The Foundation: Credit, Not Debit
The secret to earning rewards on UPI lies in changing your payment source. Standard UPI payments are debited directly from your bank account and don't generate points. The game changes when you link a credit card to your UPI app. Since 2023, RuPay network
credit cards can be linked to popular UPI apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, and Paytm. This allows you to make merchant payments by scanning a QR code, with the amount charged to your credit card instead of your bank account. This simple switch turns countless daily payments—from groceries to dining—into reward-earning opportunities.
Step 1: Choose the Right RuPay Credit Card
Not all credit cards are created equal, especially for travel rewards. The key is to select a RuPay credit card that either directly offers airline miles or has a robust reward points system with good airline transfer partners. Look for two main types of cards. Co-branded travel cards, like those partnered with airlines such as Vistara or Air India, automatically accrue miles in that airline's loyalty program. The second, more flexible option is a premium rewards card from banks like HDFC, Axis, or American Express. These cards accumulate bank-specific points that can be transferred to multiple airline partners like Singapore Airlines' KrisFlyer or British Airways' Avios. Cards like Axis Atlas and HDFC Infinia are often cited for their strong transfer ratios, making them ideal for serious travel hackers. For those focused purely on UPI, cards like the Kiwi RuPay Credit Card and Tata Neu Infinity HDFC Bank Credit Card offer accelerated rewards on UPI transactions.
Step 2: Link Your Card to a UPI App
Linking your RuPay credit card is a straightforward process. First, ensure your preferred UPI app (like GPay, PhonePe, or BHIM) is updated. Open the app and navigate to the payment settings or profile section, where you'll find an option like "Add RuPay Credit Card" or "Link Credit Card". Select your card's issuing bank from the list and enter the last six digits and expiry date of your card. You'll then receive a One-Time Password (OTP) on your bank-registered mobile number to verify the card. Finally, you will be prompted to set a new UPI PIN specifically for your credit card transactions. This PIN will be used to authenticate all future UPI payments made using the card.
Step 3: Strategise Your UPI Spending
Once your card is linked, the goal is to channel as much of your regular spending through UPI as possible. Use your UPI-linked credit card for everything from daily groceries and restaurant bills to online shopping and utility payments. However, be mindful of exclusions. Most banks do not offer reward points on certain categories like wallet loading, rent payments, fuel, or insurance premiums when paid via UPI. Always check your card's terms and conditions. To maximise earnings, look for cards that offer accelerated rewards in specific categories like dining or online shopping and prioritise using your card for those spends. Consistent, strategic spending is what builds a significant points balance over time.
Step 4: Redeem Points for Flights
This is where your efforts pay off. Redeeming for flights typically follows one of two paths. The most valuable method is transferring your bank's reward points to an airline's frequent flyer program. For example, you can transfer HDFC Bank reward points to Singapore Airlines' KrisFlyer and book a flight directly on the airline's website. This method often provides the highest value per point, especially for business class tickets where the cash price is very high. The alternative is to use your points on your bank's own travel portal, like HDFC's SmartBuy. While simpler, this usually gives a lower value per point compared to direct airline transfers. Remember, "free" tickets usually cover the base fare, but you'll almost always have to pay for taxes, fees, and surcharges out of pocket.
