I am unable to retrieve that All Mighty Dollar. They do not accept credit or debit. My worse fears come true… Or is it? To be honest I have been traveling abroad for over 5 years now, I have never traveled to a country that doesn’t accept Visa or Mastercard. And of course this includes debit cards as well.
While traveling internationally can be a fantastic experience, you will inevitably need a Visa or Mastercard. One of the best ways to save money while traveling is to use a credit card that offers rewards and benefits for international purchases. Here are some of the best banks that offer credit cards for long-term international travel:
Charles Schwab
Charles Schwab Bank: Charles Schwab Bank offers the Charles Schwab Debit Card, which is one of the best debit cards for international travel, without hesitation this is my first option. The card has no foreign transaction fees and allows you to withdraw cash from any ATM around the world without paying any fees. In addition, Charles Schwab Bank reimburses all ATM fees charged by other banks, making it an excellent choice for long-term international travel. You will not be reimbursed immediately — by the end of the month. I highly recommend this bank they have helped me out tremendously for the last 4 years.
Capital One
Capital One: Capital One offers a number of credit cards that are great for international travel, including the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card. Both of these cards offer no foreign transaction fees, which can save you a significant amount of money on international purchases. The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card also offers miles that can be redeemed for travel expenses, while the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card offers cash back rewards on all purchases. The debit cards are not as useful however the fees are not as high as others, HOWEVER I do recommend the credit cards.
Chase
Chase: Chase offers several credit cards that are popular with travelers, including the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card and the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card. These cards offer no foreign transaction fees, as well as generous rewards for travel-related purchases. The Chase Sapphire Reserve Card also offers a $300 annual travel credit, which can be used to offset the cost of travel expenses.
American Express
American Express: American Express offers several credit cards that are great for international travel, including the American Express Platinum Card and the American Express Gold Card. These cards offer no foreign transaction fees, as well as a range of travel-related benefits, such as airport lounge access and travel insurance. The American Express Platinum Card also offers a $200 annual travel credit and a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit.
Bank of America
Bank of America: Bank of America offers the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card, which is a great option for international travelers who want to earn rewards on their purchases. The card offers no foreign transaction fees, as well as 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases. The points can be redeemed for travel-related expenses, such as flights, hotels, and rental cars.
In conclusion, there are several banks that offer credit cards that are great for long-term international travel. I would personally pick any card that that offers no ATM fees, especially if you are traveling to a European country where ATM fees can easily exceed $9.
Honestly, 5 years ago when I was deciding if I would take the first steps towards Full time travel, I spent hours reading every blog I could find.
Here’s the truth, your taking a big step and it will change your life. Which bank you choose will not matter so much in the long run. Charles Schwab Bank’s debit card is a great option for those who want to avoid ATM fees, while Capital One, Chase, American Express, and Bank of America offer a range of credit cards that offer a few perks.