11 Dec 2024
One of the most critical decisions when traveling abroad is choosing the right credit card. The best credit card for international travel helps you cover your expenses and offers benefits that can save you money within foreign countries. From foreign transaction fees to the quality of the rewards program, there are many factors to consider when selecting a card for your overseas spending.
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s discuss a few important considerations:
Many credit cards charge fees for purchases outside your home country, usually around 3%. Choosing a card with no foreign transaction fee can save you significant amount of money, especially if you travel often.
A card with travel rewards, such as points or miles, can offer you valuable benefits. These can range from free hotel stays to airport lounge access, which is incredibly beneficial for frequent flyers.
When traveling abroad, ensure your credit card has an EMV chip. This chip enhances security and reduces the risk of fraud, especially in countries where chip-and-pin cards are standard.
Now that we’ve laid the groundwork let's explore the top credit cards for international travelers.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® is a favorite among travelers for its outstanding rewards and no foreign transaction fees. Offering 2x points on travel and dining and 1 point per dollar on other purchases, it’s a great option for those who spend frequently abroad. These points can be redeemed for travel expenses, including flights, hotels, and car rentals, through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program.
What makes this card stand out is its sign-up bonus of 60,000 points if you spend $4,000 within the first three months of opening the account. This bonus can be worth up to $750 in travel credits when redeemed through Chase.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card should be a top contender if you frequently travel internationally.
For those who want a no-annual-fee credit card, the Capital One® VentureOne® Rewards Credit Card is the best choice. This card offers 1.25 miles per dollar on every purchase, and the miles can be redeemed for travel expenses such as flights, hotels, and car rentals. Plus, there’s a sign-up bonus of 20,000 miles if you spend $500 in the first three months.
The Capital One® VentureOne® card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, making it a great choice for those looking to avoid extra costs when shopping or dining abroad.
The American Express® Gold Card is perfect for those who love dining out and traveling. With 4x points on restaurants worldwide and 3x points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, it’s a powerhouse for foodies and frequent travelers alike.
This card also offers no foreign transaction fees, so you can spend abroad with peace of mind. Plus, the $120 dining credit per year (up to $10 per month) at select restaurants can offset your annual fee.
The Platinum Card® from American Express is ideal for frequent flyers and travelers who want access to luxury travel perks. With 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines and 1x points on other purchases, it offers impressive earning potential on travel-related expenses.
This card also includes a $200 airline fee credit each year, which can be used for checked bags, in-flight food, or Wi-Fi. The Global Lounge Collection also provides access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide.
The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card is another great option for international travel. It offers unlimited 1.5 points for every dollar spent on all purchases. These points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and other travel expenses. With no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, it’s an affordable choice for travelers.
Additionally, you can earn 25,000 online bonus points if you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days. These points can be redeemed for a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
The Citi® Double Cash Card offers a unique earning structure: 1% cash back when you make a purchase and another 1% when you pay it off. This simple structure is easy to understand, and the card has no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees.
Although not specifically tailored for travel, the Citi® Double Cash Card is a solid all-around card for those who want to earn cash back on every purchase, whether at home or abroad.
To make the most of your credit card while traveling internationally, consider the following tips:
Always pay off your credit card balance in full before the due date to avoid interest charges.
Informing your bank or card issuer about your travel plans can help prevent your card from being flagged for fraudulent activity.
Ensure your credit card is widely accepted in your destination country. Cards with EMV chip technology are more likely to be accepted abroad.
Some cards charge an extra fee for currency conversion. It’s worth checking your card’s policies to avoid hidden fees.
Choosing the best credit card to use abroad depends on your travel habits, spending preferences, and the benefits you value most. Whether you prioritize no foreign transaction fees, generous rewards programs, or airport lounge access, there’s a card that fits your needs.
If you plan a long-term stay abroad, consider cards with no foreign transaction fees and solid travel rewards programs to maximize your experience. Don’t forget that with ACE Money Transfer, you can securely send money home to loved ones while enjoying fee-free transfers and competitive exchange rates.
No, not all credit cards charge foreign transaction fees. Many travel credit cards waive these fees to make international spending more affordable. Be sure to check the card’s terms before applying.
Most credit cards, especially those with EMV chip technology, are accepted worldwide. However, ensuring that your card is received in the specific country you're visiting is essential.
Some cards charge a currency conversion fee or have higher interest rates for international transactions. Reviewing your card's terms is essential to avoid unexpected charges.
Choose a credit card that offers explicitly no foreign transaction fees. Many travel credit cards provide this benefit by helping you save money while traveling.
ACE Money Transfer allows you to send money internationally with competitive exchange rates and fee-free transfers. Visit their website or app to get started.
