Axis Bank HORIZON Credit Card
Financial Expert Advice
Choose Your First (or Next) Credit Card Wisely
"Limit yourself to holding two credit cards A/C—one for daily expenses and auto-debits, and another reserved for emergencies.
Avoid chasing cashback, miles, rewards or Investments, as this can distract from sound financial management;
and lead to unnecessary debt. Focus on stability & discipline."
Axis Bank HORIZON Credit Card Review
"Designed for Jetsetters"
Introduction
The Axis Bank hORIZON Credit Card is a travel-focused credit card designed for frequent flyers and those who want to maximize rewards on travel bookings and everyday spends. With accelerated miles on travel, generous lounge access, and a straightforward rewards structure, it’s positioned as a strong alternative to premium travel cards like Axis Atlas and SBI Miles Elite, but at a more affordable annual fee, Here’s a detailed review to help you decide if this card is right for you.
Key Features and Benefits
Welcome Benefits
5,000 EDGE Miles credited on your first transaction of ₹1,000 or more within 30 days of card issuance.
Reward Structure
- Earn Rate for Travel You earn 5 EDGE Miles for every ₹100 spent on flights booked directly with airlines or through the "Travel Edge portal".
- This only applies to travel-related spending (MCCs) and excludes hotels.
- For all other eligible spending, you earn 2 EDGE Miles for every ₹100.
- You won't earn any EDGE Miles on the following types of spending Fuel, Rent, Utilities, Insurance, Education, Government payments, Wallet loads.
- Redeeming Miles for Travel When you redeem your EDGE Miles with travel partners, 1 EDGE Mile is worth ₹1.
Renewal Benefit
- 1,500 EDGE Miles credited upon completing each card anniversary year (from the second year onward).
Lounge Access
Domestic: Up to 32 visits per year (Visa: 8 per quarter; Mastercard: 6 per quarter).
International: Up to 8 visits per year (2 per quarter).
Insurance cover
Lost card liability cover up to ₹10 lakh.
Dining Benefits
25% instant discount (up to ₹800 per month) at partner restaurants via EazyDiner, with a minimum order value of ₹2,500.
Fuel Surcharge Waiver
- 1% waiver on fuel transactions between ₹400–₹5,000, capped at ₹400 per statement cycle.
Annual Fee
Joining Fee: ₹3,000 + GST.
- Annual Fee: ₹3,000 + GST (no annual fee waiver).
- No joining or annual fee for add-on cards.
Struggling to keep up with mounting credit card bills?
Card Essential
| Type | Reward Points |
| Welcome Benefits | 5,000 EDGE Miles*. |
| Annual Fee | ₹3,000 + GST |
| Reward Structure | Rewards On SPENDS |
| Renewal Benefit | ---------------- |
Rewards and Benefits Analysis
The Axis Bank hORIZON Credit Card offers an excellent reward rate on travel bookings, generous lounge access, and practical benefits like dining discounts and fuel surcharge waiver. The welcome and renewal miles significantly offset the annual fee, especially for travel enthusiasts. However, the lack of accelerated rewards on hotel bookings and the absence of an annual fee waiver are notable limitations compared to some competitors.
Practical Considerations
Best for Frequent travelers, especially those who book flights directly or via the Axis Bank Travel Edge portal.
No accelerated rewards on hotel or other travel-related spends.
Redemption Options
- Redeem EDGE Miles With 15+ Travel Partners At A 1:1 Ratio.
- Miles Can Be Used For Flight Bookings, Upgrades, And More.
- No Minimum Redemption Threshold.
Ideal User Profile
Frequent flyers who book flights directly or via the Axis Bank Travel Edge portal.
Travelers who value generous lounge access and practical lifestyle benefits.
Individuals seeking a travel credit card with a moderate annual fee and strong rewards.
Final Thoughts
The Axis Bank hORIZON Credit Card is a strong choice for frequent travelers who want to earn and redeem miles at a high rate, enjoy generous lounge access, and benefit from practical lifestyle perks. While it lacks an annual fee waiver and accelerated rewards on hotel bookings, its value proposition is compelling for those who can maximize its travel and lounge benefits.
Additional Tips for Potential Applicants
- Use the card for all travel bookings to maximize EDGE Miles.
- Utilize the generous lounge access and dining discounts.
- Compare with other travel cards like Axis Atlas and SBI Miles Elite to find the best fit for your needs.
This Review Provides A Balanced View Of The Card's Strengths And Weaknesses, Helping Readers Make Informed Decisions About Whether The Axis Bank HORIZON Credit Card Aligns With Their
Spending Habits And Financial Goals.
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