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No credit card? No problem! Earn Reward Points through your savings account

Key Takeaways

You no longer need a credit card to benefit from the best rewards programme - IDFC FIRST Bank offers some of the best travel rewards through its savings accounts and debit cards.
With bonus points on hotel bookings, and easy redemption, IDFC FIRST Bank’s rewards programme is hard to miss.
From flight and hotel bookings to redeeming points, everything can be done seamlessly through the bank’s app.

22 Sep 2025 by Team FinFIRST

Earn travel perks using your savings account and debit card

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Travel isn’t just a luxury anymore — it’s a lifestyle. Whether for business or leisure, chances are you're already investing in flights, hotels, and transportation. So why not turn these everyday travel expenses into real savings? Now that’s the power of rewards programmes and bank-integrated travel points!

Combining travel with banking benefits is now easier than ever as several banks offer travel rewards through their portals, helping you save on trips while earning perks. It’s more than just a smart choice, it’s a financially responsible move.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with an NRI account?

An NRI bank account is specially designed to cater to the needs of NRIs. With an NRI account, you can seamlessly send money from abroad, repatriate funds from India, make investments, avail of loans and insurance, conduct a wide range of financial transactions, etc.

Can I open an NRE and NRO account at the same bank?

Yes, you can open both accounts at the same bank.

Can I convert a regular savings account to an NRE account after becoming an NRI?

No, your regular savings account can only be converted to an NRO account. If you need an NRE account, you must open a new one.

How do you earn travel rewards from your bank?

Most beginners believe that travel rewards are only for credit card users or frequent flyers. Well, not anymore. IDFC FIRST Bank has made it simple for savings account holders to earn and redeem travel points without the need for a credit card.

Let us break it down for you:

1. Use the bank’s travel portal

When you book flights or hotel stays through your bank’s app or website, you gain access to discounted fares, bonus points, and exclusive deals. IDFC FIRST Bank waives all convenience charges when you book flights through their app - a rare and valuable benefit. This means you save money upfront while securing reward points for future use.

2. Pay with the debit card linked to your savings account

If you prefer debit cards over credit cards, you’re in for a treat. Banks now offer reward programmes tied to debit card usage. Every time you pay for travel bookings using your IDFC FIRST Bank debit card, you earn bonus points - especially on hotel bookings. For instance, IDFC FIRST Bank offers bonus points on hotel stay expenses booked through their platform. This is a faster way to build points than traditional rewards programmes.

3. Track reward points and their usage

One of the easiest ways to make the most of your travel points is to track them regularly. IDFC FIRST Bank’s mobile app makes it simple. Once you log in, you can:

View your reward points
View a breakdown of how and where you earned them
Instantly redeem your points for bookings, gift vouchers, or exclusive travel perks.

4. Travel smarter with IDFC FIRST Bank’s reward system

IDFC FIRST Bank is setting a new benchmark for travel rewards linked to savings accounts. Unlike conventional credit card programmes, their platform is simple, user-friendly, and does not promote high spending requirements or complex tier systems.

So, if you are on the lookout for the best rewards programmes, this integrated system easily ranks among the most user-friendly options. Features like special deals and offers on flight bookings, bonus points on hotel stay expenses, and the ease of redeeming rewards make it click with users.

Booking through the IDFC FIRST Bank app

Here’s how easy it is to book flights or hotels and earn points with the IDFC FIRST Bank app.

Step 1: Log in to the mobile app

Open the IDFC FIRST Bank app and log in securely using your mobile number or User ID. Ensure your debit card is linked and active.

Step 2: Head to the ‘travel and shop’ section

From the dashboard, tap on ‘travel and shop’. Here, you will see options for flight and hotel bookings.

Step 3: Enter your travel details

Choose your destination, travel dates, and the number of travellers. For flights, you can compare prices across multiple airlines. For hotels, you will find curated options with reward points clearly displayed.

Step 4: Check reward points and bonus offers

Before making a payment, the app will display how many reward points you will earn.

Step 5: Pay using your linked debit card

Choose your IDFC FIRST Bank debit card during checkout to avoid incurring convenience fees on flights - another great perk. Once you confirm, the points are automatically added to your rewards wallet.

Step 6: Track and redeem

After booking, return to the app dashboard to view your updated rewards balance. Once you have enough points, use them to:

Cover the cost of future travel
Redeem lifestyle vouchers
Get airport lounge access.

Why IDFC FIRST Bank stands out

When it comes to the best rewards programme for travellers, IDFC FIRST Bank brings unmatched transparency and value. Unlike most credit card-focused programmes, this system is effective even if you're only using your savings account and debit card.

When using the IDFC FIRST Bank platform, you do not need to worry about hidden fees, or complicated redemption rules.

Final thoughts

If you are new to the world of travel rewards programmes, starting with your savings account is the smartest move. You’re already spending on travel - why not earn perks along the way?

IDFC FIRST Bank’s travel rewards programme - often considered one of the best rewards programmes for everyday users - you save more, earn faster, and redeem with ease. So, whether it’s your next vacation or a business trip, book smart.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I earn travel rewards without using a credit card?

Yes, you can. Banks like IDFC FIRST Bank allow you to earn travel reward points using a savings account and linked debit card, especially when you book through their travel portal.

How do I redeem travel rewards earned through my bank?

You can redeem points directly through the bank’s app or portal for flight bookings, hotel bookings, gift vouchers, and even enjoy airport lounge access - making it simple and convenient.

What makes IDFC FIRST Bank’s Savings Account rewards programme different?

Bonus points on travel bookings, and easy redemption, you no longer need a credit card or premium membership. Your Savings Account and Debit Card are enough.

Why should I use my bank’s travel portal instead of third-party websites?

Using your bank’s travel portal unlocks exclusive rewards like bonus points, lower fees, and better redemption options - while keeping your spending and rewards secure in one place.

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.

The features, benefits and offers mentioned in the article are applicable as on the day of publication of this blog and is subject to change without notice. The contents herein are also subject to other product specific terms and conditions and any third party terms and conditions, as applicable. Please refer our website www.idfcfirst.bank.in for latest updates.