I’ve been thinking about this lately and wanted to get community perspective.
Over the past year, my credit card spending has gone up quite a bit (mostly on travel, dining, and online purchases). Naturally, I’ve started getting upgrade offers for more “premium” credit cards, higher annual fees, more perks, better reward rates (at least on paper).
But here’s where I’m confused:
Does higher spending automatically justify a premium card?
On the surface, it seems logical:
Spend more → earn more rewards → premium card = better value
But when I look closer:
Annual fees can be ₹5,000–₹12,000+ (or even higher)
Many benefits (lounge access, concierge, hotel perks) sound great but may not be fully used Some reward structures are complicated or capped
What I’m Trying to Understand
Is there a rough annual spending threshold where premium cards start making sense?
(Rs. 3L? Rs. 5L? Rs.10L+?)
Do people actually recover the annual fee in real value, or is it mostly psychological/status-driven?
Is it better to:
Upgrade your existing card, or
Apply for a separate premium card while keeping your current setup?
Have you experienced reward devaluations or hidden limitations after upgrading?
My Thoughts Right now, I feel like:
A premium card only makes sense if your spending aligns with its reward categories
Or if you actively use the lifestyle benefits (travel, lounges, memberships, etc.)
Otherwise, a well-optimized combination of mid-tier cards might give better returns without the high fee.
Would Love to Hear From You
What made you upgrade to a premium card?
At what spending level did it feel “worth it”?
Any premium cards you strongly recommend (or regret getting)?