Traveling outside the United States can be an exciting adventure, but it’s essential to have the right tools, including a suitable credit card. The best credit cards for international travel offer worldwide acceptance, robust rewards for travel-related expenses, and no additional fees for purchases made outside the U.S.
Additionally, many of these cards provide valuable travel protections, such as trip delay insurance and coverage for lost or delayed luggage. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top credit cards for international travel in June 2024, helping you choose the one that best fits your needs.
Best Credit Cards for International Travel
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best credit cards for international travel, highlighting their key features, rewards, and benefits.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Annual Fee: $95
- Rewards Rate: 1x-5x points
- Intro Offer: 75,000 points
- Recommended Credit Score: 690-850
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is an excellent choice for both novice and experienced travelers. With a reasonable annual fee, this card offers bonus rewards on travel, dining, select streaming services, and select online grocery purchases.
Points can be worth 25% more when redeemed for travel booked through Chase, or transferred to about a dozen airline and hotel partners. The card also features a stellar sign-up bonus, making it a top contender for international travel.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- Annual Fee: $95
- Rewards Rate: 2x-5x miles
- Intro Offer: 75,000 miles
- Recommended Credit Score: 690-850
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is renowned for its simplicity and flexibility. With 5 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel, and 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases, it’s a popular choice among travelers. Miles can be redeemed at a value of 1 cent apiece for any travel purchase, without blackout dates or restrictions. The card also offers a generous sign-up bonus and other valuable perks.
Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card
- Annual Fee: $0
- Rewards Rate: 1.5x points
- Intro Offer: 25,000 points
- Recommended Credit Score: 690-850
For travelers seeking simplicity and value without an annual fee, the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card is an excellent choice. With a solid rewards rate on every purchase and points redeemable for any travel purchase, this card offers flexibility and convenience. Bank of America®’s broad definition of “travel” expands redemption options, making it a versatile option for international travel.
Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
- Annual Fee: $0
- Rewards Rate: 1x-3x points
- Intro Offer: 20,000 points
- Recommended Credit Score: 690-850
The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card stands out for its exceptional value and lack of an annual fee. With a generous sign-up bonus and additional rewards in common spending categories such as restaurants, gas stations, transit, and travel, this card offers a compelling proposition for travelers. Its versatility and rewards make it an attractive option for international travel.
How to Compare Credit Cards for International Travel
When comparing credit cards for international travel, several factors should be considered:
Annual Fee: Most of the best cards for international travel charge an annual fee, typically around $100. Premium cards with extensive perks may have higher fees, while some cards offer no-fee options. It’s essential to evaluate the annual fee against the card’s rewards and benefits to determine its value.
Rewards: Consider both the earning potential and redemption options of the card’s rewards. Pay attention to bonus categories for earning points, as well as the flexibility and value of redemption options. Cards with versatile rewards and high redemption value typically offer the best value for international travel.
Foreign Transaction Fees: Avoid cards that charge foreign transaction fees, as these fees can quickly add up and negate any rewards earned from international purchases. Opt for cards that waive foreign transaction fees to maximize savings while traveling abroad.
International Acceptance: Choose cards from networks like Visa and Mastercard, which are widely accepted internationally. While American Express and Discover may offer valuable perks, they may have limited acceptance outside the U.S., necessitating a backup card.
Travel Protections: Evaluate the card’s travel protections, including coverage for trip delays, luggage problems, and rental car damage. Comprehensive travel insurance can provide peace of mind during international trips, especially in unforeseen circumstances.
Conclusion
Choosing the best credit card for international travel involves careful consideration of various factors, including rewards, fees, benefits, and protections. The top credit cards highlighted in this guide offer a range of options to suit different travel styles and preferences.
Whether you prioritize simplicity, luxury, or value, there’s a card that can enhance your international travel experience. Evaluate your priorities and compare the features of each card to find the perfect companion for your next adventure abroad.
