South_agency / Getty Images
If you’re counting down the days until your next international destination, the right credit card can make all the difference. With the right piece of plastic in your wallet, you can rack up credit card rewards to pay for your next trip. Plus, the best credit cards for international travel protect your wallet from excessive transaction fees.
While you wait to get to the airport, consider adding a premium credit card to your wallet for a smooth international travel experience.
The 5 best credit cards for international travel
Here’s a quick guide to help you learn more about the best credit cards for international travel.
| Card | Annual tax | Bonus |
|---|---|---|
| Capital One Venture X Rewards Card | 395 dollars | Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 within three months of account opening |
| United Explore MileagePlus | $95 – waived first year | Earn 50,000 bonus miles when you spend $3,000 within three months of account opening |
| Earn 60,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 within three months of account opening | ||
| Earn 125,000 Membership Rewards points when you spend $6,000 within six months of account opening | ||
| 695 dollars | Earn 120,000 Membership Rewards points when you spend $15,000 within three months of account opening |
Capital One Venture X Rewards Card
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Card makes international travel more enjoyable and accessible. Flexible travel redemption options are available through the card, which comes with no foreign transaction fee. Although there is a $395 annual fee, frequent travelers can use this card to stretch their international travel budget a little further.
unitedSM Explorer MileagePlus
The United Explorer MileagePlus card offers a wide range of benefits. It’s especially useful for travelers who fly frequently with United Airlines. But since United Airlines is part of the largest international airline network, Star Alliance, collecting United miles can be useful for world travelers. With the first year fee waived, you can see whether or not this card is right for your wallet.
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
The Chase Sapphire Reserve makes a VIP-level travel experience accessible to those with excellent credit scores. As a cardholder, you’ll start accumulating points based on your spending. Depending on your spending habits, these rewards can quickly turn into a handy sum for your next international destination. You can go through airports with Global Entry, courtesy of your credit card. And if you’re stuck with a long layover, use your credit card to access one of over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide.
Platinum Card® from American Express
With an annual fee of $695, the Platinum Card from American Express, Member FDIC, doesn’t come cheap. But a long list of benefits can make the price worthwhile for frequent international travelers. The card comes with access to a Platinum travel service, which can create personalized itineraries based on your unique interests to help you get the most out of your vacation. And the Premium Global Assist Hotline can help you solve medical, legal, financial or other urgent problems while you’re away from home.
Business Platinum Card® from American Express
If you happen to be a business owner, the Business Platinum Card from American Express can open the doors to your international travel experiences. This gives you the opportunity to reap great travel benefits as a result of your business expenses. Help from Business Platinum Travel service can lead to unforgettable trips with itineraries designed for your specific interests. Plus, you’ll have access to multiple premium membership levels at hotels and car rental providers for a premium travel experience.
What is the best credit card for your international travel plans?
The best credit card for your international travel plans varies based on your goals. As a base, you should choose a credit card with no foreign transaction fees. Plus, you should make sure that the credit card you’ve chosen is widely accepted in the places you frequent regularly.
Beyond these basics, choosing the right credit card depends on your specific plans. You can choose the flexibility of a travel rewards credit card or choose an airline-branded card for your favorite airline.
Additionally, look for a credit card that offers more rewards for your spending habits. For example, business owners can get the most out of a business-specific credit card. But frequent travelers who stick to a specific airline can get the biggest benefits by choosing an airline-branded card.
Fees are subject to change; unless otherwise noted, rates are updated periodically. All other account information is correct as of October 6, 2022.
Editorial Note: This content is not provided by any of the entities covered in this article. Any opinion, analysis, review, evaluation or recommendation expressed in this article is solely the author’s and has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any entity mentioned in this article.
All information about American Express card offers has been independently collected by GOBankingRates and has not been reviewed or endorsed by American Express. These offers are not available through GOBankingRates.
Information about the Chase United Explorer and Chase Sapphire Reserve cards is collected by GOBankingRates and has not been reviewed or provided by the issuer of these products/cards. Product details may vary. Please see the issuer’s website for current information. GOBankingRates does not receive commission on these products.
