Understanding Credit Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees
When planning a trip overseas, it’s essential to consider the financial aspects of your travel. One critical factor to evaluate is whether your credit card charges foreign transaction fees. These fees can add up quickly, especially during extended stays or multiple transactions in different countries. Fortunately, there are several credit cards available that offer no foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international travelers.
Before you embark on your journey, it’s wise to check if your current credit card includes such fees. You can typically find this information by visiting the card’s website and looking for sections like “pricing and information,” “rates and fees,” or “terms.” Many cards also provide a summary of their fees, known as the Schumer Box, which is often included on printed statements.
One of the most appealing aspects of these cards is the potential for sign-up bonuses. Some of them offer substantial rewards, such as $1,000 or more, to new cardholders. However, it’s important to note that these bonuses may not be immediately available. If you’re planning to use a bonus for an upcoming trip, contact the card issuer to confirm when the reward will be credited to your account.
Here are some of the best credit cards with no foreign transaction fees:
1. BILT Mastercard®
The BILT Mastercard from Wells Fargo offers a unique benefit for renters. It rewards users with one point per dollar spent on rent payments, up to 100,000 points each year. Additionally, it eliminates the typical transaction fees associated with paying rent via credit card. This card also provides rewards on dining, travel, and Lyft rideshare services.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Annual Fee: None
- Rewards Rates: Three points per dollar on dining (and five points at Bilt Neighborhood Dining Partners); two points on travel, one point per dollar on rent payments (up to 100,000 points each year), and five points on Lyft rideshare (once linked).
- Interest Rates: 20.49% to 28.49% variable APR
2. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
This card is known for its generous sign-up bonus. New cardholders can earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 within the first three months. The miles are equivalent to $750 in travel. The card also has no foreign transaction fees, making it a great choice for frequent travelers.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Annual Fee: $95
- Sign-Up Bonus: 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
- Rewards Rates: Five miles per dollar on hotel stays and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; two miles per dollar on all other purchases.
- Interest Rate: 19.99% to 29.24% variable APR for purchases.
3. Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Similar to the Venture Rewards Credit Card, the Venture X version offers a sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 within the first three months. It also provides a $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, which can be a valuable perk for frequent flyers.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Annual Fee: $395
- Sign-Up Bonus: 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
- Rewards Rates: 10 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, five miles per dollar on flights, and two miles per dollar on all other purchases.
- Interest Rate: 19.99% to 29.24% variable APR for purchases.
4. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is another top choice for travelers. It offers a 75,000-point bonus after spending $5,000 within the first three months. The card also has no foreign transaction fees and provides excellent rewards on travel, dining, and other purchases.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Annual Fee: $95
- Sign-Up Bonus: 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first three months.
- Rewards Rates: Five points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, three points on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries, and one point on other spending.
- Interest Rate: 19.99% to 28.24% variable APR for purchases and balance transfers.
5. Citi Strata Premier℠ Card
This card is ideal for those who frequently book hotels, car rentals, and attractions. It offers 10 ThankYou Points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases through the Citi Travel℠ portal. The card also has no foreign transaction fees and a sign-up bonus of 60,000 points.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Annual Fee: $95
- Sign-Up Bonus: 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
- Rewards Rates: 10 ThankYou Points for hotel, car rental, and attraction bookings, three points on air travel, and one point on other purchases.
- Interest Rate: 20.24% to 28.24% variable APR for purchases.
6. Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card
For frequent flyers, the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card is a strong option. It offers 60,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 within the first six months. The card also provides three times the points on Delta plane tickets.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Annual Fee: $350
- Welcome Offer: 60,000 bonus miles after spending $3,000 in eligible purchases.
- Rewards Rates: Three miles per dollar on Delta purchases and hotel bookings, two miles on restaurants, and one mile on other purchases.
- Interest Rate: 20.24% to 29.24% variable APR for purchases.
7. U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
This card is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their rewards. It offers a 20,000-point bonus after spending $1,000 within the first 90 days. The card also has no annual fee and provides rewards on travel, dining, and other purchases.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: None
- Annual Fee: None
- Sign-Up Bonus: 20,000 points worth $200 after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days.
- Rewards Rates: Five points on prepaid hotels and car rentals, four points on travel and gas stations/EV charging stations, two points on dining and groceries, and one point on other purchases.
- Interest Rate: 0% intro APR on balance transfers for the first 15 billing cycles, followed by a variable APR of 18.24% to 28.24%.
Final Thoughts
Exploring new countries can be an unforgettable experience. To ensure you save money while creating memories, choose a credit card that offers no foreign transaction fees. With the right card, you can enjoy your travels without worrying about unexpected charges. Whether you’re booking a hotel, renting a car, or dining out, the right credit card can make a significant difference in your overall travel experience.
