Can I use my debit or credit card while traveling internationally? (2024)

FAQs

Can I use my debit or credit card while traveling internationally? ›

As long as you have a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, notify your credit card company of your travel plans, and only pay for purchases expressed in terms of the local currency, you should be able to avoid post-trip credit statement surprises.

Whether you should use a debit card for travel depends on your own circ*mstances. For instance, you should avoid using a debit card in another country if you'll be hit with high foreign transaction fees and ATM fees.

Credit cards are widely accepted in most countries so you don't need to carry as much cash. You also have the added reassurance that if your card is lost or stolen while away, we'll get a replacement card couriered to you and even provide emergency cash if required.

When you use your card abroad, retailers will often give you the choice of paying in either the local currency or pounds. Always choose to pay using the local currency unless you're sure the exchange rate is more favourable. If you choose pounds, the retailer will handle the conversion and may charge you a fee.

While there may be a few credit unions that issue debit cards limited to domestic use, most debit cards are backed by Visa or Mastercard, trusted financial brands that are accepted worldwide.

Using credit cards for purchases when possible and using ATMs to get local currency for when you need to pay cash are by far the best ways to pay for things when abroad because you will get the wholesale exchange rate rather than the less favorable retail rate posted in currency exchange facilities or at bank teller ...

If you're travelling internationally, it's best to bring a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card so you don't waste funds just because you're shopping in another currency. In the end, you may find it's best to have access to both cash and a travel-friendly credit card when travelling.

At least two months before you plan to travel, call your bank or credit union. Tell the representative that you plan to use your debit card abroad and ask if your Personal Information Number (PIN) will work overseas. Four-digit PINs work in most countries.

Yes, cards issued by U.S. Bank can be used in most foreign countries. If you're planning to travel and want to use your card, let us know. This will help reduce declined transactions on your trip.

The best way to avoid foreign transaction fees is to acquire a no-foreign-transaction-fees credit card, if you qualify for one. Next in line are checking accounts or debit cards with no foreign transaction fee. It is also possible to avoid the fee by paying in the local currency for purchases.

Is it better to use debit card in Europe? ›

Key Takeaways. European travelers should always have some cash on hand; getting it from an ATM abroad is usually the easiest, most advantageous way. If you need cash from an ATM, it's usually better to use a debit card, because credit cards often charge a high interest rate for a cash advance.

Visa exchange rate

This might not be the same day when the transaction took place. A 2.99% fee charged by us for using your debit card abroad when making purchases, withdrawing cash or for refunds.

As a general rule, cash is still the easiest way to make everyday purchases abroad. Credit cards remain the best all-purpose payment method, accepted in far more places abroad than debit cards.

Cash may be going out of style, but it's still the preferred method of payment for many travelers. Payment cards can be complicated when you're far from home and you may not be familiar with the protocol of your financial institution and credit card company when it comes to using your debit card on foreign soil.