Guide to No-Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards for Travelers

Discover everything about credit cards that waive foreign transaction fees

Planning an international trip? Whether for leisure or business, ensuring your financial tools are optimized is essential. Besides travel documents like visas and passports, managing your finances is crucial. While traveler’s checks are outdated, plastic cards such as credit and debit cards now dominate. These cards offer increased security over cash, allowing easy cancellation if lost or stolen. However, using your domestic credit card abroad may incur foreign transaction fees. Opting for cards that waive these fees can save you significant money.

These cards provide convenience and security while avoiding extra costs. When traveling internationally, understanding foreign transaction fees is important. Using regular credit cards abroad can lead to charges up to 3% per transaction, which can escalate your expenses. To minimize this, consider applying for credit cards that do not charge foreign transaction fees, especially if you travel often or shop internationally.

Learn more about selecting a credit card that eliminates foreign transaction fees.

What are foreign transaction fees?

Additional charges on transactions made outside your home country.

Applied even when booking international tickets or shopping from foreign merchants.

Typically up to 3% per purchase.

Can lead to high bills after traveling or online shopping abroad.

When should you consider a no-foreign transaction fee card?

If you frequently travel internationally.

For extended or regular holidays abroad.

When shopping at foreign online stores.

If you often purchase from international retailers.

Are foreign transaction fees applicable to debit cards?

Yes, using your debit card abroad often incurs currency conversion fees.

These fees usually range from $1 to $5 per transaction.

Additional ATM withdrawal fees may also apply when accessing cash internationally.

Top credit cards offering no foreign transaction fees

Capital One Venture Rewards

Chase Sapphire Preferred

Bank of America Travel Rewards

Barclaycard Arrival Plus World Elite

TRIO Card from Fifth Third Bank

American Express Cashback Rewards Plus

Discover it Miles

PenFed Premium Travel Rewards

Steps to apply for a no-foreign transaction fee credit card

Choose a card that aligns with your travel and spending needs.

Apply online via the card issuer's website, providing personal details like income, credit score, and employment information.

Undergo standard verification and approval processes.

Receive your new credit card after approval.