Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (2024)

Table of Contents
Our pick for best credit card Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card Best credit card for international travel overall Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card Best no-annual-fee credit card for international travel Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card Best international travel card for lounge access The Platinum Card® from American Express Best airline credit card for international travel Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Best flexible rewards credit card for international travel Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card Best business credit card for international travel Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card Best hotel credit card for international travel Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card Best student credit card for international travel Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students Best international travel credit card for bad credit Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card Best for dining and international travel American Express® Gold Card Best for international transfer partners Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card Types of international travel credit cards Airline credit cards Hotel credit cards General travel credit cards Business travel credit cards How to choose an international travel credit card Best lounge access credit cards while traveling internationally International travel tips: how to use your credit card Frequently asked questions Methodology Allie Johnson Recommended Articles

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On this page
  • Our top picks
  • Compare cards
  • Types of international travel credit cards
  • How to choose an international travel credit card
  • Best lounge access credit cards while traveling internationally
  • International travel tips: how to use your credit card
  • FAQs
  • Methodology

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (3)Written by

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Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (5)

Our pick for best credit card

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (6)

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (7)

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

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on Chase's secure site

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the best international travel credit card for most globetrotters, thanks to its attractive welcome bonus, reasonable annual fee and strong slate of travel perks and protections.

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (9)

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (10)

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (11) Apply Now

on Chase's secure site

The best credit cards for international travel will usually come with travel perks like trip insurance or lounge access, help you avoid costly foreign transaction fees and allow you to rack up rewards on expenses like flights, meals and hotel stays.

Our picks range from no-annual-fee cards to high-priced cards with luxury perks, so you can decide what’s right for your situation.

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Winner for best credit card for international travel
  • Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card: Best no annual fee credit card for international travel *To see rates & fees for Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card, please click here.
  • The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best card for international travel and lounge access
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card: Best airline credit card for international travel
  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best flexible rewards card for international travel
  • Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card: Best business credit card for international travel
  • Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card: Best hotel credit card for international travel
  • Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students: Best student credit card for international travel
  • Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best international travel card for bad credit
  • American Express® Gold Card: Best international travel credit card for dining
  • Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Best travel credit card for international transfer partners

Best credit card for international travel overall

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

LendingTree's ReviewBest Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (13)

How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.7

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LendingTree's ReviewBest Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (17)

How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.7

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (18) Apply Now

on Chase's secure site

Foreign transaction fee: $0

Intro Purchase APRN/A

Annual Fee$95

Regular Purchase APR21.49%–28.49% variable

Recommended Credit

Credit scores ranges may vary. Your individual chance at approval may vary due to factors such as creditors using a particular variation at their discretion

720-850

Excellent

  • Can earn a nice welcome bonus
  • Earns valuable transferable points
  • Primary car rental coverage
  • $50 Ultimate Rewards hotel credit
  • $95 annual fee
  • Only 2x earning on most travel purchases
  • No flexible travel credit

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is our pick for overall best card for international travel because of its flexibility and versatility. The Ultimate Rewards points you earn with the card can be transferred at a 1:1 ratio to Chase’s airline and hotel partners, or you can use your points to book trips directly through the Chase Travel℠ portal. The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is also one of the best no-foreign-transaction-fee credit cards, so you can use it abroad without worry about extra fees.

  • Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 75,000 points are worth $937.50 toward travel.
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
  • Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
  • Member FDIC

Best no-annual-fee credit card for international travel

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.6

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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.6

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on Capital One's secure site

Rates & Fees

Foreign transaction fee: None

Annual Fee$0

Intro Purchase APR0% intro on purchases for 15 months

Regular Purchase APR19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Balance Transfer FeeBalance transfer fee applies

  • $0 annual fee
  • Simple rewards structure
  • Intro APR on purchases and balance transfers
  • Low earning rate on everyday purchases
  • Enhanced earnings for hotels and rental cars only through Capital One Travel
  • Earn a relatively low welcome offer compared to other cards
  • Balance transfer fee applies

If you want a no-annual-fee travel credit card you can use abroad without racking up foreign transaction fees, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a good way to go. While it has a lower welcome bonus and lower earning rate than some other cards, it can be a good choice if you’re looking to lower the amount you pay in fees. The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card also comes with an introductory APR on purchases and balance transfers (a balance transfer fee applies).

  • $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
  • Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
  • For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply

Best international travel card for lounge access

The Platinum Card® from American Express

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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.5

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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.5

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on American Express's secure site

Rates & Fees

|Terms Apply

Foreign transaction fee: None

Annual Fee$695

Intro Purchase APRN/A

Regular Purchase APRSee Pay Over Time APR

Recommended Credit

Credit scores ranges may vary. Your individual chance at approval may vary due to factors such as creditors using a particular variation at their discretion

660-850

Good/Excellent

  • Can earn large welcome offer
  • Airport lounge access and other luxury perks
  • Hotel, airline and entertainment credits
  • $695 annual fee
  • Low earning rate for most non-travel purchases
  • Travel credits less flexible than with some other cards

If you’re a frequent traveler looking for luxury perks, you’ll want to consider The Platinum Card® from American Express, our pick for best international travel credit card for lounge access. This premium card offers the most robust airport lounge membership program of any travel card on the market today. The American Express Global Lounge Collection comes with Priority Pass™ Select membership*, exclusive access to ultra-swanky Amex Centurion lounges and Delta Sky Club access each time you fly with Delta. Other travel benefits include a fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership*, as well as automatic Hilton Honors Gold status* and Marriott Bonvoy Gold status*.

*Enrollment required for these benefits.

*To see rates & fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express, please click here.

  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peaco*ck, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
  • $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
  • Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Best airline credit card for international travel

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.


4.1

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LendingTree's ReviewBest Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (35)

How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.


4.1

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on American Express's secure site

Rates & Fees

|Terms Apply

Foreign transaction fee: None

Intro Annual FeeN/A

Annual Fee$650

Regular Purchase APR20.99%-29.99% Variable

Recommended Credit

Credit scores ranges may vary. Your individual chance at approval may vary due to factors such as creditors using a particular variation at their discretion

660-850

Good/Excellent

  • Can earn attractive welcome offer
  • Airport lounge access and other travel perks
  • Yearly companion certificate
  • Travel statement credits, including Delta 20% in-flight purchase statement credit
  • High $650 annual fee
  • Bonus rewards earning only on Delta purchases
  • Hotel credit limited to Delta Stays bookings

The Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card is our choice for best airline card for international travel due to its array of luxe travel perks. The card offers some of the best benefits on the market, including generous dining and hotel statement credits, an annual companion pass after your cardmember anniversary and complimentary airport lounge access to Delta Sky Club, Escape and ritzy Amex Centurion lounges. You should know that the annual fee also is one of the highest on the market, so this card is best for frequent travelers who will get enough value from the perks to make that cost worthwhile.

  • Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Reserve your piece of history with the new limited edition Boeing 747 Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card design.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to the Delta Sky Club® and bring up to two guests or immediate family members at a rate of $50 per person per visit when flying Delta. Effective 2/1/25, Reserve Card Members will receive 15 Visits per year to the Delta Sky Club; to earn an unlimited number of Visits each year starting on 2/1/25, the total eligible purchases on the Card must equal $75,000 or more between 1/1/24 and 12/31/24, and each calendar year thereafter.
  • Receive four Delta Sky Club® One-Time Guest Passes each year when you fly together on Delta. After that, you may bring up to two guests at a per-visit rate of $50 per person, per location.
  • Enjoy complimentary access to The Centurion® Lounge when you book a Delta flight with your Reserve Card.
  • Receive $2,500 Medallion® Qualification Dollars each Medallion Qualification Year and get closer to Status with MQD Headstart.
  • Earn $1 Medallion® Qualification Dollar for each $10 of purchases made on your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card in a calendar year and get a boost toward achieving elevated Medallion Status for next Medallion Year.
  • Receive a Companion Certificate on First Class, Delta Comfort+®, or Main Cabin domestic, Caribbean, or Central American roundtrip flights each year after renewal of your Card. The Companion Ticket requires payment of government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.
  • $240 Resy Credit: With the Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Resy Credit, earn up to $20 per month in statement credits on eligible Resy purchases using your enrolled Card.
  • $120 Rideshare Credit: You can earn up to $10 back in statement credits each month on U.S. rideshare purchases with select providers after you pay with your Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card. Enrollment Required.
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members get 15% off when using miles to book Award Travel on Delta flights through delta.com and the Fly Delta app. Discount not applicable to partner-operated flights or to taxes and fees.
  • With your Card receive upgrade priority over other Medallion Members within the same Medallion level and fare class.
  • Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card Members with an eligible ticket will be added to the Complimentary Upgrade list, after Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members.
  • Earn 3X Miles on Delta purchases and earn 1X Miles on all other eligible purchases.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • $650 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Best flexible rewards credit card for international travel

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.7

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LendingTree's ReviewBest Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (41)

How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.7

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on Capital One's secure site

Rates & Fees

Foreign transaction fee: None

Annual Fee$95

Intro Purchase APRN/A

Regular Purchase APR19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Recommended Credit

Credit scores ranges may vary. Your individual chance at approval may vary due to factors such as creditors using a particular variation at their discretion

660-850

Good/Excellent

  • Earn an excellent welcome bonus
  • Great flexibility with miles
  • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit
  • $95 annual fee
  • Enhanced earnings for hotels and rental cars only through Capital One Travel

For a simple travel card with rewards that are as easy to redeem as they are to earn, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is hard to beat. You earn 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day; 5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. And one of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card‘s best features is the flexibility of the rewards you earn — you can redeem them as a statement credit for any type of travel or transfer them to any of Capital One’s airline and hotel partners.

  • Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
  • Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply

Best business credit card for international travel

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.6

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LendingTree's ReviewBest Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (47)

How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.6

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on Chase's secure site

Foreign transaction fee: $0

Annual Fee$95

Intro Purchase APRN/A

Regular Purchase APR21.24% – 26.24% Variable

Recommended Credit

Credit scores ranges may vary. Your individual chance at approval may vary due to factors such as creditors using a particular variation at their discretion

720-850

Excellent

  • Can earn generous welcome offer
  • Earns flexible Ultimate Rewards points
  • Earns extra rewards in popular business spending categories
  • $95 annual fee
  • Requires you to have a business to apply
  • Yearly spending cap on bonus earnings

The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is one of the most flexible and valuable business credit cards for travel. This card’s generous sign-up bonus and high earning rate on travel and business purchases can help you pile up rewards quickly. Like other Chase cards, it offers primary car rental protection and trip cancellation/interruption insurance when you use your card. These protections, along with $0 foreign transaction fees, make the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card a great option for international business travel.

  • Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase TravelSM
  • Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
  • Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
  • With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
  • Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
  • Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase TravelSM
  • Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
  • Member FDIC

Best hotel credit card for international travel

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.


4

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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.


4

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on American Express's secure site

Rates & Fees

|Terms Apply

Foreign transaction fee: None

Intro Purchase APRN/A

Annual Fee$650

Regular Purchase APR20.99%-29.99% Variable

Recommended Credit

Credit scores ranges may vary. Your individual chance at approval may vary due to factors such as creditors using a particular variation at their discretion

660-850

Good/Excellent

  • Excellent welcome offer
  • Marriott Bonvoy® Platinum Elite status (enrollment required)
  • Priority Pass™ Select lounge access (registration required)
  • Travel and purchase protection
  • $650 annual fee
  • Highest bonus earning category limited to Marriott hotel purchases
  • Transfer partners generally offer poor redemption value

The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is our top pick for hotels due to its welcome offer, earning rate on paid Marriott hotel stays and excellent travel perks. Although a $650 annual fee applies, cardholders get: up to $300 a year back as a dining credit (up to $25 per month), a free night award after card renewal each year (up to 85,000 points) and a $100 Marriott Bonvoy property credit. Additional perks include a Priority Pass™ Select membership (enrollment required), a fee credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck membership (enrollment required) and no foreign transaction fees.

*To see rates & fees for Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, please click here.

  • Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • $300 Brilliant Dining Credit: Each calendar year, get up to $300 (up to $25 per month) in statement credits for eligible purchases made on the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card at restaurants worldwide.
  • With Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite status, you can receive room upgrades, including enhanced views or suites, when available at select properties and booked with a Qualifying Rate.
  • Earn 6X Marriott Bonvoy points for each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. 3X points at restaurants worldwide and on flights booked directly with airlines. 2X points on all other eligible purchases.
  • Free Night Award: Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Award can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
  • Each calendar year after spending $60,000 on eligible purchases on your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card, you will be eligible to select a Brilliant Earned Choice Award benefit. You can only earn one Earned Choice Award per calendar year. See https://www.choice-benefit.marriott.com/brilliant for Award options.
  • $100 Marriott Bonvoy Property Credit: Enjoy your stay. Receive up to a $100 property credit for qualifying charges at The Ritz-Carlton® or St. Regis® when you book direct using a special rate for a two-night minimum stay using your Card.
  • Fee Credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®: Receive either a statement credit every 4 years after you apply for Global Entry ($100) or a statement credit every 4.5 years after you apply for a five-year membership for TSA PreCheck® (up to $85 through a TSA PreCheck official enrollment provider) and pay the application fee with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card. If approved for Global Entry, at no additional charge, you will receive access to TSA PreCheck.
  • Each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card you can receive 25 Elite Night Credits toward the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status. Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express. Terms apply.
  • Enroll in Priority Pass™ Select, which offers unlimited airport lounge visits to over 1,200 lounges in over 130 countries, regardless of which carrier or class you are flying. This allows you to relax before or between flights. You can enjoy snacks, drinks, and internet access in a quiet, comfortable location.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees on international purchases.
  • With Cell Phone Protection, you can be reimbursed, the lesser of, your repair or replacement costs following damage, such as a cracked screen, or theft for a maximum of $800 per claim when your cell phone line is listed on a wireless bill and the prior month's wireless bill was paid by an Eligible Card Account. A $50 deductible will apply to each approved claim with a limit of 2 approved claims per 12-month period. Additional terms and conditions apply. Coverage is provided by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.
  • $650 Annual Fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Best student credit card for international travel

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students

LendingTree's ReviewBest Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (55)

How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.


4.7

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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.


4.7

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (60) Apply Now

on Bank Of America's secure site

Foreign transaction fee: None

Annual Fee$0

Intro Purchase APR0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases

Regular Purchase APR19.24% - 29.24% Variable APR

Recommended Credit

Credit scores ranges may vary. Your individual chance at approval may vary due to factors such as creditors using a particular variation at their discretion

660-850

Good/Excellent

  • $0 annual fee
  • Nice welcome offer
  • Intro APR offer for purchases and balance transfers
  • No bonus categories
  • Rewards aren’t transferable

The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students is the best international travel card for students due to its lack of foreign transaction fees and $0 annual fee. It has a simple rewards structure: Cardholders earn 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases. This card may work well for students who want to keep their options open as they figure out their travel style.

  • Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
  • 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
  • Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions.
  • Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout.
  • 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 19.24% - 29.24% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
  • When handled responsibly, a credit card can help you build your credit history, which could be helpful when looking for an apartment, a car loan, and even a job. Access your FICO® Score for free within Online Banking or your Mobile Banking app.
  • Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap.
  • This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Best international travel credit card for bad credit

Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card

LendingTree's ReviewBest Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (61)

How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.1

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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.1

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (66) Apply Now

on Capital One's secure site

Rates & Fees

Foreign transaction fee: None

Annual Fee$0

Intro Purchase APRN/A

Regular Purchase APR29.99% (Variable)

Recommended Credit

Credit scores ranges may vary. Your individual chance at approval may vary due to factors such as creditors using a particular variation at their discretion

300-600

Limited/Poor

  • $0 annual fee
  • Solid cash back earnings on every purchase
  • Earn enhanced cash back rate on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
  • Requires a minimum $200 refundable security deposit
  • High purchase APR
  • Lacks travel perks

The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card is the best option for international travel among credit cards for bad credit. It doesn’t charge an annual fee or foreign transaction fees. This card is marketed to those with limited/poor credit, while travel credit cards generally target consumers with good to excellent credit. You’ll need to put down a security deposit of at least $200, which means your credit limit starts at $200.

You can earn a solid flat rate of cash back on everyday purchases, with a bonus earning rate on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel.

  • No annual or hidden fees, and you can earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day. See if you're approved in seconds
  • Put down a refundable $200 security deposit to get a $200 initial credit line
  • Building your credit? Using a card like this responsibly could help
  • Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges
  • You could earn back your security deposit as a statement credit when you use your card responsibly, like making payments on time
  • Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months with no additional deposit needed
  • Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
  • Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It's free for everyone
  • Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
  • For Capital One products listed on this page, some ofthe benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. Seethe respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply

Best for dining and international travel

American Express® Gold Card

LendingTree's ReviewBest Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (67)

How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.3

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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.3

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on American Express's secure site

Rates & Fees

|Terms Apply

Foreign transaction fee: None

Annual Fee$250

Intro Purchase APRN/A

Regular Purchase APRSee Pay Over Time APR

Recommended Credit

Credit scores ranges may vary. Your individual chance at approval may vary due to factors such as creditors using a particular variation at their discretion

660-850

Good/Excellent

  • High earning rate on dining and U.S. supermarkets
  • Generous dining and Uber benefits (enrollment required)
  • Travel and purchase protection
  • $250 annual fee
  • Low earning rate for travel aside from flights and dining
  • Redeeming your points for non-travel options isn’t a good value

The American Express® Gold Card is an attractive option if you spend the most on dining and groceries. The American Express® Gold Card lets you earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X), and 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com. Terms apply. This makes it a great option to use while dining abroad, since you earn extra rewards and won’t pay foreign transaction fees.

There is a $250 annual fee, but you can wipe out a large part of the fee if you take advantage of benefits, such as up to $120 in credits toward select dining purchases ($10 monthly, enrollment required).

*To see rates & fees for American Express® Gold Card, please click here.

  • Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
  • Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
  • Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
  • $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
  • $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
  • Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
  • Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees.
  • Annual Fee is $250.
  • Terms Apply.

Best for international transfer partners

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

LendingTree's ReviewBest Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (73)

How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.9

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How LendingTree Rates Credit Cards?

Our experts rate credit cards based on several factors including card benefits, bonusoffers and independent research. Credit card issuers do not influence or have a say in our card ratings.Read our credit card methodology here.

4.9

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (78) Apply Now

on Capital One's secure site

Rates & Fees

Foreign transaction fee: None

Annual Fee$395

Intro Purchase APRN/A

Regular Purchase APR19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

Recommended Credit

Credit scores ranges may vary. Your individual chance at approval may vary due to factors such as creditors using a particular variation at their discretion

720-850

Excellent

  • Earn an outstanding welcome bonus
  • Solid earning rate on all purchases
  • Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit
  • Attractive anniversary bonus
  • $395 annual fee
  • Doesn’t offer hotel or airline elite status
  • Enhanced miles earnings only on Capital One Travel bookings
  • Annual travel credit restricted to Capital One Travel bookings

If you’re in the market for points that can easily be transferred to partners, consider the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card. Capital One has more than 15 hotel and airline transfer partners, allowing you to maximize your points no matter where you’re going. You’ll earn 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day; 10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel; 5 Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel. And with no foreign transaction fees, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a great card to have in your wallet when traveling abroad.

The card charges a $395 annual fee, but it’s more than worth it if you’ll take advantage of the card perks. It awards you 10,000 Venture miles (equal to $100 towards travel) on your account anniversary and gives you an annual $300 travel credit that applies to bookings made with Capital One Travel.

  • Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
  • Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
  • Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
  • Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
  • Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
  • Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
  • Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
  • Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
  • For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply
Credit CardsOur RatingsForeign Exchange FeeAnnual FeeWelcome Offer
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (80) Apply Now

on Chase's secure site

$0$95Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (81) Apply Now

on Chase's secure site

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (83) Apply Now

on Capital One's secure site

Rates & Fees

None$0Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (84) Apply Now

on Capital One's secure site

Rates & Fees

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (86) Apply Now

on American Express's secure site

Rates & Fees

|Terms Apply

None$695Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (87) Apply Now

on American Express's secure site

Rates & Fees

|Terms Apply

Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (89) Apply Now

on American Express's secure site

Rates & Fees

|Terms Apply

4.1

None$650Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles after you spend $5,000 in purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (90) Apply Now

on American Express's secure site

Rates & Fees

|Terms Apply

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (92) Apply Now

on Capital One's secure site

Rates & Fees

None$95Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (93) Apply Now

on Capital One's secure site

Rates & Fees

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (95) Apply Now

on Chase's secure site

$0$95Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (96) Apply Now

on Chase's secure site

Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (98) Apply Now

on American Express's secure site

Rates & Fees

|Terms Apply

4.0

None$650Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy bonus points after you use your new Card to make $6,000 in purchases within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (99) Apply Now

on American Express's secure site

Rates & Fees

|Terms Apply

Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (101) Apply Now

on Bank Of America's secure site

4.7

None$025,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (102) Apply Now

on Bank Of America's secure site

Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (104) Apply Now

on Capital One's secure site

Rates & Fees

None$0N/A

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (105) Apply Now

on Capital One's secure site

Rates & Fees

American Express® Gold Card

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on American Express's secure site

Rates & Fees

|Terms Apply

None$250Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (108) Apply Now

on American Express's secure site

Rates & Fees

|Terms Apply

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (110) Apply Now

on Capital One's secure site

Rates & Fees

None$395Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (111) Apply Now

on Capital One's secure site

Rates & Fees

Types of international travel credit cards

Airline credit cards

Airline credit cards are usually co-branded between a specific airline and a credit card issuer. They usually earn miles of one particular airline, and they typically come with airline-specific benefits such as priority boarding, free checked bags or help qualifying for airline elite status. They’re best for people who typically travel with one particular airline.

Hotel credit cards

Hotel credit cards are usually co-branded between a credit card issuer and a particular hotel chain. These cards usually earn hotel points that can be used for stays and also offer hotel-specific benefits such as complimentary night certificates, elite status or bonus rewards earning rates. They’re best for hotel brand loyalists.

General travel credit cards

General travel cards are great for international travel due to their flexibility and perks. These cards may earn flexible, transferable points such as Chase Ultimate Rewards points or Amex Membership Rewards points, which can be transferred to airline and hotel transfer partners to maximize their value. General travel credit cards also typically come with travel perks and insurance, and usually don’t charge foreign transaction fees.

Business travel credit cards

Business travel credit cards allow cardholders to maximize earnings, enjoy travel perks and take advantage of travel protections while traveling for business. Some of these cards are general business credit cards that offer travel perks, such as airport lounge access or travel credits, while others are co-branded airline or hotel credit cards with brand-specific perks such as free checked bags or complimentary elite status.

How to choose an international travel credit card

The best credit card for international travel for you will depend on your travel style and needs, but you’ll want to consider the following factors when shopping for an international travel credit card.

Whenever you use a debit or credit card outside of the U.S., your issuer may charge you a fee of about 3% of each purchase. While it may not seem like a huge deal, the charges can quickly add up to hundreds of dollars — or more. So look for a credit card without foreign transaction fees if you’re planning a trip abroad.

One of the most frustrating experiences you can encounter during international travel: having your card declined. While Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted around the world, you might have a harder time paying with American Express or Discover. You’ll want to make sure the card you’re interested in is usually accepted in your planned travel destination(s).

Some travel credit cards offer robust travel coverage that can give you peace of mind and protection on your next trip, while other cards have minimal coverage or none at all. The best credit cards for travel insurance typically include a full slate of travel protection such as: trip cancellation and delay insurance, travel accident insurance, lost or delayed luggage coverage and car rental insurance that works abroad.

Travel Tip:

Always check with your card issuer to make sure the countries where you plan to rent a car are included in your coverage.

The rewards earning rate is an important consideration when choosing a credit card for international travel. Look for a credit card that has higher earning rates on airline purchases, general travel and dining so you can maximize your trip earnings. If you travel infrequently, you might want to look for a card that also has a more generous earning rate on everyday purchases.

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (112)Important:

If a card only has high earning rates for travel booked through the issuer’s travel portal, make sure you’ll actually use the travel portal before getting the card.

Many of the best credit card sign-up bonuses happen to be offered on cards that work well for international travel. In some cases, the bonus may be worth $1,000 when used for travel, which could be enough to cover plane tickets or a hotel for your next trip. With some cards, you may even get an increased redemption rate if you use the card issuer’s travel portal, stretching your sign-up bonus even further.

The best credit cards for international travel tend to offer rewards redemption flexibility. Having redemption options allows you to maximize the value of the rewards you earn, especially when redeeming your points or miles for free travel. Many issuers offer a travel portal where you can book hotels, rental cars, vacation packages and more. But the best cards also let you transfer your rewards to airline and hotel partners at a 1:1 (or more advantageous) ratio.

Many of the best international travel cards offer travel perks to make your trips a little nicer. Premium travel cards, which tend to charge higher annual fees, may offer airport lounge access, Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credits and other travel credits to offset the cost of your trips. Even cards with lower annual fees may offer perks such as free checked bags, priority boarding or complimentary elite status.

While contactless credit card payments are becoming more popular in Europe, some transactions, such buying tickets at an unattended terminal at a train station in France or Germany, may still require a card with both an EMV chip and a PIN. While most credit cards issued within the U.S. include an EMV chip, credit cards with PINs are rare. However, some issuers (such as Bank of America) allow you to add a PIN to your travel credit card. You should check with your issuer to see if they offer this option.

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (113)

Best lounge access credit cards while traveling internationally

Another factor you should consider is whether you want airport lounge access, which can significantly improve your travel experience by giving you a quiet place to unwind, recharge and refuel with complimentary food and beverages. Many premium credit cards come with lounge membership or passes.

ADMIRALS CLUB

AMEX CENTURION LOUNGE

DELTA SKY CLUBS

PRIORITY PASS™ SELECT

UNITED CLUB

International travel tips: how to use your credit card

Getting the best credit card for international travel is a step in the right direction, but you also need to know how to use it. Here are a few tips and tricks — and pitfalls to avoid — when using your credit card internationally.

Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) is when you pay in your own currency, rather than the local currency, while traveling internationally. When you use a credit card abroad, you may get a choice on whether to use DCC when paying. While it might seem like a good idea, since you’ll see the final cost in your own currency, you should generally avoid DCC due to less favorable exchange rates.

An example to illustrate how dynamic currency conversion works:

Say you’re traveling in France and you decide to buy a shirt that costs €100, at a time when the conversion rate is €1 to $1.07 (USD). That means the shirt would be worth $107. If you’re given the option to pay in USD and you accept, the merchant may charge $109 to your card — which means you’d be paying extra for no reason. It’s usually better to pay in the local currency, with a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

This will help you rack up plenty of travel rewards points or miles, especially if you’re getting bonus points for everyday categories. You can use your rewards to get flight upgrades, free hotel nights or other perks on your next trip.

Paying for your expenses with a credit card can also give you additional security because credit cards typically come with a $0 fraud liability benefit.

Many premium travel credit cards come with benefits that can make your trip more affordable and comfortable. Check to see if your card offers these benefits and learn how to take advantage of them ahead of your next international trip.

  • Room or seat upgrades: Some airline or hotel credit cards offer upgrades to cardholders. An international trip can be a great time to redeem some of these card benefits.
  • Free checked baggage: Many airline credit cards offer free checked bags. If you need to fly with a lot of luggage, consider signing up for an airline credit card as an alternative to paying baggage fees.
  • Free lounge access: If your international trip involves spending a lot of time in airports, look for cards that offer airport lounge access as a perk. An airport lounge can be a great way to make your trip more relaxing and less stressful, so you should look for a card that will give you lounge access in the airports you’re traveling through.
  • Companion passes: Some airline credit cards offer a companion pass or certificate after you meet certain criteria, like earning enough points, or taking a certain number of flights. A companion pass allows a travel companion to fly with you for free, or for a reduced cost. A companion pass on an expensive international trip can be very valuable.

Global Entry and TSA PreCheck are two very popular trusted traveler programs. These programs can make your travel much nicer and less stressful by shortening your wait times, helping you avoid crowds and allowing you to skip some security steps. Many cards offer credits that cover the cost of Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

If you’re looking at Global Entry vs. TSA PreCheck, Global Entry is the clear winner for international travel and includes TSA PreCheck benefits. Global Entry gives you expedited re-entry into the United States when you return from an international trip, while TSA PreCheck helps you speed through security for domestic travel.

Some cards also offer a credit for CLEAR Plus, a more expensive program that uses biometrics (eyes or fingerprints) to verify your identity and has dedicated security lanes at participating airports, arenas and stadiums.

Frequently asked questions

Most U.S. credit cards can be used internationally, though acceptance varies by country and merchant. Visa and Mastercard are more accepted worldwide than American Express and Discover.

Many travel credit cards offer some kind of travel insurance, but the coverage varies greatly from card to card. Some cards offer only very basic coverage, such as travel accident insurance. Other cards offer a robust slate of coverage that may include: trip cancellation and delay insurance, lost or delayed baggage coverage and car rental insurance. Some premium cards even offer emergency evacuation and transportation, which could help you get home if you got sick or injured on a trip abroad.

It’s a good idea to let your credit card company know about any international travel to make sure your purchases aren’t flagged as fraudulent. You can typically let your card issuer know about your travel plans through your online account or by calling the number on the back of your card.

Both Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted around the world in over 200 countries, but Visa generally offers significantly better travel benefits and insurance than Mastercard. Benefits do vary by card so it’s important to read the fine print on any card you’re considering for international travel.

Methodology

To make choosing the right card easier, we’ve looked at credit cards reviewed on LendingTree as well as cards on major issuer sites to compile a list of the best rewards credit cards for international travel.

Our recommendations are based on the additional value you can earn with the cards — including the rewards value, cost of ownership and value of benefits such as travel and purchase protections, lounge membership and airline companion passes. No cards on this page charge foreign transaction fees. Our choices are not influenced by our advertisers. Learn more about our credit card methodology.

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (114)

Allie Johnson

Allie Johnson is an award-winning personal finance writer with more than 10 years of experience covering credit cards, mortgages, personal loans and small business. She holds a degree in magazine journalism from Ohio University’s E.W. Scripps School of Journalism. She has written for a variety of finance publications, including CreditCards.com, LendingTree and MagnifyMoney.

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The above offers and/or promotions may have since changed, expired, or is no longer available. Check the Issuers’ website for more details.

Best Credit Cards for International Travel in May 2024 | LendingTree (2024)
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