What type of card is best for international travel?

Choosing the Best Credit Card for International Travel

Venturing beyond borders requires careful planning, especially when it comes to managing your finances. Navigating unfamiliar currencies, language barriers, and potential emergencies can be daunting, but the right credit card can provide peace of mind and enhance your travel experience. Here’s a guide to help you find the best card for your international escapades:

For International Dining:

• American Express® Gold Card: With its generous rewards on dining and groceries, the American Express Gold Card is a culinary traveler’s dream. You’ll earn 4x points at restaurants worldwide and on dining takeout, groceries, and Uber Eats purchases.

For Robust Travel Protections:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred®: This card offers exceptional travel protections, including trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, and rental car damage insurance. Its 2x points on travel and dining purchases also make it a versatile choice.

For No-Annual-Fee Option:

• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card: This card combines the convenience of no annual fee with a generous rewards program. You’ll earn 3x points on dining, travel, transit, and select streaming services, making it a budget-friendly choice for frequent travelers.

For Less-Than-Perfect Credit:

• Discover it® Secured: This card is an excellent option for those with limited or impaired credit. It offers a secured credit line, allowing you to build your credit while earning rewards. You’ll earn 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants on up to $1,000 in combined purchases each quarter.

For Luxury Travelers:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve®: For discerning travelers who prioritize luxury and exclusivity, the Chase Sapphire Reserve is unparalleled. It includes airport lounge access, premium travel credits, trip delay insurance, and a generous rewards program that lets you earn 3x points on travel and dining, and 1x point on all other purchases.

Additional Tips:

• Check the foreign transaction fees of your card before traveling. Some cards charge a fee for using them overseas.
• Notify your credit card company of your travel plans to avoid having your transactions flagged as suspicious.
• Consider a card with chip and PIN technology, which is widely used internationally.
• Bring a backup credit card in case you lose your primary card or it experiences any issues.

Choosing the right credit card for international travel depends on your individual needs and preferences. By considering the rewards, protections, fees, and amenities associated with each card, you can find the one that will enhance your journey and provide peace of mind.