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The 11 Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards for Travelers [2024]

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Christine Krzyszton

Senior Finance Contributor

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Keri Stooksbury

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The 11 Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards for Travelers [2024]

What Is a Foreign Transaction Fee?

How to find out if a credit card charges a foreign transaction fee, 1. the platinum card ® from american express, 2. american express ® gold card, 3. chase sapphire reserve ®, 4. chase sapphire preferred ® card, 5. citi premier ® card, 6. capital one venture rewards credit card, 1. hilton honors american express card, 2. capital one ventureone rewards credit card, 3. bank of america ® travel rewards credit card, 1. ink business preferred ® credit card, 2. the business platinum card ® from american express, cash advances abroad, currency conversion fees, dynamic currency conversion, foreign atm fees, final thoughts.

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If you’re a frequent international traveler, you’re probably familiar with foreign transaction fees, those pesky extra fees charged by your credit card company on every purchase you make outside of the U.S.

The fees can also be charged on transactions made with foreign banks, even if you’re making the purchase from the U.S. For example, if you purchase an airline ticket from a foreign company, you may be charged a foreign transaction fee.

Foreign transaction fees are widely unpopular, especially with travelers frequently paying their foreign expenses with credit cards. As a result, the list of credit cards that don’t charge these fees is growing as issuers introduce new card products without foreign transaction fees and remove them from some existing cards.

Let’s take a look at these fees and some of the best cards you can use to avoid them.

What You Should Know About Foreign Transaction Fees

Foreign transaction fees are assessed by your credit card issuer on any transaction processed by a foreign bank. The common rate is around 3% of the total foreign purchase amount , and there is no limit as to how much can be charged.

These fees are perfectly legal, but more and more credit card companies are eliminating them since informed travelers choose credit cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees.

In some cases, the promotional summary for a credit card doesn’t disclose whether there is a foreign transaction fee charged on the card. You may need to dig deeper to find out for certain.

Fortunately, all of the financial information you’ll need can be found in what’s known as a Schumer Box. It’s named after Charles (Chuck) Schumer, the congressman responsible for the legislation that requires credit card companies to clearly disclose costs and terms associated with each card.

All credit card companies must use a standard format for the Schumer Box, so comparing cards became much easier after this legislation was passed in 1988.

For a credit card you’re considering, you can review the Schumer Box online for that specific card by clicking on a link titled:

  • Rates & Fees
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Pricing & Rates
  • Interest Rates & Fee Summary
  • … or a link with a similar name

Here’s what you’ll see in the Schumer Box if the credit card you’re researching does not charge a foreign transaction fee:

Here’s an example of a section of the Schumer Box for a credit card that does charge a foreign transaction fee:

Determining if your existing credit card charges a foreign transaction fee:

  • Call Your Credit Card Company — Contact your credit card company and ask whether your card charges a foreign transaction fee by calling the phone number printed on the back of your card.
  • Review Your Paper Cardholder Agreement — When you received your new credit card in the mail, a cardholder agreement was included. In the agreement, there’s a chart similar to the ones illustrated above that lists all the fees assessed on your card.
  • Access Your Account Online — Sign in to your online credit card account to access your cardholder agreement, which will include a breakdown of all fees and charges.

Bottom Line:  While a 3% foreign transaction fee might not seem like much, it can add up quickly, whether you’re a frequent traveler or just take 1 big trip a year. In any case, by selecting a credit card without the fees, you won’t come home to a billing statement full of additional foreign transaction charges on your purchases!

The 6 Best Personal Travel Rewards Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fees

Selecting a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees is a real benefit for the traveler. But, there are so many credit cards in the marketplace without these fees that savvy travelers will want to choose a card that delivers even more benefits.

Let’s look at our picks for some of the top cards for international travel that have no foreign transaction fees.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Platinum Card ® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card ® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card  is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access , hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

  • The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
  • 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with American Express Travel (up to $500,000 per year)
  • 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel
  • Annual and monthly statement credits upon enrollment ( airline credit, Uber Cash credit, Saks Fifth Avenue credit, streaming credit, prepaid hotel credit on eligible stays, Walmart+ credit, CLEAR credit, and Equinox credit )
  • TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit
  • Access to American Express Fine Hotels and Resorts
  • Access to Amex International Airline Program
  • No foreign transaction fees ( rates and fees )
  • $695 annual fee ( rates and fees )
  • Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards ® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card ® , Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards ® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts ® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card ® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, SiriusXM, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card ® . Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Up Benefits are excluded.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card ® .
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only.
  • $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back in statement credits per calendar year on an Equinox membership, or an Equinox club membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you pay with your Platinum Card ® . Enrollment required. Visit https://platinum.equinox.com/ to enroll.
  • $189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR Plus at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Platinum Card ® . Learn more.
  • $100 Global Entry Credit: Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck ® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card ® . Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card ® . That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • $300 SoulCycle At-Home Bike Credit: Get a $300 statement credit for the purchase of a SoulCycle at-home bike with your Platinum Card ® . An Equinox+ subscription is required to purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike and access SoulCycle content. Must charge full price of bike in one transaction. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. Enrollment Required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card ® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

  • APR: See Pay Over Time APR
  • Foreign Transaction Fees: None

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Hot Tip:  Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 125k (or 150k) points with the Amex Platinum. The current public offer is 80,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

The Amex Platinum card is the go-to card for luxury travel benefits . With premier access to airport lounges worldwide , complimentary hotel elite status, car rental program benefits , and a long list of travel insurance benefits , it’s expected that this premium travel rewards card wouldn’t charge fees on foreign transactions (see rates & fees ).

Add in the hundreds of dollars of savings in the form of statement credits for specific purchases and the card easily earns a place in any frequent traveler’s wallet.

Read our review to find details on the Amex Platinum card foreign transaction fees.

American Express® Gold Card

American Express ® Gold Card

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

The American Express ® Gold Card  is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

  • 4x points per dollar at restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
  • 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases; and 1x thereafter
  • 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at Amex Travel
  • Up to $120 annual dining credit: up to $10 monthly statement credit when you pay with the Amex Gold card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com , Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations
  • Up to $120 in annual Uber Cash : get $10 monthly in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S. when you add your Gold Card to your Uber account
  • No foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees )
  • Access to Amex’s The Hotel Collection
  • Access to American Express transfer partners
  • $250 annual fee (see rates and fees )
  • No lounge access
  • Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards ® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards ® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards ® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express ® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
  • Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
  • Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $250.
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Hot Tip:  Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 90,000 points with the Amex Gold card. The current public offer is 60,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

The Amex Gold card has an identity problem. On one hand, it shines as an everyday rewards-earning card for spending at restaurants and at U.S. supermarkets, yet it also rewards specific travel purchases. And, at redemption time, Membership Rewards points earned on the card are there for good-value travel redemptions whether via AmexTravel.com or transferring points to the Amex transfer partners .

We like that the card is so diverse and also that it also offers a generous upfront welcome bonus.

Bottom Line:  The American Express collection of no foreign transaction fee credit cards offers strong benefits for the frequent traveler and options equally suited to those with loyalty to a specific brand. A combination of cards could offer the perfect umbrella of benefits for the frequent traveler. See our full list of Amex credit cards if you’re looking for even more choices from American Express.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Chase Sapphire Reserve ®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve ®  is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access , with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

  • 10x points on car rentals, hotels, and dining booked via the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
  • 10x points on Lyft purchases March 31, 2025
  • 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025
  • 5x points on airfare booked via the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal
  • 3x points on all other travel and dining purchases; 1x point on all other purchases
  • $300 annual travel credit
  • Priority Pass airport lounge access
  • TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or NEXUS credit
  • Access to Chase Luxury Hotel and Resort Collection
  • Rental car elite status with National and Avis
  • $550 annual fee
  • Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status
  • 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 Ultimate Rewards ®
  • $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 Ultimate Rewards ® 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 Ultimate Rewards ® . 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

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It’s difficult to compete with the Amex Platinum card when it comes to premium travel rewards cards, but the Chase Sapphire Reserve card also earns a successful nod as one of the best travel rewards cards.

We like that cardholders receive a $300 statement credit for travel purchases each year and that the card comes with complimentary Priority Pass Select membership that will give you access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide.

It’s not difficult to realize significant value with the card if you’re a frequent traveler, especially when earning and redeeming valuable Ultimate Rewards points for great value.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card

A fantastic travel card with a huge welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred ® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance . With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

  • 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
  • 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
  • 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)
  • 3x points on dining purchases, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services
  • 2x points on all other travel worldwide
  • $50 annual credit on hotel stays booked through the Chase Travel portal
  • 6 months of complimentary Instacart+ (activate by July 31, 2024), plus up to $15 in statement credits each quarter through July 2024
  • Excellent travel and car rental insurance
  • 10% annual bonus points
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs like United MileagePlus and World of Hyatt
  • $95 annual fee
  • No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status
  • 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.
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As one of our favorite travel rewards cards, the Chase Sapphire Preferred card is a perfect choice for your first travel rewards-earning card. Not only will you receive elevated earnings on dining and travel, but at redemption time you’ll receive 25% more in value for your points via the Chase travel portal .

If your travel goals include enjoying a business or first class flight across the ocean, you’ll be pleased with your options when transferring points to the Chase airline and hotel partners .

Plus, the card offers a grand collection of travel protections and benefits .

Bottom Line:  The Chase Sapphire Preferred card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve card earn valuable Chase Ultimate Rewards points that can be redeemed for travel for up to 50% more in value through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal or transferred to hotel and airline partners for even greater potential value.

Citi Premier® Card

Citi Premier ® Card

Frequent flyers will enjoy 3x ThankYou Points at restaurants, gas stations, supermarkets, air travel, and hotels.

The Citi Premier ® Card is an excellent option for anyone looking for an all-around travel rewards credit card. The card helps you earn points fast with great 3x bonus categories such as restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, airfare, and hotels. Plus, it offers access to airline and hotel transfer partners, doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, and has a reasonable annual fee!

  • 3x points at restaurants, supermarkets, gas stations, airfare, and hotel purchases
  • Access to Citi transfer partners
  • Annual hotel credit
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • $95 annual fee
  • Earn 60,000 bonus ThankYou ® Points after you spend $4,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of account opening. Plus, for a limited time, earn a total of 10 ThankYou ® Points per $1 spent on hotel, car rentals, and attractions (excluding air travel) booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through June 30, 2024.
  • Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Gas Stations, Air Travel and Other Hotels
  • Earn 3 Points per $1 spent at Restaurants and Supermarkets
  • Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Annual Hotel Savings Benefit
  • 60,000 ThankYou ® Points are redeemable for $600 in gift cards redeemable for $600 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com
  • No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases
  • APR: 21.24% - 29.24% Variable

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You’ll have lots of earning power with 3x points at restaurants, gas stations, supermarkets, hotels, and air travel.

You’ll have choices at redemption time, too, when your ThankYou Points can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, and gift cards or transferred to travel partners .

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Get 2x miles plus some of the most flexible redemptions offered by a travel credit card!

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card   is one of the most popular rewards cards on the market. It’s perfect for anyone in search of a great welcome offer, high rewards rates, and flexible redemption options.

Frequent travelers with excellent credit may benefit from this credit card that offers a lot of bells and whistles. And it offers easy-to-understand rewards earning and redemption.

  • 5x miles per $1 on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • 2x miles per $1 on all other purchases
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit
  • No foreign transaction fees ( rates & fees )
  • Access to Capital One transfer partners
  • $95 annual fee ( rates & fees )
  • Limited elite benefits
  • 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
  • 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
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck ®
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

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The Capital One Venture card earns 2x miles per dollar spent on every purchase you make.

At redemption time, you have the option to purchase travel via Capital One Travel , or transfer miles to airline partners .

The 3 Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Rewards Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fees

No foreign transaction fee credit cards that offer the highest levels of rewards and benefits typically charge an annual fee. However, there are plenty of no foreign transaction fee cards that do not charge an annual fee; here’s a sampling of those cards:

Hilton Honors American Express Card

Hilton Honors American Express Card

Complimentary Hilton Honors Silver status, plus great earnings at Hilton, U.S. gas stations, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. restaurants!

You can’t beat a comfy king-sized bed and room service. For many travelers, it’s the hotel that really makes or breaks an experience. If you’re one of those people, you’ve probably stayed at a Hilton hotel.

Whether your visits are for work or pleasure, the Hilton brand has you covered with more than 6,200 locations in 100 counties and territories.

To enjoy a host of great benefits, you may want to apply for the Hilton Honors American Express Card .

  • 7x points per $1 on Hilton stays
  • 5x points per $1 at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations
  • 3x points per $1 on all other purchases
  • Complimentary Hilton Honors Silver status
  • No annual fee ( rates & fees )
  • No foreign transaction fees ( rates & fees )
  • Not great for those who want multiple redemption options
  • Offers the least benefits of all Hilton cards
  • Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
  • Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
  • Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
  • Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors Silver status with your Card. Plus, spend $20,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors Gold status through the end of the next calendar year.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.
  • No Annual Fee.
  • APR: 20.99%-29.99% Variable
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The Hilton Honors card works best for earning lots of Hilton Honors points to redeem for free hotel nights and securing entry-level Hilton Honors elite status.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

The card offers unlimited miles at 1.25x per $1 and no annual fee. When you consider the flexible rewards, frequent travelers come out on top.

Interested in a travel rewards credit card without one of those pesky annual fees? Then say hello to the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card.

In addition to no annual fee, the Capital One VentureOne card offers no foreign transaction fees.

But is this card worth its salt, or is it merely a shell of the more popular Capital One Venture card?

  • Ability to use transfer partners
  • Fraud coverage
  • Weak earn rate at 1.25x miles per $1 spent on all purchases
  • No luxury travel or elite benefits
  • $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
  • Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
  • APR: 19.99% - 29.99% (Variable),0% intro on purchases for 15 months
  • Benefits of the Capital One VentureOne Card
  • Capital One Venture X Card vs. Capital One VentureOne Card [Detailed Comparison]
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  • The 5 Best First Credit Cards For Beginners [March 2024]

The Capital One VentureOne card keeps it simple when it comes to earning rewards with 1.25 miles earned per dollar spent on every purchase you make.

You’ll then have several options at redemption time including purchase merchandise, or gift cards. For the potential of greater value, you can also transfer miles to travel partners.

We like that the Bank of America Travel Rewards card offers unlimited 1.5x points for every dollar spent , has no annual fee, and has no foreign transaction fees.

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card

Bank of America ® Travel Rewards Credit Card

The Bank of America Travel Rewards card is a great option for those who want an easy way to earn travel rewards without paying an annual fee.

The Bank of America ® Travel Rewards credit card  is a great option for those looking to dip their toe into the world of travel rewards cards, without paying an annual fee.

The card makes earning points and redeeming them for travel super easy for cardholders.

  • 1.5x points per $1 you spend on all purchases
  • No annual fee
  • Boost your rewards rate with the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program
  • Points are worth a fixed 1 cent per point, so it isn’t possible to get outsized redemptions
  • Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don’t expire.
  • 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening –  that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
  • Use your card to book your trip how and where you want – you’re not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
  • Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
  • New longer intro period! 0% Introductory APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 16.24% – 26.24% Variable APR will apply. A 3% fee (min $10) applies to all balance transfers.
  • If you’re a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.
  • Contactless Cards – The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
  • This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
  • APR: 0% Introductory APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases. After the intro APR offer ends, 16.24% - 26.24% variable will apply.
  • Guide to Bank of America Preferred Rewards
  • Best Bank of America Credit Cards for Cash-back and Rewards

One big reason we like this card is that if you’re a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases.

Bottom Line: You don’t have to pay an annual fee to secure a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees!

The 2 Best Business Travel Rewards Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fees

If you own a business, even a small business, that involves travel, you’ll certainly want to have a travel rewards card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

Here are 2 of the best business travel rewards cards available.

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Ink Business Preferred ® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.

The Ink Business Preferred ® Credit Card is a powerhouse for earning lots of points from your business purchases , especially for business owners that spend regularly on ads.

Plus the card offers flexible redemption options, including access to Chase airline and hotel transfer partners where you can achieve outsized value.

Business owners will also love the protections the card provides like excellent cell phone insurance , rental car insurance, purchase protection, and more.

  • 3x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on up to $150,000 in combined purchases on internet, cable and phone services, shipping expenses, travel, and ads purchased with search engines or social media sites
  • Cell phone protection
  • Purchase protection
  • Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
  • Rental car insurance
  • Extended warranty coverage
  • No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access
  • Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
  • Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
  • Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
  • With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
  • Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
  • Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
  • Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
  • Best Business Credit Cards
  • The Chase Ink Business Preferred 100k Bonus Offer
  • Benefits of the Ink Business Preferred
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  • Chase Ink Business Preferred vs Amex Business Gold
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  • Amex Business Platinum vs. Chase Ink Business Preferred
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  • Best Chase Business Credit Cards
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You’ll want your highest business expenses to earn rewards and the Ink Business Preferred card delivers. You’ll also find a nice collection of travel benefits and plenty of flexible options at redemption time to ensure you receive top value for Ultimate Rewards points earned on the card.

We like the card for its stellar level of benefits, including cell phone protection , compared to its lower annual fee.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express

The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges , along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Hot Tip:  Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 170,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum. The current public offer is 120,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

  • 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
  • Up to $200 annual airline fee credit on your selected qualifying airline
  • Statement credits on select purchases with your card
  • 35% airline bonus when using Pay With Points (up to 1,000,000 bonus points per calendar year)
  • Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
  • Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)
  • Access to Amex’s Fine Hotels & Resorts program
  • High annual fee of $695 ( rates and fees )
  • Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags
  • Welcome Offer: Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards ® points after you spend $15,000 on eligible purchases with your Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
  • 5X Membership Rewards ® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
  • Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else, on up to $2 million of these purchases per calendar year.
  • Unlock over $1,000 in annual statement credits on a curation of business purchases, including select purchases made with Dell Technologies, Indeed, Adobe, and U.S. wireless service providers.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Get up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year for incidental fees charged by your one selected, qualifying airline to your Card.
  • $189 CLEAR ® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $189 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR ® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Business Platinum Card ® .
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection ® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
  • $695 Annual Fee.
  • APR: 19.49% - 27.49% Variable
  • Find The Amex Business Platinum 150k Welcome Bonus Offer
  • Find The Amex Business Platinum 170k Welcome Bonus Offer
  • Benefits of the Amex Business Platinum
  • Authorized Users Benefits of the Amex Business Platinum
  • 35% Points Rebate with the Amex Business Platinum
  • Amex Business Platinum vs Amex Platinum
  • Best American Express Business Credit Cards
  • Best Credit Cards with Priority Access

Hot Tip:  Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 170,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum. The current public offer is 120,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

With international airport lounge access and a 35% rebate when using Membership Rewards points for flights, the frequent business traveler could find tremendous value with the Amex Business Platinum card.

You’ll also find hundreds of dollars in statement credits for specific purchases and earnings of 1.5x points on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more everywhere else  (up to $2 million in purchases per calendar year).

If you’d like to learn more about these 2 popular business travel rewards cards, check out our in-depth comparison of earnings, redemption options, benefits, and more.

Bottom Line:  Select a no foreign transaction fee business credit card based on the spending profile of your business to maximize earning rewards. You’ll also want to make sure the spending levels of your business offset any annual fees, and that your travel is frequent enough to maximize the travel benefits offered with each specific card. 

Please note that any additional benefit information we’ve provided is abbreviated and for general comparison purposes only.

All of the cards reviewed earn at least 1 point or mile per dollar spent on every purchase, so we’ve only included earnings in the additional benefits section that exceed this level.

A complete list of benefits and current card offers is provided when accessing each credit card summary page individually. Additional terms and conditions apply.

Hot Tip:  With so many different issuers providing cards without foreign transaction fees, it’s not a bad idea to quickly familiarize yourself with each bank’s specific rules prior to applying. 

Everything Else You Need To Know

Once you’ve selected a credit card that charges no foreign transaction fees, you’ll want to make sure you minimize the plethora of other fees you might incur when securing foreign currency abroad (or simply paying for your foreign purchase with a credit card).

You may be surprised to learn that you can be hit with several fees as a result of 1 simple foreign transaction!

While using your no foreign transaction fee credit card for purchases when traveling is a smart move, using that same credit card to secure a cash advance when you’re traveling can trigger additional fees and interest charges .

In an emergency, it’s good to know that a cash advance is an option… but it’s also important to understand the potential cost of doing so, even on a card that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee.

The term “currency conversion fees” is frequently used interchangeably with “foreign transaction fees,” but there is a difference.

Converting foreign currency costs money. When your bank is charged by the processing network (such as Visa or Mastercard) for converting your purchase made in foreign currency to U.S. dollars, it passes the expense on to you.

In some cases, the foreign transaction fee your bank charges you will include the currency conversion fee they have been charged (usually around 1%). The bank can also tack on additional fees, bringing the total to around 3%.

Bottom Line:  Foreign transaction fees are just one of the charges you need to be aware of when paying for foreign purchases with your credit card and securing foreign currency while traveling. Referencing your credit card’s Schumer Box before traveling can help you avoid some of these fees. 

When you check out of your hotel or are presented with your dining bill in a foreign country, it might seem convenient that the total amount is already converted from the foreign currency to U.S. dollars. There’s no need to do any calculations to determine how much you’ll be paying — it’s been done for you!

This practice of presenting the bill in your home credit card’s currency (in this case U.S. dollars) is known as “ dynamic currency conversion .” While it might seem convenient and harmless, the end results are not in your favor .

For example, let’s say you receive your foreign restaurant tab and there are 2 options for paying: you can select $106 or €86. You might do a quick calculation, think the totals make sense from a conversion perspective, and just pay the bill in U.S. dollars. Unfortunately, if you had paid €86, your U.S. bank would process the currency exchange based on the current rate — which in this case is closer to $96 (versus the higher $106 option on your bill).

Paying in U.S. dollars abroad adds a layer of cost to the transaction: U.S. dollars have to be converted to the local currency to pay the merchant, then back to U.S. dollars to bill you on your credit card.

When using a credit card, always pay your bill in the local currency of the country you’re in to ensure you get the best currency conversion rate.

Bottom Line:  Never pay in U.S. dollars when using your credit card in a foreign country! If your bill is presented in U.S. dollars, ask that it be voided and changed to reflect the amount in local currency. If both options are available on the receipt, be sure the U.S. dollars option isn’t already checked before you sign the receipt. 

You may think you could avoid foreign transaction fees by using your debit card to withdraw money from foreign ATMs when traveling abroad. This is a logical assumption, plus ATMs are usually conveniently located and facilitate an easy transaction. But foreign ATMs can charge exorbitant fees.

Even if the foreign ATM fee is reasonable, your bank may add on foreign transaction fees, currency conversion fees, an out-of-network ATM fee, or other transaction fees.

Some banks (such as Charles Schwab Bank and Capital One 360) reimburse these fees, and other banks allow a limited number of no additional fee transactions per statement period.

Bottom Line:  To minimize bank charges when abroad, review the fee disclosures associated with your debit card before you travel, and try to limit your withdrawals to 1 per trip. You can also open an account that reimburses ATM fees or allows a limited number of no additional fee withdrawals per month.

With the vast selection of credit cards that do not charge foreign transaction fees, it should be easy to find an appropriate card for your travel expenses that avoids these fees.

Remember to look at the Schumer Box for any credit card you’re considering, and learn about the fees charged on your current credit card before you travel.

With just a small amount of research, you can minimize the fees that make international travel more expensive and avoid returning home to a credit card statement full of unexpected charges.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa ® or Mastercard ® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

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The Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards For Travelers (A Head to Head Review)

The information regarding the Bank of America ® Travel Rewards credit card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

For rates and fees of The Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here . For rates and fees of the American Express ® Gold Card, click  here . For rates and fees of the Hilton Honors American Express Card, click here . For rates and fees of The Business Platinum Card ® from American Express, click here .

Frequently Asked Questions

How do foreign transaction fees work.

A foreign transaction fee is a fee charged by your credit card issuer on every purchase you make that is processed through a foreign bank.

You can even be charged a foreign transaction fee if you’re in the U.S. and make a purchase with a foreign merchant in foreign currency. The fee is calculated as a percent of your total purchase, usually around 3%.

How can I avoid foreign transaction fees?

You can avoid foreign transaction fees by always using a card for your foreign purchases that does not charge them.

Which credit cards have no foreign transaction fees?

The majority of credit cards today don’t charge foreign transaction fees, and we’ve put together a collection of the best credit cards for frequent travelers in this post.

There are certain credit card issuers (such as Discover and Capital One) that do not charge a foreign transaction fee on any of their cards. For other cards, you’ll need to review the terms and conditions or rates/fee chart.

How can I find out if a credit card charges foreign transaction fees?

Credit card issuers are required to disclose any fees they charge on their credit cards. For an existing credit card, you can call the number printed on the back of your card, review the paper cardholder agreement that came with your card, or access your credit card account online.

For a credit card you are considering, a list of all of the fees/charges can be found in the Schumer box that can be accessed via a link on the summary or application page.

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About Christine Krzyszton

Christine ran her own business developing and managing insurance and financial services. This stoked a passion for points and miles and she now has over 2 dozen credit cards and creates in-depth, detailed content for UP.

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The best credit cards with no international fees in 2024

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Dec 29, 2023 • 16 min read

international travel card no fees

Jet set, ready to go! Just make sure you've got the right card in your wallet to avoid any unnecessary fees; Paro Taktsang, Bhutan © Kardd / 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 and the Chase Freedom Unlimited has been collected independently by Lonely Planet. This card is not available through Lonely Planet.

Travel far and wide, but don't go too far without the right credit card in your wallet. As you plan to splurge on your next international trip, there’s one cost you can easily avoid with the right credit card: No international fees.

Some credit cards impose up to a 3% foreign transaction fee on purchases originating abroad. While this may sound insignificant, it can put a dent in your travel budget as expenses for meals, activities and hotels abroad add up. Why pay an extra $30 in fees for every $1,000 in travel spending if you can instead put that money towards an upgraded room or a nice meal? 

Whether you're a frequent globetrotter, an international business traveler or simply someone who enjoys shopping online from foreign retailers, finding the right credit card can unlock savings and convenience. While many credit cards waive foreign transaction fees, there are various criteria to consider when choosing a card, including high rewards for international spending, a reasonable annual fee and other benefits that can save you money abroad. Read on for our top picks for the best credit cards with no international fees. 

  • Best overall for 2024: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
  • Best for high rewards: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
  • Best for cash back rewards: Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
  • Best for travel protections: Chase Sapphire Reserve®
  • Best for business: Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card
  • Best for no annual fee: Wells Fargo Autograph Card
  • Best for students: Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
  • Best for dining abroad: American Express® Gold Card  

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Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best overall for 2024

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is often hailed as one of the best credit cards for international travel , and for good reason. It offers a compelling combination of travel benefits and rewards, making it a top choice for globetrotters. First, the card waives international transaction fees, ensuring cardholders can make purchases abroad without incurring extra charges.

The Sapphire Preferred offers one of the best rewards programs for  getting started with points and miles . Cardholders earn valuable points on travel and dining expenses , which can be transferred to 14 airline and hotel loyalty programs, providing significant flexibility and value when booking international flights and accommodations. 

The card also offers valuable travel protection benefits, including trip cancellation/interruption insurance and primary rental car coverage for domestic and international car rentals. 

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 through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal (excluding hotel bookings 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 and complimentary 4th night at Ennismore Hotel properties. Trip cancellation/interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, baggage delay insurance, primary rental car collision damage waiver and travel and emergency assistance services. 

Credit score required: Good to Excellent. 

Annual fee: $95.

  • No foreign transaction fees on purchases originating abroad. 
  • Generous travel protections and benefits that apply to international travel.
  • Reasonable annual fee.
  • A top-tier rewards program that offers flexible ways to earn and redeem points .
  • $95 annual fee. 
  • Approval is subject to Chase’s 5/24 rule ; Chase won't approve a credit card application for an individual who has opened five or more new credit cards from any issuer in the past 24 months.  

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Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Best for high rewards

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the ultimate card for travelers seeking substantial travel perks without international fees. The card waives foreign transaction fees and provides a $300 annual travel credit to offset the $395 annual fee. The credit can be applied towards travel bookings made on the Capital One Travel portal. 

What truly sets the Venture X card apart is its exceptional rewards program. Cardholders can earn up to 10X m miles on travel purchases, making it easy to accrue rewards quickly for your next international trip. These miles can be redeemed at 1 cent each for travel-related expenses such as flights, hotel stays and rental cars. You can also transfer points to 18 airline and hotel partners.

Additionally, the card offers a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck application fee credit, airport lounge access and valuable travel protections. You can even save on museum fees with a 6-month complimentary Cultivist membership, which includes free access to renowned museums like the Royal Academy of Arts, the Picasso Museum in Paris and the Natural History Museum in Venice.

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

Rewards: Earn 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars through Capital One Travel; 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel; 2X miles on all other purchases.

Travel benefits: Annual $300 credit for Capital One Travel bookings; 10,000 bonus miles every card anniversary; Capital One Lounges and Priority Pass Select membership; Hertz President’s Circle status; $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck every four years; complimentary PRIOR subscription, 6-month Cultivist membership; $300 towards Gravity Haus social club membership; discounts and perks through Premier Collection hotels; trip cancellation and interruption insurance; trip delay reimbursement; travel accident insurance; lost luggage reimbursement; travel and emergency assistance services. Primary rental car collision damage waiver covers the vehicle up to the full cash value.

Credit score: Excellent.

Annual fee: $395.

  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • High rewards potential, especially in the travel category.
  • Valuable travel benefits.
  • The $395 annual fee might be steep for some, but this card's benefits provide much more value than that. 
  • Capital One pulls your credit from all three credit bureaus. 
  • No domestic airline transfer partners.  

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Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for cash back rewards

If you want a cash-back card that’s easy on all fees, the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is an excellent option. The SaverOne Cash Rewards card not only waives foreign transaction fees but also has no annual fee. Cardholders also earn a generous 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, providing further incentive to use this card for international travel needs. 

Welcome bonus: Earn $200 cash back once you spend $500 within the first three months from account opening.

Rewards: Earn 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores, plus 1% on all other purchases. Plus, earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases and 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

Travel benefits: No foreign transaction fees; travel accident insurance; complimentary Uber One membership; 10% cash back on Uber and Uber Eats purchases; exclusive reservations through Capital One Dining.

Credit score: Good to Excellent.

Annual fee: $0.

  • No annual or foreign transaction fees.
  • Cash-back rewards are easier to redeem than points and miles.
  • Generous rewards on international travel booked through Capital One.
  • Limited travel benefits beyond travel accident insurance. 
  • Low welcome bonus. 
  • Low rewards rate on non-Capital One Travel spending.  

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Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best for travel protections

The Chase Sapphire Reserve  is widely regarded as the premier choice for travelers seeking comprehensive travel protections . This card's standout feature is its exceptional travel protection benefits, which include trip cancellation/interruption insurance, trip delay reimbursement, lost luggage reimbursement and primary rental car coverage both in the U.S. and abroad. The absence of foreign transaction fees provides convenience and savings on any trip abroad.

This card earns the same rewards as the Chase Sapphire Preferred does, with one significant advantage: Points redeemed directly through Chase Ultimate Rewards Travel are worth 1.5 cents each rather than 1.25 cents. 

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

Rewards: Earn 10 points per dollar on Chase Dining purchases, hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards Travel; 5X points on flights purchased travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards Travel; 3X points on other travel and dining spending (including eligible delivery services, takeout and dining out); 1X point on all other purchases.

Travel benefits: Up to $300 in annual travel statement credits; 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 (up to $75,000 in the U.S. and abroad) and lost luggage reimbursement. 

Credit score required:  Excellent.

Annual fee: $550.

  • Excellent rewards program with elevated redemption rates through the Ultimate Rewards Travel portal.
  • Premium travel benefits.
  • High annual fee.
  • High spending requirement for earning the welcome bonus.

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Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card

Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card: Best for business

The Chase Ink Business Preferred Credit Card is great for business travelers who want to avoid international fees. Beyond its fee-free international spending, this card offers comprehensive travel benefits tailored to the needs of business travelers. These include primary rental car insurance and trip cancellation/interruption coverage.

Cardholders can earn generous rewards on business-related expenses, including travel. These points are worth 25% more when you redeem them for travel through Chase Travel SM . 

Welcome bonus: Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 in the first three months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases on travel, shipping, advertising purchases made with social media sites and search engines, internet, cable and phone services; 5x points on Lyft rides through March 2025; unlimited 1 point per dollar spent on all other spending. 

Travel benefits: Trip cancellation/interruption insurance; roadside assistance; primary auto rental collision damage waiver when renting for business purposes; points are worth 25% more when redeemed through the Ultimate Rewards travel portal; cell phone protection.

Credit score required: Good to Excellent.

  • Generous welcome bonus.
  • Reasonable annual fee. 
  • High rewards on business expenses.
  • $95 annual fee.
  • Primary rental car coverage only applies to car rentals for business purposes.  

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Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card: Best for no annual fee

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card has no annual or international fees, making it an excellent travel credit card . The Autograph Card’s other stand-out features include primary rental car insurance abroad and high rewards on travel spending. These combined benefits are rare for no-annual-fee cards, making the Wells Fargo Autograph an excellent choice.

Limited time offer: Earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $1,500 in purchases in the first three months from account opening – that's a $300 cash redemption value.

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

Travel benefits: No foreign transaction fees; travel and emergency services assistance; primary auto rental collision damage waiver abroad, secondary coverage in the U.S.; up to $600 per year in cell phone protection.

  • No foreign transaction fees, which is rare for a no-annual-fee card.
  • Generous rewards on travel and everyday spending categories.
  • Primary rental car insurance abroad. 
  • Low welcome bonus.
  • Rental car insurance coverage is secondary in the U.S.
  • Points are akin to cash-back rewards and not transferrable to airlines or hotel loyalty programs.

Best credit cards for road trips

Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for students

The Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is a standout choice for students traveling abroad because it incurs no international fees. For young adults exploring the world or studying in international destinations, these fees can quickly accumulate and strain their budgets. With this card, students can enjoy their international adventures without worrying about extra charges when making purchases in foreign currencies.

Welcome bonus: Earn a one-time $50 cash bonus once you spend $100 on purchases within three months from account opening.

Rewards: Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase and 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

Travel benefits: Complimentary Uber One membership and 10% cash back on Uber and Uber Eats purchases through Nov. 14, 2024; Travel accident insurance.

Credit score required: N/A.

Annual fee: $0

  • No annual or foreign transaction fee.
  • Earns straightforward cash-back rewards.
  • Credit-building opportunity for students with limited history.
  • Limited rewards potential compared to points-earning credit cards.
  • Potentially lower credit limit.  

How to get major perks at global events and concerts with your credit card

The Rose Gold American Express Card

American Express® Gold Card: Best for dining abroad 

The American Express® Gold Card is an exceptional choice for dining abroad due to its generous 4X points earn rate on restaurants worldwide and no foreign transaction fees. See rates and fees . Cardholders earn lucrative Membership Rewards points on common travel and everyday spending categories. 

These points can be redeemed for various rewards, including travel statement credits or converted to more valuable travel rewards. With no foreign transaction fees and dining-related rewards, the American Express Gold Card is undoubtedly the best choice for those who want to save on international fees while also maximizing their point earnings. 

Welcome bonus: Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first six months of card membership.

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

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

Annual fee: $250. See rates and fees .

  • High rewards on flights, dining and grocery spending.
  • Valuable Membership Rewards program
  • $250 annual fee.
  • Limited travel benefits and protections.
  • Approval is subject to Amex’s once-per-lifetime rule .

How to travel to Greece using points and miles

Trying the traditional foods of São Paulo, Brazil

Who should get a credit card with no international fees?

A  credit card with no international fees can be a great choice for those who frequently travel abroad or make purchases with businesses based abroad. International fees, including foreign transaction fees, can add up substantially when you’re paying for airfare, hotels, meals and activities. Travelers can save by acquiring a credit card that waives these fees. Moreover, these cards often come with added perks such as travel insurance, access to airport lounges and rewards programs that can enhance the overall travel experience. 

However, it's important to note that not everyone will benefit from a credit card with no international fees. Those who rarely travel outside their home country may find little value in these cards. These types of credit cards often carry annual fees, making them unideal for travelers on a budget who don’t get use out of their cards beyond the occasional trip abroad.

Additionally, those who struggle with managing credit responsibly or are prone to overspending should exercise caution when considering any credit card, as the convenience of plastic can sometimes lead to financial pitfalls. Before obtaining a credit card for any reason, consumers should assess their financial habits and overall credit management skills. Ultimately, those who can leverage the benefits of fee-free international spending and manage their credit responsibly stand to gain from these credit cards.

American Express Membership Rewards vs. Chase Ultimate Rewards

How to choose the best credit card with no international fees

The best credit card with no international fees depends primarily on your travel habits. Look for credit cards that not only eliminate foreign transaction fees but also offer additional benefits, such as rewards on travel spending and travel insurance. Analyze the card's annual fee, if any, and evaluate whether the benefits outweigh this cost based on your expected spending and travel patterns.

Furthermore, pay close attention to the card's rewards structure. Some cards offer cash back, while others provide travel points or miles that can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays or other travel-related expenses. Choose a card that aligns with your spending habits and preferences. Additionally, check if the card offers perks like travel insurance or lounge access, which can enhance your travel experience and security. 

By thoroughly researching and comparing these factors, you can make an informed decision and select the best credit card with no international fees that suits your unique financial and travel needs.

The best credit cards for airline miles

Dining out in Chile

Which cards charge international fees?

Popular credit cards that charge international fees include the Chase Freedom Unlimited® and the Blue Business® Plus Credit Card from American Express . The Freedom Unlimited charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, while the Blue Business charges 2.7%.

How much are foreign transaction fees? 

Foreign transaction fees vary depending on the credit card. They typically average 3%. 

American Express Membership Rewards transfer partners

Winter sports in Villars-sur-Ollon, Switzerland

How do I avoid international credit card fees?

You can avoid international credit card fees by using a credit card that waives them. Some travelers bring cash with them, though this isn’t the most secure form of payment. 

How to travel to Bali with points and miles

Which card is best for international transactions: Visa or MasterCard?

Both Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted worldwide. For the best card for international transactions, choose one that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee. The Chase Sapphire Preferred , Capital One Venture X and Wells Fargo Autograph Card are just a few examples.

Traveling to Europe using points and miles

Which credit cards work worldwide?

All credit cards issued by American Express, Discover, Mastercard and Visa work worldwide. However, some of these cards charge fees when you use them abroad. 

The best credit cards for rental cars

* 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 October 2023 and updated December 2023

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9 types of cards you should pack for your next trip abroad

Ariana Arghandewal

When traveling abroad, what you pack in your wallet matters as much as what you pack in your luggage.

The approach to both should be the same: Keep it simple and practical. You'll want at least one credit card that charges no foreign transaction fees , one that earns bonus points on travel, another that offers travel insurance and rental car coverage , and a fourth that gets me hotel elite status benefits.

Regardless of where your next trip takes you, this guide will run through nine credit cards for international travel that will serve you well on your travels abroad.

A card with no foreign transaction fees

When traveling internationally, you should have at least one card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees . You're bound to make purchases abroad, so why pay an (up to) 3% fee every time you swipe your card? In many cases, these fees will negate the rewards you'll earn, defeating the purpose of using a credit card for international travel to begin with.

international travel card no fees

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. Here are some of our favorite card picks in this category:

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve
  • The Platinum Card® from American Express (see rates and fees )
  • American Express® Gold Card (see rates and fees )
  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees )
  • Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees )
  • Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card (see rates and fees )
  • Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card
  • Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card
  • Alaska Airlines Visa® Credit Card

The information for the Hilton Aspire Amex card and the Capital One Savor has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

A card that earns bonus points on travel

international travel card no fees

If you're going to travel anywhere, you'll need a travel rewards card that earns a sufficient number of points. After all, you'll spend a lot on hotel charges, restaurants, transportation and more. A travel rewards card can help you get as many as 10 points per dollar on these purchases.

  • The Platinum Card® from American Express – 5 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel on up to $500,000 on purchases per calendar year and 5 points per dollar on prepaid hotels booked with Amex Travel
  • Citi Premier® Card – at least 3 points per dollar on air travel and hotels (see rates and fees )
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve – at least 3 points per dollar on travel
  • Ink Business Preferred Credit Card – 3 points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases in multiple categories, including travel each account anniversary year
  • Chase Sapphire Preferred Card – at least 2 points per dollar on travel
  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card – 2 miles per dollar on all spending
  • Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card — 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, and 5 miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel

While it's easy to go for the card with the highest travel bonus, you'll want to consider a few other factors. Namely, you'll want a card that protects your travel purchases.

A card that offers travel protection

international travel card no fees

When you're traveling abroad, a lot can happen. Your travel plans may unexpectedly change, and if you don't have travel insurance , you could be in a tough spot. Luckily, you don't need to purchase travel protection coverage every time you travel if you have the right credit card for international travel.

Be sure to bring along a card that offers travel protection , including trip cancellation/interruption protection, trip delay reimbursement and emergency evacuation and transportation coverage.

  • The Platinum Card® from American Express
  • The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
  • Ink Business Preferred Credit Card
  • Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
  • United Club Infinite Card
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
  • U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card

The information for the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Remember that coverage may be restricted, depending on where you live or your travel destination.

Related: When to buy travel insurance versus when to rely on credit card protections

A card that offers primary rental car coverage

international travel card no fees

Rental car coverage is crucial, especially when you're traveling abroad. The last thing you want is to get into a fender bender and get hit with a higher insurance premium. You can buy primary coverage at the rental counter or get it for free using a card that offers primary rental car coverage , such as:

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
  • Ink Business Cash Credit Card
  • United Explorer Card
  • United Quest Card
  • United Business Card
  • Ink Business Unlimited Credit Card

A card that offers airport lounge access

Traveling abroad means spending quite a bit of time at the airport. You need to arrive several hours before departure and will probably have a few hours to spare. An airport lounge is a great place to pass the time and grab a snack before a flight.

international travel card no fees

Luckily, many premium credit cards offer lounge access , although you can also score day passes with a card like the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card .

  • The Platinum Card® from American Express – Priority Pass Select membership (except restaurants) and access to Centurion Lounges , Delta Sky Clubs (before same-day Delta flights; limited to 10 annual visits from Feb. 1, 2025), Plaza Premium, Airspace and Escape lounges
  • The Business Platinum Card® from American Express – Same access as The Platinum Card
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve – Priority Pass Select membership, which includes access to Chase Sapphire Lounges
  • Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card — Priority Pass Select membership (except restaurants) and access to Capital One Lounges
  • Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® (see rates and fees ) – American Airlines Admirals Club membership
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card – Access to The Centurion Lounge when you book your Delta flight with this card. Get Delta Sky Club when flying a same-day Delta flight, plus four one-time guest passes. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card – Complimentary Delta Sky Club access when traveling with Delta. Plus, per-visit rate of $50 per person for up to two guests . Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
  • United Club Infinite Card – Complimentary United Club membership

Enrollment required for select benefits.

So what's the best card for international lounge access? That depends on various factors, but The Platinum Card® from American Express offers the most comprehensive network. You not only get Priority Pass Select membership, but you can also visit lounges within the exclusive Centurion lounge network. Just note that this card won't give you access to Priority Pass restaurants.

A card that offers hotel elite status benefits

international travel card no fees

Having hotel elite status abroad is incredibly valuable. You'll not only earn more points on your hotel stays, but you'll also save money via perks such as free breakfast and club lounge access. As an elite member, you'll also qualify for room upgrades, which can be great in places where hotel rooms tend to be smaller (looking at you, Europe). With the right hotel credit card , you can get top-tier status outright or spend your way there.

  • Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card – Automatic Hilton Honord Diamond status; $450 annual fee (see rates and fees )
  • Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card – Hilton Honors Gold status, plus earn Diamond after spending $40,000 in a calendar year
  • Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card – Marriott Platinum Elite status
  • The Platinum Card® from American Express – Hilton Honors and Marriott Gold status. Enrollment required
  • Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card – Marriott Silver elite status, plus earn 15 elite night credits per calendar year towards the next level of Marriott Bonvoy Elite status
  • IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card – IHG Platinum Elite status
  • World of Hyatt Credit Card – Hyatt Discoverist status

A card that offers Global Entry fee credits

Forget long customs lines when you return to the U.S. Rather than spending an hour in line, you can skip over to the Global Entry kiosk and get through in a matter of minutes.

international travel card no fees

If you want a smooth experience (and no lines) when returning from your trip abroad, the $100 Global Entry application fee (including TSA PreCheck) is well worth it. Better yet, get yourself a credit card that offers a Global Entry fee credit and put that $100 toward its annual fee. You'll get a nice welcome bonus and your Global Entry application fee covered. These credits get renewed up to every five years in time for your renewal application.

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card ($95 annual fee; see rates and fees )
  • Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card ($395 annual fee; see rates and fees )
  • The Platinum Card® from American Express ($695 annual fee; see rates and fees )
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve® ($550 annual fee)
  • United Explorer Card ($0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95)
  • Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card ($650 annual fee; see rates and fees )
  • Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card ($95 annual fee)
  • Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard® ($595 annual fee)
  • IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card ($99 annual fee)

Related: 14 things you should know about Global Entry before your next trip

A card that offers travel credits

Things can get expensive when traveling abroad, but you might be covered if you carry a premium credit card in your wallet. Many of these cards offer annual travel credits that are either airline/hotel specific, or you can use them for virtually anything.

international travel card no fees

If you have one of these cards in your wallet, you'll want to pack it for your trip abroad to put that annual credit to use and lower your out-of-pocket expenses.

  • Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card – Up to $250 Hilton resort credit and up to $250 in statement credits for airline incidentals. Enrollment required for select benefits
  • The Platinum Card® from American Express – Up to $200 airline fee credit, up to $200 Uber cash (distributed in $15 monthly increments and on U.S. services), up to $200 prepaid hotel statement credits with Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection each calendar year on bookings (two-night minimum stay required with The Hotel Collection), up to $189 Clear Plus membership credit per year. Enrollment is required for select benefits
  • Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card — $300 in annual credits for flights, hotels or rental cars booked through the Capital One Travel portal
  • U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite – Up to $325 general travel credit
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve – Up to $300 general travel credit
  • Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card – Up to $300 statement credit each calendar year for eligible purchases at restaurants worldwide
  • The Business Platinum Card® from American Express – Up to $200 in statement credits for airline incidental fees per calendar year. Enrollment is required
  • Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card – Up to $100 airline incidental fee statement credit
  • Citi Premier® Card (see rates and fees ) – Annual $100 hotel savings when you spend at least $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) in a single booking through Citi ThankYou Travel

A debit card that waives international ATM fees

Credit cards aren't as widely accepted abroad as in the U.S. It's not just off-the-beaten-path destinations where you'll need to carry cash – I've encountered merchants in fairly large European cities that did not accept credit cards. You might find yourself short on cash, so a trip to the ATM will be necessary.

international travel card no fees

That's why bringing a debit card that charges no international ATM fees when you use it abroad is so important. The Charles Schwab debit card is a great option because it carries no fees whatsoever and reimburses all international ATM fees. You can even use the card for purchases since it charges no foreign transaction fees .

  • Capital One debit card – Requires a Capital One 360 checking account
  • Charles Schwab debit card – Requires opening a Schwab Bank High Yield Investor checking account
  • Fidelity Visa Gold Check Card – Requires a Fidelity Cash Management Account
  • SoFi Money debit card – Requires a SoFi Money account

The information for the Capital One debit, Charles Schwab, Fidelity Visa Gold Check and SoFi Money debit cards has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: 5 cards I take with me on every trip abroad

Which cards are best for travel abroad?

The best credit cards for international travel are the most widely accepted and offer robust rewards, travel protection and benefits. While there is no single perfect card that fits everyone's travel needs, the Chase Sapphire Reserve checks off the most boxes. As a Visa card, it's also more widely accepted than Amex cards — but with a $550 annual fee.

For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a great pick. It has a $95 annual fee(see rates and fees ) and offers (secondary) rental car coverage and a Global Entry application fee credit every four years. Not only can you offset most of your travel expenses by charging them to this card and redeeming your Capital One miles for 1 cent per mile, but you can also transfer your miles to airline and hotel partners.

Do I need a card with a chip-and-pin?

Chip-and-pin credit cards are popular throughout Europe, so you may want one in your wallet if you travel abroad. The good news is that many popular reward credit cards are already chip-and-pin enabled, so you may not have to go through the hassle of finding another card to apply for. Many merchants now offer contactless pay (services like Apple Pay).

What are foreign transaction fees?

Some credit cards impose foreign transaction fees on purchases made abroad. These fees are usually around 3%. We're all about saving on travel, so avoiding another 3% charge on top of all your travel spending would be ideal. Get yourself a rewards card without foreign transaction fees , and you won't have to worry about this added expense.

Do I need to let my card issuer know if I'm traveling abroad?

You don't have to let your card issuer know you're traveling abroad, but it's a good idea to do so. That way, you minimize the risk of your purchases being declined abroad. Some banks allow you to submit travel notices online, while others require you to call and speak to a representative. Provide a list of countries you plan on visiting, and your account will be notated. Abnormal transactions may still get flagged, but this way, you reduce the chances of your purchases being declined.

Bottom line

Now is a great time to plan your next trip by saving up transferable rewards and making sure you have the right credit cards for international travel in your wallet. You'll save money, earn more points and enjoy a better travel experience. Whichever card combination you pick, make sure it covers all the criteria outlined above.

For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum Card, please click  here. For rates and fees of the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant Amex Card, please click  here. For rates and fees of the Amex Gold card, click here . For rates and fees of the Hilton Aspire card, click here .

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Additional reporting by Ryan Wilcox and Stella Shon.

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5 Best Travel Cards without Foreign Transaction Fees 2024

Do you spend frequently in foreign currencies? Maybe you love to shop online with international retailers, or perhaps you’re a frequent traveler, or you’re living and working abroad. Foreign transaction fees can add 3% or more to your bill, every time you spend with your debit or credit card – so what’s the alternative?

Some debit cards, prepaid cards and international credit cards waive foreign transaction fees, which can make it easier and cheaper to spend overseas. This guide covers all you need to know, including cards from popular US banks, as well as a couple of alternative providers which can help you save – Wise and Revolut .

Key points: Best cards with no foreign transaction fees

  • Wise international debit card : Hold and exchange 40+ currencies, spend with your card in 170+ countries, with no foreign transaction fee and currency exchange with the mid-market rate and low fees from 0.43%
  • Revolut debit card : Choose a basic account or upgrade for more features, with 25+ supported currencies, and linked payment card options – plus some no-fee ATM withdrawal and currency exchange, based on your account plan
  • Chase Sapphire Preferred: Earn up to 5x rewards on travel and dining spending, which you can then redeem against travel spend – plus access some travel insurance and assistance products for free
  • American Express Platinum: Earn 5x rewards on flights and hotel bookings, plus lounge access, travel benefits from partner organizations, and Amex membership benefits
  • Charles Schwab Checking Account: Earn interest on your balance at 0.45%, and get ATM fee rebates around the world, with no account maintenance fees to pay

Go to Wise Go to Revolut

5 Best travel cards with no foreign transaction fees in the US

You’ll be able to find international debit, prepaid and credit cards in the US which have no foreign transaction fees. However, that doesn’t mean there are no fees to pay at all. Credit cards may have an annual fee, interest, cash advance costs and penalty fees for example, while debit cards can levy their own monthly charges, ATM withdrawal fees and exchange costs.

Banks like Chase , and card networks like Amex , both offer select cards with no foreign transaction fees – but you’ll have to weigh up the other costs to make sure they’re worthwhile.

Similarly, specialist services like Wise and Revolut have international debit cards with no foreign transaction fees, and their own set of features and fees.

To paint a picture, here’s a comparison chart with some of the options for no foreign transaction fee cards available in the US:

Go to Wise Go to Revolut  

As you can see, you’ve got a pretty diverse choice when it comes to US cards with no foreign transaction fees, from credit cards with an annual charge to pay, to no fee checking accounts and specialist services which let you hold in multiple currencies, as well as spending globally. That means you can weigh up your options, to pick the perfect card for you. Here’s a quick summary of the cards we’ve highlighted so far – there’s more detail on each coming right up:

  • Wise international debit card : Spend in 170+ countries, with no foreign transaction fee and currency exchange with the mid-market rate and low fees from 0.43%
  • Revolut debit card : Spend globally with your Revolut card and get some no-fee ATM withdrawal and currency exchange, based on your account plan
  • Chase Sapphire Preferred: Earn up to 5x rewards on travel and dining spending, and access some travel insurance and assistance products for free
  • American Express Platinum: Earn 5x rewards on flights and hotel bookings, plus lounge access and travel benefits from partner organizations
  • Charles Schwab Checking Account: Earn interest on your balance at 0.45 %, plus get ATM fee rebates around the world, with no account maintenance fees to pay

Wise international debit card

💡 Key point: Hold 40+ currencies, spend with the Wise card in 170+ countries, send money to 70+ countries

The Wise account can be opened online, to hold and exchange 40+ currencies with the mid-market rate and low fees from 0.43%. There’s no foreign transaction fee to pay, and it’s free to spend any currency you hold in your account. Plus, get extras like local bank details to get paid easily from 30+ countries in 10 currencies.

Foreign transaction fee: No foreign transaction fee

Annual or monthly fee: No fee

Wise currency conversion : Mid market exchange rate with conversion fees from 0.43%

Benefits and rewards: Get local bank details to get paid to your Wise account from 30+ countries, in 9 foreign currencies

Get Wise Card

Revolut debit card

💡 Key point: Choose your account plan, to hold 25+ currencies, spend globally, and access some no-fee currency exchange based on your account plan

Revolut has standard accounts with no monthly fees, and a couple of higher tier account options with fees up to 16.99 USD/month, which have additional features. All accounts have linked debit cards, can hold 25+ currencies, and have some no-fee currency exchange and ATM withdrawals, although the exact number of no-fee transactions available depends on the account tier you select.

Annual or monthly fee: No fee for standard account, up to 16.99 USD/month for higher tier accounts

Currency conversion: Mid market exchange rate to plan limits

Benefits and rewards: Get extras like budgeting and saving features, plus accounts for under 18s

Go to Revolut

Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card

💡 Key point: Travel optimized card with high rewards on travel spend, and extra benefits and offers including travel insurance and assistance

Chase Sapphire Preferred is a Visa credit card with no foreign transaction fee and a relatively low annual charge of 95 USD. In return you can earn points on travel and everyday spend, to redeem later against travel rewards. You’ll also be able to access various travel benefits like some baggage insurance, trip cancellation cover and more.

Annual or monthly fee: 95 USD annual fee

Currency conversion: Visa exchange rate

Benefits and rewards: Earn up to 5x rewards on travel spend, plus extra travel perks and offers

American Express Platinum credit card

💡 Key point: Travel credit card with a relatively high annual fee, offset by extra perks and opportunities to earn rewards on travel faster than some alternative card options

If you don’t mind the annual fee, the American Express Platinum credit card can offer some great rewards on day to day spending, plus a huge range of partner offers and discounts which are tailored to travel. Rewards also cover entertainment and dining, making this a good card for people who love to spend on life’s little luxuries.

Annual or monthly fee: 695 USD annual fee

Currency conversion: American Express exchange rate

Charles Schwab Investor Checking Account Visa debit card

💡 Key point: No fee checking account, offered alongside Schwab brokerage options, to allow customers to spend internationally for lower fees

The Charles Schwab Investor Checking Account and Visa debit card is offered alongside the One brokerage account, so that as well as investing with Schwab, you can also cut the costs of managing your money day to day. Interest is paid on the balance you hold, and there are no foreign transaction fees and unlimited ATM fee rebates, to keep costs low overall.

Benefits and rewards: Offered with a brokerage account, to make it easier to transfer in and out of both account products

How to get a card with no foreign transaction fees in the US

The exact steps you need to take to get a card with no foreign transaction fee in the US may vary depending on the provider you select. However, in most cases, if you’ve got a full set of ID and proof of address documents, and you’re a US resident, you’ll be able to get your account all set up, and your card ordered, online or through the bank or provider’s app.

As an example, let’s look at how to get a Wise card in the US:

  • Download the Wise app or head to the Wise desktop site
  • Click ‘Open an account’ and enter your email address – you can also register using a Facebook, Google or Apple ID
  • Follow the prompts to enter your personal and contact information
  • Upload an image of your ID and proof of address documents for verification
  • Once your account is verified you can add your first balance in the currency of your choice
  • Select the card tab and follow the prompts to order your Wise card

Ready to get started?

What is a foreign transaction fee?

A foreign transaction fee is a percentage fee charged by your bank or card issuer every time you spend or make a withdrawal with your credit, debit or prepaid card, in a foreign currency. That means that foreign transaction fees can apply when you travel and spend or make ATM withdrawals overseas, or when you’re shopping online with retailers based overseas, and spending in foreign currencies.

Some banks, specialist providers and card issuers waive foreign transaction fees – we’ve got a few to consider coming up later in this article.

How do foreign transaction fees work?

If your bank or card issuer charges a foreign transaction fee, you’ll find that an extra percentage fee is added onto your bill whenever you use your credit, debit or prepaid card to spend in a foreign currency .

When you pay in a foreign currency, you’ll usually find your spending is converted back to dollars using the bank or card issuer’s exchange rate. The foreign transaction fee is then calculated as a percentage of the dollar amount , and also deducted from your balance (for a debit card) or added to your bill (when you spend with a credit card).

How much are foreign transaction fees?

As we mentioned earlier, the good news is that not all banks and card issuers charge foreign transaction fees. However, the bad news is that if your bank does use foreign transaction fees, they can be pretty steep – often around 3% of the dollar amount you spend.

That quickly mounts up. Say you’re on vacation, and spend 1,000 USD in total on shopping and eating out. The foreign transaction fee alone adds 30 dollars to the total bill – and this rises to 150 dollars in foreign transaction fees if you’re on a longer break and end up spending 5,000 USD, for example.

We all want our money to go further when we’re on vacation or when we shop online. This guide covers providers and banks which have card products without foreign transaction fees, to help you save. We’ve looked at a few major US banks and card networks, plus a couple of providers with multi-currency holding accounts and no foreign transaction fees – Wise and Revolut .

How to use cards internationally

Generally, using your credit, debit or prepaid card overseas is just as easy as doing so at home in the US. However, some banks may require you to inform them of your travel plans – to avoid your payments flagging as suspicious on their system – and you’ll also need to take a few other simple steps to make sure you can spend easily, and without any extra fees.

Here are a few things to consider:

  • If you’re making a withdrawal or spending abroad, check that the ATM is compatible with your international card – look for the Amex, Visa or MasterCard logo
  • Double check the fees charged by your bank for spending and making withdrawals overseas, so there are no surprises
  • Always pay in the local currency wherever you are to avoid dynamic currency conversion (more on that next)
  • Update your contact details with your bank, in case they need to get in touch while you’re abroad
  • Pay your bills on time, so you don’t run into late payment fees from your card issuer

What is dynamic currency conversion?

Dynamic currency conversion (DCC) is where you’re asked, by a merchant or when making an ATM withdrawal, if you’d rather pay in dollars instead of the local currency where you are. It’s promoted as a time saver – as you’ll instantly see how much your payment is costing in dollars, with no need to do the math. However, in reality it usually means you pay more overall, as the merchant or ATM operator can set the rate used to convert your payment to dollars, and add in fees too. This pushes up the price, and is worth avoiding.

The card operators and specialist providers we’ve touched on in this guide all handle currency conversion in different ways – but they’ll usually offer a much fairer deal than relying on DCC. Here’s how a few convert your money when you spend:

  • Wise : Currency conversion uses the mid-market rate with low fees from 0.43%, no foreign transaction fee
  • Revolut : Currency conversion uses the mid-market rate to your plan limit with fair usage fees of 0.5% after that, no foreign transaction fee
  • Chase: Currency conversion uses the Visa rate on the day of purchase, or on the day the purchase is processed, no foreign transaction fee

Which US banks do not charge foreign transaction fees?

Banks often charge foreign transaction fees when customers spend on their cards, but some US banks do offer a selection of card options with no foreign transaction fees. That can be a good pick if you travel a lot or if you like to shop online with international retailers.

Here are some examples of popular US banks that offer cards without overseas transaction fees:

  • Chase: Sapphire Preferred credit card; Sapphire Reserve credit card. Chase has varied Sapphire brand cards, depending on your preferences, and a good selection of co-branded no foreign transaction fee cards issued with hotel chains, airlines and even Amazon
  • Bank of America: Travel Rewards credit card; Premium Rewards credit card; Premium Rewards Elite, Travel Rewards for Students. Bank of America has a pretty impressive array of travel credit cards including these and a whole host of cards issued in partnership with airlines, cruise lines and more.
  • Capital One: Quicksilver credit card; Venture Rewards credit card. Capital One has several different variants on both of these card brands, with no foreign transaction fees, and aimed at customers with different needs, preferences and credit ratings
  • Wells Fargo: Autograph Visa credit card. Check out the offers from Wells Fargo for no foreign transaction fee card options, including the Autograph Visa

This list is not intended to be exhaustive – you may find other US banks or other cards that don’t have foreign transaction fees – so do remember to do your own research to pick out the perfect card for your specific needs.

Conclusion: Best card for overseas spending

If you spend in foreign currencies often – either when you travel or when you shop online, getting a no foreign transaction fee card can make sense. You’ll cut down the overall costs of transacting in foreign currencies, and depending on the card type and account you prefer, you may also get extras like reward points or multi-currency holding facilities.

We’ve looked at several different no-foreign-transaction-fee card types, including credit cards which have an annual fee but also offer great reward earning opportunities; and some specialist cards from providers like Wise and Revolut .

  • Wise has a flexible multi-currency account which can hold and exchange 40+ currencies, so you can spend with no foreign transaction fees and currency conversion at the mid-market rate.
  • Revolut also supports 25+ currencies for holding, and has handy perks like budgeting and saving options, so you can do more with your money at home or abroad.

Use this guide to compare the features of each card and choose the one that best fits your personal needs and spending habits.

Best card with no overseas transaction fees US FAQs

How do I avoid foreign transaction fees?

To cut the costs of spending overseas it makes sense to try to find a card which avoids foreign transaction fees. Take a look at no-foreign-transaction-fee credit cards from your own bank – including the Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card, and compare them against low cost debit card options from services like Wise and Revolut.

Which banks charge no foreign transaction fees?

Many major US banks – including Chase, Capital One, Bank of America and Wells Fargo – have one or more credit cards with no foreign transaction fee. However, you’ll need to read the terms and conditions carefully on your account to make sure you’ve picked a card that suits your needs. As an alternative, you might consider a debit card with no foreign transaction fee from a non-bank provider like Wise or Revolut.

Is it better to pay in local or foreign currency with my card when traveling?

It’s always best to pay in the local currency wherever you are, to avoid the extra fees that come with dynamic currency conversion.

What is the most cost effective way to exchange currency?

Often spending on your no foreign transaction fee card is pretty economical – and usually cheaper than using an airport or hotel currency exchange. Another smart choice is to open a multi-currency account with a provider like Wise or Revolut so you can exchange and hold all the currencies you need in one account, ready to spend or withdraw when you travel.

Is it better to buy currency for the country you are visiting?

Carrying a lot of cash comes with risks, so making ATM withdrawals when you arrive in your destination is often the better idea. Make sure you have a card with low or no ATM fees and no foreign transaction fee, and avoid credit cards if you can, as these usually mean high cash advance costs. Both Wise and Revolut have low cost account options which have some no-fee ATM withdrawals internationally, every month.

How do you avoid exchange rate fees?

It’s not usually possible to avoid exchange fees entirely, but you can certainly look for a bank or provider which has transparent and low charges, to cut costs overall. Compare your own bank against a specialist service like Wise or Revolut, to see which works out cheaper for the type of transactions you make often.

  • Chase credit cards with no foreign transaction fees
  • American Express Platinum credit cards
  • Charles Schwab checking account

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Editorial note: We may not cover every product in this category. For more information, see our Editorial guidelines .

Best travel money cards in 2024.

Travel money cards are essential when travelling overseas.

They allow you to easily make payments whilst travelling overseas. They make paying easier for shops, restaurants, hotels and ATMs.Travel money cards work in a similar way to ATM cards. They use a pin when you purchase goods or services overseas.

In this guide, we have compared travel money cards to help you make the best selection for your next trip.

travel money card

Best Travel Money Cards:

  • Wise Travel Card Best Exchange Rates
  • Revolut Best for Low Fees
  • Travelex Money Card Best All Rounder
  • Bankwest Breeze Platinum Best Travel Credit Card
  • Pelikin Student Traveller Card Best Student Card
  • HSBC Everyday Global Travel Card Best Travel Card by Bank
  • Qantas Travel Money Card Best Reward Benefits

Wise Travel Card - Great Exchange Rates

  • 40+ currencies available
  • Best exchange rates globally
  • One of the lowest conversion fee on the market
  • No international transaction fees
  • No annual or monthly fees
  • Extremely low costs to send money overseas

Wise Travel CArd

Wise Travel Card

  • Cross currency conversion fees are between 0.24–3.69%. AUD to USD, EUR or GBP was 0.42%, which is one of the lowest on the market
  • Free cash withdrawals up to $350 every 30 days. However after that, Wise charge a fixed fee of $1.50 per transaction + 1.75%
  • Daily ATM withdrawal is $2,700
  • Issue up to 3 virtual cards for temporary usage
  • It takes between 7 to 14 business days to receive your card
  • Can be used wherever MasterCard is accepted

The Wise Travel Card is great for frequent travellers as it offers over 40 currencies at the inter-market exchange rate, which is the cheapest rate globally. In addition you can buy goods online from overseas with no transaction fee plus get the best exchange rate. However if you use ATMs frequently this is not the card to use due to the fees. Finally Wise Travel Card lets you transfer money to an overseas bank account with extremely low fees and the best exchange rate.

Our Wise Travel Card Review

Revolut - Low Fees

  • 30+ currencies available
  • One of the best exchange rates globally
  • No annual or monthly fees for standard membership
  • No initial card fee
  • Instant access to a range of cryptocurrencies

Revolut Australia Travel Card

Read our Revolut Card Review

Revolut Travel Card

  • No fee ATM withdrawals up to A$350, or 5 ATM withdrawals, whichever comes first, per rolling 30 day period and 2% of withdrawal amount (minimum charge of A$1.50) after that
  • Exchanging currency on the weekend can incur a 1% mark-up fee
  • Fees on international money transfers were introduced in April 2021.
  • Can be used wherever Visa is accepted

The Revolut Travel Card is a decent option for those who travel a lot as it offers over 30 currencies at a great exchange rate, which is the cheapest rate globally. However if you exchange currency on the weekend you can incur a one-percent mark-up fee. In addition they have introduced fees for international transfers. Finally if you use ATMs frequently this is not the card to use due to the fees.

Travelex Money Card - Best All Rounder

Best features.

  • Unlimited free ATM withdrawals
  • 24/7 Emergency Assistance
  • Initial and replacement card are free
  • Lock in up to 10 currencies

Travelex Australia Travel Card

Read our Travelex Travel Card Review

Travelex Money Card

  • Minimum load of $100 and maximum load of $100,000
  • Can be used wherever Mastercard is accepted
  • Fees include a $10 closure fee, $5 for an additional card and $4 inactivity monthly fee.
  • While Travelex don't charge ATM fees, some ATM operators may charge their own fees.
  • Currencies that can be loaded are AU$, US$, EU€, GB£, NZ$, TH฿, CA$, HK$, JP¥, SG$
  • If your card is lost or stolen you can access cash in your account through Moneygram or Western Union agents, with no charge
  • Boingo hotspots offer free wifi and you can look at their number of free hotspots per country on this map

The Travelex Card is a good all rounder.

You can use it to take money out of the ATM, for merchant purchases like restaurants and even for online shopping in foreign currency. While the exchange rates aren't as good as the Wise or Revolut Card abroad , the support network if the card is lost or stolen is very good.

Bankwest Breeze Platinum Credit Card - Lowest Interest Rate

  • Lowest interest rate at 9.90%
  • No international transaction fees on purchases
  • 0% p.a. on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months
  • Up to 55 days interest free on purchases
  • Low annual fee
  • Complimentary international travel insurance

Bankwest Breeze Platinum Card - one of the 5 best credit cards for Travel in 2022

Bankwest Breeze Platinum Credit Card

  • Free annual fee first year, then $69 annual fee
  • 55 interest free days
  • Free international travel insurance that includes the basics but does not cover cancellation costs, pre existing conditions and travellers over 80
  • $6,000 minimum credit card
  • 0% p.a. on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months, then reverts to 9.90%
  • 21.99% interest rate on purchases and cash advances
  • Cash advance fee of the higher of $4 or 2% of cash advance

The Bankwest Breeze Platinum is a great no frills credit card that offers ‘no foreign transaction fees’ and the lowest interest rate on the market, at 9.90%. These two factors alone will save you hundreds of dollars when travelling overseas.

In addition it has a low annual fee and complimentary international travel insurance. Finally for its price point it is a great value credit card that will be accepted most places around the world.

HSBC Everyday Global Debit Card

  • No initial card or closure fees
  • No monthly or account fees
  • No international ATM fees
  • No cross currency conversion fees
  • Lock in very competitive exchange rates before travel
  • No maximum balance
  • Earn 2% cashback

The currency used in Europe is the Euro, €.

  • 10 Currencies can be loaded are AUD, USD, GBP, EUR, HKD, CAD, JPY, NZD, SGD, CNY (currency restrictions apply to CNY)
  • Awarded 5 gold stars by CANSTAR in 2021 for Outstanding Value
  • Very competitive exchange rates on all currencies when you have currencies already loaded on your card
  • ATMs within Australia need to be HSBC and overseas they need to display a VISA or VISA Plus logo, not be be charged fees
  • Earn 2% cash back when you tap and pay with Visa pay wave, Apple Pay or Google Pay for purchases under $100. With a maximum of $50 cash back per month. In addition you need to deposit $2,000 or more into your Everyday Global Account each calendar month.
  • Daily maximum ATM withdrawal is $2,000
  • Fraud protection covered by Visa Zero Liability

The HSBC Everyday Global Debit Card is a good option to take travelling and to spend money in Australia with no international transaction fees, international ATM fees and monthly fees. In addition there is no maximum balance on currencies held and a 2% cash back incentive when you tap and pay under $100.

Finally it is one of the only travel cards that offers Chinese Yuan. To avoid ATM fees you need to find HSBC branches in Australia and only use ATMs overseas with a VISA or VISA Plus logo.

Best Student Card

Pelikin student traveller card.

  • Use promo code SMONEY10 for a $10 discount
  • Up to 15% off international flights
  • A globally accepted virtual student ID card
  • 2% cash back on food & drinks, transport and accommodation
  • Over 150,000 discounts worldwide

Pelikin Student Youth Travel Card

  • $30 for 12 months
  • 20+ currencies available
  • Split bills, pay and get paid instantly

Pelikin is one of the only travel cards in Australia specifically for students. While it has a small annual fee, the range of discounts and offers more than make up for it.

The app is relatively easy to use and card arrives in under a week.

Best Rewards Card

Qantas travel money card.

  • No monthly fees, purchase fees and currency conversion fees
  • No load fees if you pay by bank transfer or BPay
  • Locked in exchange rates: 4%+ margin on exchange rates
  • Earn 1.5 Qantas points for every AU$1 spent in foreign currency

The currency used in Europe is the Euro, €.

  • 10 currencies offered USD, GBP, EUR, THB, NZD, SGD, HKD, CAD, JPY, AED
  • Free Australia ATM withdrawals
  • 0.5% fee debit card reload fee
  • ATM fees overseas (USD 1.95; GBP 1.25; EUR 1.50; THB 70; NZD 2.50; SGD 2.50; HKD 15.00; CAD 2.00; JPY 160; AED 6.50)
  • Minload of $50 and max of $20,000
  • Available to 16 year olds, has a lower age restriction than most credit cards (18 year olds)

Qantas Travel card is a great option to spend foreign currency overseas if you are already a loyal Qantas customer and use your frequent flyer points regularly on flights, accommodation or gifts. The fees are low, the exchange rate is average however the ATM fees are expensive and will easily add up.

Other popular travel money cards

Aside of the Top 5 travel money cards, there are many more options to consider. These include well known brands such as the Commonwealth Bank and Travelex and less known services like Up Bank and Revolut.

Here is a rundown of their best features, fees and available currencies:

  • 13 currencies available, including Vietnamese Dong and Chinese Yuan
  • No issue fee, load fees, closure and card replacement fees
  • Additional card offered
  • Can be accessed through Commonwealth Bank app

Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card

  • $3.50 fee at ATMs overseas
  • 13 currencies offered USD, GBP, EUR, THB , NZD, SGD, HKD, CAD, JPY, AED, AUD, VND & CNY
  • Minload of $1 and max of $100,000
  • Available to 14 year olds, has a lower age restriction than most credit cards (18 year olds)
  • When you use your card for a purchase or withdrawal in a currency that is not loaded, or when they automatically transfer funds between the currencies on your card to enable the completion of the transaction at the Visa retail exchange rate plus 4%
  • To transfer money between currencies or a transaction account, it will be at the bank rate which is normally 4% above the market value

The Commonwealth Bank travel money card is great if you are already a Commonwealth bank customer who banks online and knows exactly how much money in each country you want to spend. However if you need to transfer between currencies or make a purchase in a currency you don't have funds loaded, then you can get an additional expensive charge. Watch how many withdrawals at ATMs you make as well to keep the costs down.

  • Exchange rates most competitive for USD, GBP and THB
  • No fee on initial card or load (not BPay)
  • No fee on reloads via bank transfers
  • No monthly or inactivity fees
  • Card is valid for 5 years

Travel Money Oz Currency Pass

  • 1.1% reloading fee via Travel Money Oz Login or with debit or credit card
  • 1% reloading fee for BPay
  • $10 closure fee and replacement card fee
  • 2.95% on withdrawals from Australian ATMs is expensive
  • Roughly $3.50 on withdrawals from overseas ATMs is expensive.
  • $3.99 + 5.95% fee on cross currency transactions
  • 10 Currencies can be loaded are USD, EUR, GBP, NZD, CAD, HKD, JPY, SGD, THB & AUD
  • Exchange rates for SGD and CAD are the least competitive
  • Minload of $20 and max of $10,000
  • Only 1 card per account
  • According to the website they won't take online orders if you are departing within 14 days as the card can take up to 2 weeks for delivery.

The Travel Money Oz travel money card seems to be an outdated version of the Travelex or Australia Post travel card as it does not offer Global Emergency Assistance or Boingo hotspots. However exchange rates and fees are similar to Travelex, so if you are travelling to the US, UK or Thailand, this is a great card to pay for accommodation and things in shops. We would avoid using it at any ATM, to save costs.

  • No ATM fees in Australia or internationally
  • No minimum monthly deposit
  • No account keeping fees
  • Can be used in Australia as an EFTPOS card
  • Available to 14 year olds and older

Macquarie Travel Card

  • $2,000 daily limit for ATM withdrawals
  • Simple and easy to work out costs for account
  • Exchange rates are MasterCard exchange rates, which are normally 4%+ market rate.
  • 90-day theft and damage protection on eligible purchases and stolen wallet protection up to $500
  • Can be used in Australia to buy goods overseas and not pay international transaction fees
  • Get discounts of up to 10% on eGift cards to use at over 50 leading retailers

The Macquarie Travel Card is a very good option to take overseas for ATM withdrawals as they are all free. In addition in Australia you can buy goods online and not pay an international transaction fee. Furthermore you can use the card like a normal debit card in Australia with no hefty fees or monthly minimum deposits. However the exchange rate is the MasterCard rate which is normally 4%+ above the market rate. Finally we would recommend this card for cash withdrawals at ATMs internationally but not paying for accommodation due to the added margin on the MasterCard exchange rate.

  • Cheapest way to send money overseas through a bank
  • UI and UX better than traditional banks making it super easy to use
  • Competitive savings interest rate

Up Bank Travel Card

  • Backed by Bendigo Bank and Adelaide Bank and partnered with Wise so it has financial backing and access to the cheapest exchange rates to send money overseas
  • Nifty online tools to help you track spending, budget and save. These include a detailed transaction history often including a company logo, when you paid down to the minute and the suburb where the transaction was made. In addition it has a ‘Regulars feature that detects regular billers and estimate of upcoming bills so you get a heads-up before they are due
  • Good savings account interest rates of 1.85% (0.10% base rate plus 1.75% bonus). Bonus interest is easily unlocked after making five successful card or digital wallet purchases each month

The Up Bank Travel Card is aimed at younger markets who are looking to save on bank costs and receive online tools to help them budget and save for their goals. It is also able to be used overseas at any ATM without fees, no international fees and is the cheapest way to send money overseas through a bank due to their partnership with Wise (the largest money transfer company in the world). In addition the exchange rates are Mastercard rates which are normally 4% above interest rates. Finally, while this card is very useful domestically and for ATMs overseas we would not recommend it for big ticket items overseas as it is an expensive card to use.

  • No foreign transaction fees
  • No fee on initial card, load, unload or inactivity fees
  • No cross currency transactions fees
  • Lock in exchange rates before you leave
  • Exchange rates most competitive for USD, GBP, EUR and CAD and JPY
  • No ATM fee at 50,000 Global Alliance ATMs worldwide
  • Free additional card
  • Flight delay pass

Westpac Travel Money Card

  • 11 Currencies can be loaded are USD, EUR, GBP, NZD, CAD, HKD, JPY, SGD, THB, AUD & ZAR
  • $2,000 maximum limit on ATM withdrawals overseas within 24 hours
  • $50,000 maximum limit on currencies loaded on to travel card
  • $3 roughly for ATMs that are not within the Non Westpac Global Alliance
  • If you run out of one currency on the card, you can pay with other currencies without the expensive cross currency transaction fee
  • No foreign transaction fees, initial card, load, unload or inactivity fees
  • According to the Westpac it can take upto 8 business days to receive the travel card
  • Secure from fraudulent transactions with Mastercard Zero Liability protection
  • 2 cards per account for free

The Westpac Travel Card is a no frills handy travel card with very low fees, no foreign transaction fees, access to some free ATMs worldwide and competitive exchange rates, especially on USD, EUR, GBP, CAD and JPY. In addition it has the South African Rand (ZAR) which is not common in prepaid travel cards. Finally it has access to a flight delay pass in case your flights are delayed and you need to access airport lounges.

  • Linked to ANZ Rewards program
  • 7 types of insurance for free
  • 55 days interest free
  • Good security on card purchases

ANZ Travel Adventure Card

  • 20.24% interest on purchases and cash advances
  • $120 annual fee
  • No international transaction fees in person or online
  • Offer 7 types of insurance for free
  • ANZ Reward points can be used to buy gift cards, swap for Virgin or Singapore airline points or cash into your account.
  • Earn 1.5 Reward points per $1 spent on eligible purchases up to $2,000 per statement period
  • ATM fees at non ANZ ATMs
  • Minimum credit of $6,000

If you utilize rewards points then the ANZ Travel Adventure Card might be suitable for you. Reward points can be used to buy a wide range of gift cards, swap for Virgin or Singapore airline points or cash into your account. In addition no international transaction fees are charged for purchases online or whilst you travel overseas. Finally this card is not recommended for cash withdrawals as the interest rate of 20.24% will eat up any savings.

  • No ATM fees
  • Can be used in Australia with no additional costs
  • No fees for paying via bank transfer or Bpay
  • Transfer limits can be set by user

ING Orange Everyday Account Debit Card

  • As long as you you deposit at least $1000 and make at least 5 payments each month ING will waive international transaction fees and refund overseas ATM withdrawal fees
  • Can be used in all countries
  • Works with Apple Pay and Google Pay
  • Visa currency conversion rates apply, which are normally 4% above market

The ING Orange Everyday Account Debit Card is a good card for most Australians travelling overseas for ATM access, with no fees. It also allows you to to buy goods online without an international transaction fee.

Furthermore you can use it in Australia for free and there are no fees to get your initial card, for account keeping or to top up your card. A word of caution however, if you travel overseas for longer than 1 month, you still need to deposit at least $1,000 and make at least 5 payments each month to get the rebates.

  • Initial card and replacement cards are free
  • Increased protection with Mastercard Zero Liability
  • Access to cash from your account through the Global Emergency Assistance, if your card is lost or stolen

Australia Post Travel Money Card - Platinum Mastercard

  • 1.1% Admin fee for instore loads, including initial load
  • $5 fee for reloads via debit bank card
  • $10 closure fee
  • $3.50 on withdrawals from overseas ATM is expensive
  • Currencies that can be loaded are USD, EUR, GBP, NZD, THB, CAD, HKD, JPY, SGD , AED and AUD
  • Minload of $100 and max of $100,000
  • If your card is lost or stolen you can access cash that is in your account through Moneygram or Western Union agents, with no charge
  • Boingo hotspots offer the free wifi and you can look at their number of free hotspots per country on this map

The Australia Post travel money card is a popular option for Australian travellers due to the convenience of stores. However we would recommend the Australia Post travel money card for paying in shops or accommodation as it is costly to withdraw cash from ATMS. As the Australia Post travel money card is fee heavy we recommend not making withdrawals at ATMs or making cross currency transactions to keep additional fees down.

  • Up to 11 currencies available
  • Manage your account and card online
  • 24/7 global assistance
  • Access to emergency cash
  • Free additional card when ordered at time of purchase
  • Can be used at millions of locations worldwide – wherever Mastercard purchase symbol is displayed

Greater Bank Cash Passport Platinum Mastercard

  • $5 fee for reloads via debit bank card, FREE reloads via BPAY
  • Admin fee of up to the greater of 1.1% of the load/reload amount or $15 for in-store purchases
  • Debit card load fee 0.5% of the amount loaded, per Debit Card Load transaction
  • Domestic ATM fee 2.95% of value Withdrawn
  • International ATM fee USD 2.50, EUR2.50, GBP 2.00,NZD 3.50, THB80.00, CAD 3.50,HKD 18.00, JPY260.00, SGD3.50, AED 10.00, AUD 3.50
  • Minimum load of AUD100 and a Maximum of AUD100,000

The Cash Passport is one of the most popular travel cards in the Australian market. With Greater Bank, you can purchase it online and at one of their branches, then download the app or use the website to manage your card. While the card may be useful for international purchases, be mindful when using an ATM both locally or overseas as the fees can add up if you are withdrawing money often.

Learn more about the Cash Passport Platinum Mastercard through Greater Bank .

The best travel card in Australia depends on its use, for ATM withdrawals it is ING Orange , for best exchange rates it is Wise Travel Card, the best credit card is Bankwest Breeze Platinum , for overall best card by a bank its HSBC Global  and the best rewards card is the Qantas Travel card .

A travel money card is safer than cash overseas and if you select a Wise travel card , it is the best exchange rate as well. Most places around the world accept MasterCard or Visa, so you should be able to pay for all your purchases by card.

Yes you can use all travel cards in Australia but you might choose not to due to the fees. ING , Macquarie , Up , Citibank are all good examples of travel money cards that do not charge for ATM withdrawals in Australia. However examples of travel money cards that charge $3.50 per Australian ATM withdrawal include Travelex , Australia Post and Travel Money Oz .

Both if you buy your cash from S Money and pay with a Wise card overseas, as they both use the exchange rate you see online and charge very low fees. However if you buy your foriegn currency at the airport, you are paying top prices so using a card is cheaper.

There are many travel money cards that no longer exist but appear in search engine page results. Travel money cards that no longer exist include 7-11 Just Go, NAB Travel Money Card, Travelex Cash Passport, Australia Post Cash Passport, ANZ Travel Card, Westpac Global Currency Card and the Virgin Velocity Global Wallet program.

Learn more about the best debit, credit and prepaid cards for travel

international travel card no fees

Best Prepaid Cards

international travel card no fees

Credit Card

international travel card no fees

More Travel Card Guides

Learn more about the best travel money cards for your holiday destination.

ASIC regulated

Like all reputable money exchanges, we are registered with AUSTRAC and regulated by the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC).

ASIC regulated

S Money complies with the relevant laws pertaining to privacy, anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism finance. This means you are required to provide I.D. when you place an order. It also means the order must be paid for by the same person ordering the currency and you must show your identification again when receiving your order.

international travel card no fees

  •   Argentina
  •   Australia
  •   Brasil
  •   Canada
  •   Deutschland
  •   España
  •   France
  •   India
  •   Italia
  •   Magyarország
  •   Malaysia
  •   New Zealand
  •   Polska
  •   Portugal
  •   România
  •   Singapore
  •   United Kingdom
  •   United States
  •   繁體中文 (香港)

Best travel cards with no foreign transaction fees? Check out this list for 2024

Whenever you’re spending in a foreign currency – whether that’s when you travel overseas or when you shop with an online retailer based abroad – it’s useful to know your options to spend and make cash withdrawals internationally without hefty foreign transaction fees.

Australian customers can generally pick from international debit or prepaid cards, or travel credit cards which have features designed for ease of use overseas. Different options suit different preferences and needs – to help you pick, this guide walks through no foreign transaction fee cards from well known Australian banks, and some top low cost alternatives like the Wise card and the Revolut card .

Key points: best travel cards with no foreign transaction fees

  • Wise : Spend in 170+ countries with mid-market rate currency conversion and no ongoing fees
  • Revolut : Pick the account that suits your spending, and get free currency conversion to plan limits
  • Latitude: No annual fee and no foreign transaction fee to pay – charges apply if you use an ATM, but the card also offers benefits if your flights are delayed
  • Westpac: Low interest rate card with no foreign transaction fee – ATM withdrawals not available
  • HSBC: 99 AUD annual fee, with no foreign transaction fees and some travel perks

What is a foreign transaction fee?

A foreign transaction fee is an extra percentage charge that’s added to your overall bill whenever you spend with your credit or debit in a foreign currency. These charges are added when you spend with a merchant overseas, when you’re on a foreign holiday and make an ATM withdrawal, or when you spend with a card online, and pay in a currency other than dollars.

Not all credit and debit cards use foreign transaction fees – but they’re pretty common, and they can push up the costs of spending overseas without you even realising it.

How do foreign transaction fees work?

Foreign transaction fees are percentage fees added to the amount you pay when you spend in a foreign currency. If you’re spending with a debit card, the amount you spend when you’re abroad will be converted back to dollars, and then this, plus the foreign transaction fee, will be deducted from your account. If you’re using a credit card, the foreign transaction fee is added when switching your overseas spending back to dollars, and then the total is shown on your monthly card bill.

Depending on your card provider, the foreign transaction fee may be shown as a separate line on your statement or card bill, or it may simply be rolled into the sterling amount shown for the purchase or withdrawal.

How much are foreign transaction fees?

Where foreign transaction fees apply, they’ll often be around 3% of the total transaction value. That doesn’t sound too bad, but it quickly adds up if you’re making a big ticket purchase or if you’re on a longer holiday with your family, for example.

The good news is that some banks and specialist providers don’t charge foreign transaction fees. In this article, we’ll cover providers that do not have foreign transaction fees such as Wise and Revolut, as well as some Australian banks that offer cards with no foreign transaction fees.

5 best travel cards with no foreign transaction fees in Australia

We’ve picked a selection of no foreign transaction fee cards, including international debit cards from specialist services Wise and Revolut, and travel credit cards from major Australian banks.

Although all of these cards have no foreign transaction fee to pay, that doesn’t mean they’re completely free to use. Here’s a quick summary of some of the key costs you’ll want to know about – we’ll look at some of the other common travel card fees a little later, too.

Travel debit cards tend to have a quite different fee structure to travel credit cards – and different options suit different customer needs. It’s helpful to compare a few different card types as well as different banks and providers, to make sure you’re getting the best fit for your needs. Here’s a quick summary of the fees you’ll pay to use the cards we’ve picked out above:

  • Wise Debit Card : 10 AUD charge to get your card, with no ongoing fees. Currency exchange uses the mid-market rate, and you’ll get 2 free ATM withdrawals every month with low fees after that
  • Revolut Debit Card : There’s no fee to get a card, but you might decide to pay a monthly account fee to get more features and free transactions compared with the free account options. All accounts including the free plans have some free ATM withdrawals and currency conversion – but fair usage fees apply once you exhaust your plan limits
  • Latitude 28 Degrees Global Credit Card : No annual fee card, with a 3% fee to make cash withdrawals. As with any credit card, you’ll need to pay a variable interest rate if you don’t clear your bill in time every month, and penalties may apply for late or missed payments
  • Westpac Lite Credit Card : Low interest rate card, with a representative rate of just 9.9% p.a. However, there’s a monthly fee of 9 AUD, and you won’t be able to make any cash withdrawals at home or abroad
  • HSBC Low Interest Rate Credit Card : 99 AUD annual fee, with a 3% charge when you make cash withdrawals. You’ll also need to check the variable interest rate you’re offered to see what the overall costs may be – rates are relatively low compared to other card options, but the exact rate you get will depend on your credit score

Wise Debit Card

Key point: Hold and spend 50+ currencies, with mid-market exchange rates and low, transparent fees

Open a Wise account online or in the Wise app, and order your Wise card for a one time 10 AUD fee. You can add money in dollars or any of around 20 supported top up currencies, and convert to 50+ different currencies for spending with the mid-market rate and low fees from 0.43%. If you don’t have the currency you need in your account balance, the card can automatically convert for you with the mid-market rate and the lowest possible fee every time. No annual, monthly or ongoing charges.

Foreign transaction fee: No foreign transaction fee

Annual or monthly fee: No annual or monthly fee

Currency conversion: Mid-market exchange rate, with low fees from 0.43%

Benefits and rewards: Hold and exchange 50+ currencies, get paid with local bank details for 9 currencies, spend in 170+ countries

Read a full Wise Review here

international travel card no fees

Revolut Debit Card

Key point: Choose a free Standard plan, or upgrade to an account with monthly fees but more features and free transactions

Revolut accounts can hold and exchange 25+ currencies, and you can either pick a free plan with limited features and free transactions, or upgrade to one of 2 paid plan tiers which have more flexibility. All accounts have some fee free currency conversion, linked physical and virtual cards, and some free ATM withdrawals, but fair usage fees apply when you hit your account plan limits. Out of hours and exotic currency fees may also apply when you convert currencies, which are shown in the Revolut app.

Annual or monthly fee: 0 AUD – 24.99 AUD/month depending on the plan you pick

Currency conversion: Mid-market exchange rate to your plan limit, 0.5% fee after that

Benefits and rewards: Hold and exchange 25+ currencies, and get great saving and budgeting tools too

Read a full Revolut review here

international travel card no fees

Latitude 28 Degrees Global Credit Card

Key point: No foreign transaction fee, with travel benefits if your flights are delayed

The Latitude 28 Degrees Global Credit Card has no annual fee and no foreign transaction fee, but as with any credit card, you’ll pay interest charges if you don’t clear your bill every month, and penalty costs if you’re late settling up. If you need to make a cash withdrawal there’s a 3% or 4 AUD cash advance fee (whichever is higher), plus any relevant interest costs. Variable interest fees, with a representative 22.99% p.a. stated.

Annual or monthly fee: No annual fee

Currency conversion: Mastercard exchange rate

Benefits and rewards: Flight delay pass, giving entry to lounges and wifi access if your travel is delayed, Global data roaming available

Westpac Lite Credit Card

Key point: Westpac’s lowest interest credit card, which also offers no foreign transaction fees on overseas spending

The Westpac Lite Credit Card has a low interest rate with a representative 9.9% p.a. quoted, plus some opportunities to get shopping discounts with Westpac partners. However, there’s a 9 AUD monthly fee you’ll need to be aware of, and this card doesn’t allow you to make ATM withdrawals. Weigh up whether the monthly fee will make the saving on foreign transaction fees worthwhile.

Annual or monthly fee: 9 AUD/month fee

Benefits and rewards: Some shopping discounts available – main perk is relatively low interest rate

HSBC Low Interest Rate Credit Card

Key point: Relatively low interest, with some complimentary domestic travel insurance

HSBC’s Low Interest Rate Credit Card has an annual fee of 99 AUD, but in return you’ll pay no foreign transaction fee and there’s a pretty low interest rate, set at a representative 12.99%p.a. There’s some domestic travel insurance that comes as part of the package, and you can apply online in minutes for instant approval if you meet the eligibility criteria.

Annual or monthly fee: 99 AUD annual fee

Currency conversion: Visa exchange rate

Benefits and rewards: Relatively low interest rate, and some local travel perks

Other travel card fees

It’s important to read your card’s terms and conditions carefully, to make sure you’re aware of all the potential fees that could apply. Here are a few other travel card fees to watch out for.

Different cards have their own features and fees – but in general, debit cards have fewer overall costs as you won’t need to worry about interest charges and late payment penalties, which can all mount up rapidly. Compare a few cards to find the right one for you.

How to get a card with no foreign transaction fees?

The process you follow to get a no foreign transaction fee card will depend on the provider and card you pick. However, in most cases you can apply online and the card will be sent to you by post in a few days.

As an example, here’s how to order a Wise card in Australia:

  • Open a Wise Account online in just a few minutes
  • Get verified by adding images of your ID and proof of address
  • Top up your Wise Account in the currency of your choice
  • Tap the Cards tab and order your Wise card for a one time 10 AUD fee
  • Your physical card will arrive in the post – you can also start spending with your digital card right away

Learn more about how to get a Wise card here.

How to use cards internationally

Using an international card to pay when you travel or shop online with overseas retailers is convenient and easy. Here are a few things to remember if you’re using your card overseas:

  • Make sure your card will be accepted by the merchant or ATM – look for your card’s network logo (Visa or Mastercard for example)
  • Check if your bank or card provider charges foreign transaction fees
  • Always pay in the local currency to avoid extra fees incurred through dynamic currency conversion
  • Check if you have to let your bank or card provider know of your travel plans in advance for security reasons
  • Clear your credit card bill as soon as possible to avoid interest and late payment fees

Conclusion: Best cards for overseas spending Australia?

Australian customers have a good range of travel cards to choose from, including travel debit and credit cards. Whether you’re looking to hold a foreign currency balance and get the mid-market rate when you spend, or want a credit card to spread the costs of your payment across several months, there’s something for you.

Compare a few options, including regular credit cards and alternatives like the Wise debit card for convenient spending with the mid-market rate and low fees from 0.43%, and the Revolut debit card which lets you pick the account tier to suit your spending.

  • GBP card in Australia
  • JPY card in Australia
  • EUR card in Australia

Best cards with no foreign transaction fees [Australia] FAQs

How do I avoid foreign transaction fees?

To avoid foreign transaction fees you may need to get a specific card for travel use. Options include travel credit cards, and travel debit cards from providers like Wise and Revolut. Credit cards can be handy if you want to spread the costs of your travel and don’t mind paying interest to do so – while debit cards can be flexible with low overall fees.

Which banks charge no foreign transaction fees?

Many banks offer credit cards with no foreign transaction fees, including the HSBC Low Interest Rate Credit Card and the Westpac Lite Credit Card for example. Or as an alternative, check out a non-bank provider like Wise or Revolut for a no foreign transaction fee card with low overall fees.

Is it better to pay in local or foreign currency with my card when travelling?

If you’re offered the alternative to pay in your home currency or the local currency wherever you are, always pick the local currency in your location. This avoids extra fees which can be applied when you choose to pay in your home currency instead.

What is the most cost effective way to exchange currency?

If you’re planning your travel spending you’ll want to check out a few currency exchange options, including specialist travel cards you can use to convert dollars to the currency you need, and to withdraw cash from ATMs in your destination. Travel cards generally present good value – as well as being convenient and safe.

Is it better to buy currency for the country you are visiting?

Buying currency in advance of travel gives peace of mind, but you won’t automatically get the best exchange rate if you’re switching dollars for local currency in cash at a money changing service. Another option is to get a no foreign transaction fee travel debit card from a provider like Wise or Revolut and use it to make cash withdrawals on arrival – this can mean you get a better rate compared to switching at home.

How do you avoid exchange rate fees?

Cut down on the fees involved in exchanging currencies by shopping around for a travel account and card with no foreign transaction fees and good exchange rates. Providers like Wise and Revolut can be a good place to start your research.

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Best Credit Cards for International Travel of March 2024

Sara Rathner

ALSO CONSIDER: Best credit cards of 2024 || Best rewards credit cards || Best airline credit cards || Best hotel credit cards

Traveling outside the United States? Make sure the credit card you bring is a worthy companion. The best credit cards for international travel are accepted worldwide, provide solid rewards for travel-related expenses and don't charge an extra fee for purchases outside the U.S. Many of them also come with travel protections, such as trip delay and trip cancellation insurance and coverage for lost or delayed luggage.

Some of our selections for the best credit cards for international travel can be applied for through NerdWallet, and some cannot. Below, you'll find application links for the credit cards from our partners that are available through NerdWallet, followed by the full list of our picks.

250+ credit cards reviewed and rated by our team of experts

80+ years of combined experience covering credit cards and personal finance

100+ categories of best credit card selections ( See our top picks )

Objective comprehensive ratings rubrics ( Methodology )

NerdWallet's credit cards content, including ratings and recommendations, is overseen by a team of writers and editors who specialize in credit cards. Their work has appeared in The Associated Press, USA Today, The New York Times, MarketWatch, MSN, NBC's "Today," ABC's "Good Morning America" and many other national, regional and local media outlets. Each writer and editor follows NerdWallet's strict guidelines for editorial integrity .

Show summary

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

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

Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best for Flexibility and high-end perks

Citi Premier® Card : Best for Rewards on everyday spending

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for Bonus rewards + no annual fee

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card : Best for Flat-rate rewards + no annual fee

Best Credit Cards for International Travel From Our Partners

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.

Flexibility and value

Flexibility and high-end perks, rewards on everyday spending, bonus rewards + no annual fee, flat-rate rewards + no annual fee, full list of editorial picks: best credit cards for international travel.

Before applying, confirm details on the issuer’s website.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Our pick for: Flexibility and value

For a reasonable annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card earns bonus rewards (up to 5X) on travel, dining, select streaming services, and select online grocery purchases. Points are worth 25% more when you redeem them for travel booked through Chase, or you can transfer them to about a dozen airline and hotel partners. The sign-up bonus is stellar, too. Read our review. 

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Our pick for: Simplicity

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is probably the best-known general-purpose travel credit card, thanks to its ubiquitous advertising. You earn 5 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel and 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases. Miles can be redeemed at a value of 1 cent apiece for any travel purchase, without the blackout dates and other restrictions of branded hotel and airline cards. The card offers a great sign-up bonus and other worthwhile perks ( see rates and fees ). Read our review.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Our pick for: VIP travel

The Platinum Card® from American Express comes with a hefty annual fee, but travelers who like to go in style (and aren't afraid to pay for comfort) can more than get their money's worth. Enjoy extensive airport lounge access, hundreds of dollars a year in travel and shopping credits, hotel benefits and more. That's not even getting into the high rewards rate on eligible travel purchases and the rich welcome offer for new cardholders. Read our review.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Our pick for: Flexibility and high-end perks

The high annual fee on the Chase Sapphire Reserve® gives many potential applicants pause, but frequent travelers should be able to wring enough value out of this card to more than make up for the cost. Cardholders get bonus rewards (up to 10X) on dining and travel, a fat bonus offer, annual travel credits, airport lounge access, and a 50% boost in point value when redeeming points for travel booked through Chase. Points can also be transferred to about a dozen airline and hotel partners. Read our review. 

Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Our pick for: Flat-rate rewards + no annual fee

One of the best no-annual-fee travel cards available, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card gives you a solid rewards rate on every purchase, with points that can be redeemed for any travel purchase, without the restrictions of branded airline and hotel cards. Bank of America® has an expansive definition of "travel," too, giving you additional flexibility in how you use your rewards. Read our review.

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Our pick for: Bonus rewards + no annual fee

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card offers so much value, it's hard to believe there's no annual fee. Start with a great bonus offer, then earn extra rewards in a host of common spending categories — restaurants, gas stations, transit, travel, streaming and more. Read our review.

Citi Premier® Card

Our pick for: Triple points in multiple categories

The Citi Premier® Card earns bonus points on airfare, hotels, supermarkets, dining and gas stations. There's a solid sign-up bonus as well.  Read our review.

HOW TO COMPARE CREDIT CARDS FOR INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

The factors that go into choosing a credit card specifically for international travel aren't that different from choosing a travel card in general. You'll want to look at such things as annual fees, rewards rates, cardholder perks and sign-up bonuses. But a few items take on outsize importance when picking a card to use outside the United States:

Foreign transaction fees. Many cards slap a surcharge on purchases made outside the U.S. The typical foreign transaction fee is 3% of the purchase amount. Any credit card you plan to use abroad should not have this fee — period.

International acceptance. Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted internationally. If a place takes credit cards, it's probably going to take Visa and Mastercard. American Express is less widely accepted. Tourist-focused destinations will be friendlier to AmEx, but even then, take along a Visa or Mastercard as a backup. Discover lags way behind in international acceptance, although it does have partnerships with some foreign payment networks.

Travel protections. When you're far from home, a credit card becomes even more valuable if it offers coverage for things like trip delays or interruptions, luggage problems and rental car damage.

Understand that no travel rewards credit card — no credit card of any kind — is going to have everything you want. You're going to be disappointed if you expect to find high rewards rates, a generous sign-up bonus, top-notch perks and no annual fee. Each card delivers value through a different combination of features; it's up to you to compare cards based and choose the best credit card for international travel for your specific needs and preferences.

Our roundup of the best travel credit cards offers comprehensive guidance on choosing travel cards. Below, we'll hit the high points specifically as they apply to choosing a card for international travel.

Most of the best cards for international travel charge an annual fee. Fees around $100 are standard; for that, you can expect solid rewards and some useful benefits. Premium cards with extensive perks like airport lounge access and travel protections can have fees of $500 or more. Paying an annual fee isn't required, though. There are good cards on our list without annual fees (and we've rounded up more here ). Just be aware that if you go with a no-fee travel card, you'll earn rewards at a lower rate, your sign-up bonus will be smaller, and you won't get as many (if any) perks.

When looking at credit card rewards, there are two parts to the value equation: How much you earn when you make purchases with your card, and what you can do with those rewards.

Earning: The cards on this page all earn points of one kind or another. Some cards pay the same rate — for example, 2 points per dollar — on all purchases. Some pay bonus rewards in specific categories, such as travel, restaurants or gas stations. Don't just focus on the numbers, though. Pay attention to the details of the categories. For example, earning 5 points per dollar on airfare seems terrific. But there's a difference between earning 5X on airfare booked directly airlines (where you can hunt for the best deal) and earning 5X only on airfare booked through the issuer portal (where selection may be limited and prices inflated).

Redemption: Points are only as good as your ability to redeem them. Some cards give you a lot of options for using your rewards. Others, not so much. Can you use your points to book travel? Use them for statement credit to offset travel purchases? Redeem them for cash back? And what kind of value do you get per point when you redeem? The industry standard is 1 cent per point, but some cards give you more value for certain redemptions (and some cards give you less value for certain redemptions). Another consideration: Can you transfer points to partner airline or hotel loyalty programs to potentially get more value? If so, are those partner programs realistic options for you?

Sign-up bonus

Travel cards tend to have the biggest sign-up bonuses — tens of thousands of points that you earn by hitting a certain amount of spending. But there's more to consider when comparing sign-up bonuses than just how many points or miles you earn. You must also take into account how much you have to spend to claim the bonus. Never spend money you don't have just to earn a sign-up bonus. Carrying $3,000 in debt for a year in order to earn a bonus worth $500 doesn't make economic sense. The interest you'll pay could easily wipe out the value of the bonus.

Foreign transaction fees

Simply put, if a card charges a foreign transaction fee, it's not a good credit card for international travel. These fees are surcharges on purchases made outside the U.S. The industry standard is about 3%, which is enough to wipe out most if not all of the rewards you earn on a purchase. If you never travel outside the U.S., these fees aren't a concern, but anyone who travels abroad should bring a no-foreign-transaction-fee card with them. Some issuers don't charge foreign transaction fees on any of their cards. Others charge them on some cards but not all.

International acceptance

Not all travel credit cards are great companions for international travel. While Visa and Mastercard are good pretty much worldwide, you may encounter limited acceptance for American Express and, especially, Discover, depending on the destination. This doesn't mean world travelers should dismiss AmEx and Discover. Just know that if you take one of these cards with you overseas, you'd be smart to bring along a backup in case you run into acceptance problems. (Having a backup card is good advice within the U.S., too, really.)

Travel protections

Consider which travel protections — car rental insurance , trip cancellation coverage , lost baggage protection — are important to you.

"Rewards" are what you get for using a credit card — the points earned with each transaction and the bonuses you unlock with your spending. "Perks" are goodies that you get just for carrying the card. There's a very close correlation between the annual fee on a card and the perks you get for carrying it. Cards with no annual fee are all about rewards and go very light on perks. Premium cards with annual fees of $500 or more are laden with perks (although sometimes their rewards aren't too special). Midtier cards (in the $100 range) tend to have solid rewards and a handful of high-value perks. Assuming you take advantage of them, the perks can often easily make up for the annual fee on a card.

To view rates and fees of The Platinum Card® from American Express , see this page .

Last updated on March 5 , 2024

Methodology

NerdWallet's Credit Cards team selects the best credit cards for international travel based on overall consumer value, as evidenced by star ratings, as well as their suitability for specific kinds of travelers. Factors in our evaluation include each card's annual fee, foreign transaction fees, rewards earnings rates, ease of use, redemption options, domestic and international acceptance, promotional APR period, bonus offers, and cardholder perks such as automatic statement credits, airport lounge access and travel protections. Learn how NerdWallet rates credit cards.

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Sara Rathner

Most links in our content provide compensation to Slickdeals. Applying for and maintaining consumer credit accounts is an important financial decision, with lasting consequences, and requires thought, planning and comparison shopping for the offer that best suits your personal situation. That's why we offer useful tools to evaluate these offers to meet your personal objectives. Be sure to verify all terms and conditions of any credit card before applying.

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Traveling internationally can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but traveling with the wrong credit card can be costly in more ways than one. The right international credit card should offer a range of features and benefits that make it easier and more affordable to use your card while abroad. Some cards not only help you earn rewards and save money overall, but can also enhance your experience abroad through access to unique travel perks. From cards with travel insurance to free lounge access, we've compiled some of the best credit cards to consider if you're preparing and planning for a trip overseas.

Chase Sapphire Preferred®

international travel card no fees

Secure application on issuer’s website

  • Our Rating 5/5 How our ratings work Read the review
  • APR 21.49% - 28.49% (Variable)
  • Annual Fee $95

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Dollar Equivalent : $1,380 (60,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards Points * 0.023 base)

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is one of the gold standards for earning travel rewards. It has a generous sign-up bonus and you can earn points on travel and dining expenses. The card does have an annual fee, but you can continue earning points through bonus categories and an anniversary points boost.

  • Pros & Cons

The Chase Sapphire Preferred is pretty flexible as it lets you transfer rewards points into miles or points several airlines and hotel programs. You can take advantage of strong transfer partners such as United, Southwest, Singapore Airlines, Virgin Atlantic and Hyatt. Similarly, you can book any reservation you want through the Chase Ultimate Rewards travel portal. Although the card might not be ideal for the most frequent travelers, it has a built-in upgrade path, so when it’s time to level up your travel rewards game, you won’t have to start from scratch.

  • Points are easily transferable to airlines and hotel partners
  • Accelerated earnings on dining, travel & household purchases
  • Excellent travel and purchase protections
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Not ideal for the highest spenders
  • $95 annual fee

Best for Overall Travel Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® is best for travelers seeking a card that checks all the boxes (generous rewards, travel protections, perks) at a reasonable annual fee.

International Travel Benefits

  • Trip cancellation and interruption insurance (up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip)
  • Auto rental collision damage waiver (up to the cash value of the car)
  • Baggage delay insurance (up to $100 for five days)
  • Trip delay reimbursement (up to $500 per ticket)
  • $50 annual statement credit towards hotels booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards®

Why We Like It

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® is the best overall card for international travel, thanks to numerous factors. The card earns generous rewards on travel and dining purchases — two major spending categories for international travel. It also includes a generous suite of travel protections, providing peace of mind when visiting abroad. The card's $95 annual fee is partially offset by an annual $50 hotel credit through Chase Ultimate Rewards®. All in all, it provides the most value for jetsetters who want to level up their rewards potential.

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

international travel card no fees

  • Our Rating 4.5/5 How our ratings work Read the review
  • APR 22.49% - 29.49% (Variable)
  • Annual Fee $550

Earn 60,000 bonus points after using your card to spend $4,000 within three months of account opening. Dollar Equivalent : $1,380 (60,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards Points * 0.023 base)

This card features an annual credit for travel purchases, which can offset the annual fee, plus bonus points when you sign up. You'll also get free access to tons of Priority Pass lounges and restaurant options around the world, along with access to the upcoming Chase Sapphire Lounge network.

If you’re looking to elevate your travel experience, look no further than the Chase Sapphire Reserve. When you first get approved, you’ll earn a sign-up bonus of 60,000 points after you spend $4,000 in the first three months—that’s worth at least $900 in travel-related spending booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards® and potentially more if you transfer your rewards to one of Chase’s airline or hotel partners.

  • An array of premium travel perks including access to Priority Pass lounges
  • Easy-to-use $300 travel credit that helps offset card's annual fee
  • Generous rewards rates for spending
  • High annual fee may be a deterrent for some
  • Perks are starting to get stale relative to newer competition

Best for Travel Protections

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is perfect for those seeking a premium travel credit card with best-in-class travel insurance and ongoing card benefits that largely offset the $550 annual fee.

  • Travel accident insurance (up to $1 million)
  • Trip delay reimbursement ($500 per ticket)
  • Travel and emergency assistance services
  • Auto rental collision damage waiver (up to $75,000 in coverage)
  • Lost luggage reimbursement (up to $3,000 per passenger)
  • Baggage delay insurance (up to $100 per day for five days)
  • Emergency evacuation and transportation services (up to $100,000)
  • Emergency medical and dental benefits (up to $2,500)
  • $300 annual travel credit
  • Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership includes access to participating airport lounges, restaurants, cafes and markets
  • Exclusive perks and discounts at hotels booked through the Luxury Hotels & Resorts Collection
  • Up to $100 TSA Precheck or Global Entry application fee credit every four years

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers top-of-the-line travel protections and luxury perks, making it ideal for international travel. Cardholders get a comprehensive suite of protections, including emergency medical and dental coverage — a rarity among credit cards. Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership will make traveling abroad more comfortable too, as you'll get access to over 1,300 VIP lounges worldwide.

The Sapphire Reserve also earns 10x points on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase, 10x on Chase Dining, 5x on air travel booked through Chase Travel and 3x points on travel and dining purchases worldwide. These elevated reward rates make the card an exceptional choice for those who want to earn more points for international travel and protect their travel bookings.

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

international travel card no fees

  • APR 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% (Variable)
  • Annual Fee $0

Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value. Dollar Equivalent : $200 (20,000 Points * 0.01 base)

The Wells Fargo Autograph Card can easily become your go-to card as most American households spend a bulk of their budget on restaurants, gas and travel costs. Not to mention, you likely subscribe to a streaming service (or two) and pay a monthly cellphone bill, which can cost hundreds if you have a family plan. Simply put: With this card, you can earn points on all of these day-to-day expenses, all with no annual fee.

The Wells Fargo Autograph SM Card offers an impressive 3x point rewards rate across six bonus categories: restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and cell phone plans, easily ranking it as one of the most robust earning cards out there.

  • Wide array of category bonuses: Unlimited 3x points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit and commuting, popular streaming services and phone plans
  • Get up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft when you pay your monthly cell phone bill with your eligible Wells Fargo card (subject to a $25 deductible).
  • No annual fee
  • Rewards are worth up to 1 cent each

Best for Cash Back Equivalent Rewards

Travelers who want a cash-back-equivalent credit card with basic travel protections and elevated rewards on common everyday categories will benefit from the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card.

  • Auto rental collision damage waiver (secondary coverage)
  • Travel and emergency services assistance
  • Premium benefits on Visa Signature Hotel stays

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is one of the most underrated travel rewards credit cards for international travel. Earning rewards at home and abroad is effortless with the card's unlimited 3x points on popular spending categories like restaurants, travel, transit, streaming services, gas and phone plans. The card also has no foreign transaction fees and provides useful protections when traveling internationally. Points are redeemable for travel purchases at a flat one cent each, making this akin to a cash-back credit card .

Wells Fargo Autograph card on a wallet

Why the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card Is Better Than Most Cards in Your Wallet

Ink business preferred® credit card.

international travel card no fees

  • APR 21.24% - 26.24% (Variable)

This fee includes extra cards for authorized users, such as employees, at no additional charge.

Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 in the first three months Dollar Equivalent : $2,300 (100,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards Points * 0.023 base)

Those with travel and advertising expenses will like the high earning rates in these categories, plus cardholders can eke out even more value with fully transferable rewards through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. One drawback is the modest annual fee, though many can offset this with the card’s earning potential.

This card offers a whopping 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 in the first three months — with the card’s 25% bonus on travel booked through Chase, that’s worth $1,250. But you could potentially get more through one of the bank’s transfer partners. The rewards you earn from the Ink Business Preferred Card can be transferred to 10 different airline partners including United, Southwest, Virgin Atlantic, Singapore and British Airways, as well as hotel partners Hyatt, Hilton and Marriott.

Unlike the other two Ink Business cards, you can use this card to transfer your rewards directly to airline miles and hotel points. Travelers may also like this card’s cellphone protection policy that will cover up to $600 per claim.

  • 3x points on 5 different categories (up to $150,000)
  • Robust travel, purchase and cellphone protections
  • Ability to earn transferable points to use on travel partners
  • No additional charge for extra cards for additional authorized users
  • Businesses that don't spend on the category bonuses won't benefit

Best for Business Travelers

The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card offers business travelers a rewarding card for international travel, along with practical card benefits at a reasonable annual fee.

  • Trip cancellation and interruption insurance (up to $5,000 per person and $10,000 per trip)
  • Auto rental collision damage waiver when traveling for business
  • Cell phone protection (up to $1,000 per claim)
  • Employee cards at no additional costs help you earn rewards faster

With the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card , you can redeem points for international travel through the Chase portal, where they're worth 25% more. You'll get valuable travel protections for your trip too, including trip cancellation insurance and travel and emergency assistance services. Employee cards are offered at no additional cost, so you can earn points even faster.

Cardholders can also earn 3x points per dollar on the first $150,000 spent in combined purchases across common business categories like advertising, telecommunications and shipping purchases. If your business spends heavily in these areas, you can easily make up the $95 annual fee through rewards earned.

Don't overlook the generous sign-up bonus. New cardholders can score a whopping 100,000 points after spending $8,000 within three months of account opening.

How to Choose the Best Travel Card for International Trips

two women at restaurant

Getting the right credit card in place before you travel can save you a lot of hassle and even some money. Here are some factors to consider as you research the best travel credit card for your trip abroad:

  • No foreign transaction fees: These fees can add up quickly, especially if you use your card frequently while traveling. Many cards charge a 3% foreign transaction fee per transaction, so look for one without this fee so you aren't hit with extra charges while overseas. 
  • Bonus rewards on travel purchases: A lucrative rewards program can help you earn points or miles on purchases. Rewards can be redeemed for travel, hotel stays or other perks to help you save money and get more out of your trip. Look for credit cards that offer bonus rewards on purchases like flights, hotels and rental cars. Some even offer lounge access and free checked bags.
  • Travel insurance: Travel insurance is a safety net. This benefit varies per issuer but often provides trip cancellation, lost luggage and medical expense coverages, which can help protect you from unexpected costs and disruptions. Some cards offer more comprehensive insurance than others, so read the fine print to learn what's covered.
  • International acceptance: No one wants to find out their card isn’t accepted once they reach their destination, so it’s worth taking a few minutes to check. Visa and Mastercard are accepted in most places around the world, but American Express and Discover have more limited acceptance in some countries.
  • Emergency assistance: It's better to have this benefit and not use it than to need it and not have it. The best cards for international travel offer 24/7 customer service and emergency assistance, including lost or stolen card replacement and emergency cash advances, which can be invaluable if you run into issues while traveling. 
  • Currency conversion rates: Some cards offer better conversion rates than others, which can save you money when using your card to make purchases in foreign currency. Check exchange rates before you travel so you know what to expect when using your card abroad.

Clear/Global Entry Fee Credit

CLEAR at airport

CLEAR and Global Entry are programs that help travelers get through airport security more quickly and efficiently. If you’re looking to save time and hassle when traveling internationally, you’ll want these perks:

  • Global Entry includes TSA PreCheck and enables expedited customs clearance when returning to the United States. 
  • CLEAR is a separate program that lets members bypass the standard security screening process at select airports and stadiums in the U.S. 

Some credit cards offer credits to cover the application fees for these programs in the form of a statement reimbursement, making them even more valuable.

woman going through immigration

Best Credit Cards for TSA PreCheck and Global Entry Reimbursement

Quick tips when using your credit card abroad.

The right credit card can help make your next trip even more enjoyable, as long as you do a little advance planning. Here are some steps to take to set yourself up for headache-free spending abroad:

  • Notify your issuer ahead of time: Let your card issuer know about your trip in advance so they don’t suspect fraud when you pay with your card. The last thing you want to deal with is a card getting declined or frozen when you’re in a foreign country.
  • Avoid cash withdrawals: You’ll likely face high fees if you have to withdraw cash with your credit card when traveling, so it’s often better to stick to plastic or carry a small amount of cash if you need it.
  • Make a back-up plan: If your card is lost or stolen, or you find it’s not as widely accepted as you thought, having some cash or another card on hand could be invaluable to help you get through our trip.
  • Check your card's expiration date: It only takes a second to double-check your expiration date to ensure your preferred card will be active the whole time you’re traveling, preventing the potential financial pinch of an inactive card.
  • Bring and use the right cards: Do your research into factors like foreign transaction fees and travel rewards so you can save the most money and even benefit from rewards and other perks while you travel.
  • Avoid dynamic currency conversion: Be on the lookout for dynamic currency conversion services. Some vendors offer this as a way for customers to both see prices and pay in their home currency, but they’ll often charge you a much higher rate for the convenience.
  • Check your travel protections: Many travel credit cards come with some level of travel coverage, like trip cancellation insurance and baggage protections. It’s worth refreshing yourself on what your cards cover in case you need these services while traveling.
  • Review your travel perks: It’s not all about preparing for a crisis when you travel. Also look into what benefits your travel cards offer. You might be able to take advantage of lounge access or other perks during your travels to make your trip a little more comfortable.

woman traveling on tropical getaway

The Bottom Line

Preparation is key when planning an international trip and choosing the right credit card can be just as important as booking flights and accommodations. By considering factors such as foreign transaction fees, rewards programs, travel insurance and more, you can find a credit card that offers the features and benefits you need to make your trip more enjoyable and affordable.

With the right credit card in hand, you can have peace of mind and take advantage of travel-related perks and rewards, saving you money and making your travel experience memorable. Happy travels!

Ariana Arghandewal

Ariana Arghandewal is a rewards travel expert and founder of Pointchaser , an online publication dedicated to rewards travel topics. She brings over a decade of experience writing about travel, points, miles and credit cards. Her expertise includes her roles as an editor for distinguished travel and finance publications such as NerdWallet , The Points Guy and FlyerTalk. She has also authored many articles featured in major financial news & travel channels like Forbes , U.S. News Weekly , Business Insider & Fodor’s Travel.

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Travel money cards with the lowest fees

We look at seven travel money cards from the big banks and airlines..

travel money card next to model plane

Prepaid travel money cards are offered by major banks, airlines and foreign exchange retailers like Travelex. Before travelling overseas, you load money into the card account, which locks in the exchange rate for foreign currencies at that time. 

You can then use the card for purchases and cash withdrawals just like a debit or credit card, usually wherever Visa and Mastercard are accepted. 

You can reload money on-the-go via an app or website, and if the card is lost or stolen, it can be replaced (usually at no cost to you).

Prepaid travel money cards also give you assurance that you're not handing the details of your everyday banking account to merchants you're not familiar with, and they provide easy access to cash when you want some, says Peter Marshall, head of research at money comparison website Mozo .

CHOICE tip: Travel money cards are best for longer trips. They're usually not worth your while if you're only taking a short trip, as some have closure, cash out and inactivity fees.

Travel money card fees

A major difference between prepaid travel cards and debit or credit cards is their fees. Some costs aren't immediately apparent, such as hefty margins built into the exchange rates.

And although fees have come down since we looked at these cards two years ago, you still need to watch out for:

  • fees to load the card – either a percentage of the total or a flat fee
  • ATM withdrawal fees
  • a cross currency fee or margin when you use the card in a currency you haven't preloaded
  • further fees if you close the account or haven't used the card for a period of time.

Travel money card with the lowest fees and best exchange rate

Westpac worldwide wallet.

Westpac closed its Global Currency Card in July 2021 and offers its new card in partnership with Mastercard.  It's also available from Bank of Melbourne and BankSA.

Currencies: AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, ZAR.

Key features:

  • No loading, reloading, closing or inactivity fees.
  • Free to use it in network ATMs in Australia and partner ATMs overseas in a range of countries including the UK, US and New Zealand.
  • A charge applies at non-Westpac and non-partner ATMs in Australia and overseas.
  • Best exchange rates for the US dollar, the Euro and GBP in our comparison.*
  • The only card that lets you preload the South African rand.

Other travel money cards

Next to the Westpac Worldwide Wallet, there are six other travel money cards available.

Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard

Available online or at post offices.

Currencies : AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, AED.

  • Fee to reload the card via BPay, debit card or instore, but free via online bank transfer.
  • Closure fee.
  • Fees for ATM withdrawals in Australia and overseas.

Cash Passport Platinum Mastercard

It's issued by Heritage Bank and is available online and from a number of smaller banks and credit unions (like Bendigo Bank and Bank of Queensland) as well as travel agents. 

  • Fee to reload with a debit card or instore, but free via BPay.

CommBank Travel Money Card

CommBank Travel Money Card (Visa)

As NAB and ANZ have closed their travel money cards, this is the only other travel money card available from a major bank. This card has the largest variety of currencies that can be preloaded.

Currencies : AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, AED, VND, CNY.

  • Fee if you make a purchase with currencies not preloaded.
  • Fee for withdrawals at overseas ATMs.

Qantas Travel Money Card

Qantas Travel Money Card (Mastercard)

The only travel money card offering from an airline. It can be added as a feature to your Qantas Frequent Flyer card, so you don't need a dedicated card, and you can earn points using it.

  • Free to reload via bank transfer or BPay, but there's a reload fee if using debit card.

Travelex Money Card

Travelex Money Card (Mastercard)

Travelex is an international foreign exchange retailer. In Australia, it operates more than 140 stores at major airports and shopping centres, across CBDs and in the suburbs. It was the card with the best exchange rate for New Zealand dollars.*

Currencies : AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD.

Fees : 

  • Load fee instore, but free via Travelex website or app.
  • Reload fee instore or via BPay, but free via Travelex website or app.
  • Closure fee and monthly inactivity fee (if not used for 12 months).

Travel Money Oz Currency Pass

Travel Money Oz Currency Pass (Mastercard)

The Travel Money Group is owned by Flight Centre and is a foreign exchange retailer. 

  • Reloading the card via an online bank transfer or instore is free, but there's a fee if you reload via BPay, debit card or credit card. 
  • Cash out (closure) fee. 

Travel money card tips

  • Make sure the card allows the currencies you'll need, and also consider stopovers. For example, the South African rand is only supported by the Westpac card.
  • Try to load your card with the right currencies and amounts on days with good exchange rates. 
  • Make sure you know how to reload your card if you run out of funds while overseas.
  • It may be more convenient to choose a card that has an app that can be linked to your bank account.
  • Avoid loading more money than you'll need as there may be fees and exchange rate margins to get the unused money back.
  • Remember to cancel the card once you're finished your trip, especially if it has inactivity fees.
  • Be mindful that you still may need a credit card, as travel money cards may not be accepted as security for hotels and car rental agencies. 

Stock images:  Getty, unless otherwise stated.

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Bankrate

Best cash back credit cards for travel

Key takeaways.

  • I f you travel two or more times per year, or if you plan to travel more in the future, you might find a lot of value in a travel credit card
  • If you don't travel frequently, you might find more value in strategically using a cash back credit card to cover travel-related purchases
  • Many cash back cards offer travel-related perks like bonus rewards on travel purchases, no foreign transaction fees, access to the issuer's travel portal and limited-time offers on select travel purchases

Once you’ve got the travel itch, you know it’s time to plan your next getaway. But if you only travel occasionally, a travel credit card might not be the right fit for you. Sure, travel cards often come with incredible welcome bonuses, higher rewards rates, annual statement credits, airport lounge access and other major perks, but they also tend to come with high annual fees, which can be hard to recoup if you don’t use enough card benefits each year.

In that case, it might make more sense to use a cash back credit card to help fund your next vacation. Many cash back cards offer rewards on both everyday spending and travel spending, and you can redeem your rewards for statement credits to cover travel-related expenses. Plus, some cash back cards also come with access to an issuer’s travel portal, no foreign transaction fees and other travel benefits.

Below, we’ll go over some of the best cash back credit cards for travel, along with some tips and considerations.

Chase Freedom Flex: Best for rotating bonus categories

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ * offers 5 percent cash back on activated, rotating bonus category purchases each quarter (on up to $1,500, then 1 percent back). These bonus categories change each quarter, but the annual calendar often includes gas stations or other travel-related categories.

This card also earns 5 percent cash back on Chase Ultimate Rewards travel purchases; 5 percent cash back on Lyft rides (through March 31, 2025); 3 percent cash back on dining and drugstore purchases; and 1 percent cash back on all other purchases. This card also comes with no annual fee, trip cancellation and interruption insurance , travel and emergency assistance services and the ability to redeem rewards for travel through Chase.

Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express: Best for higher rewards on everyday spending

With the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express , you’ll earn 6 percent cash back on U.S. supermarket purchases (on up to $6,000 per year, then 1 percent back); 6 percent cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions; 3 percent cash back on transit and at U.S. gas station; and 1 percent cash back on everything else. Also, note that you’ll get a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, after which an annual fee of $95 applies.

With this card, you can save up your cash back earnings and redeem them for a statement credit to cover travel purchases like hotels or flights. Plus, this card also comes with access to Amex Offers , allowing you to earn more rewards on qualifying purchases with select brands (including travel brands like hotels), along with access to the American Express Travel portal .

Citi Double Cash Card: Best for flat cash back

If you’d prefer a simpler rewards strategy, the Citi® Double Cash Card is one of the best flat-rate cards on the market. This card comes with no annual fee, and you’ll earn up to 2 percent cash back on all purchases — 1 percent back as you make purchases and 1 percent back as you pay for purchases. That’s $20 in rewards for every $1,000 you spend on your card. Over time, you can earn enough rewards to cover a flight or hotel (in the form of a statement credit to your account).

This card also allows you to redeem your rewards for travel through the Citi travel portal , though it’s important to note that you won’t be able to transfer your rewards to Citi travel partners since this card only earns basic Citi ThankYou points .

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for entertainment and international travel

The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is, by far, one of the best cash back credit cards for international travel. It comes with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, along with impressive rewards rates on entertainment and select travel purchases. You’ll earn 10 percent cash back on Uber and Uber Eats purchases (through Nov. 14, 2024); 8 percent cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases; 5 percent cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; 3 percent cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming subscriptions and grocery store purchases (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target); and 1 percent cash back on all other purchases.

This card also comes with travel-related benefits like travel accident insurance, 24-hour travel assistance services and complimentary concierge services, which can help you with any travel, dining and entertainment plans. Plus, cash back rewards can be redeemed for Capital One Travel reservations (not including taxes and fees).

How to use cash back credit cards for travel

Look for cards that offer cash back on everyday expenses and travel.

Numerous cash back cards offer rewards on both everyday expenses and travel purchases, so look for a card with bonus categories that fit well with your everyday and travel spending. And don’t forget: If you have a cash back card that offers rewards on dining and gas, for example, you’ll still earn rewards on dining and gas purchases when you travel. However, with some cards, you’ll only earn rewards on U.S. category purchases, so be sure to check the fine print of your credit card agreement for any terms or limitations.

Redeem cash back as a statement credit to cover travel expenses

With a cash back credit card, you can redeem your cash back to cover a wide variety of travel-related expenses. For instance, you could save up your rewards until you reach $100 to $200 in cash back. Then, you could redeem your rewards for a statement credit to cover hotel bookings, flights, rideshares, dining out or any other travel-related expenses you have.

Check your issuer’s limited-time offers program for travel deals

Most credit cards come with access to an issuer’s limited-time offers program, which allows you to earn more rewards when you make eligible purchases with participating merchants. For example, you might find offers on hotel bookings with a specific chain (such as 10 percent back on a booking or $100 off a booking when you spend $300 or more) or offers for purchases made with travel-booking sites or rideshare companies.

See if you have access to your issuer’s travel portal

In order to stay competitive, many cash back credit cards now offer access to issuer travel portals . These portals may offer exclusive deals on travel or other benefits. For example, some cash back cards offer boosted rewards rates for select purchases made through a travel portal, while others allow you to redeem your rewards for travel purchases through the travel portal.

If you travel abroad, look for a card with no foreign transaction fees

Many cash back credit cards include a foreign transaction fee (usually 3 percent) on any purchases you make outside of the United States. If you travel abroad frequently, it would be worth getting a card with no foreign transaction fee so you don’t cancel out the rewards you’ll earn with your card. For instance, all Discover and Capital One credit cards come with no foreign transaction fees.

Is a cash back card for travel right for you?

While you can use the rewards you earn from a cash back credit card to help fund your vacation, make sure that you’re truly better off with a cash back card rather than a points or miles credit card .

For instance, if you travel two or more times per year, or if you plan to travel more frequently in the near future, it would be worth looking at some of the top travel credit cards available. Travel credit cards frequently come with perks like high welcome bonuses, travel protections, annual statement credits for travel-related purchases or airport lounge access. Just make sure that you’re able to recoup the cost of membership through card spending or benefits if you pick a card with an annual fee.

If you’re just starting to travel more frequently — or if you’re not sure if a travel card is right for you — there are a number of entry-level travel cards with low annual fees or no annual fees . That way, you can test out the travel card space to see if it’s right for you before committing to a card with a higher annual fee.

The bottom line

If you don’t travel that frequently, getting a travel credit card doesn’t make sense. Instead, you might find more value in strategically using a cash back credit card to cover travel-related purchases. With the right cash back card , you might even get some travel-related card perks such as bonus rewards on travel purchases, no foreign transaction fees, access to the issuer’s travel portal and limited-time offers on select travel purchases.

*The information about the Chase Freedom Flex℠ has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Best cash back credit cards for travel

international travel card no fees

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  • Credit Cards

Canada’s 5 Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards

Most Canadian credit cards charge a 2.5% foreign transaction fee on all purchases made in other currencies. Here are the best credit cards in Canada with no foreign transaction fees.

Best Credit Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees

Best travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees.

international travel card no fees

  • Earn 30,000 Scene+ points upon spending $1,000 in the first three months
  • Earn an additional 10,000 Scene+ points upon spending $40,000 in the first year
  • Earn 1x 2x Scene+ points on groceries, dining, entertainment, and transit
  • Plus, earn 3x Scene+ points on grocery purchases at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, and FreshCo
  • Visa Airport Companion membership with six free lounge visits per year
  • Redeem points for statement credit for any travel expense
  • Minimum income: $60,000 personal or $100,000 household
  • Annual fee: $150 (waived in the first year)

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card sets itself apart as a true traveller’s card, offering strong welcome bonus, no foreign exchange fees, and the flexible Scene+ points for all purchases.

Travellers can take comfort in earning points abroad without having to pay FX fees on all their expenses, including hotel stays, eats, drinks, entertainment, public transportation, and more when journeying abroad. You’ll also have no trouble using this card along your travels, thanks to the wide acceptance of Visa cards around the world.

Also, this card comes with a complimentary DragonPass membership and six annual visits to participating airport lounges and restaurants.

You’ll be backed by the card’s suite of insurance coverage, including emergency travel coverage for up to 25 days out-of-province, flight delay insurance, delayed and lost baggage insurance, and more.

It’s always nice when you can extract multiple travel benefits from a single card (and a single annual fee).

If you’re looking to save money abroad, look no further than the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card.

Best American Express Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees

international travel card no fees

  • Earn  20,000 Scene+ points  upon spending $1,000 in the first three months
  • Earn an  additional 20,000 Scene+ points  upon spending $7,500 in the first year
  • Earn 6x Scene+ points at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, FreshCo, and more
  • Plus, earn 1x 5x Scene+ points on groceries, dining, and entertainment
  • Also, earn 1x 3x Scene+ points on gas, transit, and select streaming services
  • No foreign transaction fees
  • Enjoy the exclusive benefits of being an American Express cardholder
  • Annual fee: $120

The Scotiabank Gold American Express Card is one of the best all-round credit cards in Canada. You’ll earn Scene+ points to the tune of 5% back on groceries, restaurants, and entertainment, 3% back on gas, transit, and streaming services, and 1% back on everything else.

However, it’s worth noting that the card only earns 1% back on foreign purchases, even in the bonus categories. Still, it’s good to earn any amount of rewards when you’re eating abroad.

For a card that you want in your wallet anyway for its peerless earn rates at home, you’ll always have a solid no-FX option when travelling and paying at stores that take Amex.

Best Cash Back Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees

international travel card no fees

  • Earn 1,000 Brim points (worth $10) upon approval
  • Plus, earn up to 30x Brim points (equivalent to 30% cash back) at select partner merchants
  • Plus, earn 2x Brim points (equivalent to 2% cash back) on other purchases
  • Minimum income: $80,000 personal or $150,000 household
  • Annual fee: $0 for the first year, then $199

If you’d prefer to earn cash back rewards on foreign purchases, the Brim World Elite Mastercard is the best in Canada. You’ll earn 2% back on all purchases. Brim points are worth 1 cent each and can be easily redeemed for statement credit, making them effectively as good as cash back.

When shopping at home, rather than category bonuses, you can earn extra rewards through Brim’s wide variety of retail partners, in some cases up to 10%. And when you’re abroad, you can take advantage of no foreign transaction fees on your foreign purchases.

With an annual fee of $199 (waived for the first year), it’s not the cheapest way to avoid foreign transaction fees. You’ll definitely want to try to maximize Brim’s partner rewards whenever you can to make sure you’re getting top value from the card.

But even if you struggle to use those benefits, a 2% base earn rate is unheard of for a Mastercard in Canada – it could easily pay off if you’re a heavy Costco shopper, for example.

Best No Fee Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees

international travel card no fees

  • Plus, earn 1x Brim points (equivalent to 1% cash back) on all purchases
  • Annual fee: $0

If a $199 annual fee is too steep, consider the entry-level Brim Mastercard instead. It has no annual fee, and earns 1% back on all purchases.

What sets this card apart from other no-fee cards is that it earns the same rewards on foreign transactions. For example, the Home Trust Preferred Visa Card earns at the same 1% rate on Canadian-dollar expenses, but it has no rewards on purchases made in other native currencies.

Even premium cards with no foreign transaction fees, like the ones offered by Scotiabank, knock the bonus categories down to just 1 point per dollar spent on foreign purchases.

With the Brim Mastercard, you’ll earn rewards abroad the same as you would at home. For no annual fee, that’s a great way to know that you’re getting value from your card for all of your purchases.

Best Business Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees

international travel card no fees

  • Earn 30,000 Scene+ points upon spending $5,000 in the first three months
  • Earn 10,000 Scene+ points upon spending $60,000 in the first year
  • Plus, earn 1.5x Scene+ points on all purchases
  • Priority Pass membership with six free lounge visits per year
  • Qualify on the basis of your business financials
  • Annual fee: $199

For businesses with a lot of expenses in US dollars or other currencies, the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Business is your best choice.

The card earns a steady 1.5% back in the form of Scene+ points, along with a welcome bonus of 30,000 points, worth $300. Considering that other business credit cards charge a 2.5% foreign transaction fee, and often offer lower rewards rates, you might find immense value in paying the $199 annual fee if your business makes a lot of purchases in a foreign currency.

Not to mention, the card has great travel perks too. You’ll get a comprehensive insurance package, lounge access, car rental discounts, and assorted Visa Infinite benefits.

If you spend a lot of time abroad for your business and need a Visa card, this one’s a fantastic option not only for keeping your rewards up and costs down, but also for boosting your travel experience along the way.

No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards: What You Need to Know

When choosing a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, you should familiarize yourself with what benefits a no-FX credit card can offer, what features to look out for, and how no-FX credit cards can fit into an optimized overall credit card strategy.

Why get a credit card with no foreign transaction fees?

Currency conversion fees are a quick way to chip away at your precious travel budget, whether it’s ATM withdrawals or purchases on your card.

When you’re spending abroad with your credit card, all transactions must be converted from the local currency to Canadian dollars before appearing on your account statement. Most cards levy a 2.5% foreign transaction fee on top of the spot rate.

For example, let’s say a purchase priced at $75 (USD) converts to $100 (CAD). Ultimately it’ll be charged as $102.50. Instead, cards with no foreign transaction fees will convert transactions to Canadian dollars at the mid-market rate (as set by the bank or payment network), without a surcharge – in that case, you’d only be charged $100.

Cards without these fees are indispensable for travellers, as they effectively represent a 2.5% discount on all of your spending while travelling out of the country.

They’re also useful at home. If you do any online shopping at retailers based outside of Canada who charge prices in other currencies, you’d be subject to conversion fees unless you use one of these cards.

What should you look for in a credit card with no foreign transaction fees?

No foreign transaction fees itself is the obvious feature to look for, but not all of these cards are created equal.

There are a few basic no-fee cards that fit this bill, but the lack of foreign transaction fees is usually their only notable feature.

A select handful of travel-oriented cards have no foreign transaction fees, but it’s hardly the standard in Canada. Don’t assume that all travel cards have this perk, or you’ll be sorely disappointed; indeed, most of the highest-end premium travel cards still impose a 2.5% FX fee.

Beware that not all credit cards earn rewards the same way on foreign transactions.

Some cards, like the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card , earn different rewards rates for foreign currencies. You don’t get a category bonus if the purchase isn’t in Canadian dollars.

Other cards, like the Rogers World Elite Mastercard , can be the opposite: they may actually offer higher rewards on foreign transactions, but don’t waive the conversion fee. The higher rewards are meant to offset the fee.

On these cards, if you have to return an item, you’d be dinged for the conversion twice, once each way, with no rewards to show for it and a total loss of 5%. These cards are much better for daily travel spending, and not for online shopping or souvenir purchases. Instead, a true no-FX card is much more versatile.

What’s the optimal strategy for credit cards with no foreign transaction fees?

No foreign transaction fees is a relatively rare feature on Canadian credit cards. It’s rather frustrating to be dinged an extra 2.5% on all your spending when you’re abroad, so it’s a good idea to leave room for at least one credit card with no foreign transaction fees in your wallet.

Ideally, you’ll want a credit card with no foreign transaction fees that also earns strong rewards on your foreign spending, as well as some useful benefits that you’ll get value out of. Without these, the no-FX benefit on its own can often struggle to justify a card’s annual fee.

For example, the trade-off between the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card and the Scotiabank Gold American Express Card (both of which have no foreign transaction fees) is that the former has a lower 2% bonus earning rate that also applies on foreign purchases, whereas the latter has higher bonus earning rates of 3% and 5%, but the only apply on purchases made in Canada. Abroad, you’ll only earn 1%.

Depending on how much you travel internationally, you might well prefer the Scotiabank Passport over the Scotiabank Gold Amex, since it’ll be a better partner along your international trips with its higher earning rate, airport lounge benefits, and wider global acceptance on the Visa network.

Alternatively, you may also consider US credit cards, where the lack of foreign transaction fees is much more commonplace on both premium travel credit cards and basic no-fee cards alike. You can use those US cards in Canada, or anywhere else, without additional fees.

However, you’d still have to consider any costs involved in exchanging Canadian dollars to US dollars in order to pay your credit card bill, including fees, the spread, and currency fluctuations.

Either way, a savvy traveller always makes sure they have at least one credit card with no foreign transaction fees on hand for their international trips, tailored towards their foreign spending volume, tolerance for annual fees, and other benefits they might value.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some questions we frequently hear from readers about the best credit cards with no foreign transaction fees in Canada.

What will the foreign exchange rate be?

Conversion rates are set by Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. They’re very close to the true mid-market rate, often within tenths of a percent, and are usually much better than most other ways to exchange currency when you travel.

When is the foreign exchange rate determined?

The transaction will be converted to Canadian dollars at the time it is settled and posts to your account, not at the time it was authorized.

Will I get good rates on purchases in all currencies?

For all foreign currencies other than US dollars, credit cards will process two conversions: first from the underlying currency to USD, then from USD to CAD. You may be subject to a negligible spread on both conversions, but no additional fees.

Can I use cards with no foreign transaction fees anywhere in the world?

These cards all run on either the Visa, Mastercard, or American Express payment networks. They’ll be accepted at any merchant where Visa, Mastercard, or Amex is accepted, respectively.

If I’m offered the choice to pay in the local currency or to pay a converted CAD/USD amount, what should I do?

Always choose to pay in the local currency. The converted CAD/USD option is known as “dynamic currency conversion”, and is almost always a terrible deal that uses a very unfavourable exchange rate.

If you’re paying with a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees, you’ll be much better off paying the correct amount in the local currency and then having that converted into CAD/USD on your credit card bill based on the mid-market rate.

Can I use credit cards with no foreign exchange fee to buy foreign currency?

You shouldn’t. If you purchase cash from a currency broker, or use an ATM to withdraw from your credit card, those would be considered cash-like transactions. You’ll be charged a cash advance fee (usually a flat rate), and interest on the cash advance charge will begin accruing immediately (unlike regular purchases which have a grace period until your statement payment is due).

13 Comments

In part as a result of reading this article, I got a Brim card for a year of abroad travel. So far, I’ve put all appropriate travel alerts on it, called customer service upwards of six times, and have not, in two months of international travel, had this card work. As a result I’ve had to spend extra on foreign transaction fees on my other cards.

I would highly recommend you remove this card from your list as it is a terrible choice that has actually cost me money. NO ONE who travels internationally should use this card.

One item mentioned, when charge in non-USD it is converted to USD first , then to CDN. Not sure if this is true, case in point, when I paid in Dominican Peso with Scotia Passport Visa, it was converted straight to CDN. Also, as an aside, if you pay via CC in PayPal, make sure you pay in USD rather than CDN, as thier exchange rate is atrocious.

I don’t see in your review Home Trust Visa. No annual fee and no foreign exchange fee either. Do you know about them and if so why did they not make the list?

Hello, Im reading that there is an Account Set Up Fee for the Preferred Visa.

Account Set Up Fee: Up to 3% of the approved Credit Limit. This is a one-time, non-refundable fee and it will be charged on the first Account Statement. That could be a hefty amount of money.

What about pre-paid options like Wise or WealthSimple?

In the market for my first credit card specifically for travel. I would be travelling internationally once or twice a year at most. Aside from the no foreign transaction fees, I’d want to collect points for future international flights and have travel insurance. The cash back is not a priority of mine. I don’t mind paying an annual of $150 give or take. I have done alot of looking into this but still feel indecisive… Are there a couple you could recommend me based on what I’m looking for in a card? Thank you very much.

international travel card no fees

In terms of points collecting, I’d go with an Aeroplan co-branded card to an MR-branded Amex card (although Amex acceptance is lower worldwide). Unfortunately, neither of these waive foreign transaction fees, so if that’s a must, the HSBC World Elite is hard to beat, since HSBC points can also be transferred to frequent flyer partners.

Applied for Scotia bank online. WORST client experience ever. I’ve never seen anything like it. I finally received the card after months and said screw it and sent it back. Experience was a horror story and I’d suggest anyone else for a year or two until they get their act together.

“Alternatively, you may also consider US credit cards, where the lack of foreign transaction fees is much more commonplace on both premium travel credit cards and basic no-fee cards alike. You can use those US cards in Canada, or anywhere else, without additional fees.” – could you please explain how I can apply for a US card from Canada?? Don’t you need a US creditfile or am I missing something?

international travel card no fees

We have a dedicated guide here: https://princeoftravel.com/blog/getting-us-credit-cards-for-canadians/

Not sure how common this is – but if the PIN machine defaults to the card’s currency, hit “refuse” or whatever the equivalent is – and it should switch to the local currency.

Thanks for such a great review. I am wondering should I choose to pay local currency or US Currancy when credit card machine prompt for payment option during travel out of Canada?

Always choose to pay in the local currency. The US currency option is known as “dynamic currency conversion” and is almost always a terrible deal with an exchange rate that verges on being a scam. We’ll add a Frequently Asked Question about this!

international travel card no fees

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Best Credit Card for Airline Miles No Annual Fee

Reema Tuqan

Reema Tuqan

Best Credit Card for Airline Miles No Annual Fee

Are you someone who loves to travel and explore places? Imagine being able to unlock destinations around the world by using your credit card. By choosing the credit card designed for airline travel, you can turn this dream into a reality. In this guide, we will highlight the top best credit card for airline miles no annual fee!  

A Comprehensive Guide: Learn How to Select the Best Credit Card for Airline Miles No Annual Fee  

Airline miles also referred to as flyer miles or travel points serve as a currency that can be earned through specific credit card transactions and later redeemed for flights, upgrades, hotel accommodations, car rentals, and more. For individuals passionate about traveling, accumulating airline miles is like amassing treasures offering opportunities for experiences and significant savings. Important Factors to Consider When Selecting a Credit Card for Airline Travel Before we discuss our recommendations for the best credit card for airline miles no annual fee, it is important to check some points: - Earning Potential of Miles: Seek out credit cards that provide substantial mileage rewards on everyday purchases so that you can build up your miles balance quickly and effectively. - Choosing Credit Cards Wisely: Select cards that offer ways to redeem your rewards like using your miles for flights, hotel stays, upgrades, and other travel related costs effortlessly. - Enjoying Travel Perks: Take into account the benefits such as access to airport lounges, travel insurance, and waived baggage fees that can enhance your overall travel journey. - Comparing Costs and Benefits: Evaluate if the advantages of a credit card justify its fee or if opting for a card with no fee better suits your requirements.  

Best Credit Card for Airline Miles No Annual Fee

1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Known for its sign-up bonus and versatile redemption choices with the Chase Ultimate Rewards program. This card is very popular among travelers. You can earn points on dining and travel expenses and transfer them to airline partners for optimal value. 2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: With earning and redemption options, this card lets you earn miles on every purchase and use them towards any travel expenses at a fixed rate. 3. The American Express® Gold Card: Popular for its rewards on dining and groceries. Its valuable airline transfer partners help you make the most of your Membership Rewards points for flights and upgrades. 4. Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®: Offers mileage earning opportunities and perks like priority boarding and a complimentary checked bag, making it essential for frequent flyers with the airline. Selecting the best credit card for airline miles no annual fee is a decision for travelers seeking to maximize their rewards and access new travel possibilities. By considering factors such as mileage accumulation potential, redemption options, travel perks, and annual fees; you can choose a card that suits your travel aspirations. Whether you are a traveler or just starting out on your adventures, the ideal credit card can enhance your journey. Turn your travel dreams into reality and set off on your voyage to destinations with the airline miles credit card and let your love for exploration begins!

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Wells Fargo launches the new Autograph Journey Visa, a fresh option that rivals top travel credit cards

Our experts answer readers' credit card questions and write unbiased product reviews ( here's how we assess credit cards ). In some cases, we receive a commission from our partners ; however, our opinions are our own. Terms apply to offers listed on this page.

The information for the following product(s) has been collected independently by Business Insider: Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Visa® Card. The details for these products have not been reviewed or provided by the issuer.

  • The Autograph Journey comes with a $50 annual airfare credit, generous trip insurance benefits, and a $95 annual fee. 
  • Newly announced travel partners include Choice Privileges®, Air France-KLM Flying Blue, avianca lifemiles, British Airways Executive Club, AerClub, and Iberia Plus.
  • Read Business Insider's guide to the best credit cards .

Insider Today

 After much fanfare, Wells Fargo's newest credit card is finally here. The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Visa® Card is designed with travelers in mind, with similar benefits to many of the best travel rewards credit cards in a similar price band. 

New cardholders can earn a welcome bonus of 60,000 bonus rewards points after spending $4,000 in the first three months from account opening, and will receive a $50 statement credit toward airfare every year.

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Visa® Card earns unlimited rewards at the following rates per dollar:

  • 5x on hotels
  • 4x on airlines
  • 3x on other travel and dining
  • 1x on other purchases

In the same announcement, Wells Fargo introduced several airline and hotel transfer partners, significantly increasing the potential value of Wells Fargo rewards, which currently are worth 1 cent apiece when redeemed directly as cash back.

The new Points Transfer program launches April 4, and is available to all points-earning Wells Fargo credit cards , including the current Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card. Inaugural transfer partners are as follows, with more anticipated later this year:

  • Choice Privileges®
  • Air France-KLM Flying Blue
  • avianca lifemiles
  • British Airways Executive Club
  • Iberia Plus

At first blush, the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Visa® Card appears to be a solid contender against popular rivals such as the Sapphire Preferred Card , Business Insider's choice for best travel credit card overall, and the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . 

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Visa® Card will be available for in-person applications at select Wells Fargo bank locations on March 9. Nationwide applications open online and in person on March 20. 

Be the first to read our full Wells Fargo Autograph Journey credit card review here, or check out Business Insider's guide to the best travel credit cards , the best Wells Fargo credit cards, and other Wells Fargo products.

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.

Watch: The CEO of Scott's Cheap Flights reveals a credit card trick he uses to get millions of free miles

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

    The typical foreign transaction fee is about 3%. So if you went to London with a card that had a 3% fee and used it to buy something that cost $140, you'd be charged a foreign transaction fee of ...

  2. The 11 Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards [2024]

    For the potential of greater value, you can also transfer miles to travel partners. 3. Bank of America ® Travel Rewards Credit Card. We like that the Bank of America Travel Rewards card offers unlimited 1.5x points for every dollar spent, has no annual fee, and has no foreign transaction fees. U.P. Rating.

  3. Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards Of March 2024

    The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is our overall pick for the best no foreign transaction fee card. It has a fairly reasonable $95 annual fee, offers solid earning rates for flexible rewards ...

  4. Best cards with no foreign transaction fees of March 2024

    Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years. Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage. No foreign transaction fees. Low $95 annual fee.

  5. Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards Of March 2024

    United isn't the only airline with a no-annual-fee card, but it's the best no-annual-fee airline offering. The United Gateway℠ Card provides a few valuable benefits when a cardholder flies ...

  6. Best Travel Cards with No Annual Fees [2024 Guide]: Debit & Credit

    Key points: Best cards with no annual fees. Here are the cards we'll investigate in more detail as we dive into the best travel cards with no annual fees: Wise Travel Debit Card: Hold 40+ currencies, and spend with the mid-market exchange rate and low fees from 0.43% in 150+ countries. Revolut Travel Debit Card: Hold 25+ currencies, and pick ...

  7. Best credit cards for international travel 2024

    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 ...

  8. Best credit cards with no international fees 2024

    Read on for our top picks for the best credit cards with no international fees. Best overall for 2024: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. Best for high rewards: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. Best for cash back rewards: Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card. Best for travel protections: Chase Sapphire Reserve®.

  9. 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.

  10. The Best Fee-Free Debit Cards for International Travel

    Here's what you need to know about the Fidelity debit card: Unlimited fee rebates from any ATM worldwide. No account fees or minimum balance requirements. Competitive Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on cash balances. 1% foreign conversion fee on debit card purchases and some cash withdrawals.

  11. 5 Best Travel Cards without Foreign Transaction Fees 2024

    Chase Sapphire Preferred credit card. 💡 Key point: Travel optimized card with high rewards on travel spend, and extra benefits and offers including travel insurance and assistance. Chase Sapphire Preferred is a Visa credit card with no foreign transaction fee and a relatively low annual charge of 95 USD.

  12. 7 of the Best Travel Money Cards in 2024

    Wise Travel Card. Cross currency conversion fees are between 0.24-3.69%. AUD to USD, EUR or GBP was 0.42%, which is one of the lowest on the market Free cash withdrawals up to $350 every 30 days. However after that, Wise charge a fixed fee of $1.50 per transaction + 1.75%

  13. 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 ...

  14. Best No Annual Fee Travel Credit Cards of March 2024

    One of the best no-annual-fee travel cards available, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card gives you a solid rewards rate on every purchase, with points that can be redeemed for any ...

  15. Best travel cards with no foreign transaction fees? Check out this list

    Latitude: No annual fee and no foreign transaction fee to pay - charges apply if you use an ATM, but the card also offers benefits if your flights are delayed. Westpac: Low interest rate card with no foreign transaction fee - ATM withdrawals not available. HSBC: 99 AUD annual fee, with no foreign transaction fees and some travel perks.

  16. Best Credit Cards for International Travel

    The best credit cards for international travel reward you for your spending without creating hassles (or charging extra fees) when using them outside the U.S. Here are our top picks.

  17. 4 Best International Travel Credit Cards

    No foreign transaction fees; Why We Like It. The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is one of the most underrated travel rewards credit cards for international travel. Earning rewards at home and abroad is effortless with the card's unlimited 3x points on popular spending categories like restaurants, travel, transit, streaming services, gas and ...

  18. Travel money cards with the lowest fees

    Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard. Available online or at post offices. Currencies: AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, AED. Fees: Fee to reload the card via BPay, debit card or instore, but free via online bank transfer. Closure fee. Fees for ATM withdrawals in Australia and overseas.

  19. 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 ...

  20. No International ATM Fees: Get the Charles Schwab Debit Card

    The Schwab debit card allows you to take out cash from any ATM anywhere in the world and refunds 100% of any withdrawal or ATM fees you pay. This is a foolproof way to avoid international ATM fees and get the best currency exchange rate possible. Schwab reimburses you monthly for ATM fees charged by all outside vendors.

  21. Best cash back credit cards for travel

    The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card is, by far, one of the best cash back credit cards for international travel. It comes with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees, along ...

  22. Canada's 5 Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards

    Best Credit Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees Best Travel Credit Card with No Foreign Transaction Fees. Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card. Apply Now Learn More . First-Year Value: $310. Earn 30,000 Scene+ points upon spending $1,000 in the first three months; Earn an additional 10,000 Scene+ ...

  23. Best Credit Card for Airline Miles No Annual Fee

    Evaluate if the advantages of a credit card justify its fee or if opting for a card with no fee better suits your requirements. Best Credit Card for Airline Miles No Annual Fee 1.

  24. Best 0% APR Credit Cards Of March 2024

    Caroline Lupini has been traveling the world with the help of credit card rewards since 2011. She has visited over 110 countries and is able to utilize her knowledge of credit cards and to make ...

  25. Wells Fargo Launches the New Autograph Journey Visa Travel Credit Card

    is designed with travelers in mind, with similar benefits to many of the best travel rewards credit cards in a similar price band.. New cardholders can earn a welcome bonus of 60,000 bonus rewards ...