While you’ll always need some cash, using a credit card for your spending needs can significantly simplify overseas travel. You won’t really have to deal with converting currency and, armed with the right credit card, you won’t pay unnecessary foreign transaction fees.
In addition, pickpockets will be less of a threat, not only because credit cards are easier to conceal and keep safe but also because even if your card is stolen, you won’t actually lose money. Just report your card missing, and you’ll be off the hook for any unauthorized purchases.
Still, the act of simply using a credit card does not in itself make overseas spending cheaper. By following these four tips before you leave and while traveling, you can make that goal a reality.
Key Takeaways
- Credit cards simplify spending while traveling, as cash can be clunky, conversion rates tricky, and cash is prone to loss or theft.
- If a credit card is stolen, it can be suspended and replaced in short order.
- Make sure you understand your card’s international fees and restrictions.
- Use a card that does not charge foreign transaction fees.
- Tell your card issuer of your travel plans in advance so they don’t assume that your card has been stolen and used without your consent.
1. Use a Credit Card With No Foreign Transaction Fee
Many, but not all, credit card issuers charge fees for purchases made overseas with a foreign merchant. These fees typically range from 1% to 3% of each purchase and can result in you paying significantly more than the listed price of anything that you purchase overseas. This can really add up throughout a trip.
Before you depart, check your credit and debit card agreements to see if they include such fees. If they do, then apply for a credit card with no foreign transaction fee, as well as for a debit card that does not charge extra for ATM withdrawals in other countries. Make sure to apply far enough in advance to allow for approval, account setup, and receiving your new card in the mail.
Foreign transaction fees can also apply to purchases made online from your home country where the vendor is foreign and processes the transaction in its local currency. Keep this in mind when you book hotels and day trips before departing.
2. Call Your Credit Card Issuer Before Leaving
Once you have the requisite cards, alert the issuer of your travel plans and ask for the number that you can call collect for assistance while overseas. This not only will ensure that your cards do not get suspended because of suspicious activity, but also will give you a way to contact your issuer free of charge if something comes up.
Some card issuers no longer need cardholders to alert them to upcoming travel. For example, American Express uses fraud technology to help recognize when cardholders are traveling. Amex does recommend that you keep your contact information updated in case it needs to contact you while you’re away. Be sure to check with your credit card company before you leave to see if notifying them is necessary.
3. Avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion
Make sure to avoid dynamic currency conversion, a credit card feature that allows you to make a credit card purchase in a foreign country by using the currency of your home country. Some of us tend to have trouble relating foreign currency to the U.S. dollar, at least off the top of our heads while shopping.
Foreign merchants take advantage of this fact at the checkout counter by offering to quote the final price in U.S. dollars and, unbeknownst to tourists, making that conversion at an uncompetitive exchange rate.
Avoiding these unnecessary costs is quite simple. All you need to do is refuse to sign any check or receipt not expressed in the local currency.
If you’re worried about deciphering the cost of meals and goods during your trip, just brush up on conversion rates before leaving or download a mobile app to your phone that will make the calculations for you.
4. Memorize Your PIN
With the institution of chip-and-PIN technology, some credit card terminals—particularly those in Europe—require the cardholder to enter a personal identification number (PIN). Make sure you have one set up and memorized before you leave town.
Merchants in some countries still use the less sophisticated magnetic stripe system. As a result, merchants in these markets may not accept your credit card if you don’t have proper identification. As long as you carry your passport, you should be fine. Merchants simply want to be able to verify that the person using a credit card is actually the one authorized to do so.
Chip cards, also known as EMV cards, were designed to enable secure payments and were first introduced in Europe in the 1990s. The United States only started fully rolling out chip cards in the last several years.
Do Credit Cards Charge a Fee When Used Overseas?
It depends on the credit card. Some credit cards will charge a fee overseas, while other cards will not. Confirm with your credit card company what kind of fees, if any, will be charged if the card is used abroad. Also, understand that some retailers will not take an international credit card unless it is an American Express, Visa, Capital One, Mastercard, or Discover card.
Do Credit Cards Automatically Convert Currency?
Yes, credit card companies automatically convert foreign currencies to the domestic currency using their exchange rate. When you look at your card statement, the amount charged will be in the domestic currency.
Do I Need to Tell My Credit Card Company I Am Going Abroad?
You do not necessarily have to tell your credit card company that you are going abroad in order to use your card internationally. Your card will usually work but there are chances that transactions may be blocked, particularly for large amounts. It is always prudent to let your card company know you will be abroad and when to ensure your charges will not be blocked.
The Bottom Line
While overseas travel can be both confusing and expensive, there are ways to minimize the cost and hassle of spending abroad.
As long as you have a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, notify your credit card company of your travel plans, and only pay for purchases expressed in terms of the local currency, you should be able to avoid post-trip credit statement surprises.
In the end, a trip overseas shouldn’t be characterized by worries over conversion rates and handling foreign money. So get the right cards before leaving and allow your focus to shift to its rightful place: having a good time, or getting down to business.
