Rewards are getting smarter (and tighter) in 2026. If you want more value without changing how you spend, these 7 moves matter.
1. Use the Right Card for the Right Spend
Dining, travel, fuel, groceries — most cards reward specific categories more.
One card for everything = guaranteed reward leakage.
2. Switch Big Spends to Travel Redemptions
Flights and hotel stays usually give higher value per point than cashback.
Save cashback cards for daily spends, use travel cards for big redemptions.
3.Track Monthly & Quarterly Caps
Many cards cap rewards at ₹10k–₹50k spends per month/quarter.
Split spending across cards once you hit the cap.
4. Don’t Ignore UPI-Linked Credit Cards
RuPay credit cards on UPI are perfect for small, frequent spends.
You earn rewards even on QR payments — something cash never gives.
5. Watch Out for New Fees (They Kill Rewards)
Wallet loading, gaming spends, transport over certain limits — fees are rising.
If a fee > reward value, switch payment method.
6. Redeem Points Before Devaluations
Points don’t grow in value — but prices do.
Redeem regularly instead of hoarding for “someday”.
7. Hit Spend Milestones (Don’t Miss Easy Bonuses)
Fee waivers, lounge access, movie tickets — many perks now need minimum spend.
Plan spends so you unlock benefits naturally, not forcefully.