Can I use my debit or credit card while traveling internationally? (2024)

FAQs

Can I use my debit or credit card while traveling internationally? ›

Some merchants may only accept EMV chip cards that are issued by local banks. Some credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee for each purchase made abroad. It's usually around 3 percent; however, you can avoid these fees by shopping around for better offers. Some credit card transactions require ID verification.

If you want to keep a tab on the spending, a debit card can be a good option. Credit cards, on the other hand, are handy if you face a shortage of funds while travelling abroad.

While there may be a few credit unions that issue debit cards limited to domestic use, most debit cards are backed by Visa or Mastercard, trusted financial brands that are accepted worldwide.

You can use them just as you would at home as a way of paying for things. Plus, if you need to, you can take out a cash transaction at an ATM or use to obtain local currency.

Use a debit card

Most providers will charge you for every transaction you make overseas, but you can find credit or debit cards that will cut the cost of your spending abroad.

Credit cards can also be a convenient way to make payments abroad, though they may not be accepted in all countries. If you know credit cards are widely accepted in your study abroad location, it is best to get a credit card that charges no foreign transaction fees as this will save you money in the end.

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.

Visa exchange rate

This is the exchange rate used by Visa to convert the transaction into sterling on the day Visa processes the transaction. This might not be the same day when the transaction took place. A 2.99% fee charged by us for using your debit card abroad when making purchases, withdrawing cash or for refunds.

If you're heading overseas on holiday or on a business trip, getting a travel credit or debit card could be one of the cheapest ways to spend while abroad. Often, a regular bank account debit card will charge you hefty fees and a poor exchange rate if you use it abroad for a transaction or cash withdrawal.

What is the best debit card to use for international travel? ›

Wise: Best overall multi-currency account with most currency options. Revolut: Great debit card for international travel and perks. Chime: Best US digital account without foreign transaction fees. Capital One 360: Best US bank for international transactions.

If you intend to use your personal debit or credit card abroad it is best that you let us know. Telling us in advance that you're travelling will notify our transaction monitoring systems you will be using your debit or credit card abroad. This will help us to reduce the likelihood of your transactions being blocked.

You're not required to notify your credit card company when you're going away on vacation, but it is highly recommended.

Whether you should use a debit card for travel depends on your own circ*mstances. For instance, you should avoid using a debit card in another country if you'll be hit with high foreign transaction fees and ATM fees.

A more convenient way to spend while overseas is by debit card. All you need is one small piece of plastic, and you can spend and withdraw cash whenever you need to. There are even prepaid travel debit cards out there, which you load up with money before you travel.

Best Credit Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fee of June 2024. Discover it® Cash Back: Best feature: Cash back on everyday purchases. United Gateway℠ Card: Best feature: United Airlines rewards. Discover it® Miles: Best feature: Travel rewards.

Not only are cards more secure, and more convenient, they can be cheaper than paying for things in cash. The rates of exchange when you buy currency in advance mean that you are guaranteed to lose out – perhaps by three per cent if you order online, probably much more if you turn up at an airport bureau de change.

Get a prepaid travel card

Prepaid travel cards allow you to make purchases abroad without worrying about international transaction fees. Also, these cards are locked into a currency exchange rate, so you don't have to worry about daily fluctuations.

As a general rule, cash is still the easiest way to make everyday purchases abroad. Credit cards remain the best all-purpose payment method, accepted in far more places abroad than debit cards.

Credit card transaction fees are typically higher than debit cards. Shops may charge a fee, and banks may charge a conversion fee for the payment. If the merchant hasn't displayed fee notices, travelers should inquire with the staff. Credit cards may be subject to ghost charges or temporary holds.

Which US debit card can be used internationally? ›

While you can typically use a debit cards in another country, you may have to pay a foreign transaction fee. Though these fees vary by bank and card issuer, they are usually around 3% of any transaction abroad. In addition, you may be given the option by a merchant to pay in local or U.S. currency.

Research shows that in most cases you can save by opting to spend in the local currency. For example, that would mean choosing euros in Spain or dollars in the US. When you choose to pay in the currency of the region or country you're visiting, Visa or Mastercard will set the exchange rate.