There was a time when Axis Bank Atlas Credit Card holders were enjoying seamless perks on Cleartrip, booking their flights with extra benefits like free seat selection and complimentary meals. If you were one of those travelers who leveraged this deal, you might be wondering—why is it missing now?
Just a month ago, many users, including myself, were able to use their Axis Atlas card while booking through Cleartrip and enjoy these perks without hassle. However, today, this feature seems to have disappeared. Could this be linked to the devaluation of Axis credit cards? Let’s dive into what’s happening and explore alternatives that still provide great travel benefits.
What Happened to the Axis-Atlas Cleartrip Collaboration?
The Disappearance of Perks
In the past, using your Axis Atlas Credit Card on Cleartrip allowed you to unlock free seat selection and meal options. But now, users have reported that this feature is no longer available. So, what changed?
A potential reason could be the recent devaluation of Axis Bank credit cards, where several perks were cut back, affecting multiple reward structures. Axis Bank has been tweaking its rewards program, and it seems like the collaboration with Cleartrip might have been altered or even removed in the process.
If you were enjoying these benefits, it’s understandable to feel disappointed. But let’s not lose hope—there are still ways to maximize your Axis Atlas benefits and find alternative travel hacks.
How Are People Booking Domestic Flights Now?
Since the Axis-Atlas Cleartrip benefits seem to have vanished, what’s the best way to book domestic flights? Here’s what savvy travelers are doing:
Using Axis Edge Rewards & GYFTR for Cleartrip Vouchers
Many people still rely on Axis Edge Rewards to get Cleartrip vouchers via GYFTR, but there’s a catch. Users have noticed that the vouchers from Edge Rewards do not provide any discount, while purchasing them directly through GYFTR.com gives a 3% discount.
➡ Pro Tip: If you have an Axis Atlas card, check if you can redeem your Edge Rewards elsewhere for better value and use other credit cards for Cleartrip purchases.
Amex Platinum Travel + AmexRewardMultiplier (GYFTR)
Another solid option is using the Amex Platinum Travel Card, which offers a 2% discount when booking through AmexRewardMultiplier on GYFTR. This might not be as good as the old Axis Atlas Cleartrip deal, but it’s still a decent way to save.
➡ Pro Tip: If you book frequently, stacking offers from Amex and GYFTR can still yield substantial savings.
Alternative Credit Cards for Travel Perks
With the Axis-Atlas Cleartrip benefit seemingly gone, consider using these alternatives:
- HDFC Infinia/Diners Black: Great for Smartbuy discounts and accelerated rewards.
- SBI Cashback Card: Offers 5% cashback on online travel bookings.
- ICICI Amazon Pay Credit Card: Decent for Amazon travel deals.
- Axis Magnus: Provides luxury travel perks and milestone benefits.
➡ Pro Tip: If you have multiple credit cards, compare the offers and use the one with the best cashback or rewards structure.
Step-by-Step Guide to Finding the Best Flight Booking Discounts
Compare Credit Card Offers
Before booking, check the offers available on your credit cards. Some banks provide special cashback or discounts when booking through partner websites.
Use GYFTR for Additional Discounts
If your credit card allows voucher purchases through GYFTR, compare discounts before redeeming.
Look for Airline-Specific Promotions
Sometimes, booking directly with airlines using Axis, HDFC, or SBI credit cards can give you extra discounts or miles.
Book During Sale Periods
Most travel portals like Cleartrip, MakeMyTrip, and Goibibo offer periodic discounts. Plan ahead to book during these sale events.
Stack Offers for Maximum Benefits
For example, use:
- Amex Reward Multiplier for extra points.
- ICICI Amazon Pay Card if buying through Amazon Travel.
- HDFC Smartbuy for Diners/Infinia to maximize reward points.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Axis Bank and Cleartrip collaboration about?
The Axis Bank and Cleartrip partnership aimed to offer exclusive travel benefits to Axis Bank customers, including discounts on flights, hotels, and holiday packages through Cleartrip’s platform.
Why did the partnership between Axis Bank and Cleartrip end?
The collaboration ended due to evolving market dynamics, changes in strategic priorities, and possible shifts in Cleartrip’s ownership under Flipkart, leading to a reassessment of its financial partnerships.
How did the partnership benefit Axis Bank customers?
Axis Bank customers enjoyed perks like cashback offers, special discounts on travel bookings, and reward points redemption through Cleartrip, making travel more affordable and convenient.
What alternatives are available for Axis Bank customers now?
Axis Bank has collaborations with other travel platforms like MakeMyTrip, Yatra, and EaseMyTrip, offering similar travel discounts and reward programs through their credit and debit cards.
Will Axis Bank introduce a new travel partnership to replace Cleartrip?
While there is no official announcement, Axis Bank may explore new collaborations with other travel service providers to continue offering exclusive benefits to its customers.
Final Thoughts
While the Axis Atlas Cleartrip collaboration may have changed, you can still find ways to save on travel. The key is to explore alternative credit card benefits, use GYFTR strategically, and take advantage of seasonal travel deals.
If you were benefiting from this offer, keep an eye on Axis Bank’s announcements—they may bring back similar perks in the future.
