Credit cards are generally better for purchases abroad due to superior fraud protection, wider acceptance, and travel perks, while debit cards are best for low-fee ATM cash withdrawals. For the best value, use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees for purchases and a debit card with no ATM fees for cash.
Whether you're booking a flight, reserving a hotel, or handling unexpected expenses, credit cards give you more breathing room and extra protections that debit cards often don't. Just be sure to use them wisely to avoid debt and interest charges.
Using foreign exchange services before you fly
Exchanging cash in advance before your trip is often one of the best ways to spend money abroad. It will avoid you having to pay poor exchange rates at certain airports, especially if you don't know what their rates will be before you leave for your trip.
Best way to take money overseas
Transaction fees: some banks will charge you for using your debit card abroad. These fees are usually based on a percentage of the transaction amount plus a fixed fee per withdrawal, which can quickly add up. Check with your bank before you travel so you're not surprised by unexpected fees.
The 2/3/4 rule is a guideline, primarily used by Bank of America, that limits how many new credit cards you can get: no more than 2 in 30 days, 3 in 12 months, and 4 in 24 months, helping to prevent over-application and manage hard inquiries on your credit report. While not universal, it's a useful benchmark for responsible card application, though other banks have different rules (like Chase's 5/24 rule).
Do not use the GTCC: (1) to exceed the allowable daily meals and incidental expenses (M&IE) rate; (2) to make non-travel related purchases; (3) for personal expenses associated with "leave in conjunction with official travel;" (4) to take cash advances from the ATM more than three working days before scheduled ...
For debit cards with no foreign transaction fees, top choices include Charles Schwab Investor Checking (reimburses ATM fees), Capital One 360 Checking (no fees, but local ATM fees may apply), SoFi Checking, Fidelity Cash Management, and digital options like Revolut or Wise, which offer good currency exchange rates and low costs abroad, though some may have limits or weekend currency exchange charges. Always check for potential ATM fees from the local bank owning the machine, even with a no-fee debit card.
Use the following tips to help you reduce or avoid ATM fees while overseas:
Gas stations, bars, restaurants and online shopping are the riskiest places to use debit cards due to skimming vulnerability. Contactless payments and credit cards offer better security than traditional debit cards. Monitor your checking account daily and report suspicious activity immediately to minimize fraud losses.
Yes, many debit cards charge foreign transaction fees (FTFs) and ATM fees when used abroad, typically 1% to 3% of the transaction, but you can find cards, often from online banks or credit unions, that offer no foreign transaction fees and sometimes even reimburse ATM fees, making it crucial to check your bank's policy before traveling.
Unlike debit cards, certain credit cards provide benefits like complimentary card insurances, that offer added security measures when you travel. These cards can also be linked to reward programs through airlines or stores, and you earn points based on purchase types and amounts.
When using a credit card, remember the golden rule: only spend what you can afford to pay off in full each month. Carrying a balance leads to interest charges that can grow quickly. Paying off your statement balance each billing cycle keeps your costs down and your credit score in good shape.
Using 90% of your credit card significantly increases your credit utilization ratio, which can severely damage your credit score, signaling to lenders you might be a higher risk, potentially dropping your score by 50 points or more, and making it harder to get new credit or good interest rates. While paying it off quickly helps, experts recommend keeping utilization below 30% (ideally single digits) for a healthy score, as lenders see low usage as responsible borrowing.
What Is the 15/3 Rule?
To avoid high fees when withdrawing cash abroad, try to use ATMs from well-known banks, as they usually offer better rates and lower fees. Limit how often you withdraw cash to save on fees. You should also check if your bank has partnerships with international banks, as some offer cheaper or free withdrawals.
The reason? Debit cards are linked directly to your bank account, which means that if someone gains access to your card information, they can potentially drain its entire balance. Additionally, online retailers have varying degrees of security, potentially leaving your information vulnerable to hackers.
Can I Keep Cash in My Pockets through TSA? No. TSA agents will ask that you remove everything, even a half-used tissue, from your pockets before going through metal detectors and scanners.
Thieves target vacationers — not because they're mean, but because they're smart. Travelers have all the good stuff in their bags and wallets. Don't travel fearfully — travel carefully. More secure than a travel wallet, money belts are your key to peace of mind.