Credit cards are indispensable tools for travelers, particularly those that offer rewards and robust travel protections. Some even waive added fees such as foreign transaction fees and provide a better exchange rate.
Though cash can always be useful when travelling overseas, many travellers prefer using credit cards with rewards programs as an easier and more secure method for paying. Consider applying for a premium travel card for your next overseas adventure!
No Foreign Transaction Fees
If you’re heading abroad, choosing a credit card without foreign transaction fees might be worthwhile. These pesky charges add an extra 3% onto all your purchases – something which can add up quickly over the course of an overseas adventure!
When shopping for credit cards, review their terms and conditions to identify those without associated fees. In addition, sign up for free NerdWallet credit scores and reports to get a better picture of your spending habits, rewards earning goals and card features.
Consider whether or not the card features a chip and PIN, making it easier to swipe it in restaurants or airport terminals without fear of data theft or physical card loss. Furthermore, review whether there is an attractive welcome bonus, premium travel perks such as airport lounge access or credits to cover Global Entry application fee credits; then select one that best meets your traveling goals and needs.
Rewards
Your credit card may be needed when renting a car or hotel room, as well as paying dining expenses abroad. A travel credit card that offers rewards can help offset some of those costs abroad.
The best travel credit cards offer various rewards depending on what kind of trip you’re planning and which type of card is chosen, for instance American Express Platinum card provides lounge access, elite status perks and travel credits that may make its $695 annual fee worthwhile.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred card provides travelers with valuable rewards at an attractive annual fee, earning 3X points on travel and transit spending as well as 1 point on everything else, plus useful travel protections that could save them money while travelling abroad. Furthermore, this card waives foreign transaction fees that typically average around 3% when using your card overseas.
Insurance
An ideal credit card for traveling overseas can provide many useful travel protections and perks, from lost baggage coverage to primary rental car insurance – helping to alleviate both cost and stress during your journey.
These cards also can help you save money by eliminating foreign transaction fees, offering bonus points in popular spending categories and offering other travel-related perks like airport lounge access, elite status benefits and travel discounts. Before choosing one to take along on your international journey, be sure to review its coverage details, such as limits and exclusions; doing so could prove invaluable should something unexpected occur while away.
Convenience
Credit cards make international shopping simpler by eliminating exchange rate considerations and being safer to carry than cash; many cards also offer protection plans in case it gets lost or stolen.
Many credit cards incur foreign transaction fees and currency conversion markups when traveling overseas, so it is wise to read over their terms and conditions carefully prior to departure. There are exceptions; certain cards don’t charge these fees or provide benefits such as Section 75 protection that could reimburse your purchases should they differ from expectations.
Whenever traveling internationally, consider applying for a premium credit card without foreign transaction fees and robust travel protections. Such cards will help save you money when making international transactions while offering rewards on every dollar spent – plus pairing it with a debit card with no such fees can make international trips both affordable and comfortable!
