WalletHub has rounded up the best travel credit cards for international travelers to help you find the perfect fit. We've taken into account travel perks, bonuses and annual fees so that you can find the card that's right for you.
1. No foreign transaction fees
If you’re traveling abroad, it’s always a good idea to carry a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. These fees, which are typically around 3% of the purchase price, can add up quickly.
Fortunately, there are many credit cards that offer no foreign transaction fees. You can pick one based on your financial goals, the types of travel you plan on doing and what other benefits you want.
For example, the Discover it Miles card doesn’t have any foreign transaction fees and is a great choice for travelers looking to earn rewards. It also has no annual fee and a welcome offer that doubles the points you’ve earned in your first year.
2. Travel perks
Traveling abroad is more popular than ever, and credit cards with international travel perks can help make the experience easier. These perks can include travel insurance, access to airport lounges, and more.
The best travel credit cards combine valuable rewards programs and useful perks for both infrequent and frequent travelers. Some offer excellent trip protections and credits for various types of expenses, while others feature high welcome bonuses for new cardholders.
Ideally, the card you choose should be widely accepted worldwide. This is especially important if you plan on traveling often and want to save on fees.
The Platinum Card from American Express is a great choice for frequent travelers. It offers top-notch perks, including access to more than 1,200 lounges around the world and Priority Pass membership.
3. No annual fee
Travel can be expensive, but using a good credit card can help you save money and avoid fees. Some cards even offer travel perks like lounge access, airport lounge passes and elite status benefits, which can make your trip much more enjoyable.
Besides providing peace of mind, a credit card can also help you save money on currency conversion when traveling abroad. Many international cards have chip and PIN technology, which can make it easier to use your card in foreign countries.
The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of the best credit cards for international travel because it has premium perks and a low annual fee. This card offers up to $100 Global Entry or TSA PreCheck(r) fee credit every four years, plus you get 10x points on hotel and car rental purchases through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal.
4. Convenience
A good international travel credit card can save you a ton of money and make your trip that much easier. Some cards even offer perks like airport lounge access, which can significantly improve your trip experience.
While traveling abroad, you’ll need a credit card to check into hotels, book flights and purchase local goods and services. Many airlines also charge fees for baggage, so it’s a good idea to look for a card that offers a baggage fee waiver or credit.
Some cards also allow you to pay for things in your native currency, called dynamic currency conversion. This can be helpful when you’re unfamiliar with the exchange rate, and it can save you money in the long run.