When using your travel credit card while abroad, making appropriate preparations in advance is critical. This will allow you to maximize the potential benefits of your trip. It’s important to remember that not all credit cards are equal, and some are more suited for traveling abroad than others.
Planning Ahead with Your Credit Card When Travelling Internationally
1. Apply for a Travel Credit Card
Think about applying for a travel credit card. The best travel rewards credit card are tailored to the needs of travelers, such as those that do not charge a fee for making transactions in a foreign currency, provide travel insurance, and offer rewards that may be used for travel. When selecting a travel credit card, looking for incentives that correspond with your intended journey, such as hotel points or miles from a specific airline, is important.
2. Inform Your Credit Card Issuer
Be sure that your bank and the company that issued your credit card are aware of your plans to travel before you leave for your trip. Using your credit card in a foreign country will prevent it from being alerted for potentially fraudulent activity. Many credit card issuers also provide fraud protection and will notify you if they discover questionable behavior on your account.
3. Check the Status of Your Travel Credit Card
Check to see whether or not your travel credit card will be honored at your final location. Because not all credit cards are recognized in every country, it is essential to determine in advance whether or not your particular credit card may be used in the country where you will be vacationing. The acceptance of credit cards issued by Visa and Mastercard is virtually universal. However, you should keep an additional credit card or cash in case of unforeseen circumstances.
4. Use Cashback Rewards
Use a cashback credit card for online shopping or travel expenses. The cashback incentives many credit cards offer can be used for travel-related purchases, including airfare, hotel stays, and auto rentals. Use the cashback credits your credit card offers to reduce some of the costs associated with your trip. You may also be eligible for travel-specific incentives with certain credit cards, such as airline miles or hotel points, which can help you save money on future travel expenses.
5. Look Out for Additional Costs
Be wary of the costs and rates associated with currency exchange. Using your credit card in a foreign country risks currency conversion fees and unfavorable exchange rates. Consider using a credit card that does not charge you a fee to transact in a foreign country. Be aware of any additional fees or charges incurred when you use your credit card abroad.
Final Word
Think about applying for a travel credit card from a reputable company that offers credit card travel cash back. Contact Great Canadian Rebates to get the best incentives on your credit card while vacationing.