible through your UPI-linked credit card. This includes everything from your morning coffee to your monthly utility bills and online shopping. Many people underestimate how quickly small, consistent transactions add up. Using your card for recurring payments like subscriptions and bills ensures a steady flow of reward points each month. However, be mindful of your card's reward structure. Some cards may have monthly caps on accelerated rewards or exclude certain categories like rent payments from earning points. The goal is to earn rewards on spending you would have done anyway, not to overspend for the sake of points.
Redeeming Points for Maximum Value
Accumulating points is only half the battle; redeeming them wisely is where you unlock true value. Redeeming points for direct cashback or merchandise often yields a lower value per point. The highest value is typically found when transferring your credit card points to airline frequent flyer programs (like Singapore Airlines' KrisFlyer or Vistara's Club Vistara) or using them on the bank's dedicated travel portal. A balance of 50,000 points might get you a ₹25,000 voucher, but it could be worth significantly more when converted to miles for a business class ticket. To do this, you'll need to log into your bank's rewards portal, navigate to the airline transfer section, link your frequent flyer account, and convert your points. It's a small extra step that can multiply the value of your rewards substantially.
