Best credit cards for international travel

Advertiser disclosure.

We are an independent, advertising-supported comparison service. Our goal is to help you make smarter financial decisions by providing you with interactive tools and financial calculators, publishing original and objective content, by enabling you to conduct research and compare information for free - so that you can make financial decisions with confidence.

Bankrate has partnerships with issuers including, but not limited to, American Express, Bank of America, Capital One, Chase, Citi and Discover.

  • Share this article on Facebook Facebook
  • Share this article on Twitter Twitter
  • Share this article on LinkedIn Linkedin
  • Share this article via email Email

scenic view of a coastal town

  • • Rewards credit cards
  • • Travel credit cards

The Bankrate promise

At Bankrate we strive to help you make smarter financial decisions. While we adhere to strict editorial integrity , this post may contain references to products from our partners. Here's an explanation for how we make money . The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of the offers mentioned may have expired. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Any opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer.

At Bankrate, we have a mission to demystify the credit cards industry — regardless or where you are in your journey — and make it one you can navigate with confidence. Our team is full of a diverse range of experts from credit card pros to data analysts and, most importantly, people who shop for credit cards just like you. With this combination of expertise and perspectives, we keep close tabs on the credit card industry year-round to:

  • Meet you wherever you are in your credit card journey to guide your information search and help you understand your options.
  • Consistently provide up-to-date, reliable market information so you're well-equipped to make confident decisions.
  • Reduce industry jargon so you get the clearest form of information possible, so you can make the right decision for you.

At Bankrate, we focus on the points consumers care about most: rewards, welcome offers and bonuses, APR, and overall customer experience. Any issuers discussed on our site are vetted based on the value they provide to consumers at each of these levels. At each step of the way, we fact-check ourselves to prioritize accuracy so we can continue to be here for your every next.

Editorial integrity

Bankrate follows a strict editorial policy , so you can trust that we’re putting your interests first. Our award-winning editors and reporters create honest and accurate content to help you make the right financial decisions.

Key Principles

We value your trust. Our mission is to provide readers with accurate and unbiased information, and we have editorial standards in place to ensure that happens. Our editors and reporters thoroughly fact-check editorial content to ensure the information you’re reading is accurate. We maintain a firewall between our advertisers and our editorial team. Our editorial team does not receive direct compensation from our advertisers.

Editorial Independence

Bankrate’s editorial team writes on behalf of YOU — the reader. Our goal is to give you the best advice to help you make smart personal finance decisions. We follow strict guidelines to ensure that our editorial content is not influenced by advertisers. Our editorial team receives no direct compensation from advertisers, and our content is thoroughly fact-checked to ensure accuracy. So, whether you’re reading an article or a review, you can trust that you’re getting credible and dependable information.

How we make money

You have money questions. Bankrate has answers. Our experts have been helping you master your money for over four decades. We continually strive to provide consumers with the expert advice and tools needed to succeed throughout life’s financial journey.

Bankrate follows a strict editorial policy , so you can trust that our content is honest and accurate. Our award-winning editors and reporters create honest and accurate content to help you make the right financial decisions. The content created by our editorial staff is objective, factual, and not influenced by our advertisers.

We’re transparent about how we are able to bring quality content, competitive rates, and useful tools to you by explaining how we make money.

Bankrate.com is an independent, advertising-supported publisher and comparison service. We are compensated in exchange for placement of sponsored products and services, or by you clicking on certain links posted on our site. Therefore, this compensation may impact how, where and in what order products appear within listing categories, except where prohibited by law for our mortgage, home equity and other home lending products. Other factors, such as our own proprietary website rules and whether a product is offered in your area or at your self-selected credit score range, can also impact how and where products appear on this site. While we strive to provide a wide range of offers, Bankrate does not include information about every financial or credit product or service.

Key takeaways

  • The top credit cards you’ll want to use abroad don’t charge foreign transaction fees and offer rewards on your spending.
  • We’ve highlighted six travel cards that appeal to different types of spenders, as well as tips on how to choose the best card for you.

Credit cards can be valuable tools when you use them close to home, but they should also be an essential part of your packing list any time you travel overseas . Not only do you normally need a credit card to put down a security deposit to rent a hotel room, but you’ll likely need a credit card to rent a car, too. And if you run out of cash while on a trip, a credit card lets you charge whatever you need and pay the balance when you return home.

The best credit cards for international trips also let you avoid added fees on international transactions and earn rewards for each dollar you spend . Some even offer robust travel protections that can shield you financially if your flight is delayed or your bags are lost or stolen.

If you’re planning a trip overseas this year, here are some of the best cards to consider.

The Platinum Card from American Express: Best for international travel overall

Why we picked it : The Platinum Card® from American Express makes it easy to earn American Express Membership Rewards points, which can be used for statement credits, gift cards, merchandise, travel purchased through the American Express Travel portal or transfers to Amex airline and hotel partners. A $695 annual fee applies, but the first-year and ongoing benefits can more than make up for it.

As a welcome offer, you can earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $8,000 within six months of account opening. You’ll also earn 5X points on flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 per calendar year); 5X points on prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel; 2X points on prepaid car rentals through American Express Travel; and 1X points on all other purchases.

You won’t pay foreign transaction fees on purchases made abroad, and this card comes with the broadest airport lounge access of all travel cards. It also includes up to a $100 credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry and up to a $189 credit for CLEAR® Plus Credit membership each year. Other credits that add more value to this card include a $200 airline incidental credit each year, $200 in Uber cash (doled out in monthly increments), a $200 hotel credit on eligible Fine Hotels + Resorts bookings made through Amex and more (two-night minimum stay required). You’ll also get access to a Global Assist hotline, which can help with emergency planning if you run into legal or medical issues when you travel.

  • Can transfer points to Amex airline and hotel partners
  • Access to the Global lounge collection (which includes Priority Pass and Centurion lounges )
  • Automatic Hilton Honors Gold and Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status (enrollment required)
  • Excellent travel insurance , including trip delay insurance and trip cancellation/interruption insurance
  • Over $1,500 in credits
  • $695 annual fee
  • Some of the card’s credits can be difficult to use

Who should apply : If you travel frequently and are able to use enough card benefits to make up for the cost of the annual fee , the Amex Platinum is a must-have.

Who should skip : If you don’t want to pay such a high annual fee , or if you think you won’t use the Amex Platinum’s many travel perks and benefits , it would be better to go with a different card.

Chase Sapphire Reserve: Best for flexible rewards

Why we picked it : The Chase Sapphire Reserve® lets you earn 60,000 points when you spend $4,000 within three months of account opening. You’ll also earn 10X points on hotel stays and car rentals through Chase Ultimate Rewards ; 10X points on Chase Dining purchases through Ultimate Rewards; 10X points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025); 5X points on air travel through Ultimate Rewards (after the $300 annual travel credit ) ; 3X points on general travel and restaurant purchases following your travel credit redemption ; and 1X points on all other purchases. Chase Ultimate Rewards points can be redeemed in many ways , including cash back, gift cards, merchandise, travel through the Chase portal or 1:1 points transfers to travel partners.

This card comes with some of the best travel protections of any travel credit card. Some of these benefits include primary auto rental coverage, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, trip delay coverage, lost luggage reimbursement and emergency evacuation and transportation coverage. You’ll also get airport lounge access, up to a $100 credit for Global Entry, up to $85 for a TSA PreCheck® or NEXUS and a 50 percent points boost on travel redemptions through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Note that the Chase Sapphire Reserve does come with a hefty $550 annual fee .

  • $300 annual travel credit
  • Can transfer points to Chase airline and hotel partners
  • Up to a $100 credit for Global Entry, up to $85 for a TSA PreCheck or NEXUS
  • Airport lounge access
  • Excellent travel insurance
  • $550 annual fee
  • Fewer travel partners than Amex

Who should apply : If you travel frequently and you’re able to make up for the cost of the annual fee through the Chase Sapphire Reserve’s many benefits , this card could be a good fit for you.

Who should skip : If you don’t travel frequently, don’t want to pay an annual fee or can’t use enough card benefits to justify the cost of card membership, you may want to look into a travel card with a lower (or no) annual fee.

Chase Sapphire Preferred: Best for domestic and international travel

Why we picked it : The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers the same type of rewards as the Chase Sapphire Reserve, including the same exceptional transfer partners for both domestic and international travel. For example, Chase Ultimate Rewards points are the only credit card points that transfer directly to the Southwest Rapid Rewards program. You can also transfer your points to partners like United MilagePlus, Air France / Flying Blue, Marriott Bonvoy and the highly valuable World of Hyatt program, among other options.

You’ll pay a much lower fee of $95 with the Chase Sapphire Preferred, so you’ll give up some travel perks as a result. However, this card comes with a range of important travel benefits that can be useful for international trips, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, primary auto rental coverage, baggage delay coverage, trip delay protection and more.

At the moment, you can even earn 60,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards points when you spend $4,000 on purchases within three months of account opening. Since you get a 25 percent rewards boost when you redeem for travel through the Chase portal, the bonus alone is worth $750 in airfare, hotels and more. Also note that this card lets users earn 3X points on dining (including eligible delivery services), select streaming services and online grocery purchases (excluding Walmart, Target and wholesale clubs); 5X points on travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards and Lyft Rides (Lyft offer through March 31st, 2025); 2X points on other travel; and 1X points on other purchases.

  • Lucrative welcome offer
  • $50 annual hotel credit benefit
  • 10% anniversary points boost
  • Exceptional travel protections included
  • Lower annual fee of $95
  • No airport lounge access
  • No other premium travel benefits

Who should apply : Consider this card if you want to earn flexible rewards for travel but don’t want to pay the high annual fee of some premium travel credit cards.

Who should skip : Skip this card if you want luxury perks like airport lounge access.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best for flat-rate travel rewards

Why we picked it : If you want to earn flexible rewards and enjoy travel perks without an overly expensive annual fee, you can also consider the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , which comes with a $95 annual fee. This card lets you earn 75,000 bonus miles — worth $750 in travel — after spending $4,000 within the first three months of account opening. You’ll also earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 2X miles on all other purchases.

We like the flat-rate rewards structure for this card because it keeps things simple. Other than earning more rewards on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One, having the chance to rack up a flat 2X miles on all your spending can help you boost your rewards haul quickly.

Rewards can be redeemed for statement credits to cover eligible travel purchases, travel through the Capital One portal or miles transfers to a handful of airline and hotel partners, among many other redemptions. This card also comes with benefits like no foreign transaction fees, and up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, travel accident insurance and extended warranty coverage. Cardholders also get two free complimentary visits to Capital One airport lounges ; these lounge visits can also be used in Capital One partner lounges, including 100+ Plaza Premium lounges.

  • Up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
  • Can transfer miles to Capital One travel partners
  • Two complimentary airport lounge visits per year
  • Fewer travel protections than the Chase Sapphire Preferred, which also comes with a $95 annual fee
  • Capital One transfer partners are typically considered less useful than Chase or Amex partners

Who should apply : If you’re interested in earning flexible rewards for any aspect of your international trip (including hotels, airfare, rental cars and trains) and want travel perks, no foreign transaction fees and a low annual fee, this card is hard to beat .

Who should skip : If you’re looking for more travel protections included, you may want to consider another low-annual-fee travel card, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred .

Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card: Best for no annual fee

Why we picked it : If you don’t want to pay an annual fee, consider the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card . This card comes with no foreign transaction fees, making it a great card for international travel. As a welcome offer, you can earn 25,000 points — worth $250 toward travel purchases — when you spend $1,000 within 90 days of account opening. You’ll also get a zero-interest offer on both purchases and balance transfers (note that balance transfers must be made within the first 60 days to qualify).

In terms of rewards, you’ll earn 1.5X points on all purchases , as well as 3X points on Bank of America Travel Center purchases. Plus, if you’re a   Bank of America Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25 percent to 75 percent more rewards on every purchase you make. Just be aware that, instead of using these rewards to book your travel, Bank of America travel rewards are issued as statement credits on travel or dining purchases.

  • No annual fee
  • Zero-interest offer on purchases and balance transfers
  • Visa Signature benefits like travel and emergency assistance, Visa Signature Concierge access and a lost luggage reimbursement
  • Potential for boosted rewards with Preferred Rewards membership
  • Limited redemption options
  • No option to transfer points to travel partners
  • No specific travel benefits

Who should apply : If you’re looking for a no-annual-fee card that earns flat cash back and doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, this card could be a good fit for you . Plus, if you’re a Preferred Rewards member with at least Platinum or Platinum Honors status, you could earn an additional points multiplier on all purchases.

Who should skip : If you’re not a Preferred Rewards member, you may want to look into flat-rate cash back cards that offer at least 2 percent cash back on all purchases. And if you’re looking for more travel perks — but don’t want to pay a several-hundred-dollar annual fee — you may want to consider one of the top travel credit cards with a lower annual fee , like the Capital One Venture.

Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students: Best for students

Why we picked it : If you’re a student who wants to build your credit over time, you should check out the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students . This card lets you earn valuable rewards without paying an annual fee or foreign transaction fees, and you’ll get access to your FICO credit score each month for free.

When it comes to rewards, you’ll earn an unlimited 1.5X points on all purchases. You’ll also earn 25,000 points when you spend $1,000 on your card within 90 days of account opening. When you’re ready to cash in your points , you can redeem them for a statement credit to pay for flights, hotels, vacation packages, cruises, rental cars, baggage fees and more at a rate of 1 cent per point. Other redemption methods include checks, direct deposits and gift cards, but these may not net as much value.

  • Free FICO score
  • A high, flat rewards rate on all purchases
  • Can earn 25 to 75 percent more rewards as a Preferred Rewards member
  • Very few travel or student benefits

Who should apply : Students who are looking to build positive credit habits and earn rewards without paying an annual fee, or students who are planning to study or travel abroad, would do well with this card.

Who should skip : If you’re looking for a card with a different rewards structure or benefits, you should take a look at some of the other top student credit cards on the market today. Many of them offer boosted rewards for bonus category purchases or student-focused benefits , plus no foreign transaction fees.

Compare the best cards for international travel

How to choose a card for international travel.

Choosing a card for international travel shouldn’t be too difficult since there are so many options available. However, these tips can help you wind up with the best card for your needs.

  • Earn the rewards you want the most . First off, it’s important to pick a travel credit card that offers the type of rewards you want to earn. If you can’t decide which type of travel rewards you want, consider flexible rewards credit cards that let you earn points you can use for gift cards, statement credits, travel and more.
  • Choose a card with no foreign transaction fees . You should definitely pick a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees . If you don’t pick up a card that waives foreign transaction fees, you’ll wind up paying an extra 3 percent on average for each purchase you make abroad.
  • Check for airport lounge access . This perk can be immensely helpful if you hate waiting for your flight at a crowded airport gate, or if you often have a long layover. Cards that offer airport lounge access typically charge higher fees, but the free food and drinks you’ll receive can more than make up for them.
  • Get a card that offers a credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck . Finally, consider cards that let you get expedited security access with one of these programs. Both let you skip lines at airport security, which can easily save you hours of wait time over the course of a year.

The bottom line

Signing up for one of the top travel credit cards can make travel more convenient and affordable — both domestically and abroad — but it’s important to understand any travel card you’re interested in inside and out before you sign up. Make sure you know which cardholder perks you’ll receive, including perks that will benefit you when you travel internationally like no foreign transaction fees, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, credits for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, airport lounge access and more.

Placeholder image

Best Travel Credit Cards of 2024

Best credit cards for international travel in 2024

Ariana Arghandewal

Dec 29, 2023 • 15 min read

credit card for travel abroad

Your next great adventure is never far away when you're maximizing points and benefits with the best cards; Mattertal, Switzerland © mbbirdy / Getty

This series of articles about credit cards, points and miles, and budgeting for travel is brought to you in partnership with The Points Guy .

Advertiser Disclosure:  This post contains references to products from one or more of our advertisers. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. This relationship may impact how and where links appear on this site. This site does not include all financial companies or all available financial offers. All information about the Wells Fargo Autograph Card has been collected independently by Lonely Planet. This card is not available through Lonely Planet.

When traveling abroad, the right credit card can be as crucial as your passport. The best credit card can help you not only earn more rewards, but it can also provide valuable protections and benefits. A credit card can save you money on foreign transaction fees and protect your purchases from fraudulent activity and theft.

Some credit cards can make your travels more comfortable with valuable perks like lounge access, elite status benefits and travel insurance. 

For international travel, you’ll want a credit card that waives foreign transaction fees and offers bonus points on travel along with travel insurance. We’ve taken the guesswork out of this task for you by rounding up the best credit cards for international travel:

How to get started with travel points and airline miles

Huilo-Huilo waterfall; Los Ríos, Chile

The best credit cards for international travel in 2024:

  • Best overall: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
  • Best for luxury travel perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express *
  • Best for travel insurance: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
  • Best for tours and activities: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
  • Best for dining around the world: American Express® Gold Card *
  • Best for no annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

The best credit cards for airline miles

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best overall for international travel in 2024

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is an excellent card for international travel because it checks all the boxes regarding benefits you’ll need when traveling abroad. The card provides vital travel protections and earns valuable rewards at a reasonable $95 annual fee. Cardholders earn 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through the Ultimate Rewards travel portal and 2 on all other travel purchases. The card also comes with valuable travel insurance, which is vital when traveling abroad. 

Cardholders pay no foreign transaction fees, which hover around 3% for purchases abroad on standard credit cards. Whether paying your hotel bill or doing extra shopping, the waived fee can add substantial savings.

Sapphire Preferred cardholders get up to $10,000 per person in trip cancellation/interruption insurance, primary rental car coverage (in the U.S. and abroad), up to $100 per day in baggage delay insurance (maximum of five days) and up to $500 in trip delay reimbursement per ticket. These protections can be beneficial in case of travel delays or emergencies. While you may consider buying supplemental travel insurance for certain trips, these credit card protections provide excellent baseline coverage.

Welcome bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards (excluding hotel purchases that qualify for the $50 Annual Ultimate Rewards hotel credit);  3X points on dining at restaurants, including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out; 3X points on online grocery purchases; 3X points on select streaming services; 2X points on all other travel; 1X on other purchases.

Travel benefits: Annual $50 Ultimate Rewards hotel credit, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, primary rental car insurance, trip delay reimbursement, baggage delay insurance, travel and emergency assistance services.

Credit score required: Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $95. See rates and fees .

  • Generous category bonuses.
  • Excellent rewards program with a great selection of airline and hotel transfer partners.
  • $50 annual travel credit.
  • Extensive travel protections, including primary rental car insurance abroad. 
  • The card is subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule (meaning you won’t be approved if you’ve opened five credit cards at any bank in the last 24 months).
  • The $50 annual hotel credit is limited to Chase Ultimate Rewards bookings (and does not earn bonus points).

How to use points and miles to save money on travel

The American Express Platinum Card

The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for travel perks

No other credit card can compete with The Platinum Card® from American Express  regarding travel perks. The card offers over $1,500 in annual statement credits for airline fees, hotel bookings and trusted-traveler programs like CLEAR® Plus and Global Entry . Global Entry is particularly useful for international trips, as it expedites the passport control process.

Cardholders can upgrade to Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy Gold elite status without ever stepping foot in a hotel lobby. These higher status levels can provide added perks like room upgrades and complimentary breakfast, enhancing your hotel experience. 

The Platinum Card 's travel protections can provide added peace of mind with trip delay coverage and cancellation/interruption insurance.*

Welcome bonus: Earn 80,000 points after $8,000 spent within six months of account opening. 

Rewards: Earn 5X points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel (up to $500,000 per calendar year); 5X points on prepaid hotels booked with Amex Travel; 1X point on everything else.

Travel benefits: Annual airline fee credit up to $200; annual hotel booking credit up to $200 (Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay); annual Uber Cash up to $200; $20 monthly digital entertainment credit for select streaming services; $155 Walmart+ Credit; $300 annual Equinox statement credit; $50 Saks credit issued semi-annually; $189 CLEAR Plus credit; Hilton and Marriott Gold elite status; elite status with Avis, Hertz and National rental car; trip delay insurance; trip cancellation & interruption insurance.

Credit score required: Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $695. See rates and fees .

  • Wide range of travel credits that offset the annual fee (if you use them).
  • Earns valuable Membership Rewards points.
  • Exceptional travel protections.
  • High annual fee.
  • Category bonuses are limited to Amex Travel and direct bookings.
  • The current welcome bonus isn’t the highest to date, and the card is subject to the Amex once-per-lifetime rule.

Best travel credit cards for foodies

Earn 10x rewards on hotel stays with Chase Sapphire Reserve

Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best for travel insurance

Comprehensive travel insurance is essential when traveling abroad – things always go wrong, and you don’t want to incur added expenses on top of your trip. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® provides exceptional travel insurance. Depending on your travel habits, you may not even need to buy a policy. Simply charge your travel expenses to the card, and you’ll be covered in case of trip delays, lost luggage and rental car accidents. The card provides emergency medical services and transportation up to $100,000 and trip cancellation/interruption coverage up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. In case of trip delays of six hours or longer, each passenger will be reimbursed up to $500 per ticket for meals and lodging. 

If you arrive at your destination and discover your luggage is missing, you’ll get up to $3,000 per passenger to buy essentials. This policy also applies to damaged luggage, including carry-ons.

The Sapphire Reserve ’s auto rental collision damage waiver is one of the best in class. It applies to rentals made abroad and covers up to $75,000 in case of theft or collision damage.

Welcome bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Rewards: Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

Travel benefits: Up to $300 in annual travel statement credits, including airfare, hotels and rental cars; get 50% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠; Priority Pass Select membership; application fee credit towards Global Entry, TSA Precheck or NEXUS every four years; travel protections including cancellation/interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, primary rental car insurance, lost luggage reimbursement and emergency evacuation and transportation.

Credit score:  Excellent.

Annual fee: $550 (plus $75 per authorized user). See rates and fees .

  • Comprehensive travel insurance when you use the Sapphire Card for booking.
  • Application fee credits for Global Entry, TSA Precheck and NEXUS.
  • Priority Pass Select membership for access to over 1300 airline lounges worldwide.
  • The $300 annual travel credit partially offsets the high annual fee. 
  • Approval is subject to the Chase 5/24 rule (ie, you might not qualify for the card if you've signed up for 5 or more credit cards in the last 24 months).
  • $75 authorized user fee.

10 amazing hotels around the world you can book with points

The overwater bungalows at Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa

Capital One Venture Card: Best for international tours and activities 

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is the best card for tours and activities because it offers unlimited 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, making it easy to earn rewards quickly. Plus, the miles can be redeemed for any travel-related expense, so you can use them to book flights, hotels, rental cars and more. 

Additionally, cardholders get six months of complimentary membership to The Cultivist. This subscription platform typically costs $40 per month and provides free admission to over 60 museums, including the New York Met, Paris Louvre and The Art Institute of Chicago. You can bring up to three guests for free, making the Venture Card a terrific credit card for tours and activities.

With its simple reward structure and no-hassle redemption process, the Capital One Venture Card is an ideal choice for travelers looking to save money on their next tour or activity.

Welcome bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening.

Rewards: 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; 2X miles on all other purchases.

Travel benefits: Up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, Hertz Five Star status, rental car insurance and travel accident insurance, Capital One Dining access; complimentary six-month membership to The Cultivist.

Credit score:  Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $95. 

  • $100 credit towards Global Entry or TSA Precheck application fees every four years.
  • Generous lounge benefit for a $95 annual fee card.
  • Simple rewards structure with multiple international airline transfer partners.
  • Limited lounge network compared to other credit cards.

Should you book travel with cash or points?

The Rose Gold American Express Card

American Express Gold Card: Best for dining around the world

Dining is one of the most significant expenses when you’re traveling abroad. The American Express Gold Card is the best card to pack in your wallet, earning 4 points per dollar spent at restaurants. The card also earns 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel so that you can maximize every dollar spent on vacation. 

The Amex Gold Card also offers up to $10 in monthly Uber Cash and another $10 towards Grubhub, Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Granted, you may not find many Cheesecake Factories abroad, but it’s a nice bonus that could come in handy during domestic travels. The card qualifies for Amex Offers, a rotating list of discounts at popular retailers, restaurants and hotels. You can save hundreds of dollars by taking advantage of dining deals through this portal.

Welcome bonus: Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $6,000 within the first six months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 4X points at restaurants; 4X points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 per year in purchases and then 1x after); 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel; 1X points on all other purchases. 

Travel benefits: Receive up to $10 in monthly Uber Cash (valid for rides or Uber Eats orders); up to $10 in monthly dining credit at Grubhub, Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations; secondary rental car coverage*; baggage insurance plan; Global Assist hotline; access to experience credits and travel perks through The Hotel Collection.

Credit score: Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $250. See rates and fees .

  • High earnings on popular travel spending categories.
  • Up to $240 in annual dining credits.
  • Amex Offers provides additional savings on travel.
  • Includes valuable travel protections.
  • The current welcome bonus isn’t the highest to date. 
  • The card is subject to American Express’s once-per-lifetime rule.

American Express Gold Card review: a 'gold' standard with impressive benefits

Wells Fargo Autograph Card

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card: Best for no annual fee

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is a great option for international travel if you want a card that earns generous rewards and minimal fees. The card waives foreign transaction fees, which is unusual for a card with no annual fee. It also offers generous bonuses on popular travel spending categories like dining, gas, transit, airfare, hotels, rental cars and cruises. With a 0% intro APR for 12 months, this is an excellent choice if you need to finance some purchases in the short term.

Welcome bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first three months.

Rewards: Earn 3X points on travel, gas, restaurant, transit and popular streaming services; 1X points on all other purchases. 

Travel benefits: Secondary rental car insurance in the US., primary rental car coverage abroad, travel and emergency services assistance, emergency cash disbursement and card replacement, cell phone protection (up to $600 per year). 

Annual fee: $0. 

  • High earning potential in board travel spending categories.
  • One of the few credit cards offering cell phone protection.
  • Primary rental car coverage abroad and secondary in the U.S.
  • Low welcome bonus.
  • Points are not transferable to airline or hotel loyalty programs.
  • No travel protections outside of rental car insurance. 

How to travel to Bali with points and miles

Consider upgrading your travel experience with the right credit card

Who should get a credit card for international travel?

Anyone who frequently travels internationally should consider getting a credit card for international travel. There are added costs and hassles associated with traveling abroad that these credit cards can eliminate. With the right credit card, you’ll earn bonus points in popular spending categories restricted abroad. 

You don’t have to be a frequent traveler to benefit from these cards either. They can provide peace of mind by serving as a backup form of payment if your debit or cash is lost or stolen while abroad. In fact, the right credit card can serve you well even when you’re just going about your daily routine.

Below are some of the features and benefits you should look for when choosing a credit card for international travel:

Traveling to Europe using points and miles

How to choose the best credit card for international travel

When it comes to international travel, selecting the right credit card is essential. The right credit card can save you money on fees and travel expenses and provide you with a range of benefits to make your trip easier and more enjoyable. Here are some tips for choosing the best credit card for international travel: 

No foreign transaction fees:  Many credit cards charge a fee of up to 3% when you use them abroad. Look for a card that doesn’t charge these fees so you can save money when making purchases in other countries. 

Bonus points on travel:  Many cards offer rewards in popular spending categories like travel, dining, groceries and gas. These points can then be redeemed for free flights, hotel stays or other travel perks. Some credit cards limit bonus points on dining and grocery spending to U.S. supermarkets and restaurants only. You’ll want a card in your wallet that offers bonus points in the U.S. and abroad since these expenses add up during travels. 

Trusted traveler programs:  Navigating airports can be a stressful experience both in the U.S. and abroad. Trusted traveler programs like TSA Precheck , Global Entry and NEXUS can eliminate the hassle (and long lines). When choosing a credit card for international travel, consider one that offers an application fee credit for trusted traveler programs. These credits can offset high annual fees and make your next trip abroad much more pleasant.

TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry: A guide to picking the best one for you

Unlock benefits like seat upgrades with the best international travel cards

International credit cards FAQ

Which cards are best for international travel.

The best international travel cards are those with no foreign transaction fees, offer travel protections and earn bonus rewards on travel purchases. Some of the top cards for international travel include the Chase Sapphire Preferred , Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and The Platinum Card® from American Express .

The best credit cards for airport lounge access

What’s the advantage of using a credit card when traveling internationally?

The main advantage of using a credit card when traveling abroad is its convenience and security. Credit cards offer a secure way to make purchases without carrying large amounts of cash. Some credit cards also earn rewards on travel purchases, offer travel insurance and waive foreign exchange fees.

The best credit cards with no international fees

Herengracht Canal in Amsterdam

Is American Express or Visa better for international travel?

It depends on the country you are traveling to and which cards are accepted in that country. Generally, Visa is accepted more widely than American Express, so it may be the better option for international travel.

The best travel credit cards

* Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit  americanexpress.com/ benefitsguide  for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit  americanexpress.com  to learn more.

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

This article was first published August 2023 and updated December 2023

Explore related stories

credit card for travel abroad

Tips & Advice

Mar 15, 2024 • 18 min read

Go the farthest with your points and miles all the way to New Zealand with this expert's easy guide.

credit card for travel abroad

Mar 15, 2024 • 10 min read

credit card for travel abroad

Mar 15, 2024 • 19 min read

credit card for travel abroad

Mar 15, 2024 • 14 min read

credit card for travel abroad

Mar 15, 2024 • 13 min read

credit card for travel abroad

Mar 15, 2024 • 8 min read

credit card for travel abroad

Mar 15, 2024 • 3 min read

credit card for travel abroad

Mar 15, 2024 • 9 min read

15 best travel credit cards of March 2024

Nick Ewen

The best travel credit cards offer an array of premium perks and benefits. For both occasional travelers and frequent flyers, adding a travel credit card to your wallet is a great way to earn rewards and save money on every trip you take. At The Points Guy, our team has done the legwork and curated a selection of the best travel credit cards for any globe-trotter, whether you prefer to backpack through mountains or settle into a luxury villa for some relaxation. From generous travel credits to premium lounge access, we’ve chosen the cards packed with the best benefits to elevate your next travel experience.

Check out our list below and discover which travel credit card from our partners makes the best addition to your wallet for all of your adventures.

Browse by card categories

  • Airport Lounge Access
  • Global Entry
  • No Foreign Fee
  • Best Overall
  • Find your CardMatch™

Comparing the best travel cards

More details on the best credit cards, credit pointers with brian kelly.

Video Thumbnail

How to maximize travel credit cards

Earn the welcome bonus.

One of the best ways to maximize your travel credit cards is to earn the welcome bonus . Most travel credit cards will offer a welcome or sign-up bonus that allows cardmembers to earn points or miles that would otherwise require a very high spend. Welcome bonuses are a crucial part of a card’s value, so before you apply for your next travel card, be sure to plan for how you will meet the spending requirement. Ideally, you would align large purchases with your card opening so that you don’t need to spend frivolously to earn that lucrative welcome bonus.

featuredImageAlt

Use a travel card that matches your travel style

There is a travel credit card for everyone, but not every travel card is the best fit for your wallet . Consider what type of traveler you are, whether you have any brand loyalty and what perks you are looking for from your next credit card. If you travel often and in luxury, consider premium cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express or Chase Sapphire Reserve® . These cards are loaded with tons of luxury perks like lounge access and automatic elite status . 

Alternatively, if you’re a more thrifty traveler who likes to maximize your travel earnings, consider a mid-tier travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card or Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . These cards allow you to earn points on your travel, and while they don’t come with a long list of luxury perks, they’re much more cost effective for an everyday traveler.

And even beginners don’t have to veer away from travel cards, since many products out there offer an introduction to the travel rewards world without incurring an annual fee.

Knowing what your travel style is like will help you determine what type of travel card you need.

amex-balance

Use loyalty programs to stack your rewards

You don’t have to limit your earnings to just travel credit cards . Many airlines and hotel chains have loyalty programs that can be used in conjunction with your travel card to unlock added perks when doing business with a specific brand. In addition, many travel credit cards allow you to transfer points from your card to your eligible loyalty programs . This can open up nearly endless redemption options.

How we rate cards

What is a travel credit card.

Travel rewards credit cards earn points, miles or cash back that are redeemable for travel expenses or are geared toward travel spending. The cards on this list are some of the best credit cards to book flights , hotels and more with their many perks and rewards . 

Travel credit cards offer rewards on different purchases that can help you book flights, hotels and more for little to no out-of-pocket expenses. Some cards also provide valuable perks and benefits that upgrade the overall travel experience — from Global Entry application fee credits to lounge access to complimentary elite status . If you have the right card (or cards) in your wallet, the sky is the limit on where your travels can take you — literally.

Are you new to travel rewards? Check out our beginner’s guide to all things points and miles . You’ll learn about top loyalty programs, how to maximize your credit card strategy to reach your travel goals and so much more.

Related: The complete history of credit cards, from antiquity to today

We have researched various types of travel credit cards to help you figure out which one is best for you.

Travel vs cash back credit cards

A travel credit card is a card that is geared toward travel spending and a cash-back credit card is a card that earns cash back on purchases made with the card.

Generally, when we are talking about travel credit cards we refer to cards that earn points and miles like the Platinum Card from American Express or the Hilton Honors Aspire card. The Platinum Amex earns transferable points which can be used with any of Amex's travel partners while the Hilton Honors Aspire card only earns Hilton points which can be redeemed at Hilton properties. These cards do not earn cash back on any purchases.

Cash back cards generally offer cash back as a flat rate or feature bonus categories that earn an elevated cash back rate. Select cash-back cards can also be a great travel card such as the Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express which offers 3% cash back on transit including rideshare, trains, buses, and more. Even though it is a cash-back card, the Blue Cash Preferred offers an elevated return on select transportation which potentially makes it a solid travel card option.

How do travel credit cards work?

Travel credit cards work like other reward credit cards: They help you earn rewards, primarily points and miles, on your purchases. This section will primarily focus on transferable rewards credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card® from American Express, as they are what are typically considered travel credit cards.

Related: How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for maximum value

How to earn transferable points

Transferable points credit cards earn points or miles when you make a purchase on the cards. These points and miles can then be transferred to travel partners for rewards like flights, hotel stays and more. Different cards will have different currencies, but they are generally called either “points” or “miles” (depending on the issuer). All transferable reward credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards will have their own currency that is redeemable for travel rewards. 

Travel cards have varying rates for different purchase categories. For example, the American Express® Gold Card card earns 4 points per dollar spent on restaurants but only 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or Amex Travel. While the Amex Platinum may be a better card for travel as it earns 5 points per dollar spent on flights (booked directly with airline or Amex Travel and up to $500,000 per calendar year), the Amex Gold can be a good addition for Platinum holders who spend a lot of money on dining out.

Related: How to redeem American Express Membership Rewards for maximum value

How to redeem points and miles  

Once you’ve decided on a travel credit card and earned a welcome bonus, it’s time to put those points or miles toward free travel. There are many ways to redeem your rewards with travel credit cards. Many cards feature an online booking portal through which you can use your rewards to book things like flights, hotels and car rentals. Before booking your flight, you should consider doing a  flight portal comparison to ensure you're getting the best redemption. Others allow you to transfer your points or miles to individual loyalty programs. Depending on the redemption, this could unlock even more value.

Related: Tips and tricks to get maximum value from your Capital One miles

It’s up to you to decide whether a specific trip is worth spending your rewards. You can use TPG’s monthly valuations to help you determine if the price of your flight or hotel room is worth your points and miles. Some travels are more affordable in cash, but you can always save your points to splurge on a business-class flight to Europe or an overwater bungalow at a luxury resort. 

How to use travel credit card portals  

In the world of travel credit cards, the four major players are American Express, Capital One, Chase and Citi. These issuers also have their own travel portals which can be used to earn and redeem points for travel. 

Some issuers, like Capital One and Chase , offer an incentive to book travel through the bank’s portal but it is not always worth booking through a portal. 

We do not recommend booking hotel travel through card portals as it typically does not honor elite-status benefits or elite-qualifying stay credits. 

Luckily, flights typically allow you to earn bonus points through a card issuer’s portal and with the airline. Keep in mind that this does not apply to all cards. When purchasing in cash, there generally is little variance in booking through a portal or on the airline’s website so if your travel credit card offers incentives to book through the portal , it can be a great way to earn extra points. 

Related: Ultimate guide to the Citi travel portal

Points and miles redemptions will have a fair variance, especially if there are incentives to book through the travel portals. Overall, travel portals can be a great addition to your points redemption journey if properly used. Always remember to compare the price or redemption value of booking through a portal or directly with an airline. 

Booking through a portal may make matters complicated if you ever need to change or cancel your flight. 

Related: Battle of the credit card travel portals: Which is the best for booking flights?

Types of travel credit cards

Travel credit cards are cards that are geared towards travel spending. Luckily, there are many types of travel credit cards which means there is a good option for any traveler. Typically, when talking about travel credit cards, we are referring to transfer rewards credit cards, airline credit cards and hotel credit cards. There are additional types of travel credit cards that are less popular but can still be a good option for the right traveler.

Transferable rewards credit cards earn points and miles that can be redeemed through a card’s rewards program directly or by transferring them to a travel partner . Many of our best travel credit cards fall under this category because they are the most valuable type of points you can earn. Transferable rewards give you the flexibility to redeem your rewards in a way that will be most beneficial to you. Examples of top transferable rewards cards are the Chase Sapphire Reserve and The Platinum Card® from American Express .

Airline cobranded cards earn a specific type of airline miles. These cards also generally come with perks specific to that airline. For example, an airline card may offer free checked bags , a certain number of elite-qualifying miles to help you reach status, priority boarding privileges, inflight discounts and more.

Hotel cobranded cards work like airline cards. You’ll earn rewards that are redeemable for a particular hotel program, such as Hilton or Marriott. Hotel cards come with their own benefits, such as complimentary elite status or free award-night stays. In addition, hotel cards can help you stack your earnings on hotel stays with the hotel’s program.

For example, if you have a Marriott credit card , you’ll earn bonus points for every dollar spent at participating Marriott properties on top of the 10 base points you get as a member of the Bonvoy program. This can really amplify the rewards you can earn when you use your hotel card to pay for your booking.

The points and miles world can be confusing for new credit card users but it doesn’t have to be. While transferable rewards cards are arguably the best way to earn points and miles for travel, they can also be incredibly confusing. Fixed-value credit cards and cash-back credit cards are good alternatives for beginners who are looking to get into the travel credit card world.

Fixed-value cards earn points or miles that are always redeemed for the same value. For example, the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card earns points worth 1 cent each. These cards are great for beginners who haven’t quite gotten the hang of maximizing transferable points or casual travelers who are looking for their first travel credit card . Fixed-value credit cards are often the best travel credit cards for beginners. 

As more hotels and airlines move to a dynamic pricing model where award pricing shifts dramatically, fixed-value rewards programs are becoming more popular.

Another great credit card option for casual travelers or credit card beginners is cash-back credit cards. You don’t have to worry about points, transfer partners or maximizing your rewards with these cards. Cash-back cards provide a percentage of cash back on your spending and provide a simple way to save on your upcoming travels. 

The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) is a great option for beginners to travel rewards. It earns unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and has no annual fee.

Travel credit card benefits

Some travel cards offer automatic elite status with various programs when you sign up and can also accelerate the journey to elite airline status by converting points to air miles. If you are loyal to a particular hotel brand, status with that brand will be valuable. You’ll be entitled to room upgrades, resort credits, early check-in, late checkout and more. If you’re not loyal, it won’t. The same goes for elite status with an airline — you’ll get lounge access, upgrades, increased baggage allowance, etc. When comparing the perks of various cards like elite status, be realistic about which ones you will and won’t use.

One of the coveted perks of premium travel credit cards is complimentary airport lounge access. Many premium travel credit cards come with Priority Pass lounge access , a membership that allows access to airport lounges across the world. These lounges are a great place to relax before your flight or have a snack during a long layover. Amenities will vary between lounges but most lounges provide wifi, private seating and refreshments. Be sure to check the priority pass guest policy as many lounges allow you to bring a complimentary guest (or guests).

TSA PreCheck and Global Entry are both expedited screening programs for travelers. TSA PreCheck is reserved for expedited security screening for domestic flights and Global Entry provides expedited customs screening for international travelers when entering the United States. 

The application fee for TSA PreCheck is up to $85 and $100 for Global Entry. If you are approved for the program, the membership is valid for 5 years. Many travel credit cards will offer statement credit for the application . 

How to choose the best travel credit card

  • 1 Sign-up bonus Choosing a card with a healthy sign-up bonus will help jumpstart the possibility of unlocking elite status across different areas, including airline and hotel loyalty programs.
  • 2 Annual fee Premium travel credit cards typically feature higher annual fees. Double-check that the card you choose suits your spending habits and travel needs before applying.
  • 3 Bonus categories It also helps to check which bonus categories a card offers to ensure that they align with your spending, whether it’s at restaurants, at grocery stores or on streaming subscriptions.

featuredImageAlt

Ask our experts

What's your favorite travel credit card — and why.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Pros + cons of travel credit cards

  • Using credit cards responsibly can help build your credit score
  • Travel credit cards can earn cash back, points or miles on every dollar you spend.
  • Travel credit cards can provide purchase, theft and fraud protection.
  • Travel credit cards provide perks like travel insurance, complimentary hotel stays and more.
  • Credit cards can encourage overspending.
  • Carrying a balance and using your card irresponsibly can damage your credit score
  • The cost of borrowing on credit cards is higher than traditional loans
  • Having too many card applications can negatively affect your credit score
  • Travel credit cards may be too complicated (or expensive) for those who aren’t frequent travelers.

Frequently asked questions

Generally speaking, you need at least a very good credit score in order to get many popular travel credit cards. According to FICO, the scoring model used by most lenders, this is a score of at least 740. However, there’s no hard-and-fast rule, as each individual credit card issuer looks at a variety of factors in addition to your credit score when deciding whether to approve or decline your application.

Thankfully, there are a number of ways to check your credit score for free , so you can get an idea of where you stand before wasting an application (and a hard inquiry on your credit report) for a card for which you’re unlikely to qualify.

Points and miles are simply two different ways to describe the same thing: the rewards you earn on a credit card. As an example, many popular Capital One credit cards earn miles, whereas cards that participate in Chase Ultimate Rewards accrue points. There’s no appreciable difference between the two words.

This gets a little more complicated when you begin discussing cash-back credit cards. Some of these show earnings with a dollar amount, while others show cash-back rewards in points. However, here too there’s no significant difference. It’s simply how the card issuer chooses to describe the rewards you’re earning.

It depends entirely on your typical travel habits. Many popular travel credit cards feature rewards, benefits and redemption options that only come into play when you’re actually on the road. This includes perks like airport lounge access or statement credits for certain travel purchases. Ultimately, you should look at how much value you expect to get out of a given travel card in one year. Then, compare that to the card’s annual fee to make sure you’re getting at least that much value.

It depends. Generally speaking, you should aim to use your rewards from travel credit cards for travel-related purchases – like flights or hotel rooms. However, everyone has a different version of what “value” looks like here. Some travelers are perfectly content redeeming 25,000 miles for a $250 economy flight. Others would rather save up and use 100,000 miles for a $5,000 business-class ticket. The important thing is to avoid redemptions like gift cards or merchandise, since those typically offer poor value for your points and miles.

Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine whether you want to keep cash in your pocket by using rewards for a particular purchase instead.

Many of the luxury travel cards on this list offer hundreds of dollars in annual travel statement credits. However, not all annual travel statements are created equal. While some cards feature easy redemptions, other cards feature redemptions that come with more restrictions. 

Out of the various cards that offer annual travel credits, the Chase Sapphire Reserve has the easiest redemption process for travel credits . The Chase Sapphire Reserve's travel credit covers a broad selection of charges, including flights, hotels, campgrounds and more. Additionally, the travel does not have to be booked through Chase’s travel portal, and the statement credit will automatically post when you make an eligible purchase. 

kiszon pascal / Getty Images

Advertiser Disclosure

Best credit cards for international travel

The right card might include valuable travel perks like airport lounge access and expedited airport security

Published: August 18, 2023

Holly Johnson

Author: Holly Johnson

Kaitlyn Tang

Editor: Kaitlyn Tang

Barri Segal

Reviewer: Barri Segal

Why trust us?

The best credit cards for international travel can make traversing the globe a more comfortable and rewarding experience. Compare our top picks to see how they work for your travel style and goals.

The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired. Please review our list of best credit cards , or use our CardMatch™ tool to find cards matched to your needs.

The Bank of America content was last updated on September 28, 2023

When it comes to travel credit cards , there are lots of good options to choose from. But ultimately, the right option for you should fit your spending habits while making your trips more comfortable and rewarding.

With the right rewards credit card , you can score valuable travel perks, like airport lounge access and expedited airport security. Some cards even come without any foreign transaction fees, making them a good choice for international travel. The top travel cards may also enable you to earn points and miles to redeem for free flights, hotel stays and more.

As you’re searching for a card to help you on your next trip, it’s helpful to compare all the best credit cards for international travel to see how may fit with your travel style and goals. To help you get started, here are some of the best credit cards for travel overseas and information on what they offer in terms of perks and rewards.

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve: Best credit card for international travel

Why we picked it : The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is widely considered one of the top travel credit cards on the market today, and for good reason. This card offers you 10X points on hotel and car rental purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards , 5X points on air travel purchases through Chase Ultimate Rewards and 3X points on other travel purchases. Plus, you can earn higher rewards on all travel purchases immediately after earning the $300 annual travel credit. It also offers 3X points on dining and 1X point on all other purchases.

Redemption options are flexible, too. You can redeem your rewards as statement credits toward any travel purchase, or for travel through the Chase portal, which offers a 50% redemption bonus (making your points worth 1.5 cents apiece). You can also transfer your points at a 1:1 rate to 14 travel partners, including Air France and Aer Lingus.

  • 60,000 points if you spend $4,000 in the first three months
  • Up to $100 TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit (every four years)
  • Priority Pass Select membership
  • $300 annual travel credit
  • $550 annual fee
  • Lower rewards value for merchandise

Who should apply : If you’ve been waiting for a chance to earn Chase Ultimate Rewards points , now is your time.

Who should skip : If the $550 annual fee doesn’t fit in your budget, you can skip this one. Or, if you prefer to redeem your rewards for merchandise (like Amazon.com purchases), you may want to look elsewhere.

  • The Platinum Card from American Express: Best credit card for international lounge access

Why we picked it : Frequent travelers who want superior perks may want to consider The Platinum Card ® from American Express . This card offers 5X points (on up to $500,000 per year) on airfare booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel , as well as 5X points on prepaid hotels booked through American Express Travel. You also earn 1X points on other purchases, plus 100,000 points when you spend $6,000 on purchases within the first six months.

While the Platinum card is more limited in terms of acceptance in foreign countries, you may find that it’s a good choice for comfortable travel to your destination. It’s just piled with perks, including access to one of the largest lounge networks in the world, encompassing Amex Centurion lounges , Delta SkyClub lounges and the Priority Pass network.

  • Access to American Express Global Lounge Collection
  • 100,000 points if you spend $6,000 in the first six months
  • Generous amount of statement credits on Clear membership, hotels and more
  • Transfer points to Amex travel partners
  • Credits tricky to apply
  • $695 annual fee

Who should apply : If the idea of joining the largest airline network is appealing, it may be worth it to apply. Or, if you want to join the luxury travel card space, this card is a great option to consider.

Who should skip : If you find it difficult to justify the annual fee , you may want to skip this one. Or, if you only travel infrequently, you may find it difficult to maximize returns on this card.

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best for flexible international travel

Why we picked it : The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers an interesting rewards structure and miles that can be used in more than one way. This card offers 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and a flat 2X miles on everything else. And, it also offers 75,000 miles (worth $750 in travel) if you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months.

You can redeem Capital One miles for any type of past travel on your credit card statement at a rate of 1 cent per mile. Or, if you’re a bargain hunter and want to get a little extra value out of your miles, you can transfer them to a number of airline and hotel partners at a transfer ratio that varies based on the program.

  • Various redemption options
  • 75,000 miles when you spend $4,000 in the first three months
  • May redeem Capital One miles retroactively for past (last 90 days) travel purchases
  • Earn unlimited miles
  • $95 annual fee
  • Lacks common travel insurances
  • No major U.S. airlines among airline partners

Who should apply : If you want greater flexibility in terms of booking travel on third-party sites, you may like this card. Or, if you’re looking for a beginner travel credit card , this may be a good option to consider.

Who should skip : If you don’t travel enough to make it worth the annual fee, it may be worth skipping this card.

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred Card: Best credit card for infrequent international trips

Why we picked it : The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a top option because it allows you to transfer your points 1:1 to popular airlines for international travel, including Emirates, United Airlines, British Airways and more. You can also book international travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards for 25% more value when you do.

This card offers a sign-up bonus of 60,000 points, worth $750 in travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards, when you spend $4,000 within three months. You’ll also earn 5X points on Lyft rides (through March 31, 2025), 5X points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3X points on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2X points on other travel purchases and 1X points on general purchases.

  • $50 annual Ultimate Rewards hotel credit
  • 10% anniversary points bonus (based on total spend from previous year)
  • Points worth 25% more on Chase Ultimate Rewards portal

Who should apply : If you want to earn rewards for international travel but you don’t take many trips abroad, this card may be worth a look. This card is also great if you’re a travel card beginner who wants an introduction to earning travel points.

Who should skip : Cardholders who want a no-annual-fee credit card should skip this one. Also, anyone who travels once every few years will find it difficult to maximize the benefits on this card.

  • Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card: Best no-annual-fee card for international travel

Why we picked it : If you’re searching for a travel card with no annual fee, consider the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card . This card offers 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 1.25X miles on all other purchases and doesn’t charge an annual fee. The rewards have no blackout dates, no expiration dates and no mile limits. You can even transfer your miles to Capital One’s 15+ travel partners.

The Capital One VentureOne also comes with a welcome offer of 20,000 miles after you spend just $500 in the first three months. Depending on which travel partner you transfer your miles to, your sign-up bonus could end up being worth even more.

  • No annual fee
  • 20,000 miles if you spend $500 in the first three months
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • No major U.S. airlines among travel partners

Who should apply : If you’re looking for your first no-annual-fee travel card, this may be a good candidate. Or, if you want greater flexibility and don’t want to be tied to booking with a specific travel site, you may like this card.

Who should skip : This card doesn’t come with travel insurance, so if that’s a perk you’re looking for, you may want to skip it.

Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card for Students: Best international credit card for students

Why we picked it : If you’re a student who wants to qualify for a travel card, you may want to check out the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for Students* .  This card doesn’t charge an annual fee or any foreign transaction fees, and it offers an exceptionally good rewards program for a student travel card. You get the same 25,000-point sign-up bonus as the regular Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card and the same 1.5X points rate, allowing you to rack up lots of points on every purchase, which you can use to fund your travels.

  • 5X points on general purchases
  • No blackout dates, point limit or point expiration date
  • 0% intro APR on new purchases for 15 billing cycles (18.24% to 28.24% variable thereafter)
  • 10% point bonus for Bank of America account holders
  • High penalty APR (up to 29.99%)
  • Penalty APR (up to 29.99%)
  • Late payment fee (up to $40)

Who should apply : Students who are preparing to study abroad may find value in this card. Or, if you’re planning a post-graduation, international trip, consider whether it makes sense to sign up for this option.

Who should skip : If you aren’t traveling internationally anytime soon, you may want to skip this one. And, if you’re not a student, you should skip this one.

Comparing the best credit cards for international travel

  • How to choose a card for international travel

When choosing a card for international travel, you’ll want to look for rewards and benefits that match your travel plans and preferences. Most important, you need a card that you can use where you’re planning to travel. Here are the key features to consider:

  • Global acceptance: Visa and Mastercard are most likely to be accepted around the globe, though American Express is also widely accepted in some parts of the world. Make sure you select a card that will be accepted where you travel the most.
  • No foreign transaction fees : Choosing a credit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you from paying an additional 3% or more on every purchase you make abroad.
  • Chip and PIN technology: Chip and PIN technology is immensely helpful when traveling abroad, but not all travel credit cards offer this perk. See which cards have chip and PIN technology before you choose a card.
  • Earning categories:  The best credit cards for international travel tend to offer bonuses on certain categories of spend. Search for cards with category bonuses that match your spending patterns.
  • Good redemption options: The top cards in this realm let you redeem for travel directly or transfer points to airline and hotel partners at a good value (1 cent per point or mile is standard). The more options you have and the more value you get from your points and miles, the better off you’ll be.
  • Travel insurance benefits: The best travel credit cards offer free travel insurance like trip cancellation/interruption coverage , auto rental coverage, lost baggage insurance, baggage delay coverage and travel accident insurance.
  • Airport lounge access:  Look for cards that let you enter a range of airport lounges at airports around the globe, but specifically in destinations you travel to often.
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck: Look for credit cards that offer a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit. Both these benefits let you enjoy expedited airport security, saving you time and stress when you travel.
  • Hotel or airline preferences:  If you travel frequently with certain hotels or airlines, you’ll find that certain cards are a better fit for you. On the other hand, if you aren’t loyal to any airline or hotel program , you may be better off with a more flexible travel card.
  • Origin or destination of travel:  Make sure the card’s rewards and benefits fit with your travel plans. For instance, some cards may offer better lounge options along your route, or you may find that certain rewards cards don’t offer good redemption options where you’re planning to travel.
  • Customer service:  Having a card with excellent customer service could come in handy in case of an emergency.
  • Tips for using credit cards while traveling internationally
  • Notify your card issuer that you will be out of the country to reduce the chance of having your account frozen at an inconvenient time.
  • Bring multiple credit cards (preferably from different payment networks) in case a merchant doesn’t accept your main card, or your card gets declined.
  • Rotate your cards to get better rewards on certain purchases.
  • Have plenty of cash on hand for situations when you can’t use your credit cards.
  • If you are traveling to a country with chip and PIN cards, see if your issuer will allow you to add a PIN to your card.
  • Have your card information and your issuer’s emergency card services phone number on hand in case your card gets lost or stolen.
  • Opt to put your charges in the local currency to avoid paying more for the currency conversion.
  • Use your credit cards instead of cash where you can – as long as you are charging in the foreign currency, you can get a better exchange rate.
  • Avoid using your cards for cash advances , unless it’s an absolute emergency.
  • Use your credit card instead of a debit card to make purchases – not only can you avoid foreign transaction fees, but your purchases are also more secure.

Bottom line

At the end of the day, picking the best credit card for international travel for you is an especially complicated choice. It all depends on what’s important to you.

While you may have your eye out for a card with a large sign-up bonus and lots of points, you should have some travel goals in mind before you choose a card. If you know where and how you intend to travel, you’re more likely to find a card that can take you far in your travels.

Editorial Disclaimer

The editorial content on this page is based solely on the objective assessment of our writers and is not driven by advertising dollars. It has not been provided or commissioned by the credit card issuers. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products from our partners.

Holly Johnson is a financial expert and award-winning writer who is obsessed with frugality, budgeting and travel. In addition to serving as contributing editor for The Simple Dollar, Johnson owns Club Thrifty and is the co-author of “Zero Down Your Debt: Reclaim Your Income and Build a Life You’ll Love.”

On this page

  • Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students: Best international credit card for students

Essential reads, delivered straight to your inbox

Stay up-to-date on the latest credit card news 一 from product reviews to credit advice 一 with our newsletter in your inbox twice a week.

By providing my email address, I agree to CreditCards.com’s Privacy Policy

Your credit cards journey is officially underway.

Keep an eye on your inbox—we’ll be sending over your first message soon.

Learn more about Education

Best no-annual-fee travel credit cards of 2023

Best no-annual-fee travel credit cards of 2023

Looking for the best travel rewards with no annual fee doesn’t have to be hard. There are plenty of great credit cards you can explore to help you earn and redeem rewards for travel.

Best credit cards for trip cancellation

Best credit cards for trip cancellation

Credit cards may reimburse you for your pre-paid expenses if your trip is canceled or interrupted. Here’s how trip cancellation and interruption insurance works, what cards offer it and what alternatives are available.

What to know about prepaid travel credit cards

10 credit and money tips for travel abroad

TSA PreCheck vs. Global Entry vs. Clear: Which is best for you?

How do travel rewards credit cards work?

Explore more categories

  • Card advice
  • Credit management
  • To Her Credit

Questions or comments?

Editorial corrections policies

CreditCards.com is an independent, advertising-supported comparison service. The offers that appear on this site are from companies from which CreditCards.com receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site, including, for example, the order in which they may appear within listing categories. Other factors, such as our own proprietary website rules and the likelihood of applicants' credit approval also impact how and where products appear on this site. CreditCards.com does not include the entire universe of available financial or credit offers. CCDC has partnerships with issuers including, but not limited to, American Express, Bank of America, Capital One, Chase, Citi and Discover.

Since 2004, CreditCards.com has worked to break down the barriers that stand between you and your perfect credit card. Our team is made up of diverse individuals with a wide range of expertise and complementary backgrounds. From industry experts to data analysts and, of course, credit card users, we’re well-positioned to give you the best advice and up-to-date information about the credit card universe.

Let’s face it — there’s a lot of jargon and high-level talk in the credit card industry. Our experts have learned the ins and outs of credit card applications and policies so you don’t have to. With tools like CardMatch™ and in-depth advice from our editors, we present you with digestible information so you can make informed financial decisions.

Our top goal is simple: We want to help you narrow down your search so you don’t have to stress about finding your next credit card. Every day, we strive to bring you peace-of-mind as you work toward your financial goals.

A dedicated team of CreditCards.com editors oversees the automated content production process — from ideation to publication. These editors thoroughly edit and fact-check the content, ensuring that the information is accurate, authoritative and helpful to our audience.

Editorial integrity is central to every article we publish. Accuracy, independence and authority remain as key principles of our editorial guidelines. For further information about automated content on CreditCards.com , email Lance Davis, VP of Content, at [email protected] .

Best credit cards for international travel in 2024

The best credit cards for international travel

The best credit cards for international travel do not charge fees for purchases made in foreign currency, are widely-accepted abroad, and feature enhanced customer service and security features to keep your card safe and active, wherever in the world you roam. We’ve reported on international travel credit cards for 15+ years to bring you our recommendations.

Only a few choice cards make our short list, and it’s hard to pick an overall winner in this category. After much debate, we recommend the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card as the best credit card for international travel. Other cards in the Venture family and the ever-popular Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve® cards are nearly as good, however, so read on for all the details.

Overview: Best credit card for international travel

  • Best credit card for international travel : Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
  • Also great for international travel: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
  • Best no-annual fee credit card for international travel: Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

The newest contender on our list, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card beats out our longstanding top pick, Chase Sapphire Reserve® (still our #2) because we feel the Venture X card offers unparalleled value for international travelers wanting a premium travel credit card.

credit card for travel abroad

On Capital One's secure website

See Rates & Fees.

  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card checks all our boxes for a great credit card for international travel: No foreign transaction fees, global acceptance, international customer service and industry-leading travel rewards.

The Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a premium travel credit card that carries a $395 annual fee. But generous benefits like up to $300 back annually on travel bookings through Capital One quickly make this card a great value. And, the thing is, the Venture X annual fee is actually a good deal lower than annual fees with many competing cards.

New card-members will enjoy an amazing welcome bonus: earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening.

Rewards are also solid. Earn 10x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; 5x miles on flights booked with Capital One Travel; 2x miles on all other spending. The “catch”, if you want to call it that, is that you must book your hotels and flights through Capital One’s travel site to earn the unprecedented rewards rates. If you prefer to always book travel directly with your airline and hotel, that might be a deal-breaker. Capital One Travel works just like Expedia or Kayak and all the other travel booking sites; you’ll see a list of options where you can book the best deal for you.

Each year, the Venture X Rewards Card also “reimburses” you up to $300 for travel purchases booked through Capital One Travel. These reimbursements appear as statement credits.

You’ll also enjoy a credit up to $100 to use toward your TSA Precheck or Global Entry application fee and a 10,000-mile anniversary bonus. The card’s high annual fee isn’t nothing, but it is less than other premium cards, making the Venture X Rewards Card a solid choice.

If you’re looking for a lower-fee or fee-free travel card, two other Capital One Venture Card variants are both excellent choices for international travel. Consider the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card as lower-fee alternatives. To learn more, compare the Capital One Venture X and Venture Rewards cards .

» MORE: Learn more/apply or read our full Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card review

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Over the years, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® has earned adoration among world travelers and credit card nerds alike for its premium benefits. But those jet-setting perks come with a sky-high annual fee, and that requires a close look at whether the price of admission is worth it based upon your spending and travel habits.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

credit card for travel abroad

On Chase's secure website

  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more
  • Member FDIC

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers a welcome bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

With the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, you’ll earn 10x points hotel and car rental bookings through Chase Travel℠; 5x points on flights booked through Chase Travel℠; 3x points on other travel worldwide; 3x points on dining (including eligible delivery services); and 1x points on all other purchases.

The  Chase Sapphire Reserve® checks several boxes when it comes to being a best credit card for international travel. For one, it does not charge foreign transaction fees (like many other cards on this list), but it also offers plenty of other travel perks, too. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® does carry a $550 annual fee — something you’ll definitely have to weigh when considering the benefits. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a related Chase offering with a lower annual fee; you can read about the differences between the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve®  to see which is right for you.

Most notably, it provides valuable travel insurance that can come in handy should things go awry while you’re abroad. When you charge your trip to the Chase Sapphire Reserve® you get:

  • Auto rental collision damage waiver —  Covers up to $75,000 in theft or damage to rental vehicles in the U.S. and abroad.
  • Trip cancellation/interruption insurance —  Provides up to $10,000 reimbursement per person ($20,000 per trip) if your trip is canceled or cut short due to weather, illness, or other covered reasons.
  • Lost luggage reimbursement —  Receive up to $3,000 per passenger for lost or damaged luggage.
  • Trip delay reimbursement —  Offers up to $500 per person towards unreimbursed travel expenses caused by delays of six hours or requiring an overnight stay.
  • Emergency evacuation & transportation coverage —  Covers up to $100,000 in medical services and transportation in case you or a family member become ill while traveling away from home.
  • Airport lounge access — Priority pass select membership is included with your card membership, giving you access to certain airport lounges around the world.

With all that insurance included, you can skip out on buying separate travel insurance and save that money for other (more fun) things on your trip.

Another benefit of the Chase Sapphire Reserve® is access to Chase Travel℠. Not only can you redeem your points for travel purchases like hotels and rental cars or airfare, you can also exchange points for miles or points at dozens of leading airline and hotel loyalty programs.

» MORE:  Learn more/apply now  or read our full  Chase Sapphire Reserve® review

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is the best credit card for international travel with no annual fee. Although this card lacks the premium perks of competitors like travel statement credits and airport lounge access, you’ll still enjoy earning 1.25 miles on every purchase, no foreign transaction fees, and worldwide acceptance ( See Rates & Fees. ) .

credit card for travel abroad

  • $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
  • Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

With the no annual fee Captial One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card, earn unlimited 1.25 miles on all purchases. Use your rewards to fly any airline, stay at any hotel, anytime – no blackout dates; transfer your miles to over 15+ travel partners, and; pay no foreign transaction fees.

The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card also has a sign-up bonus: 20,000 bonus miles once you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening .

It’s not just the absence of an annual fee that makes this an outstanding credit card. Like the Capital One Venture Card, the  Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is tailored specifically to travelers with features that will make it a top credit card for traveling to Europe or wherever your travels take you.

» MORE:  Learn more/apply now or read our Capital One VentureOne Credit Card review

The competition

The platinum card® from american express.

The Platinum Card® from American Express offers incredible benefits (including up to $1,500 in statement credits each year), but comes with an eye-popping $695 annual fee. Although it’s a great card for the right person, it falls short of our best credit cards for international travel only because Amex isn’t universally accepted in Europe and elsewhere outside of the United States.

credit card for travel abroad

All information about The Platinum Card from American Express has been collected independently by MoneyUnder30.com. Content has not been reviewed or approved by the issuer.

Welcome Offer

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new card in your first six months of card membership.

Earn 5X Membership Rewards points for every $1 spent on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel (up to $500,000 spent on these purchases per calendar year); 5X points on prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com; and one point per $1 spent on eligible purchases elsewhere.

Our Thoughts

World-class luxury travel perks that make the high annual fee well worth it if you can take advantage.

Offer details accurate as of 9/6/23

The Platinum Card® from American Express is a good international travel credit card where it’s accepted, packed with valuable travel protections and money-saving benefits.

What kind of benefits? Well, cardmembers receive over $1,500 worth of statement credits every year that can offset the cost of international travel:

  • $300 Equinox credit
  • $240 digital entertainment credit
  • $200 hotel credit
  • $200 Uber cash
  • $200 airline fee credit
  • $189 CLEAR credit
  • $100 Global Entry/TSA Precheck credit (every four years)
  • $100 credit with Saks Fifth Avenue
  • $155 Walmart+ credit

In addition to these benefits, cardmembers get access to over 1,400 airline lounges worldwide, which can make even your longest layovers much more pleasant. Instead of waiting by a busy gate, you can hang out in a dedicated space with free food and drinks.

The card’s benefits also go beyond flying. Cardmembers receive complimentary Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy Gold elite status. Elevated status can get you perks like bonus points, room upgrades, and even complimentary breakfast.

Aside from the high cost, one significant downside to this card is that American Express cards are less widely accepted than Visa and Mastercard. So the various benefits may not be as useful if your card isn’t accepted. If you’re bringing your Amex Platinum abroad, having a backup card is definitely a good idea.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card  is another excellent choice for international travel credit card. Although lighter on benefits than the Sapphire Reserve card, this card has no foreign transaction fees, international customer service, and an ample travel rewards program.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

credit card for travel abroad

  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, and $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.

With the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, you’ll enjoy no foreign transaction fee and a great rewards program. Earn:

  • 5X points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
  • 3X points per dollar on dining, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
  • 2x points per dollar on other travel purchases
  • 1X points per dollar on everything else

Th sign up bonus on this card is a nice 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards®.

Note that there is a $95 annual fee.

» MORE:  See card details/apply  or read our  Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card review

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

If you’re looking for a Visa card for international travel with a lower annual fee, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is an excellent choice.

credit card for travel abroad

  • Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Welcome bonus:  Earn 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
  • Rewards:  5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked with Capital One Travel; 2x miles on all other purchases

When considering the best credit card for international travel, widespread acceptance is critical. After all, there’s no sense in bringing a card that’s packed with travel perks if you can’t use it! Visa is more widely accepted than Mastercard and American Express, in  over 200 countries  worldwide.

The 2x-mile base earn rate is also great for maximizing all purchases abroad, while the 5x bonus on hotels and rental car bookings made through Capital One Travel can help you earn more on your travel bookings.

The card’s Global Entry/TSA Precheck credit is unique for a $95 annual fee card and can make your travels abroad more convenient.

Overall, this is an excellent option if you just want a simple rewards credit card with travel bonuses and perks and no foreign transaction fees.

» MORE: Learn more/apply now or read our Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card review

How to choose a credit card for international travel

When deciding on a credit card for international travel, there are a few benefits you should look for. The most important one is no foreign transaction fees.

Some credit cards charge fees of up to 3% when you use your card abroad. That’s an extra $30 for every $1,000 in spending. Imagine how much that adds up when you pay for your flights, hotels, meals, and activities! There’s no sense in paying an extra fee to earn credit card rewards.

You also want to look for a card that offers bonus points on travel and some level of travel protection. If you’re spending thousands of dollars on travel, you want peace of mind in case of unexpected travel delays or cancellations. Many travel rewards cards offer trip interruption/cancellation coverage, alongside baggage insurance and emergency evacuation.

Having these benefits will give you comfort when traveling abroad, knowing you’re covered in case things don’t go as planned. And while you can get these benefits from travel insurance, many travel credit cards offer it free of charge.

What’s the best credit card for international travel?

The best credit card for traveling abroad depends on your travel needs. But at the very least, your card should offer some travel protections, no foreign transaction fees, and bonus points on travel.

Wide acceptance is also important, so if Amex is your primary card, you should bring a Visa or Mastercard as backup.

Is Visa or Mastercard better for European travel?

Both Visa and Mastercard credit cards are widely accepted in Europe and around the world, so you should’ve have issues whichever you use. If you want to use an American Express card for international travel, we recommend you carry a back-up card that’s either a Visa or Mastercard. And Discover credit cards are not widely accepted outside of the United States.

Are Amex credit cards good for international travel?

American Express markets themselves as an international brand for sophisticated world travelers. Although Amex cards come with some amazing travel benefits, it’s important to note that they are not as widely accepted as Visa and Mastercard credit cards.

When you travel to Europe or Asia or even the Middle East, you can expect major airlines, hotels and some restaurants to accept American Express cards. Don’t be surprised, however, if you can’t use an Amex card for international travel at smaller restaurants, shops or other purchases.

What are the best credit cards for traveling to Europe?

Can i use a us credit card in europe.

US-issued credit cards that bear either the Visa or Mastercard logo will be just fine to use traveling in Europe and elsewhere abroad. One thing you’ll notice, however, is that in European countries, most merchants expect you to enter a PIN each time you make a credit card purchase (like we do here in America for debit card purchases or ATM transactions). In Europe, they do typically have credit card users sign a receipt.

You may get some confused looks from waiters or others when you use your US credit card in Europe. But, rest assured, they will work just fine.

What are foreign transaction fees?

Foreign transaction fees are charged by banks when you use your card abroad. They range from 3% to 5% in most cases and can quickly add up if you’re paying for all your travel expenses with a card.

Many travel rewards credit cards waive foreign transaction fees completely.

Should I get a credit card to travel internationally?

If you don’t already have a credit card, you should get one before traveling internationally. You’ll need a credit card to check into hotels and book activities online. Not only that, but in some destinations, such as western Europe, many shops and restaurants have turned card-only, especially since the pandemic.

Paying with a credit card also offers a higher level of protection than cash. You can save on foreign transaction fees with select credit cards and get valuable insurance perks to protect your trip.

What kinds of travel credit cards are there?

There are mainly three types of travel credit cards:

  • Ones that earn hotel points
  • Ones that earn airline miles
  • Ones that earn transferable rewards

Hotel credit cards are good for earning free nights and hotel benefits.

Airline cards are ideal for travelers who want to earn more frequent flyer miles and save on checked baggage fees.

Transferable rewards cards like the  Chase Sapphire Reserve®  and the  Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card  are ideal because they provide more flexibility. You can convert your rewards to hotel points, airline miles, or redeem them at a fixed rate on direct bookings.

The bottom line

Credit cards can provide tremendous value when you’re traveling abroad. Whether you’re looking for high-value perks at a premium, or a no-annual-fee card that covers the basics, there are lots of great cards to choose from.

Hopefully, this round-up gives you an idea of the best cards available and which one might be a good fit for your next trip abroad.

Your money deserves more than a soundbyte.

Get straightforward advice on managing money well.

Most financial content is either an echo chamber for the "Already Rich" or a torrent of dubious advice designed only to profit its creators. For nearly 20 years, we've been on a mission to help our readers acheive their financial goals with no judgement, no jargon, and no get-rich-quick BS. Join us today.

We hate spam as much as you do. We generally send out no more than 2-3 emails per month featuring our latest articles and, when warranted, commentary on recent financial news. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Aweber pixel

Expensivity

Expensivity

Exploring the world of money and finance

Best Credit Cards for International Travel

The Best Credit Cards for International Travel

' src=

Seeking the perfect travel companion for your international adventures? Dive into this guide, where I unveil the top credit cards for international travel. Each one designed for globetrotters, ensuring financial efficiency, safety, and coveted perks.

Best Credit Cards for International Travel

What’s your idea of the perfect getaway? A tropical island, or a snowy mountain peak? A bustling city, or a desolate landscape? There’s no right answer to this question, and the point is: no one travels the same, and so no travel credit card is right for everyone. 

Graphic image that lists the Best Credit Cards for International Travel

With the right credit card offering rewards on travel when you buy everything from buying groceries to gas at the pump, running your daily errands, and planning your trip become one and the same.  

To this end, I selected three credit card options for you to choose from:

Best Credit Card for International Travel with a Large Sign-up Bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

Best credit card for international travel with rewards: capital one venture rewards credit card, best credit card for international travel with points: citi premier card.

A bit later on, I’ll present a complete picture of what I liked and a few things to be aware of about each of the cards I discussed. 

But first, let’s talk about one of the most important points to consider when selecting a credit card for an overseas trip: foreign transaction fees, what they are, and how to avoid them.

What are Foreign Transaction Fees?

Your credit card spending limit is valued in US dollars. When you travel overseas, you pay for lodging, or just a cup of coffee, in the currency of whatever country you’re in. 

That means there’s a currency exchange occurring whenever you swipe the card, and for that service, some credit card companies, like Chase charge currency fees , sometimes called a foreign currency or foreign purchase transaction fee. 

When traveling abroad, these fees can add up, so it’s best to choose a credit card for international travel that doesn’t charge them. The average foreign transaction fee is about 3% and consists of the following:

  • 1% charged by the payment processor (Visa, for example)
  • 2% charged by the card issuer (your bank or credit union)

This might not seem like a lot at first, but when you consider all the lodging, food, and other incidental expenses you’ll rack up while you’re on the road, it can be a substantial additional cost.

Furthermore, foreign transaction fees can accrue when booking your hotel in a foreign country, even if you’re doing it in advance from the comfort of your own living room.

To save money on your international wandering, choose a credit card with few, if any, foreign transaction fees. Here are a few additional ways to avoid this costly expense when traveling abroad:

How Do I Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees?

When preparing for a trip, there’s a lot to plan for. Don’t leave these points off your list:

Graphic image that explains How to Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees?

  • Open an account at a bank or credit union without foreign transaction fees. International spending fees don’t just apply to your credit card. Certain institutions may add an extra charge whenever you use their debit cards overseas, or even just when using an ATM.
  • Exchange currency before you travel. Although there are some safety concerns around carrying cash in a foreign country , if you’ll be in one place for a while, it may just be worth exchanging your currency in advance. Some credit unions, in fact, will do it for free. If you wait until you’re at the airport, however, you’ll have to pay a little more for the service. Once you’ve changed the money, however, there are no more fees to worry about!
  • Avoid foreign ATMs. I know how annoying it can be to need some cash and only have ATMs available from a bank you don’t use that charges fees for your withdrawal. Well, try this outside the country and you could be on the line for foreign transaction fees in addition to ATM fees. That also can add up. If you do need to withdraw money while abroad, try to use an ATM from the institution at which you bank, or at least within the same network of ATMs.
  • Avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion. While traveling in a foreign country you may encounter a merchant or retailer that offers to exchange your currency right there at the point of sale. This is called dynamic currency conversion, or DCC. Although DCC may be convenient, merchants can set their own currency exchange rate, which most likely will be much higher than you might have paid exchanging your currency at a bank back home.

It sounds like foreign transaction fees should be avoided at all costs, right? Well, sort of. The best way to avoid foreign transaction fees is by using a credit card that won’t charge you any. 

But if you do have to pay a fee, here’s something to remember:

  • Foreign Transaction Fees are better than Exchange Counter Fees. If you have no other choice, the foreign transaction fee on your credit card is a far better choice than the service fees at an exchange, like at the airport, for example. 
  • Rewards make all the difference. Even if you do pay extra, it’s not the end of the world. With the right rewards program, it can balance out, so there’s no need to panic. 

With a clearer understanding of foreign transaction fees, what they are and how to avoid them, let’s turn now to the best credit cards for international travel.

The right credit card sign-up bonus goes a long way toward financing the trip of a lifetime. Why not pad your travel budget with a little extra cash, just for signing up?  

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card offers the best sign-up bonus in this ranking, at an enormous 100K bonus points after spending just $4K on the card in the first three months after opening the account. You’ll reach that goal by just booking the airfare and lodging for your trip. 

What’s more, those points are worth an additional 25% when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards , with plenty of travel-related perks to choose from. They can also be transferred at a 1:1 value to a broad range of airline and hotel loyalty programs. And if that isn’t generous enough, Chase offers 2X points on every dollar spent on travel and dining, anywhere in the world, with 1 point for each additional dollar spent across all categories.  

With this card, there also are no foreign transaction fees to worry about, and chip-enhanced technology keeps you safe no matter where you roam. For this reason, you can also feel confident the card will be accepted wherever you happen to be. 

There is a $95 annual fee associated with the Chase Sapphire, but that’s not too bad considering all the other travel benefits associated with it, and the excellent credit that’s required to be approved for it. Regular APR ranges from 15.99% to 22.99%, which is a bit lower than average. You can also count on 24/7 customer service anywhere in the globe. 

Even though travel is expensive, with the Chase Sapphire card , money spent while traveling keeps on giving in rewards and cash, making it the best credit card to use when planning your next trip overseas. 

Incidental costs come up a lot when journeying abroad. Spend strategically, and while you’re at it, get something back in terms of miles. Outstanding mileage rewards are just what is offered by the next card in this list, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , one of the best credit cards for international travel on the market.

Capital One Venture Rewards

With Venture Rewards, in fact, you earn 2X in miles for every $1 spent, anywhere, anytime. What’s more, Venture One offers a one-time 100K mile bonus after spending $20K on the card in the first year after opening the account. If you use your credit card regularly to rack up travel miles, that’s hard to beat.

And the rewards don’t stop there. Spending just $3K in the first three months gets you 100K bonus points. Also, applying for the card gives you a $100 application fee credit on Global Entry or TSA Precheck , expediting your movement through airports and giving you even more opportunities to save money .

The annual fee on the card is just $95. but if you don’t like fees, check out the very similar no-annual-fee version, Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card . There are some trade-offs in terms of points earned, though: the no-fee card offers only 1.25 miles for every dollar spent.

The card does not offer a special introductory rate, but its regular APR lands between 17.24% and 24.49%. With the kinds of rewards you’ll be enjoying, however, the lack of a special introductory rate isn’t a concern. 

For these reasons and more, Venture Rewards is the perfect card to earn travel points on expenses in a foreign country.

To earn points while also saving money on foreign transaction fees, I recommend the Citi Premier Card . 

Person holding a Citi Premier Card

Through Citi, travelers enjoy 60K bonus ThankYou Points after the first $4K spent within three months after opening the account. Those points can be redeemed for $600 in gift cards at Thankyou.com , which are usable at Amazon.com and many other high-profile retailers that offer travel gear for your next adventure. 

If this doesn’t appeal to you, you can redeem your points to put $300 in cold hard cash back in your pocket.

Earning as few as 1,000 points, in fact, allows you to transfer them to a long list of airline loyalty programs without a fee. Participating airlines include Jet Blue , Virgin Atlantic , and Singapore Airlines . From this list, you’ll be able to fly almost anywhere you need, or somewhere you’ve always dreamed of going, whether it’s in Japan , or saving your money when travelling to Europe .

The everyday rewards offered through the card are also worth noting: 3X points on every dollar spent on a whole list of relevant categories, each and every day, and again, there are no foreign transaction fees to worry about. Eligible categories range from gas and supermarkets to hotels and airfare. And best of all, those points never expire .

Like to stay in the lap of luxury while indulging your wanderlust? Book a $500 hotel room (excluding fees and taxes) and activate the card’s Annual Hotel Savings Benefit , taking $100 bucks off that bill in a rebate. This benefit also renews each calendar year. 

Again, there is a $95 annual fee associated with the card, which is fairly standard, and you need good to excellent credit in order to qualify.

Now that you’ve selected the perfect card for your overseas vacation, what else do you need to know before boarding a plane? 

What Should I Do Before Traveling Internationally?

There’s a lot to know before leaving on a trip to a foreign country, and even more to do to prepare. Follow this checklist and you’ll travel like a pro.

Graphic image that answers that questions, "What Should I do Before Travelling Internationally?"

Update your VISA and Passport. 

It typically takes 10 to 12 weeks for the US Department of State to issue, update or renew a passport, and most countries require that your passport be valid six months after your return date. Don’t leave home without first taking care of these important details.

It’s also a good idea at this point to register your trip with the State Department . That way if something should happen to go wrong, someone will know approximately where you are, where you plan to be, and how to reach you. That information can also be shared with friends and family should the necessity arise. 

Confirm Health Restrictions, Safety Advisories, or Any Other Travel Warnings.

The State Department also lists areas of the world where it is unsafe for Americans to travel , and the kinds of precautions US citizens should take before visiting these areas. 

It’s also a good idea to study up on local customs. For example:

  • Dress codes and cultural expectations related to clothing.
  • Plenty of slip-on footwear should you be traveling to an area in which it is expected you remove your footwear before entering certain tourist sites.
  • Tipping etiquette and protocol (it varies widely across the globe).
  • Simple phrases, at the very least, in the common language or languages of the region.

Get Your Vaccinations and Fill Your Prescriptions.

Don’t leave home without stocking up on your important prescription medicine that may not be available or may be difficult to source wherever your destination happens to be. Also, update any vaccinations the CDC recommends travels receive before journeying to the area of the world you have your sights set upon. 

Paper with a printed image of an umbrella and the word "insurance, placed beside a man typing on his laptop

You may also want to check with the foreign embassy in the area of your trip to find out if any prescription drugs are prohibited, or instead, easily accessible: no packing required. And don’t leave home without needed medical supplies, like syringes if you have a condition that requires their use (just be sure to declare them at airport security.)

Consider Getting Insurance

Even if you have a domestic health insurance policy, it’s likely it won’t be enough to cover you should a medical incident occur while traveling overseas. 

A travel insurance policy will protect you if a medical evacuation should become necessary, or if some other emergency procedure needs to be performed while you’re traveling abroad.

If you’re planning on being overseas for an extended period of time, you might want to consider international health insurance . This way, you can get the medical attention you need while abroad, rather than needing to return back home to receive full treatment.

And finally, perhaps the most important box to check before leaving on your trip overseas is to make sure you have a method of payment at your disposal that’s widely accepted wherever your destination happens to be.

Carrying some local currency is a good idea, but a great credit card secret and better option is to choose a major credit that won’t overcharge in foreign transaction fees, and that also helps you earn points and rewards while you spend, many of which can be used to finance and fund other parts of your trip, like dining, airfare, and lodging.

And with that, you’re ready to go. There’s no better way to learn about the cultures of the world than a trip overseas. I hope my guide to the best credit cards for international travel has been helpful. Bon Voyage!

Money Mentor Logo

Helping you make the most out of your money

Searching Money Mentor . . .

The best travel debit and credit cards to use abroad, avoid hefty fees when you spend abroad with a top travel card.

Updated March 7, 2024

In this guide

best credit cards to use abroad

If you’re heading overseas on holiday or on a business trip, getting a travel credit or debit card could be one of the cheapest ways to spend while abroad.

Often, a regular bank account debit card will charge you hefty fees and a poor exchange rate if you use it abroad for a transaction or cash withdrawal. However, there are lots of cards out there that do away with these fees.

In this article, we outline the best payment cards to use when you’re abroad plus whether it is better to use a credit card or debit card, plus the top prepaid travel money cards.

We explain:

  • Best debit cards to use abroad

Best credit cards to use abroad

  • Top prepaid travel cards to use abroad
  • Should I use a credit or debit card abroad?
  • Is it a good idea to withdraw cash on a credit card abroad?

Read more: Best rewards credit cards

This article may contain affiliate links that can earn us revenue*

What exchange rates are used?

When you pay on most debit and credit cards, the Visa or Mastercard exchange rate is used.

This is very close to the market rate – so you should not be caught out inadvertently paying extra because you have been given a poor exchange rate.

However, there are a small number of cards that set their own exchange rate – like Revolut* . So you need to be careful to ensure you understand the true cost if you use a card like this.

All the cards in this guide use the Visa or Mastercard exchange rate.

Read more: What’s the best way to transfer money internationally?

Book your next hotel with Times Travel

credit card for travel abroad

If you’re planning your next staycation make sure to use Times Travel to find the perfect trip. Not only can you read hundreds of hotel reviews by experienced journalists for free, but you can also use their handy search tool to help whittle down your options.

Visit Times Travel

The best travel debit cards

Here we list two banks which offer debit cards that might be worth considering if you’re travelling abroad.

Chase

Chase current account

Best debit card to use abroad

First Direct

First Direct current account

A great current account, plus a £175 switching bonus

Starling Bank

Starling Bank current account*

Another good travel debit card

Below we list a number of credit card providers that might be worth considering if you’re heading abroad.

Halifax

Halifax Clarity

Best if you are only using it abroad

Barclaycard

Barclaycard Rewards

Best overall travel credit card and good for rewards

Metro Bank

Metro Bank Credit Card (in Europe)

Best for use in Europe

Zopa

Zopa Credit Card

Best app-based card

Best prepaid travel cards

A prepaid travel card lets you load money and exchange for different currencies before you go away. You can then use this card to spend or withdraw cash while abroad.

You can’t spend more than you have loaded onto the card. It effectively works like a debit card that doesn’t have an overdraft.

Below we list a provider that offers a prepaid travel card that might be worth considering if you’re heading abroad.

Wise

Another good option for people looking for a prepaid travel card

Is it better to use a credit card or debit card abroad?

As long as you find the best – and cheapest – credit card or debit card to use abroad, it’s often a matter of personal preference. It’s worth bearing in mind that using a credit card abroad does give you Section 75 protection, which can get you your money back when things go wrong.

However, you’ll need to go through a ‘hard’ credit check when you apply for any credit card, which could affect your credit worthiness.

Lots of current accounts, including Chase’s, only carry out a ‘soft’ check which does not affect your credit score. So if you have a poorer credit history, it could be worth opting for a debit card.

The costs when using a typical debit or credit card abroad, and not a specialist travel card, can add up. According to Moneyfacts:

  • A debit card, can charge £1.38
  • A credit card, can charge £1.50
  • A debit card, £11.88
  • A credit card, £14.95 (before interest is applied)

If your current account comes with a great debit card for use abroad, then you may want to use that.

  • No fees for spending or withdrawing cash abroad
  • A competitive exchange rate

However, if using your bank account looks like it would be quite expensive and you don’t fancy switching, it may be easier to apply for a specialist travel credit card than to open another account.

Read more: Best premium bank accounts

Watch out for credit cards and ATMs

Unless you opt for a bank that offers fee-free current accounts that do not charge for using a debit card in Europe, which include Chase Bank and Starling Bank* , you need to be wary when using an ATM with a debit card.

You can expect even bigger charges when withdrawing cash from a machine using a credit card and that is before interest is applied. Some will charge interest from the day the money leaves your account – even if they may boast of fee-free withdrawals.

Other cards, like Barclaycard Rewards, offer a grace period without charging interest, meaning that you shouldn’t pay any cash withdrawal fees or interest if you clear your balance in full each month. 

Safety abroad

Credit cards also tend to be safer to use abroad. If your debit card is hacked or stolen while away, then the money in your account is at risk. This is not the case with a credit card as only the money up to your credit limit is at risk.

There is also something called Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. If you have a problem with a purchase of between £100 and £30,000, at home or abroad, the credit provider is jointly liable with the retailer. So if your claim is approved, you should get your money back.

You may be able to use a scheme called chargeback if you paid with a debit card or a credit card for purchases of any amount, not just over £100. Here your bank can claw back the money from the retailer’s bank, although the retailer can dispute the claims.

Read more: Best travel insurance providers

You have fewer rights than under Section 75 because that is enshrined in law and chargeback is not. 

The advice if you are traveling is always to have a back-up card with you. A prepaid travel card could be a good option too. 

If you are planning a trip away, you might want to make sure you are covered. Find out what you can expect from a good travel insurance policy.

Exchange your money for foreign cash

Sometimes you’ll need cash for your trip abroad. Not all merchants accept card payments and cash can offer a degree of flexibility. That’s why you might want to consider exchanging some of your holiday budget into foreign currency.

Leaving this to the last minute is often a mistake, especially if you use the bureau de change in the airport. These providers typically hike their fees and charge a premium because your options are limited at this point, so give yourself time beforehand to research the best currency exchange offers around.

* All products, brands or properties mentioned in this article are selected by our writers and editors based on first-hand experience or customer feedback, and are of a standard that we believe our readers expect. This article contains links from which we can earn revenue. This revenue helps us to support the content of this website and to continue to invest in our award-winning journalism. For more, see  How we make our money  and  Editorial promise

Important information

Some of the products promoted are from our affiliate partners from whom we receive compensation. While we aim to feature some of the best products available, we cannot review every product on the market.

Women checking out an offer from a top current account

Our six best current accounts

Banks offer a range of perks to win your business. The best current accounts are currently paying more than 4% on positive balances, cashback on purchases, 0% interest on overdrafts or even cash just for signing up. Read on to see who’s currently offering what. While some providers will pay you to switch to them […]

Black Friday Credit Card

Top credit cards to use this Black Friday and Cyber Monday 2024

Last Black Friday was the busiest day for transactions on record for Nationwide. Other banks and building societies saw similarly high figures with their customer spending. If you plan on taking part, we outline the best ways to finance your discounted purchases. Black Friday is the annual discount shopping event that originated in the US […]

Best balance transfer credit cards

Our best balance transfer credit cards

Switching to an interest-free balance transfer card can save you money

Sign up to our newsletter

For the latest money tips, tricks and deals, sign up to our weekly newsletter today

Your information will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

Thanks for signing up

You’re now subscribed to our newsletter, you’ll receive the first one within the next week.

AP Buyline

Best no foreign transaction fee credit cards for 2024

couple siting on the grass in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris France

10 credit card tips to help you avoid disaster when traveling abroad

Y our international flights are booked, your fancy hotels are reserved, and your itinerary is jammed with insomnia-inducing bucket list adventures. All that’s left to do is pack, yeah?

Actually, no. Before you leave home, doing some quick financial housekeeping is wise. If you don’t have a solid credit card strategy, you could pay hundreds of dollars in fees, forfeit easy savings on purchases you planned to make anyway, and even find that your card is nonfunctional at checkout. Here are ten ways to make traveling internationally with a credit card easy.

10 ways to make traveling internationally with a credit card easy

It’s worth exerting a bit of effort to abide by these tips before your trip to avoid a potential hassle during your vacation.

1. Choose a card designed for travel

If you’re planning an overseas trip, you should open a proper travel credit card . It’s not a gimmick—you can achieve a lot of value from the benefits of a credit card specifically constructed with travelers in mind.

For example, many non-travel credit cards will charge a fee when you make a purchase that is processed outside the U.S. During your international trip, you could pay up to 3% in foreign transaction fees for all spending . But most travel credit cards waive these fees.

Depending on how much you spend abroad, waived foreign transaction fees could amount to hundreds of dollars in savings.

2. Tell the card issuer your travel plans

“See if you need to put a travel notification on your account,” says Jen Ruiz, founder at Jen on a Jet Plane. “Many travel credit cards don’t require it but others may. Your debit card definitely will if you intend to withdraw cash.”

Taking this precaution can save you a lot of headaches. If you don’t keep your credit card issuers in the loop when you plan to travel, transactions could be declined as a fraud prevention measure when you try to use your card. Understandably, a charge on your card 7,000 miles from your home can raise a red flag with your issuer. 

Most major banks allow you to file a travel notice online. You can input the countries you plan to visit, allowing you to swipe your card along your travels worry-free.

Some credit cards will proactively note your travel plans if you use them to purchase your travel. For example, if you use your card to buy a plane ticket to Paris, you may get a message from your card issuer letting you know that your card has been approved for use in France.

3. Research applicable fees

Depending on your destination, you could be in for unexpected fees whenever you swipe your credit card. For example, when you swipe a credit card at checkout, the merchant accepting payment must cough up a “processing fee” to the credit card issuer. To the merchant, this fee is often well worth the convenience it brings for its patrons. But sometimes, the merchant will tack that fee onto your final bill.

It’s worth researching to see if the area you’re visiting is in the habit of putting the processing fee in your lap—and if so, you may decide to bring along some extra cash to save money.

4. Avoid dynamic currency conversion (DCC)

If you’ve ever been abroad, you may have been asked a strange question at checkout immediately after inserting your credit card into the point of sale: Would you like to pay in local currency or U.S. currency?

It’s understandable to want to view your payment in U.S. dollars—simply to better comprehend exactly how much you’re spending. But get this: If you choose to convert your bill into U.S. dollars, you’ll be subject to what is often an egregiously unfavorable exchange rate. This could result in an upcharge of more than 3%. You may even be charged additional fees for the conversion.

Also, realize that requesting a bill to be charged in your home currency doesn’t circumvent foreign transaction fees. You may still be liable for those on top of the exchange rate.

5. Bring a backup card

For a myriad of reasons, you should bring along more than one card on your international fling. For example:

  • You may lose your primary credit card.
  • The card’s payment network, such as American Express and Discover, may not be widely accepted where you’re going (we’ll discuss this more shortly).
  • Fraud or other complications may make your card temporarily useless.

To be extra precautious, Jen suggests to “[k]eep one credit card separate from the rest as a backup. Don’t keep all your cards and money in one place.” Your second card could be a debit card or a prepaid card—but we recommend grabbing another credit card, as it comes with benefits and protections such as $0 liability for unauthorized charges.

6. Set up a PIN (if applicable)

Ever heard of the term “chip and PIN” when referring to a credit card?

Nearly all credit cards nowadays tout an EMV chip. But surprisingly few credit cards in the U.S. are “chip and PIN,” which allow you to complete payment by entering a four-digit number at the point of sale. Instead, most U.S. credit cards are “chip and signature,” which only requires a quick scribble.

In a handful of scenarios, particularly around Europe, you’ll need a true chip and PIN credit card to complete your transaction. For example, an unattended kiosk may prompt you for your PIN after you insert your credit card into the reader. If you don’t have a PIN, you won’t be able to complete your transaction.

Having a chip and PIN card could be the difference between filling up your gas tank and finding yourself stranded without a viable payment method. It’s worth calling your credit card issuer to see if you can set up a PIN on the card you plan to take.

7. Find out how to get cash

We scream endlessly that the hefty fees and high APR of cash advances make them a bad deal . They should only be used in case of emergency. It’s better to plan ahead and take a debit card that will allow you to make withdrawals abroad.

But emergencies happen, and you may find yourself in a circumstance that warrants a cash advance from your credit card. You’ll need to enter a PIN to receive cash, so contact your credit card issuer if you don’t know the preset PIN. You should also have the option to select a personalized number.

8. Write down the customer service number for your card

In most cases, your credit card’s customer service number is on the back of your card. If it’s not there, be sure to jot it down and keep it in a safe place just in case something goes awry with your payment method.

Additionally, if you’ve got a fancy card that comes with an increased level of customer service, note the number that directly connects you with your white glove hotline. For example, The Platinum Card® from American Express offers a dedicated concierge service with a number different from Amex’s regular customer service number.

It’s easy enough to find these details by navigating the automated phone labyrinth or simply googling, but it doesn’t hurt to have it immediately available.

9. Check your card benefits for travel perks

Travel credit cards can do more than just waive foreign transaction fees and extract cash from ATMs; they can revolutionize the quality of your travel. Depending on the credit card you’ve got, you could benefit from:

  • Airport lounge access. There are multiple lounge networks comprising thousands of lounges worldwide, many offering free food and alcohol. With the right credit card, you can access most of these lounges for free as often as you want (with an active boarding pass).
  • Trusted traveler programs. Many credit cards provide credit toward the TSA PreCheck or Global Entry application fees. Membership to either of these programs means you (usually) won’t have to remove your shoes and belt at airport security.
  • Travel insurance. When you use your qualifying travel rewards credit card to reserve your travel, you’ll receive travel insurance benefits like trip delay protection, travel accident insurance, primary rental car insurance, and more.
  • Elite status perks. Many credit cards confer elite status benefits for specific airline and hotel brands. Holding one such card may be enough to influence which hotel brands you stay with—or which airlines you fly.
  • Statement credits. The top travel credit cards offer annual credits to offset common travel purchases, such as airfare, hotel stays, rental cars, and baggage fees.

10. Choose a widely accepted payment network

A payment network is a platform that credit card issuers use to process your credit card transactions. Common payment networks in the U.S. include Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.

Outside the U.S., however, don’t be so confident that your payment network will be as ubiquitous. Visa and Mastercard tend to have virtually universal acceptance. American Express and Discover are a different story—though they are still accepted in many countries.

Top credit cards for international travel

If you’re looking for the best travel credit cards to complement your globetrotting lifestyle, you’ve got a slew of high-powered options to choose from. You need to ask yourself one question as you decide: Do the travel benefits outweigh the annual fee?

For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card charges a $95 annual fee. Beyond waived foreign transaction fees, the card’s main draw is its travel coverages. The card’s trip delay insurance, baggage delay insurance, and primary rental car insurance alone can save you many hundreds of dollars during your trip. But if you don’t value trip delay insurance, the card isn’t worth it for you.

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card charges a $395 annual fee. But it comes with up to $300 back annually for bookings made through Capital One Travel l and 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary. That’s an easy $400 in free travel each year, which more than offsets the card’s annual fee.

In other words, this card is an easy win if you regularly spend at least $400 on travel each year. You can then enjoy the card’s complimentary access to 1,500+ lounges through Priority Pass, elite travel insurance, and application reimbursement for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry without the guilt of an imposing annual fee weighing on your conscience.

The takeaway

There are quite a number of credit card-related details to consider before your international trip. Taking a few precautionary measures, such as opening a travel-centric credit card, setting a PIN, and bringing along more than one card can go a long way toward making your trip a smooth one.

Please note that card details are accurate as of the publish date but are subject to change at any time at the issuer’s discretion. Before applying, please contact the card issuer to verify rates, fees, and benefits.

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

If you're planning a trip overseas, there are a few steps you should take to ensure your credit cards function as they should.

Travel points on credit cards, explained

PayPal Editorial Staff

March 14, 2024

Savvy shoppers can turn everyday spending into exciting adventures by harnessing the power of travel points on credit cards.

Travel points on credit cards are rewards earned for eligible purchases. When someone accumulates enough points, they can redeem them for travel-related expenses like flights, accommodations, or upgrades.

From earning to redeeming, discover the world of travel reward points in this guide.

How do travel points work?

Travel points on credit cards work by rewarding people for their spending. When someone uses their credit card for eligible purchases, they may earn a certain number of points or miles based on the card's rewards program. These points accumulate over time and can be redeemed for travel costs.

Some cards or reward programs also offer flexible redemption options, allowing individuals to transfer points to airline or hotel loyalty programs.

The more someone spends on their card, the more travel points they may accumulate. However, it’s important to practice responsible spending and not make purchases simply to earn more points.

While some credit cards may be specifically noted as travel credit cards or offered in tandem with airline companies, many rewards credit cards can still be used to earn points or cash back to spend on travel or lodging. There may also be rewards programs via cash back apps that offer earning potential for spending with certain travel-related companies or airlines. For example, PayPal users can view travel-related deals and rewards offerings in the Travel category on the PayPal app . Rewards earning and redemption options will vary depending on card provider and/or rewards program.

Potential pros and cons of travel points

Some benefits of travel points may be:

  • Free or discounted travel expenses:  Travel points may be redeemed for complimentary or discounted flights, hotel stays, and even upgrades, allowing for cost savings on travel expenses.
  • Travel perks:  Some travel rewards cards provide access to airline or hotel loyalty program benefits, such as priority boarding, lounge access, and room upgrades.
  • Flexible redemption:  Many programs offer flexible redemption options, including the ability to transfer points to partner airlines or hotels, providing more choices for travelers.

Before signing up for a travel rewards credit card, consider the possible risks of travel points:

  • Limited flexibility:  Some travel rewards programs may have restrictions or blackout dates. Points may also have expiration dates — if unused, someone may lose their rewards.
  • High annual fees:  Many premium travel rewards cards come with annual fees, which may offset the value of the rewards.
  • Increased spending:  To earn travel points, people must use their credit card, which can lead to debt if not managed responsibly.

How to earn travel points

To earn travel points, someone generally needs to use a travel rewards credit card on eligible purchases. Over time, they may accumulate enough points to enjoy a benefit like free or reduced airfare or a discounted hotel stay.

Beyond everyday spending, here are other ways to potentially earn travel points:

  • Sign-up bonuses:  Many travel rewards credit cards offer sign-up bonuses when opening a new account and meeting a spending requirement within a specified timeframe.
  • Frequent flyer and hotel loyalty programs:  When someone flies with a specific airline or stays at a particular hotel chain consistently, they may accumulate points or miles that can be redeemed for future travel.
  • Online shopping portals:  Some airlines and credit card companies have online shopping portals that offer bonus points for making purchases through their platforms.

Accumulating travel points requires responsible financial management, including paying off credit card balances in full each month to avoid interest charges . Additionally, check for any annual fees associated with travel rewards credit cards and ensure that the benefits outweigh the costs.

How to redeem travel points

Travel rewards credit cards may offer several redemption options, from flights or hotels to vacation packages or statement credits. When booking through a rewards portal, people typically have the option to pay with points or a combination of points and cash.

The redemption process may vary slightly depending on the specific travel rewards program or credit card. Always read the terms and conditions of the rewards program and credit card to understand any restrictions, blackout dates, and expiration policies associated with the points.

Learn how to redeem rewards .

Was this content helpful?

Related content

We use cookies to improve your experience on our site. May we use marketing cookies to show you personalized ads? Manage all cookies

credit card for travel abroad

  • Introduction to credit card travel insurance and standalone travel insurance
  • What are credit card travel protections?
  • What is travel insurance?
  • Credit card travel protection vs. standalone travel insurance
  • Frequently asked questions

Credit Card Travel Insurance vs Travel Insurance: A Comparative Guide

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

  • Travel insurance and some credit cards can protect you from financial loss while traveling.
  • Travel insurance offers more comprehensive coverage that includes emergency medical expenses.
  • Credit card travel protection has more gaps but comes at no additional cost for cardholders.

Anything can happen while traveling. Flight delays, lost luggage, or even unexpected injury or illness can interrupt your vacation. When these things occur, travel insurance or the travel protections included with your premium credit card may be able to help, providing medical coverage, offsetting your financial losses, or even reimbursing you fully.

But do you need both travel insurance and credit card travel protections? Here are details on both and tips for deciding what the best travel protection is for you.

Introduction to credit card travel insurance and stand-alone travel insurance

Many credit cards offer travel protections that can help you in certain unexpected travel situations. But they aren't exactly the same as a separate travel insurance policy.

Here's how the two differ at a high level:

  • Travel insurance:  Travel insurance is coverage that you purchase for a single trip or multiple trips in a year. It typically covers the costs associated with trip cancellation, trip delays, medical emergencies, and other unforeseen events that may occur while traveling.
  • Credit card travel protections:  These are benefits automatically included with certain consumer credit cards. They often provide coverage for delays, lost baggage, rental car collisions, and other events during travel. Credit cards sometimes advertise these protections as a type of travel insurance, though they're not a separate insurance policy.

Generally speaking, designated travel insurance is more exhaustive than the protections offered by a credit card. Still, it's worth it to compare both options, particularly if you're taking an expensive trip. 

"It is always wise to check your credit card protection against a travel insurance plan," says Carol Mueller, a vice president at Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection . "Credit card protection may not include the full, bundled, comprehensive coverage a travel insurance plan would."

What is credit card travel insurance ?

Many premium credit cards offer travel protections to cardholders, but the exact coverages depend on the credit card. Typically, only trips booked with that card qualify for coverage.

"Credit card travel insurance has one big advantage that interests travelers: it's usually free or included in the card's annual fee," says Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at Allianz Travel Insurance , a travel insurance provider. "Credit cards' travel benefits can be useful for smaller things, like travel delays or lost bags, but only travel insurance provides reliable protection in real emergencies, like expensive medical emergencies such as hospital visits and evacuations."

In some cases, however, a credit card may cover catastrophic accidents. The Chase Sapphire Reserve, for example, offers up to $1,000,000 worth of coverage for an accident that causes loss of life, speech, hearing, or use of a hand, among other life-altering injuries.

Additionally, credit card coverage limits tend to be much lower. The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers up to $20,000 per trip in cancellation coverage, while a basic travel insurance plan from Travel Guard offers five times as much coverage.

Pros and cons of credit card travel protection

What is stand-alone travel insurance .

Travel insurance protects you from financial losses related to travel. "There are three main areas of coverage: protecting yourself, protecting your personal items, and protecting your investment," says Christina Tunnah, general manager of Americas and global marketing at World Nomads Travel Insurance , a travel insurance and safety services provider.

Travel insurance works  much like any other insurance policy. When a covered event occurs, like your trip is canceled or you're hurt while traveling, you file a claim with your insurer. If accepted, the company reimburses you for the costs up to your coverage limits.

"Most people have no idea that their health insurance does not cover them abroad," says Shane Mahoney, founder of Lugos Travel , a travel advisory. "So, a broken arm from a slip and fall or a heart attack can be financially devastating."

Travel insurance customers typically have 90 days to file their claim. But once the event occurs, there's no waiting period, meaning travelers should file as soon as possible.

A major factor when filing a successful claim is proof of financial loss. You can use something as simple as a medical clinic receipt or a doctor's medical statement. Once the claim has been reviewed and approved, your insurer will reimburse you via check. Some modern travel insurance companies offer immediate payment via a debit card mailed to travelers before their trip.

Travel insurance providers go beyond your standard credit card or airline coverage. You can buy policies that cover sports equipment, medical, and other coverages. You can also buy Cancel for Any Reason insurance , which covers trip cancellations regardless of the reason. The best CFAR insurance can cover 100% of your costs, but many only cover a percentage. 

Buyers can also price out annual travel insurance plans , which cover all of your trips within a 12-month period. Meghan Walch, director of the InsureMyTrip website, estimates a 4% and 10% travel insurance cost based on your total prepaid, nonrefundable trip costs. If you're buying an annual policy, this figure will change.

Pros and cons of stand-alone travel insurance

Credit card travel protection vs. stand-alone travel insurance.

Deciding between stand-alone travel insurance and credit card travel protection can be difficult. That said, it's worth mentioning that these choices aren't mutually exclusive. Even if you have a credit card that provides travel protection, you can still opt for additional coverage with a stand-alone travel insurance policy.

Cost considerations

The obvious difference between credit card insurance and a stand-alone policy is the cost. While credit card insurance is usually included in the cost of the card, traditional travel insurance is an additional expense, usually between 5% to 6% of the trip's worth, though rates can range from 4% to 12%.

However, travel insurance may pay for itself, covering emergency medical expenses and evacuation."Most people have no idea that their health insurance does not cover them abroad," says Shane Mahoney, founder of travel advisory company  Lugos Travel . "So, a broken arm from a slip and fall or a heart attack can be financially devastating."

On the other hand, credit card travel protections don't come at any additional costs. However, many of the best travel credit cards come with annual fees. Additionally, a credit card's travel protection only applies to trips you book with that credit card. If you don't pay off the credit card immediately, you'll pay interest on your trip. 

If you don't already have a credit card with travel insurance included, you'll also have to determine if the coverage is worth applying for a new credit card.

Comparing coverage and benefits

In most instances, traditional travel insurance policies will have more comprehensive coverage than credit card travel insurance. They'll cover more reasons for trip cancellation, and some may cover cancellations for no reason. They'll also cover medical emergencies, while credit card travel protections don't.

"Some travel insurance policies also provide epidemic coverage endorsements, which provide coverage to customers who become ill with COVID-19 or a future epidemic, are individually ordered to quarantine, or are denied boarding due to a suspected illness," says Durazo.

Separate travel insurance policies also tend to offer more robust cancellation coverage. Credit card protections often cap reimbursement at just $10,000 a trip, while travel insurance usually goes up to $100,000. Most credit cards will only cover trips purchased with the card or reward points.

Situations best suited for each

Both travel insurance and credit card protections can prove helpful if your trip is canceled or you experience some other loss while traveling, but the right choice will depend on the specifics of your exact trip and budget. "Every trip is different, and every traveler has different needs and concerns," Walch says. 

For example, travelers with more health concerns may opt for stand-alone travel insurance. Longer, more expensive, and international trips may also warrant greater coverage that credit card travel insurance can't provide. Additionally, it may be a good idea to insure trips to high-risk areas, either politically unstable regions or areas with inclement weather.

On the other hand, Walch says, "For a short trip to a family member's house in the US, the travel insurance offered through the credit card may suffice."

Credit card travel insurance comparison frequently asked questions

Credit card travel insurance may offer basic coverage for international trips, but it often lacks comprehensive medical coverage.

Yes, you can use both for the same trip. Stand-alone policies can supplement areas where credit card insurance is limited, such as medical coverage.

Most credit card travel insurance does not cover pre-existing medical conditions. Many stand-alone policies don't cover pre-existing conditions , but you may find some coverage with certain stipulations.

Credit card travel insurance is usually automatically activated when you pay for a trip using that card. However, it's important to read the card's policy for specific activation requirements.

While credit card travel insurance can be more cost-effective since it's a benefit of the card, it may not provide as comprehensive coverage as a stand-alone policy. In the long run, you may end up losing money if you solely rely on credit card travel insurance.

credit card for travel abroad

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

**Enrollment required.

credit card for travel abroad

  • Main content

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card: A secured card with rewards that can be used to cover travel purchases

Photo of Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card on a blue and green abstract background

Our take: The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card offers a cost-effective approach to building credit and earning rewards with its lack of annual and foreign transaction fees. Use it to help you climb the rungs of the credit score ladder.

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card Overview

Card Type: Secured

The Bank of America Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card offers a budget-friendly option for individuals looking to build or improve their credit. With a $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, it provides a cost-effective way to manage your finances while earning rewards. Since the card is designed for cardholders who want to boost their credit score or establish a credit history, it’s a card with few frills or perks: You won’t get a welcome bonus or 0% introductory APR on balance transfers or purchases. 

To open a card, you must make a minimum security deposit of $200 and a maximum of $5,000. Typically, with a secured card , your security deposit determines your credit limit. The security deposit acts as collateral if you default on your payments. 

According to Bank of America, your maximum credit limit is calculated based on your security deposit, income, and creditworthiness. The issuer will also regularly review your account to decide whether you’re eligible to get your security deposit back. 

Who is the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card good for?

The BoA Travel Rewards Secured is good for someone who wants to use the card for travel, especially for international travel as it doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee.

Who shouldn’t get the BoA Travel Rewards Secured? 

If your interest is cash-back, this card isn’t a good fit for you as points are only worth .6 cents each for cash vs 1 cent each for travel. 

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card: Points

With the Travel Rewards Secured, there’s not much to remember when it comes to rewards: You’ll earn a flat rewards rate of 1.5 points for every $1 you spend on all purchases.

The card does not offer a new customer bonus.

How to redeem Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card points

When you’re ready to redeem your rewards, you’ll get less flexibility than you would with a traditional travel credit card. You won’t be able to transfer them to a hotel or airline partner or use them to book flights or hotel stays through a travel portal. Instead, you can use points to cover past travel purchases, get a statement credit, or purchase gift cards. 

Get a travel statement credit

To redeem points, you have the option to receive a statement credit to cover qualifying travel and dining expenses such as airlines, hotels, and car rentals, incurred within the last 12 months. 

However, this statement credit is limited to the most recent 2,500 qualifying transactions in these categories. With this redemption method, the exchange rate is straightforward: One point equals one cent.

Earn cash-back and buy gift cards

You can turn your points into real money by getting a check, having them electronically deposited into your Bank of America® checking or savings account, or getting them credited to an eligible Cash Management Account® with Merrill. 

Keep in mind that by redeeming points for cash, you won’t be maximizing their value. One point is valued at 0.6 cents, meaning 2,500 points will only get you $15. As for gift cards, their redemption value can vary.

Rates and fees

  • Purchase APR: 28.24% variable
  • Annual fee: $0
  • Foreign transaction fee: None

Additional benefits

Free FICO score. Through online and mobile banking, you can access your FICO score, which is updated monthly, for free.

Credit cards similar to Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card

If covering travel expenses with rewards isn’t your priority, explore the Capital One Quicksilver Secured—a card closely mirroring the Travel Rewards card. The choice boils down to personal preference: Do you want a travel-focused Bank of America card or a cash-back Capital One card?

Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card vs. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card

The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card and Bank of America Travel Rewards are similar cards with identical rewards structures, minimum opening deposits, and fees. With the Quicksilver, you’ll pay no annual or foreign transaction fees and earn 1.5% cash back on every purchase.

Similar to the Travel Rewards Card, you’ll need to make a $200 minimum deposit to open a Quicksilver card. By making on-time and in full payments on your Quicksilver card, you could get back your deposit and graduate to an unsecured Quicksilver card. Plus, every six months, Capital One will automatically consider you for a credit limit increase without having to put any extra money down.

While the Travel Rewards Card emphasizes rewards redemption for travel-related expenses, Quicksilver rewards can primarily be redeemed for cash-back or gift cards. 

Is the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card right for you?

The Bank of America Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card is best suited for those who don’t need lots of bells and whistles and are focused on establishing or improving their credit scores. The card also has a low barrier to entry: You’ll just need to make a minimum security deposit of $200 to open a card.

This card, however, is likely not a good fit if you’re not interested in credit building and want a flashier travel credit card with benefits like a hefty welcome bonus and luxurious perks. 

Frequently asked questions

Is it hard to get a bank of america® travel rewards secured credit card.

While Bank of America does not disclose what credit score you need to qualify for the Travel Rewards Secured card, since it’s a secured card meant for credit building, you won’t need a good credit score to be eligible.

What is the credit limit for a Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card?

The credit limit for the Bank of America Travel Rewards Secured card is determined by the security deposit, which can be as low as $200 and as high as $5,000.

Can I get denied for a secured credit card with Bank of America?

Though secured credit cards are intended for credit building, Bank of America may reject some secured card applicants due to a lack of credit history, a poor credit score, bankruptcy, and more.

Please note that card details are accurate as of the publish date, but are subject to change at any time at the discretion of the issuer. Please contact the card issuer to verify rates, fees, and benefits before applying.  

EDITORIAL DISCLOSURE : The advice, opinions, or rankings contained in this article are solely those of the Fortune Recommends ™ editorial team. This content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of our affiliate partners or other third parties.

Guide to secured credit cards

The best secured credit cards for march 2024, best prepaid debit cards of march 2024, a secured credit card can help you rebuild your credit score. here's how it works, how to use a secured credit card to build good credit history, a prepaid debit card is an easy way to charge it—here's what you need to know, it's harder, but not impossible: how to get a credit card with bad credit, capital one quicksilver secured cash rewards credit card: earn first-rate cash back while building credit, chime credit builder visa credit card review: built-in safety for those with bad credit, upgrade secured onecard review: great rewards with extra effort, how to use a prepaid debit card—the tool that lets you leave your cash at home.

  • Credit cards
  • View all credit cards
  • Banking guide
  • Loans guide
  • Insurance guide
  • Personal finance
  • View all personal finance
  • Small business
  • Small business guide
  • View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

If You’re Traveling Abroad, Take 2 Credit Cards

Sara Rathner

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

International trips involve careful planning, but while you’re packing your suitcase and making a list of must-try restaurants, don’t forget one important detail: how you’ll pay for stuff once you arrive.

Thinking through what to pack in your wallet can spare you some serious travel nightmares. Our advice: Pack two credit cards and grab some cash in the local currency, ideally from a bank ATM with your debit card .

Don’t forget to notify your credit card issuers of travel plans before you leave. Otherwise, they may think your overseas purchases are fraudulent charges and lock your card.

» MORE: 9 credit card tips to take with you overseas

credit card for travel abroad

2 is the magic number

You may stick mainly to one card back home, but carrying a spare while you travel can help you out of a bind.

Certain vendors may not accept all card networks — Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted around the world, while American Express and Discover are accepted less frequently. If your usual card gets rejected, your backup card can come into play.

What about taking more than two cards? You absolutely can do this, but limiting the number of cards you travel with can save you the headache of countless phone calls to credit card companies if you get pickpocketed.

Keep your cards safe: Consider leaving additional cards in a secure place, like a safe in your hotel room, or having a travel companion carry one of your cards. Carry your wallet in your front pocket. If you wear a purse, opt for a crossbody style that closes with a zipper, and keep it in your sight at all times. Don’t hang it from the back of a chair at a restaurant, for example.

» MORE: How to keep your money safe while you see the world

What to look for in a travel-ready credit card pairing

No foreign transaction fee.

This pesky fee tacks an additional 3% or so onto every international purchase. Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees help you save money every time you spend while traveling.

Worldwide acceptance

As mentioned earlier, cards in the Visa and Mastercard networks tend to be accepted by more retailers in other countries. There are always exceptions, though, which is why having two cards to choose from can give you options.

Different payment networks

Diversify your cards so you don’t carry, say, two Mastercards or two American Express cards. That can help increase the odds that one of your cards will work.

Cards that earn rewards on your spending

Traveling often means higher day-to-day expenses — more dining out than you may do at home, tickets to tourist attractions and, of course, lots of souvenirs. Use that spending to your advantage by bringing a card that earns cash back so you can later offset your spending with a statement credit. Or opt for a travel rewards card , so that this trip’s expenses can help fund your next adventure.

Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card

A premium travel rewards card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® can come in handy despite its $550 annual fee. To start, you earn 10 points per $1 for dining purchases made through Chase Ultimate Rewards and 3 points per $1 on dining not booked through the issuer. The card also offers a $300 annual travel statement credit (helpful for offsetting that annual fee), which will reimburse you not only for hotels, flights and rental cars, but also for expenses like taxis, tolls and parking. Once you max out that credit, you'll earn 3 points per $1 on travel, and even more for travel-related spending made through the Chase portal: 10 points per $1 for hotel stays and car rentals and 5 points on air travel. And since points are worth 1.5 cents each when redeemed for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, your vacation purchases today will stretch your travel budget even further later on.

U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card

If a high annual fee isn't for you, the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card earns an enticing 4% cash back on dining and entertainment, which includes tourist attractions, theme parks, sporting events, concerts, aquariums and zoos. It does have an annual fee, but it's a more modest one. The U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card is a $0 -annual-fee alternative that earns 4 points per $1 on dining, but doesn't include entertainment as a 4x category. Both of these cards charge no foreign transaction fees.

» MORE: How to choose a travel credit card

Cash can still be king

It’s helpful to carry even a small amount of cash in the local currency, because some retailers (especially small ones) may be cash-only or require a higher minimum spend before accepting a credit card. Skip the airport currency exchange kiosk for a bank’s ATM that accepts your debit card. Also, avoid a credit card cash advance , because a high interest rate will kick in immediately and you’ll be subject to additional fees.

When checking out of your hotel or paying the tab at a restaurant the night before you leave, use up the last of your cash — unless it’s a country that you plan to return to, in which case you can always save your cash for the next trip.

» MORE: 10 ways to minimize mix-ups on your first trip abroad

Information related to the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card has been collected by NerdWallet and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of this card.

On a similar note...

Find the right credit card for you.

Whether you want to pay less interest or earn more rewards, the right card's out there. Just answer a few questions and we'll narrow the search for you.

credit card for travel abroad

  • Credit Cards
  • All Credit Cards
  • Find the Credit Card for You
  • Best Credit Cards
  • Best Rewards Credit Cards
  • Best Travel Credit Cards
  • Best 0% APR Credit Cards
  • Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards
  • Best Cash Back Credit Cards
  • Best Credit Card Sign-Up Bonuses
  • Best Credit Cards to Build Credit
  • Best Credit Cards for Online Shopping
  • Find the Best Personal Loan for You
  • Best Personal Loans
  • Best Debt Consolidation Loans
  • Best Loans to Refinance Credit Card Debt
  • Best Loans with Fast Funding
  • Best Small Personal Loans
  • Best Large Personal Loans
  • Best Personal Loans to Apply Online
  • Best Student Loan Refinance
  • Best Car Loans
  • All Banking
  • Find the Savings Account for You
  • Best High Yield Savings Accounts
  • Best Big Bank Savings Accounts
  • Best Big Bank Checking Accounts
  • Best No Fee Checking Accounts
  • No Overdraft Fee Checking Accounts
  • Best Checking Account Bonuses
  • Best Money Market Accounts
  • Best Credit Unions
  • All Mortgages
  • Best Mortgages
  • Best Mortgages for Small Down Payment
  • Best Mortgages for No Down Payment
  • Best Mortgages for Average Credit Score
  • Best Mortgages No Origination Fee
  • Adjustable Rate Mortgages
  • Affording a Mortgage
  • All Insurance
  • Best Life Insurance
  • Best Life Insurance for Seniors
  • Best Homeowners Insurance
  • Best Renters Insurance
  • Best Car Insurance
  • Best Pet Insurance
  • Best Boat Insurance
  • Best Motorcycle Insurance
  • Travel Insurance
  • Event Ticket Insurance
  • Small Business
  • All Small Business
  • Best Small Business Savings Accounts
  • Best Small Business Checking Accounts
  • Best Credit Cards for Small Business
  • Best Small Business Loans
  • Best Tax Software for Small Business
  • Personal Finance
  • All Personal Finance
  • Best Budgeting Apps
  • Best Expense Tracker Apps
  • Best Money Transfer Apps
  • Best Resale Apps and Sites
  • Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) Apps
  • Best Debt Relief
  • Credit Monitoring
  • All Credit Monitoring
  • Best Credit Monitoring Services
  • Best Identity Theft Protection
  • How to Boost Your Credit Score
  • Best Credit Repair Companies
  • Filing For Free
  • Best Tax Software
  • Best Tax Software for Small Businesses
  • Tax Refunds
  • Tax Brackets
  • Taxes By State
  • Tax Payment Plans
  • Help for Low Credit Scores
  • All Help for Low Credit Scores
  • Best Credit Cards for Bad Credit
  • Best Personal Loans for Bad Credit
  • Best Debt Consolidation Loans for Bad Credit
  • Personal Loans if You Don't Have Credit
  • Best Credit Cards for Building Credit
  • Personal Loans for 580 Credit Score Lower
  • Personal Loans for 670 Credit Score or Lower
  • Best Mortgages for Bad Credit
  • Best Hardship Loans
  • All Investing
  • Best IRA Accounts
  • Best Roth IRA Accounts
  • Best Investing Apps
  • Best Free Stock Trading Platforms
  • Best Robo-Advisors
  • Index Funds
  • Mutual Funds
  • Home & Kitchen
  • Gift Guides
  • Deals & Sales
  • Sign up for the CNBC Select Newsletter
  • Subscribe to CNBC PRO
  • Privacy Policy
  • Your Privacy Choices
  • Terms Of Service
  • CNBC Sitemap

Follow Select

Our top picks of timely offers from our partners

UFB Secure Savings

Find the best credit card for you

11 airline credit cards with free checked bag benefits that can save you hundreds, the free checked bag perk for most of these cards applies to multiple passengers, so the savings can quickly add up..

thumbnail

Most major U.S. airlines raised checked baggage fees this year. American Airlines, Delta, United, Alaska Airlines and JetBlue now charge $35 to $45 for a first checked bag on domestic and short-haul international flights.

There are a handful of ways to avoid paying to check bags. For instance, customers traveling in a premium cabin and those with elite status generally can check at least one bag for free. Or, you could fly with Southwest, which allows all passengers to check two bags for free.

The easiest way to avoid checked bag fees on most airlines is to open a co-branded airline credit card that offers free checked bags as an ongoing benefit. For anyone who isn't loyal to a single airline, there are even general travel credit cards with statement credit offers that can be used toward checked bag fees. (See our methodology for more information on how we made this list.)

Best credit cards that offer free checked bags

Best for american airlines, citi® / aadvantage® platinum select® world elite™ mastercard®, aadvantage® aviator® red world elite mastercard®, best for delta, delta skymiles® gold american express card, delta skymiles® reserve american express card, best for united, united℠ explorer card, united club℠ infinite card, best for alaska airlines, alaska airlines visa signature® credit card, alaska airlines visa® business credit card, best for jetblue, jetblue plus card, jetblue business card.

Best for any airline : Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®

2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent at gas stations and restaurants, and on eligible American Airlines purchases; 1 Loyalty Point for every 1 eligible AAdvantage® mile earned from purchases

Welcome bonus

Earn 50,000 American Airlines AAdvantage® bonus miles after spending $2,500 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening

$0 first year, then $99

Regular APR

21.24% - 29.99% variable

Balance transfer fee

5% of each balance transfer; $5 minimum

Foreign transaction fees

Credit needed.

Good/Excellent

Terms apply.

Read our Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® review.

Information about the Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard® has been collected independently by Select and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of the card prior to publication.

Who's this card for? The Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite™ Mastercard® is worth considering by anyone who doesn't have American Airlines elite status and wants to avoid checked baggage fees on domestic flights.

Free checked bag benefit: The Citi/AAdvantage Platinum Select card offers the first checked bag for free on domestic American Airlines flights for the cardholder and up to four companions on the same reservation. American Airlines charges $40 for the first checked bag on domestic flights, but it's only $35 if you pay online. So, this benefit can save you up to $70 to $80 per round-trip flight.

[ Jump to more details ]

AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard

2 AAdvantage® miles for every $1 spent on eligible American Airlines purchases; 1 AAdvantage® mile for every $1 spent on other purchases.

Earn 60,000 bonus miles after making your first purchase within the first 90 days

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $99

0% intro APR for 15 months on balance transfers made within 45 days of account opening

21.24%, 25.24% or 29.99% variable

Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater.

Who's this card for? The AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® offers American Airlines travelers free checked bags and other airline-specific perks.

Free checked bag benefit: Aviator Red World Elite Mastercard holders receive a free checked bag on domestic American Airlines itineraries for themselves and up to four companions traveling on the same reservation. By using this perk, you can save $70 to $80 per round trip per person.

Earn 2X Miles on Delta purchases, at U.S. Supermarkets and at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S., and 1X Mile per dollar on all other eligible purchases

Earn 70,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.

$0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150

20.99% - 29.99% variable

Excellent/Good

See rates and fees , terms apply.

Who's this card for? The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card has several perks that regular Delta flyers can easily benefit from.

Free checked bag benefit: Delta SkyMiles Gold American Express Card members and up to eight companions traveling on the same reservation receive a free first checked bag. To receive the baggage fee waiver, you need to make sure that the cardholder's Delta SkyMiles number is attached to the reservation. For domestic flights, Delta charges $35 per bag each way, which means this benefit can save you hundreds of dollars on a single trip if you're traveling with a large group.

Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and 1X Mile on all other eligible purchases.

Earn 100,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $6,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months.

Who's this card for? The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card has a lot to offer frequent Delta travelers beyond free checked bags. If you're chasing Delta elite status or want Delta Sky Club lounge access , this card is worth looking into.

Free checked bag benefit: Delta SkyMiles Reserve cardholders get a free checked bag for themselves and up to eight other people traveling on the same reservation. That's a savings of $60 per person per round-trip flight.

2 miles per $1 spent on United purchases; 2 miles per $1 spent on dining, eligible delivery services and hotel stays; 1 mile earned on every $1 spent on all other purchases

Earn 50,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

5%, minimum $5

Member FDIC. Terms apply.

Who's this card for? The United℠ Explorer Card is great for United flyers who don't want to pay a high annual fee. It packs a lot of useful benefits into a card with a sub-$100 annual fee.

Free checked bag benefit: The United Explorer Card offers the primary cardholder and a companion a free first checked bag. To use this perk, you need to pay for the flights (or the taxes and fees on awards flights ) with your card (this requirement is waived for the first 90 days from account opening). United normally charges $40 for a first checked bag, or $35 if they prepay online. Plus, United's basic economy fares typically don't allow you to bring a carry-on, but cardholders are exempt.

Earn 4 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, 2 miles per $1 spent on all other travel and dining, and 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases

Earn 80,000 bonus miles after qualifying purchases

Who's this card for? The United Club℠ Infinite Card is the premium United consumer card and its benefits make sense for the most loyal United flyers as it comes with a United Club membership .

Free checked bag benefit: The United Club Infinite Card's free checked bag perk extends to the first and second checked bags for the primary cardholder and one companion. Checked bags on domestic flights typically cost $35 or $40 for the first bag and $45 or $50 for the second bag, so you can save as much as $180 per round trip when checking multiple bags. Cardholders are also allowed a free carry-on bag when traveling on a basic economy ticket.

Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Credit Card

Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases, 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, local transit, rideshare, cable, and select streaming services purchases and one mile for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

Limited time offer: Earn 70,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.

20.24% - 28.24% variable

3% of each transaction

Who's this card for? The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card is a good option for Alaska Airlines loyalists.

Free checked bag benefit: The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature card grants the cardholder and up to six companions a free checked bag when you pay for the flights with your card. Alaska Airlines charges $35 for the first checked bag, so having this card can save you up to $70 on every round-trip flight.

Earn unlimited 3X miles on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases, 2X miles on eligible gas, EV charging station, shipping and local transit purchases and 1X miles on all other purchases.

Earn 50,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after you make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.

$70 per company plus $25 per card

21.24% - 29.24% variable

4% of each transaction

Who's this card for? Small business owners who want to earn Alaska Airlines miles for their business spending should consider the Alaska Airlines Visa® Business credit card .

Free checked bag benefit: Cardholders receive a free checked bag for themselves and up to six traveling companions when they pay for the flights with this card. It costs $35 each way to bring a checked bag on an Alaska Airlines flight, so the savings from this perk can add up quickly.

6X points per dollar spent on eligible JetBlue purchases; 2X points at restaurants and eligible grocery stores; 1X points on all other purchases

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $1,000 on the card and pay the annual fee in the first 90 days with the JetBlue Plus Card.

0% APR on eligible balance transfers that post to account within 45 days of account opening, for the first 12 billing cycles; 21.24%, to 29.99% variable thereafter depending on creditworthiness

21.24% to 29.99% variable

Either $5 or 5%, whichever is greater.

Who's this card for? The JetBlue Plus Card is a good choice if you live near or frequently travel to a JetBlue hub, such as New York, Boston or Fort Lauderdale.

Free checked bag benefit: With the JetBlue Plus Card you'll get a free checked bag for yourself and up to three companions when traveling on a JetBlue flight. With JetBlue, the first checked bag costs $35 if you pay more than 24 hours in advance, otherwise it's $45. So having this card can save you $70 to $90 round-trip per person.

6X points on eligible JetBlue purchases; 2X points at restaurants and office supply stores stores; 1X points on all other purchases

Earn up to 60,000 bonus points: Earn 50,000 points after you spend $4,000 on the card in the first 90 days and earn an additional 10,000 points after a purchase is made on an employee card in the first 90 days.

21.24% or 29.99% variable

Either $5 or 3% of each transfer, whichever is greater.

0% of the U.S. dollar amount

Who's this card for? The JetBlue Business Card makes sense if you love JetBlue and have a small business or side hustle that qualifies you for business credit cards.

Free checked bag benefit: JetBlue has some of the highest checked bag fees, which top out at $45 for the first checked bag if you pay within 24 hours of departure. You can avoid that hassle and extra cost simply by having the JetBlue Business Card, which comes with a free checked bag for the cardholder and up to three companions traveling on a JetBlue-operated flight.

Best for any airline

Chase sapphire reserve®.

Earn 5X total points on flights and 10X total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3X points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases plus, 10X points on Lyft rides through March 2025

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

22.49% - 29.49% variable

Foreign transaction fee

Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve® review.

  • $300 annual travel credit for travel purchases
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit up to $100 every four years
  • Priority Pass™ Select lounge access at 1,000+ VIP lounges in over 500 cities worldwide
  • Points are worth 50% more when redeemed for travel via Chase Travel℠
  • Special benefits at The Luxury Hotel & Resort Collection
  • Complimentary year of Lyft Pink membership
  • High annual fee, but it can be offset by taking advantage of all the card’s perks
  • No introductory APR
  • Estimated rewards earned after 1 year: $1,469
  • Estimated rewards earned after 5 years: $3,346

Rewards totals incorporate the points earned from the welcome bonus

Who's this card for? The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is an excellent general travel credit card with a host of premium benefits like airport lounge access and comprehensive travel protections .

Free checked bag benefit: The Sapphire Reserve doesn't have a specific free checked bag perk. However, every year, cardmembers receive a general travel credit of up to $300 that can be used toward checked bag fees. It's an easy-to-use benefit and applies to any airline — just pay the bag fee with your card and you'll automatically receive a statement credit. This card also offers perks like baggage delay insurance and lost luggage reimbursement.

More on our best credit cards that offer free checked bags

The Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite™ Mastercard® is a mid-tier co-branded American Airlines card with a generous welcome bonus and $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $99. Its perks can make the annual fee worth it for anyone who travels with American Airlines more than once per year.

  • 2X miles on eligible American Airlines purchases
  • 2X miles at restaurants and gas stations
  • 1X miles on all other purchases

Earn 50,000 bonus miles after spending $2,500 in purchases within the first three months of account opening.

$0 intro annual fee the first year, then $99

Notable perks

Card members get their first checked bag free (along with 4 guests on the same reservation), preferred boarding (Group 5) and a 25% rebate on American Airlines in-flight food and beverage purchases. Plus, every cardmember year after you spend $20,000 or more and renew your card, you'll earn a $125 American Airlines Flight Discount.

This card has no foreign transaction fees and no cost to add authorized users.

[ Return to card summary ]

The AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard® is another mid-tier American Airlines credit card with a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $99. It stands out for offering an exceptionally easy-to-earn welcome bonus.

This card can help you save on American Airlines in-flight Wi-Fi fees with up to $25 in statement credits every card anniversary year. You'll also receive 25% back on in-flight food and beverage purchases and preferred boarding (Group 5).

If you spend $20,000 or more on the card within your card membership year, and keep it open for at least 45 days after your anniversary date, you'll qualify for a $99 (plus taxes and fees) companion ticket . This certificate is valid for qualifying domestic economy flights.

This card has no foreign transaction fees.

The Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card helps lower the cost of Delta awards flights, so you're miles can go further just by being a cardholder.

  • 2X miles on Delta purchases
  • 2X miles at U.S. Supermarkets
  • 2X miles at U.S. restaurants

Earn 70,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 in purchases in the first six months of account opening.

$0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $150 (see rates and fees ).

Just for being a cardholder, you'll get a 15% discount on all Delta-operated award flights. There are also statement credit offers that can offset the annual fee (see rates and fees ). Every year after you spend $10,000 in purchases on your card, you'll receive a $200 Delta Flight Credit. If you book prepaid hotels or vacation rentals through Delta Stays, you can get up to $100 in statement credits per year.

Other benefits include:

  • Priority boarding (Main Cabin 1)
  • 20% back on in-flight purchases
  • Baggage insurance
  • Rental car insurance
  • Purchase protection
  • Extended warranty protection
  • No foreign transaction fees

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is Delta's most premium card, designed for frequent travelers who value luxury perks. It also offers some valuable statement credits that you can use when not traveling.

  • 3X miles on Delta purchases

Earn 100,000 bonus miles after spending $6,000 in purchases on the card in the first six months from account opening.

$650 (see rates and fees )

Anyone who values Delta elite status will appreciate this card's Medallion Qualification Dollar (MQD) Headstart feature, which gets you 2,500 MQDs each Medallion Qualification Year. You'll also earn one MQD for every $10 in purchases you make with the card.

This card's array of other benefits can easily make it worth keeping year after year. These perks include:

  • Up to $240 in Resy credit each year ($20 per month)
  • Up to $120 in rideshare credit each year ($10 per month)
  • Up to $200 in Delta Stays credit
  • Complimentary Delta Sky Club access when flying with Delta
  • American Express Centurion Lounge access when flying with Delta
  • Up to $100 in application fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck (every 4.5 years)
  • TakeOff15, save 15% on Delta award flights
  • Annual companion certificate
  • Hertz Presidents Circle Status
  • Cell phone protection
  • Return protection

The United℠ Explorer Card is a solid consumer card for United regulars and it even comes with limited United Club access .

  • 2X miles on United purchases
  • 2X miles on dining
  • 2X miles on hotels purchased directly with the hotel

Earn 50,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.

In addition to the free checked bag benefit, cardholders and their companions receive priority boarding. You'll also have access to other travel benefits, such as:

  • Up to $100 in application fee credits for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck and NEXUS
  • 25% back on in-flight and United Club premium drink purchases
  • Two one-time United Club passes each year for your anniversary year
  • One free year of DoorDash DashPass (enroll by Dec. 31, 2024)
  • Trip cancellation/interruption insurance
  • Trip delay reimbursement
  • Baggage delay insurance
  • Lost Luggage reimbursement
  • Extended warranty coverage

Spending on this card helps you earn United elite status more quickly, you'll earn 25 Premier qualifying points (PQP) for every $500 you spend (up to 1,000 PQP per calendar year). Once you have elite status, cardholders and one companion are eligible for complimentary upgrades on award tickets.

The United Club℠ Infinite Card is United's most premium card but is a great way to get unlimited United Club airport lounge access and other high-end perks.

  • 4X miles on purchases from United
  • 2X miles on all other travel purchases

Earn 80,000 miles after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months your account is open.

The most valuable benefit of the United Club Infinite Card is its United Club membership , which typically costs $550 to $650 depending on what level of United status you have. So if you would otherwise pay cash for a United Club membership, getting this card and paying its annual fee is a cheaper option.

On top of that, the card also has these benefits:

  • Up to $100 in application fee credit for TSA PreCheck, NEXUS or Global Entry
  • 25% back on United in-flight and United Club premium beverage purchases
  • Save 10% on United Economy Saver Awards
  • Priority check-in, baggage handling, security screening and boarding
  • IHG One Rewards Platinum status
  • Avis President's Circle status
  • Complimentary year of DoorDash DashPass (enroll by Dec. 31, 2024)

You can earn up to 10,000 PQP with this card (25 PQP per $500 you spend), which would be enough to qualify for Gold status. Normally elite members aren't eligible for complimentary upgrades on award flights. However, as a cardholder, you and one companion are eligible for free elite status upgrades on award flights.

The Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card is a great way to earn Alaska Airlines miles, which are very valuable thanks to Alaska's diverse roster of airline partners. It also offers a valuable companion fare benefit.

  • 3X miles on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases
  • 2X miles on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit purchases

For a limited time, you can earn 70,000 miles and Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.

In addition to free checked bags, cardholders receive priority boarding on Alaska flights when paying for the flight with this card. Plus, this card offers $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ membership purchased with this card, as well as 20% back on in-flight spending with Alaska Airlines.

Cardholders who spend $6,000 or more in purchases within the prior card anniversary year receive Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23), which is valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.

You'll also earn more rewards with this card if you bank with Bank of America. Anyone with an eligible Bank of America bank account can receive a 10% bonus on all miles earned from card purchases.

The Alaska Airlines Visa® Business credit card provides small business owners an opportunity to receive many of the same benefits as consumer Alaska Airlines cardholders.

  • 2X miles on eligible gas, EV charging station, shipping and local transit purchases

Earn 50,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.

$70 per company, plus $25 per card

If your business banks with Bank of America, you can boost the miles you'll earn with this card. You'll earn a 10% rewards bonus on the miles you earn from purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America small business account .

This card also gets you 20% off in-flight purchases with Alaska Airlines and $100 off an annual Alaska Lounge+ Membership. If you're tired of fighting for overhead bin space, you can get to your seat early with priority boarding whenever you pay for a flight with your card.

Every card anniversary year, after spending $6,000 or more on purchases with your card, you receive a companion fare, which allows you to bring a guest along on an eligible Alaska Airlines flight for $99 plus taxes and fees.

The JetBlue Plus Card is exceptionally rewarding for JetBlue purchases, so if you spend a lot with the airline, this is a good card to look at.

  • 6X points on eligible JetBlue purchases
  • 2X points at restaurants
  • 2X points at eligible grocery stores
  • 1X points on all other purchases

Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on the card and paying the annual fee in full within the first 90 days of opening the account.

Every year after your account anniversary, you'll earn 5,000 bonus points just for keeping the card. The card also provides a 10% rebate on award redemptions, so every JetBlue point you earn is slightly more valuable.

While most airline cards offer a 20% to 25% discount for in-flight purchases, the JetBlue Plus comes with a whopping 50% savings on eligible in-flight JetBlue spending. Cardholders can also earn a $100 statement credit on an eligible purchase of a JetBlue Vacations package.

The JetBlue Business Card can help you turn business expenses into JetBlue points, which is helpful if you frequently travel to a city the airline serves.

  • 2X points at office supply stores

This card has a handful of benefits, which can help offset the annual fee . For starters, every year after your account anniversary you'll receive 5,000 bonus points. Cardholders also qualify for a 10% rebate on JetBlue award bookings.

You'll also get Group A boarding, which is early enough that you shouldn't have to settle for overhead bin space five rows behind your seat. In-flight, you'll receive a 50% statement credit for eligible food and beverage purchases. There are no foreign transaction fees and you can earn a $100 statement credit when you pay for a JetBlue Vacations package with the card.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a premium travel credit card with loads of luxury perks and statement credits to justify its annual fee.

  • 10X points on Lyft rides (through Mar. 31, 2025)
  • 10X points on hotels and rental cars booked through Chase Travel℠*
  • 10X points on Chase dining purchases
  • 10X points on eligible Peloton purchases over $150 max of 50,000 points (through Mar. 31, 2025)
  • 5X points on flights purchased through Chase Travel℠*
  • 3X points on travel
  • 3X points on dining

*After the first $300 spent on travel purchases annually.

Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

The Chase Sapphire Reserve has an incredible list of benefits, including:

  • Annual travel credit of up to $300
  • Priority Pass airport lounge access
  • Up to $100 in application fee credits for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck (once every four years)
  • Two years of free Lyft Pink All Access membership (activate by Dec. 31, 2024)
  • At least one year of free DoorDash DashPass membership (activate by Dec. 31, 2024)
  • One year of free Instacart+ and up to $15 in Instacart credits each month through July 2024.
  • Primary rental car insurance
  • Travel accident insurance
  • Roadside assistance
  • Travel and emergency assistance services
  • Emergency medical and dental benefit
  • Emergency evacuation and transportation

All of that is in addition to a variety of ways to redeem your points. You can cash them out for one cent a point in value or book travel through Chase Travel℠ and pay with points at a rate of 1.5 cents per point. You can even transfer Chase points to 14 hotel and airline loyal programs at a 1:1 ratio. The ability to transfer points unlocks the potential to increase the value of your rewards by booking luxury hotels and premium cabin award flights.

What airlines offer free checked bags?

Southwest Airlines offers two free checked bags to all passengers, regardless of what type of ticket they purchase. For the other major U.S.-based airlines, your checked baggage allowance depends on the route, ticket type and elite status. There are also airline credit cards that grant you free checked bags as a benefit for having the card.

How can I get my baggage fee waived?

To get your airline checked baggage fee waived, you'll generally need elite status with that airline or its partners or a cobranded credit card that comes with free checked bags. You may also be able to avoid checked bag fees depending on the itinerary you're flying or the class of service. Many international flights and business class tickets come with free checked bags.

Is there a fee for a carry-on bag?

Carry-on baggage fees aren't the norm, but depending on the type of ticket and airline they are something to watch for. Some airlines charge passengers who booked the cheapest fares, often called basic economy, extra for a carry-on bag. Ultra-low-cost carriers, such as Spirit and Frontier, may also make you pay for a carry-on bag. Note that personal items, such as a purse or small backpack that can fit under the seat in front of you, are almost universally free.

Bottom line

Checked bag fees are rising once again, making many of the top airline credit cards even more valuable. With the highest domestic baggage fees hitting $90 a bag roundtrip, it can be worth getting a credit card if you check bags on one or two trips a year.

Money matters — so make the most of it. Get expert tips, strategies, news and everything else you need to maximize your money, right to your inbox.  Sign up here .

Why trust CNBC Select?

At CNBC Select, our mission is to provide our readers with high-quality service journalism and comprehensive consumer advice so they can make informed decisions with their money. Every credit card   best list is based on rigorous reporting by our team of expert writers and editors with extensive knowledge of credit card   products .  While CNBC Select earns a commission from affiliate partners on many offers and links, we create all our content without input from our commercial team or any outside third parties, and we pride ourselves on our journalistic standards and ethics. See  our methodology  for more information on how we choose the best credit cards with a free checked bag benefit.

Our methodology

To determine which credit cards are best for free checked bags,  CNBC Select  analyzed cobranded airline credit cards with a free checked bag benefit and travel cards with credits that can be applied to checked bag fees. We compared each card on a range of features, including the annual fee, authorized user fees, rewards, credit score requirements, welcome bonus, introductory and standard APR and foreign transaction fees. We also considered additional perks and how easy it is to redeem points.

Catch up on CNBC Select's in-depth coverage of  credit cards ,  banking  and  money , and follow us on  TikTok ,  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  to stay up to date.

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, click  here .

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card, click  here .

Chime

  • Bilt adds Alaska Airlines as transfer partner, is set end partnership with American Airlines Jason Stauffer
  • Here are the 6 best business credit cards for startups Jason Stauffer
  • Price drop protection saved me $50 on a flight — here's how I did it Ira Wilder

comscore

IMAGES

  1. The Best Credit Cards for International Travel

    credit card for travel abroad

  2. Best Travel Credit Cards for Travel Lovers

    credit card for travel abroad

  3. Best Travel Credit Cards 2020: Amex Gold, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and More

    credit card for travel abroad

  4. Best Travel Credit Cards 2021 January

    credit card for travel abroad

  5. 9 Best Travel Credit Cards Of 2024

    credit card for travel abroad

  6. 8 Best Credit Cards for International Travel in 2020

    credit card for travel abroad

VIDEO

  1. How To TRAVEL for FREE using Credit Cards

COMMENTS

  1. 19 Best Travel Credit Cards Of March 2024

    Both types of cards might offer you the ability to spend towards higher levels of status. To learn more about the best co-branded credit cards, see our guides below: Best Southwest Credit Cards ...

  2. Best Credit Cards For International Travel Of March 2024

    Rewards: Earn 10 points per dollar on eligible hotels and car rentals booked through the Credit One Bank travel partner, 5 points per dollar on eligible travel, dining and gas and 1 point per ...

  3. Best Credit Cards for International Travel

    NerdWallet's Best Credit Cards for International Travel of March 2024. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best for Flexibility and value. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best for Simplicity ...

  4. 5 Best Credit Cards for International Travel of March 2024

    Best cards for international travel. Best overall: American Express® Gold Card. Best for dining: Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card*. Best for hotels: Capital One VentureOne Rewards ...

  5. Best Travel Credit Cards of March 2024

    Well-known general travel cards include the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. Rewards on general travel cards come as points (sometimes called "miles ...

  6. The best credit cards for international travel

    LEOPATRIZI/GETTY. Nowadays, most travel rewards credit cards waive foreign transaction fees, but a few everyday cards do not. For example, the Chase Freedom Unlimited and Chase Freedom Flex are popular no-annual-fee cards that charge a 3% transaction fee when you use them abroad. Double-check your favorite rewards cards and ensure they do not impose foreign transaction fees.

  7. Best Credit Cards For International Travel

    10X points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025) 5X points on air travel through Ultimate Rewards (after earning your $300 travel credit) 3X points on general travel and restaurant purchases ...

  8. Best credit cards for international travel 2024

    Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best overall for international travel in 2024. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is an excellent card for international travel because it checks all the boxes regarding benefits you'll need when traveling abroad. The card provides vital travel protections and earns valuable rewards at a reasonable $95 annual ...

  9. Best Credit Cards for International Travel in March 2024

    Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card. The Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card is the best, all-around international travel card for most consumers, thanks to its flexible points and great travel benefits. Find your perfect card in 30 seconds. Check your approval odds so you can shop smarter. Citi is an advertising partner.

  10. Best credit cards for international travel in 2024

    Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card: Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel. All information about The ...

  11. Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards of March 2024

    NerdWallet's Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards of March 2024. Boost your rewards with an extra $100Create a NerdWallet account to take the first step to$100 in rewards when you get an ...

  12. Best Travel Credit Cards of March 2024

    The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of our top premium travel cards. With a $300 travel credit, bonus points on dining and travel purchases and other benefits, you can get excellent value that far exceeds the annual fee on the card. Read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve card. Pros & Cons.

  13. Best credit cards for international travel

    The Platinum Card from American Express: Best credit card for international lounge access. Why we picked it: Frequent travelers who want superior perks may want to consider The Platinum Card ® from American Express.This card offers 5X points (on up to $500,000 per year) on airfare booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel, as well as 5X points on prepaid hotels booked ...

  14. Best Credit Cards For Expats And Living Abroad Of March 2024

    The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card ( rates & fees) packs meaningful benefits for those living abroad, but one of its best qualities is the ability to maximize rewards on everyday ...

  15. Best credit cards for international travel in 2024

    Excellent. The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card checks all our boxes for a great credit card for international travel: No foreign transaction fees, global acceptance, international customer service and industry-leading travel rewards. The Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a premium travel credit card that carries a $395 annual fee.

  16. The Best Credit Cards for International Travel

    Even though travel is expensive, with the Chase Sapphire card, money spent while traveling keeps on giving in rewards and cash, making it the best credit card to use when planning your next trip overseas. Best Credit Card for International Travel with Rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

  17. Top travel cards: the best credit and debit cards to use abroad

    Most credit and debit cards let you spend abroad, but will charge you for the privilege. Although your card provider gets near-perfect rates, it usually adds a foreign transaction fees (officially called 'non-sterling transaction fees') of about 3% - so £100 worth of foreign currency costs you £103.. On top of this, some debit cards charge a flat fee (typically 50p-£1.50) each and every ...

  18. How To Choose A Travel Credit Card

    Choose a travel credit card based on its perks, bonus categories and annual fee, ensuring it aligns with your financial and travel habits and future goals. 1. Consider Your Credit Score and ...

  19. The best travel debit and credit cards to use abroad

    A debit card, £11.88. A credit card, £14.95 (before interest is applied) If your current account comes with a great debit card for use abroad, then you may want to use that. Look for: No fees ...

  20. The Best Travel Credit Cards for Students & Gappers in 2024

    Recommended credit score: 670 and up. The Chase Freedom Flex is an excellent card for cash-back for travel bookings. It has no annual fee and offers 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter you activate, up to $1,500 in combined purchases per quarter. The rest of the time, you'll earn 1% back on every purchase.

  21. Best no foreign transaction fee credit cards for 2024

    Card network: Visa and Mastercard typically charge a 1% network fee on foreign transactions. Currency: In some cases, there may be a currency conversion fee, which varies depending on the currency and exchange rate. For most credit cards, this amounts to a foreign transaction fee of 3%, plus a network fee of 1%, amounting to a 4% foreign ...

  22. 5 Things to Do Before Traveling Overseas With Your Credit Card

    Before you pack up your travel pillow, make sure your wallet is ready for the trip. Here are the five things you need to do before you take your plastic overseas. 1. Make sure your credit card has ...

  23. How To Use Credit Cards While Traveling Abroad

    When you use a credit card in a foreign country, the issuer automatically converts the local currency to dollars based on up-to-date exchange rates. For this conversion service, the issuer may ...

  24. 10 credit card tips to help you avoid disaster when traveling abroad

    9. Check your card benefits for travel perks. Travel credit cards can do more than just waive foreign transaction fees and extract cash from ATMs; they can revolutionize the quality of your travel ...

  25. 30 Basic Safe Travel Tips for Traveling Abroad

    Trichon recommends carrying messenger-style daypacks for small souvenirs and water but keeping credit cards and ID separate. 11. Stash extra cash in a hidden place on your person in case a bag goes missing. 12. Bring a first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptics, tweezers, and cold packs. 13.

  26. A Guide to Travel Points on Credit Cards

    March 14, 2024. Savvy shoppers can turn everyday spending into exciting adventures by harnessing the power of travel points on credit cards. Travel points on credit cards are rewards earned for eligible purchases. When someone accumulates enough points, they can redeem them for travel-related expenses like flights, accommodations, or upgrades.

  27. Comparing Credit Card Travel Insurance and Standalone Travel ...

    The obvious difference between credit card insurance and a stand-alone policy is the cost. While credit card insurance is usually included in the cost of the card, traditional travel insurance is ...

  28. Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card Overview

    The Bank of America Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card offers a budget-friendly option for individuals looking to build or improve their credit. With a $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction ...

  29. If You're Traveling Abroad, Take 2 Credit Cards

    A premium travel rewards card like the Chase Sapphire Reserve® can come in handy despite its $550 annual fee. To start, you earn 10 points per $1 for dining purchases made through Chase Ultimate ...

  30. Airline Credit Cards With Free Checked Bags in 2024

    Most major U.S. airlines raised checked baggage fees this year. American Airlines, Delta, United, Alaska Airlines and JetBlue now charge $35 to $45 for a first checked bag on domestic and short ...