| Overview: EMI cards allow travellers to split their travel-related expenses into manageable monthly instalments. From flight bookings to hotel stays, these cards offer flexible repayment options, making travel more accessible. This blog explores how EMI cards work for travel and what users should know before using them. |
Travelling on EMI: Easier Than Ever Before
With the Indian domestic travel market valued at ₹4.3 trillion in FY23 and expected to grow further, affordability remains key for middle-income groups. The surge in digital lending and EMI-based financing has enabled Indians to access expensive services like travel through flexible repayment. EMI cards are now a powerful tool to make spontaneous and planned travel financially comfortable without large upfront payments.
About EMI Cards and Their Functionality
EMI cards are changing how Indians manage big-ticket expenses—especially when it comes to travel.
What is an EMI Card?
An EMI (Equated Monthly Instalment) card allows users to convert large purchases into monthly instalments. Unlike credit cards, EMI cards are preloaded with a loan amount and used specifically for EMI-based transactions.
Key features:
- Pre-approved credit limit (e.g., up to ₹3 lakh)
- No-cost or low-cost EMIs on selected platforms
- Used across e-commerce, healthcare, electronics, and travel
EMI Cards for Travel Bookings: Is It Possible?
Yes, EMI cards can be used for various travel-related expenses, such as:
- Flight tickets
- Hotel stays
- Holiday packages
- Travel insurance
- Visa processing (on some portals)
How Do EMI Cards Work for Travel?
Here is how the process usually works:
- Choose your travel package or tickets online
- Proceed to payment
- Select EMI option and choose the EMI card provider
- Choose repayment tenure (3, 6, 9, or 12 months)
- Confirm transaction using OTP or digital verification
Some portals even offer 0% interest EMI during promotional campaigns.
| Important to Know: Check whether the travel portal accepts EMI cards before booking to avoid payment issues. |
Advantages of Using EMI Cards for Travel
From easing financial pressure to offering flexible options, EMI cards make travel more accessible than ever.
| Benefit | Description |
| No hefty upfront payment | Travel now, pay later with monthly EMIs |
| Flexible repayment tenure | Ranging from 3 to 60 months, depending on the issuer |
| Digital process | Entirely online with minimal documentation |
| No interest EMI (on partners) | Many platforms provide zero-cost EMIs during sales |
| Large partner network | Accepted on multiple online travel sites and partner travel agents |
| Mistakes to Avoid: Do not confuse no-cost EMI with zero down payment—these are different terms. |
Eligibility to Use EMI Cards for Travel
Eligibility often depends on the provider, but general requirements include:
- Indian resident
- Age between 21 to 65
- Stable monthly income
- Good credit score (650+)
Alt Text: Credit score.
Travel EMI acceptance may also depend on your loan approval amount and transaction limits.
Using the Airtel Finance Bajaj Insta card for Travel
While primarily used for electronics and lifestyle purchases, the Airtel Finance Bajaj Insta card (also known as the Airtel Finance Bajaj Insta EMI card) can be used for travel bookings at partner websites or agents associated with Bajaj Finserv.
If the portal accepts Bajaj Finserv as an EMI partner, the card allows:
- EMI tenure from 3 to 60 months
- Pre-approved amount up to ₹3,00,000
- Instant approval in under 10 minutes
- Minimal joining fee of ₹530
The Airtel Finance Bajaj Insta EMI card benefits include the convenience of applying via the Airtel Thanks app, wide acceptance across over 1.5 lakh merchants, and seamless repayment tracking. Apply easily via Airtel Finance for seamless travel EMI booking
Travel Portals That Accept EMI Cards
Many Indian travel aggregators have tied up with EMI providers. Some of the known names include:
- MakeMyTrip: Accepts EMI from multiple banks and NBFCs
- Yatra: Offers no-cost EMI on select domestic flights and hotels
- EaseMyTrip: Partners with EMI card providers on festive campaigns
- Cleartrip: Flexible EMI options during seasonal sales
- TravelTriangle: Holiday EMI plans for domestic and international packages
Always read the terms & conditions—EMI offers may be promotional or limited.
Application Process for an EMI Card
While each provider has a unique journey, a common process includes:
- Visit the provider’s site or app
- Check for pre-approved offers
- Complete KYC verification
- Link bank account for EMI deduction
- Pay the one-time joining fee (if applicable)
For example, with the Airtel Finance Bajaj Insta EMI card:
- Open Airtel Thanks app
- Navigate to Finance > EMI card
- Complete details and pay ₹530
- Get approval within minutes
Are There Any Charges Involved?
Yes. While no-cost EMI might seem free, the actual cost structure may involve:
| Charge Type | Expected Amount |
| Joining Fee | ₹530 (including GST) |
| Foreclosure Charges | ~3% of remaining EMI |
| Late Payment Fee | ₹300–600 per delay |
| Processing Fee (if any) | ₹0 – ₹199 |
Always check with the card provider and the travel partner about these charges.
Your Next Journey Doesn’t Need to Wait
With EMI cards, travel becomes easier and financially stress-free. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an international vacation, spreading the cost over time helps you enjoy the experience without financial strain. Choose the right card, plan smartly, and travel on your terms. Start using EMI options via Airtel Finance now
FAQs
- Do EMI cards offer zero interest for travel bookings?
Some portals provide no-cost EMI during promotions, but always check applicable terms. - What expenses can be covered using EMI cards for travel?
Flights, hotels, holiday packages, travel insurance, and more can be booked on EMI. - Is a credit score required to use an EMI card?
Yes, a decent credit score is essential for EMI card eligibility and approval. - Are EMI cards accepted on all travel websites?
No, only selected travel partners and portals support EMI card payments. - Can EMI tenure be customised for travel payments?
Yes, users can choose flexible repayment tenures between 3 to 60 months.
