When you travel internationally, every small charge can add up — especially if your credit card tacks on foreign transaction fees. These hidden costs, often around 2–3% per purchase, can quietly drain your travel budget. Fortunately, many top travel credit cards offer no foreign transaction fees, allowing you to spend abroad with confidence.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best travel credit cards that waive these fees, what to look for when choosing one, and how they can complement your next trip — whether it’s an international getaway or a Complete Road Trip Itinerary for the Pacific Coast Highway.
What Is a Foreign Transaction Fee?
A foreign transaction fee is a surcharge added by your credit card issuer when you make a purchase in a currency other than your home country’s or when a transaction passes through a foreign bank. While the fee may seem small, it can add up quickly on trips where you’re using your card frequently — such as for hotels, transportation, dining, or shopping.
Avoiding this fee means more money in your pocket for the things that matter — like experiences, upgrades, and emergencies.
What to Look for in a Travel Credit Card
When selecting a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees, consider these essential features:
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: This is the priority — make sure it’s clearly stated.
- Travel Rewards: Look for cards that earn points or miles for flights, hotels, and dining.
- Redemption Flexibility: Points should be easy to redeem for travel or cashback.
- Travel Protections: Some cards offer travel insurance, rental car coverage, and lost baggage reimbursement.
- Annual Fee: Some no-FTF cards have zero annual fees, while others offer high-end perks that justify a yearly cost.
- Global Acceptance: Choose a card on a widely accepted network like Visa or Mastercard, especially in less touristy regions.
Best Travel Credit Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees
Here’s a comparison of some of the top options for travelers seeking to avoid foreign transaction fees:
| Credit Card | Annual Fee | Rewards | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel Plus Classic® | $0 | 1.5x points on all purchases | Casual travelers, beginners |
| Explorer Rewards® | $95 | 2x on travel, 2x on dining | Frequent flyers and hotel stays |
| Global Miles Pro® | $95 | 2x on all purchases, 5x on partner travel | Luxury travelers, point maximizers |
| Student Traveler® Card | $0 | 1x on all purchases | College students and budget travelers |
| Premium Globe Elite® | $250 | 4x on dining, 3x on travel | Foodies, high spenders, lifestyle perks |
| Everyday Travel Saver® | $0 | 3x on gas, 2x on travel | Road trips and long-distance drives |
Each of these cards is designed to fit different traveler types — from the casual vacationer to the digital nomad.
How to Use These Cards While Traveling
Using a credit card abroad can be convenient and secure — as long as you use it strategically. Here’s how to make the most of it:
1. Always Pay in Local Currency
If a merchant offers to convert the charge into your home currency, decline. Paying in local currency avoids hidden conversion fees.
2. Notify Your Issuer Before You Travel
Some banks may flag international activity as suspicious. A quick travel notice can prevent frozen cards.
3. Use the Card for Big Expenses
Use your no-FTF card for hotel bookings, car rentals, and restaurant bills — areas where rewards are usually highest.
4. Carry a Backup Card
In case one card gets declined, having another on a different network ensures you’re never stranded without payment options.
How These Cards Fit into Any Type of Trip
Whether you’re flying overseas or driving the scenic route along the coast, a good travel credit card supports your plans. If you’re planning a Complete Road Trip Itinerary for the Pacific Coast Highway, for example, a card that offers gas, lodging, and rental car rewards is ideal. Plus, many of these cards offer roadside assistance or emergency travel coverage — which can come in handy on long drives.
For international trips, a card with airport lounge access, baggage protection, and zero fees on foreign spending gives you both savings and comfort.
Additional Perks to Look For
Some travel credit cards offer extra features beyond rewards and fee waivers:
- Global Entry / TSA PreCheck credit: Makes airport security faster and easier.
- Airport lounge access: Helps frequent flyers relax in comfort.
- Travel insurance: Covers trip cancellations, delays, or lost items.
- Emergency assistance: Helpful during accidents or theft abroad.
While not essential, these perks add significant value if you travel often or for extended periods.
FAQs – Travel Credit Cards & No Foreign Transaction Fees
Q1: Is it better to use a travel credit card than cash abroad?
Yes. Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees often provide better exchange rates and added protection. They also eliminate the need to carry large amounts of cash, reducing the risk of loss or theft.
Q2: Will I earn rewards on international purchases?
Absolutely. As long as the card has no foreign transaction fees, international purchases typically earn points or miles just like domestic ones.
Q3: Are there any downsides to using these cards?
Only if you don’t pay your balance in full. Interest charges can cancel out any rewards you earn. Also, some merchants abroad may prefer cash or charge extra for card payments.
Q4: Can students or young travelers get a no-FTF card?
Yes. Some cards are designed specifically for students or new credit users and still offer no foreign transaction fees, making them great for study abroad or gap year travel.
Q5: What’s the difference between a travel card and a regular credit card?
Travel cards are optimized for travelers. They usually offer travel-specific rewards, no foreign transaction fees, and protections tailored to travel scenarios.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding foreign transaction fees is a smart move for any traveler. With the right credit card, you’ll not only save on unnecessary fees, but also earn rewards, enjoy perks, and travel with peace of mind.
Whether you’re booking flights, exploring new cities, or following a Complete Road Trip Itinerary for the Pacific Coast Highway, a travel credit card with no foreign transaction fees can make the journey smoother and more rewarding.
Choose a card that fits your lifestyle and spending habits — and enjoy the world without paying extra to see it.
