Secret Travel Costs? Check Your Bank or Credit Card International Fees

The worst thing is coming back from a perfect trip to find that it costs more than you thought. Bank and credit cards may cost you more if you are traveling abroad and do not understand the fees associated with withdrawing money or buying goods. Here are some general tips to help you save some money while you are enjoying your vacation.

1. Withdrawing Money

Wherever you are traveling, you are going to need to withdraw cash at some point. This is especially true if you are traveling to an area where there is little access to debit or credit payment options. Before you leave, check how much your bank will charge you to withdraw money from an atm out of network. Also consider the fact that many atms abroad will charge to withdraw, so it is likely you pay both fees.

2. Foreign Transaction Fees

A foreign transaction fee is a fee that is charged when you use your card internationally or even through an international website. It can range from 1-3% of the total, which seems small now, but can add up over time.

3. Card Type

Will your card even be taken abroad? Although Discover and American Express are getting more popular abroad, they still are not as prevalent as Visa or Mastercard. In places like Europe, many of the card types are taken, but in other more remote places, you should check before leaving that your card will be taken.

It is suggested that you bring both a credit and debit card that is travel friendly. That way you can use your credit card to make secure purchases and you can use your debit card to withdraw money abroad.

If you are now looking for a bank card that has no fees, try Charles Schwab. It has been a secret among backpackers, but Charles Schwab refunds all atm fees and charges no foreign transaction fees. The bank card is also a visa, so it is accepted almost everywhere.

If you are now looking for a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, look at airline or hotel cards. These cards are often suited for traveling and will earn you miles to keep on going.