Getting a credit card when traveling to Ireland is the ideal way to cover expenses; these cards typically do not impose foreign transaction fees and often include travel benefits.
Make sure that you inform your bank of your travel plans; otherwise, they could assume your card was being used fraudulently and block it immediately.
1. It’s convenient
Utilizing credit or debit cards allows travelers the convenience of making payments for food, accommodation and transportation without carrying large sums of cash with them. They also save on foreign transaction fees and ATM withdrawal charges.
Visa and Mastercard cards tend to be widely accepted, while American Express, Diners Club and Discover cards tend to be less frequently accepted. Before traveling overseas it’s wise to contact your card issuer in order to understand any associated ATM fees that might exist for their overseas ATMs.
Some travel cards offer no foreign transaction fees and even rewards when used abroad, like the Instarem Amaze card which allows users to top up in Singapore dollars before withdrawing money in Ireland – you can view live exchange rates in its app! It’s also wise to inform your bank that you will be traveling internationally in case they block your card altogether; just in case, bring along an alternative credit or debit card as backup for peace of mind.
2. It’s safer
Credit cards feature integrated security measures designed to prevent fraud. If your card company notices large purchases thousands of miles away or in an unfamiliar country, this may raise red flags and lead to your account being blocked. Also be sure to inform your bank prior to traveling abroad as unexpected international charges could activate an alert and force them to close it temporarily.
Avoid fees by selecting a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees, and paying in local currency (EUR for Ireland and GBP for Northern Ireland tours). When making cash withdrawals, opt for cards such as the Wise card which don’t charge ATM fees (such as those within the Global ATM Alliance network where no fees apply).
3. It’s cheaper
Credit cards can often be cheaper and safer than exchanging cash upon arriving in Ireland, especially with travel credit cards without foreign transaction fees. Plus, this method makes carrying around lots of cash much less risky!
Most merchants in Ireland accept major credit cards, and if they don’t, you can ask them to process your payment in euros rather than dollars, so you won’t incur currency conversion fees through either your bank or their point-of-sale terminal.
United, Aer Lingus and other airlines that make up Oneworld, SkyTeam or Star Alliance alliances all offer award flights to Ireland. You’ll be able to book nonstop and connecting itineraries using miles, earning points in your frequent flyer program of choice in return. Alternatively, Avios may be used with British Airways, American Express and other partner airlines – just be aware of their minimum and maximum redemption amounts before booking!
4. It’s easier to manage
Though cash is widely accepted throughout Ireland, carrying a credit card and using contactless payment systems like Apple Pay may make life easier when purchasing on the island. That way, you won’t be subject to Dynamic Currency Conversion which charges your home currency when making purchases here. Just be sure to notify your card issuer of your travel plans so they can issue you one with international capability if necessary!
Consider applying for a travel credit card that offers better exchange rates or waives ATM fees overseas, like the Wise borderless mastercard – it allows users to spend in more than 40 currencies by topping up in SGD and letting it handle currency conversion at point-of-sale.
Avios or exclusive experiences from top brands can also be gained using a rewards credit card; Capital One currently provides a sign-up bonus of two miles for every $1 spent as an example.
