The festive season is here — lights, laughter, and… lots of spending.
Whether it’s shopping for gifts, upgrading gadgets, or booking a trip home, your wallet is working overtime. But here’s the smart move: let your credit card pay you back.
Some credit cards are designed to reward you more when you spend more — especially during high-spend months like Diwali, Dussehra, or Christmas. Let’s look at five of the best credit cards in India right now for cashback and rewards during the festive season.
1. SBI Cashback Credit Card
If your festive shopping list lives online, this card should be at the top of your list.
- 5% cashback on all online spends — no need to stick to certain apps or platforms.
- 1% cashback on offline transactions.
- Automatic cashback credit every month — no complicated redemptions.
Why it’s great for the festive season
Because most festival deals happen online — Amazon, Flipkart, Ajio, Myntra, BigBasket — this card helps you earn 5% on practically everything. No juggling coupon codes or merchant restrictions.
Best for: heavy online shoppers and deal hunters.
Watch out for: monthly cashback caps (usually ₹5,000).
2. HDFC Millennia Credit Card
If your festive spending includes shopping, dining, and ordering in, this card hits the sweet spot.
- 5% cashback on popular platforms like Amazon, Flipkart, Zomato, Swiggy, and Uber.
- 1% cashback on all other spends.
- Extra welcome benefits and vouchers during festive campaigns.
Why it’s great for the festive season
You’ll likely spend across these platforms anyway — so why not earn on every swipe? It’s also known for instant cashback and exclusive HDFC festive tie-ups.
Best for: people who shop and order online often.
Watch out for: cashback applies only to partner platforms, so check the eligible list.
3. Axis Bank ACE Credit Card
Axis ACE is a strong all-rounder that turns daily spending into real cashback.
- 5% cashback on Google Pay bill payments and recharges.
- 4% cashback on Swiggy, Zomato, and Ola.
- 2% cashback on all other spends (no exclusions on categories).
Why it’s great for the festive season
From ordering sweets and food to paying bills or booking rides, everything adds up. Plus, the cashback goes straight to your statement — no points or redemption hassle.
Best for: users who mix online and offline spending.
Watch out for: limited to transactions via Google Pay for certain offers.
4. Flipkart SBI Credit Card
This one’s a dream for Flipkart loyalists and Myntra fashion lovers.
- 5% unlimited cashback on Flipkart and Myntra purchases.
- 4% cashback on partner brands like Cleartrip, Swiggy, and PVR.
- Welcome benefits worth ₹500 (often boosted during festival months).
Why it’s great for the festive season
During festive sales like “Big Billion Days,” you can earn cashback on top of massive discounts — it’s a double win. Perfect for families who do most of their shopping through Flipkart’s ecosystem.
Best for: Flipkart, Myntra, and online shopping regulars.
Watch out for: cashback limited to specific partner merchants.
5. HSBC Cashback Credit Card
The HSBC Cashback Credit Card is underrated — but during festive dining, it really shines.
- 10% cashback on dining, groceries, and food delivery (introductory or seasonal offers).
- 1.5% unlimited cashback on all other transactions.
- Zero redemption process — cashback is credited automatically.
Why it’s great for the festive season
Whether you’re hosting dinners or ordering out, this card rewards everyday celebration. Add in global acceptance and periodic festive bonuses from HSBC, and you get strong year-round value.
Best for: those who spend a lot on food, groceries, and family dining.
Watch out for: cashback caps — check the fine print each offer period.
How to Maximise Your Festive Cashback
- Plan your big buys: Check each card’s high-reward categories before swiping.
- Split spending across cards: Avoid hitting cashback caps early.
- Combine offers: Stack card cashback with brand discounts or bank-partner sales.
- Pay full balance monthly: Interest cancels out rewards — don’t let that happen.
- Track expiry: Some rewards or cashback credits expire if not used within a certain time.
Also Read: Latest Axis Bank Credit Card Offers
Conclusion
The festive season is the perfect time for your credit card to earn with you. If you shop mostly online, SBI Cashback or HDFC Millennia deliver great returns. If you love Flipkart, Flipkart SBI is unbeatable.
For all-round use, Axis ACE offers the best mix of online and utility cashback. And for foodies, HSBC Cashback turns every meal into savings.
Spend smart, earn more, and celebrate big — because the right credit card can make every festival brighter.