When traveling or making purchases abroad, having a reliable international credit card can make all the difference. The best international credit cards not only offer convenience but also provide rewards, low fees, and additional perks that enhance your global spending experience. Here’s a look at the top five international credit cards, their features, benefits, charges, and some frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Features:
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Earn 2X points on travel and dining, and 1X point on all other purchases.
- Flexible point redemption through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® program.
Benefits:
- Sign-up bonus: Earn a large number of bonus points after spending a certain amount in the first three months.
- Trip cancellation and interruption insurance.
- Purchase protection and extended warranty.
Charges:
- Annual fee: $95.
- APR: Variable, around 20.99%-27.99%.
- Balance transfer fee: Either $5 or 5% of the transfer amount, whichever is greater.
2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Features:
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Earn 2X miles per dollar on every purchase, every day.
- Easy mile redemption for travel expenses.
Benefits:
- Sign-up bonus: Earn bonus miles after meeting the minimum spending requirement.
- Travel accident insurance and 24-hour travel assistance services.
- No blackout dates when redeeming miles.
Charges:
- Annual fee: $95.
- APR: Variable, around 21.24%-29.24%.
- Cash advance fee: Either $10 or 3% of the amount, whichever is greater.
3. American Express® Gold Card
Features:
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at restaurants and on groceries, and 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or through Amex Travel.
- Complimentary access to the Global Assist® Hotline.
Benefits:
- High reward rates on dining and travel.
- $120 annual dining credit at select partners.
- Purchase protection and extended warranty.
Charges:
- Annual fee: $250.
- APR: Varies for Pay Over Time feature, typically 20.99%-27.99%.
- Late payment fee: Up to $40.
4. Citi Premier® Card
Features:
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Earn 3X points on air travel, hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and gas stations.
- 1X point on all other purchases.
Benefits:
- Sign-up bonus: Earn a substantial number of points after meeting the spending requirement.
- Points transfer to various travel loyalty programs.
- Purchase protection and travel insurance.
Charges:
- Annual fee: $95.
- APR: Variable, around 21.24%-29.24%.
- Balance transfer fee: $5 or 3% of the transfer amount, whichever is greater.
5. Discover it® Miles
Features:
- No foreign transaction fees.
- Earn unlimited 1.5X miles on every dollar spent on all purchases.
- Redeem miles for travel credits or cash back.
Benefits:
- No annual fee.
- Discover will match all miles earned in the first year.
- FICO® Credit Score for free on monthly statements.
Charges:
- Annual fee: $0.
- APR: Variable, around 16.24%-27.24%.
- Cash advance fee: Either $10 or 5% of the advance, whichever is greater.
FAQs:
1. What is an international credit card?
An international credit card allows you to make purchases in foreign currencies and often waives foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for travelers or those who shop from international retailers.
2. Why are no foreign transaction fees important?
Foreign transaction fees are typically around 3% of every purchase made abroad. Cards that waive this fee save you money on each transaction.
3. What should I consider when choosing an international credit card?
Look for cards with no foreign transaction fees, rewards on international spending, good travel benefits, and manageable fees.
4. Do I need to inform my bank before using my credit card internationally?
It’s a good idea to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid your transactions being flagged as suspicious, which could lead to your card being temporarily blocked.
5. Can I use these cards for online purchases from international websites?
Yes, these cards are great for online shopping from international retailers, especially those that charge in foreign currencies.
