Best Credit CardsInternational
Selected from 1,500+ offers for September 2024
Updated Sep 10, 2024Fact checked
By:John Kiernan, Credit Card Editor
|Sep 10, 2024
Reviewed by:Alina Comoreanu, Senior Researcher
Fact checked
International credit cards will save you money with $0 foreign transaction fees and allow you to make purchases in more than 200 countries and territories. According to our research, using an international credit card abroad can also help you save 7% to 10% on foreign currency conversion, and the best credit cards for international travel have great rewards, travel insurance and other helpful perks. Below, you can see which cards best meet the needs of international travelers and shoppers of all types, selected from 1,500+ offers using WalletHub's proprietary 100-point credit card rating system.... show more
Best Credit Cards for International Travel (September 2024)
- Best Overall: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Travel Rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
- High Spenders: U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card
- Excellent Credit: U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card
- Initial Bonus: Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card
- Limited/Average Credit: Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card
- Business: U.S. Bank Business Altitude™ Connect World Elite Mastercard®
WalletHub tracks 1,500+ credit cards (other sites only consider a much smaller number of cards, so they naturally miss a lot of great cards)
WalletHub picks the best credit cards overall (other sites pick the best cards from their advertising partners)
WalletHub uses a sophisticated card rating system to objectively find the best cards (other sites’ picks are influenced by their own biases)
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WalletHub has 15+ years of credit card experience (other sites simply don’t have the same expertise)
WalletHub's best credit card picks and ratings are completely independent and not provided, commissioned, or endorsed by any issuer. In addition, our editors follow a strict editorial policy. Some offers may come from WalletHub's advertising partners. WalletHub independently collected information forsome of the cards on this page.
Best Overall
Best International Credit Card
4.1WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.1
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Travel Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
5.0
User Reviews
3.9
Market Comparison
4.0
fees: 3.3
rewards: 4.0
cost: 4.0
Other Features: 5.0
No Foreign Fee
Works Wherever Visa Is Accepted
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards Rate
1 - 5 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Regular APR
21.49% - 28.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards Rate
1 - 5 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the best credit card for international travel overall because of its great rewards, low fees and helpful secondary benefits, such as trip and luggage insurance. It’s also accepted worldwide.
More specifically, Chase Sapphire Preferred offers an initial bonus of 60,000 bonus points for spending $4,000 in the first 3 months. That elite sign-up incentive could help you pay for some priceless travel moments. In addition, cardholders earn up to 1 - 5 points per $1 spent on purchases and enjoy perks like baggage insurance and travel emergency assistance. Those benefits could save you from some costly headaches while out of town.
You can learn more about why Chase Sapphire Preferred is such a good option from our latest International Credit Card Study.
What We Don’t Like: This card has a high APR, so you’ll want to pay the bill in full monthly to avoid expensive interest charges. You also need to be prepared to book at least some travel through Chase’s travel portal if you want to get maximum value. In addition, the card has an annual fee of $95, though it’s a good deal if you take advantage of the bonus rewards.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card if you have good credit or better and you will be able to meet the spending requirement for its initial bonus.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Travel Rewards
Best International Credit Card for Travel Perks
3.7WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
3.7
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Travel Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.4
User Reviews
3.3
Market Comparison
3.6
fees: 1.3
rewards: 4.4
cost: 4.0
Other Features: 0.0
No Foreign Fee
Works Wherever Visa Is Accepted
Regular APR
22.49% - 29.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$550
Rewards Rate
1 - 10 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Regular APR
22.49% - 29.49% (V)
Annual Fee
$550
Rewards Rate
1 - 10 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a great travel credit card because it offers valuable rewards, especially when you redeem for travel, along with other perks that can make travel more comfortable and less costly. For starters, you can get an initial bonus of 60,000 bonus points for spending $4,000 in the first 3 months. Cardholders also earn a total of 10 points per $1 spent on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase, a total of 10 points per $1 spent on prepaid restaurant reservations or takeout orders made through Chase, a total of 5 points per $1 spent on flights purchased through Chase, 3 points per $1 spent on all other travel and dining purchases, and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases.
In addition, Sapphire Reserve doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees but offers travel benefits such as trip cancellation insurance, lost luggage reimbursem*nt and airport lounge access to make your experience as comfortable as possible.
What We Don’t Like: Chase Sapphire Reserve® has a $550 annual fee and requires excellent credit.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for Chase Sapphire Reserve® if you are a big spender who wants elite travel rewards and benefits.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best International Credit Card for Excellent Credit
3.7WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
3.7
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Travel Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.6
User Reviews
3.7
Market Comparison
3.5
fees: 3.8
rewards: 3.7
cost: 3.6
Other Features: 0.0
No Foreign Fee
Works Wherever Visa Is Accepted
Regular APR
21.24% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0 intro 1st yr, $95 after
Rewards Rate
1 - 5 points / $1
Bonus Offer
20,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Regular APR
21.24% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0 intro 1st yr, $95 after
Rewards Rate
1 - 5 points / $1
Bonus Offer
20,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card has a 0% foreign transaction fee and an initial bonus of 20,000 points for spending $1,000 in the first 90 days. You also get 5 points per $1 on prepaid hotels and car rentals booked directly in the Altitude Rewards Center, 4 points per $1 spent on travel, 4 points per $1 at gas stations, 2 points per $1 at grocery stores, 2 points per $1 on dining, grocery delivery and streaming services, and 1 point per $1 on all other purchases. That is an elite collection of bonus rewards categories.
What We Don’t Like: The card’s APR is pretty high, and it has a $95 annual fee starting the second year your account is open.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for this card if you have excellent credit and the bonus rewards suit your spending habits.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best International Credit Card for Big Spenders
3.7WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
3.7
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Travel Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.2
Market Comparison
3.6
fees: 2.1
rewards: 4.1
cost: 4.0
Other Features: 0.0
No Foreign Fee
Works Wherever Visa Is Accepted
Regular APR
22.24% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$400
Rewards Rate
1 - 5 points / $1
Bonus Offer
50,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Regular APR
22.24% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$400
Rewards Rate
1 - 5 points / $1
Bonus Offer
50,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card offers an initial bonus of 50,000 points for spending $4,500 in the first 90 days, plus ongoing rewards of 1 - 5 points per $1 spent. It also has no foreign transaction fee.
What We Don’t Like: You need to spend a lot to get your money’s worth, considering the $400 annual fee. You’ll also need to pay your bill in full each month to prevent expensive interest charges from eating into your savings from rewards.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for this card if you have excellent credit and you’ll be able to qualify for its initial bonus and annual travel credits.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Rewards Bonus
Best International Credit Card for Travel Rewards
3.9WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
3.9
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Travel Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
5.0
User Reviews
3.8
Market Comparison
3.7
fees: 3.3
rewards: 4.0
cost: 3.8
Other Features: 0.0
No Foreign Fee
Works Wherever Mastercard Is Accepted
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99% (V)
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards Rate
2 - 5 miles / $1
Bonus Offer
75,000 miles
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Regular APR
19.99% - 29.99% (V)
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards Rate
2 - 5 miles / $1
Bonus Offer
75,000 miles
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It:The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card offers an initial bonus of 75,000 miles for spending $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus 2 - 5 miles per $1 on purchases normally. In addition, you can redeem your miles to pay for pretty much any travel-related expense you charge to your card, and you won’t have to worry about foreign transaction fees.
What We Don’t Like: This card has a $95 annual fee. Carrying a balance from month to month would be expensive, too.
Who Should Get It: Apply for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card if you have good credit or better and you travel often but don’t want to commit to a single airline or hotel chain.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best International Credit Card for an Initial Bonus
3.6WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
3.6
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Travel Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.8
User Reviews
3.8
Market Comparison
3.4
fees: 3.3
rewards: 3.5
cost: 3.6
Other Features: 0.0
No Foreign Fee
Works Wherever Visa Is Accepted
Regular APR
21.24% - 29.24% Variable
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards Rate
1.5 - 2 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Regular APR
21.24% - 29.24% Variable
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards Rate
1.5 - 2 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card has a 0% foreign transaction fee and an initial bonus of 60,000 points for spending $4,000 in the first 90 days. You also get 1.5 - 2 points per $1 spent on purchases normally. Those are the ingredients for some big-time savings on international travel.
What We Don’t Like: The card’s regular APR is pretty high, and it has a $95 annual fee.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for this card if you want to avoid foreign fees and the bonus rewards match up well with your lifestyle. You also need at least excellent credit for approval.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best Airline & Hotel Credit Cards
Best Airline Credit Card for International Travel
4.3WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.3
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Airline Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.5
User Reviews
2.9
Market Comparison
4.4
fees: 2.9
rewards: 4.6
cost: 5.0
Other Features: 0.0
No Foreign Fee
Works Wherever Mastercard Is Accepted
Transfer intro APR
0% for 12 months
Transfer Fee: 5% (min $5)
Regular APR
21.24% - 29.99% (V)
Annual Fee
$99
Rewards Rate
1 - 6 points / $1
Bonus Offer
50,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Transfer intro APR
0% for 12 months
Transfer Fee: 5% (min $5)
Regular APR
21.24% - 29.99% (V)
Annual Fee
$99
Rewards Rate
1 - 6 points / $1
Bonus Offer
50,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The JetBlue Plus Card is the best U.S. airline credit card for international travel. It offers an initial bonus of 50,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days and paying the annual fee, plus ongoing rewards of 1 - 6 points per $1 spent. It also has no foreign transaction fee.
What We Don’t Like: There is an annual fee of $99 and a high regular APR.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for the JetBlue Plus Card if you have excellent credit and you frequently fly with JetBlue.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best International Airline Credit Card
4.5WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.5
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Airline Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Market Comparison
4.5
fees: 3.8
rewards: 4.8
cost: 4.9
Other Features: 0.0
No Foreign Fee
Works Wherever Mastercard Is Accepted
Regular APR
21.24% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$89
Rewards Rate
1.5 - 3 miles / $1
Bonus Offer
70,000 miles
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Regular APR
21.24% - 29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$89
Rewards Rate
1.5 - 3 miles / $1
Bonus Offer
70,000 miles
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Air France KLM Credit Card is the best international airline credit card because it offers great rewards at a reasonable price. You can earn 70,000 miles for spending $3,000 in the first 90 days, plus ongoing rewards of 1.5 - 3 miles per $1 spent. There is no foreign transaction fee.
What We Don’t Like: There is an annual fee of $89 and a high regular APR.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for the Air France KLM Credit Card if you have good credit or better and you frequently fly with Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, and SkyTeam member airlines such as Delta and Virgin Atlantic.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
No Annual Fee
Best Hotel Credit Card for International Travel
4.4WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.4
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Hotel Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.8
Market Comparison
4.3
fees: 3.3
rewards: 4.5
cost: 4.9
Other Features: 0.0
No Foreign Fee
Works Wherever Mastercard Is Accepted
Regular APR
20.99% - 29.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards Rate
1 - 10 points / $1
Bonus Offer
90,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Regular APR
20.99% - 29.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$95
Rewards Rate
1 - 10 points / $1
Bonus Offer
90,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard® is the best hotel credit card for international travelers because it will help you earn free nights without charging you foreign transaction fees. The card offers an initial bonus of 90,000 points after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months. Cardholders also earn 1 - 10 points per $1 spent on purchases. Plus, the card has $0 foreign fee.
What We Don’t Like: The Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard® has a $95 annual fee and a high regular APR.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for the Choice Privileges® Select Mastercard® if you have good credit and you frequently stay at Choice Hotels. Choice has locations in 40 countries.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best International Credit Card With No Annual Fee
3.6WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
3.6
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Earn Travel Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.4
User Reviews
3.6
Market Comparison
3.5
fees: 5.0
rewards: 3.3
cost: 3.4
Other Features: 0.0
No Foreign Fee
Works Wherever Visa Is Accepted
Purchase intro APR
0% for 12 months from account opening
Regular APR
20.24% - 29.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 3 points / $1
Bonus Offer
20,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Purchase intro APR
0% for 12 months from account opening
Regular APR
20.24% - 29.99% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 3 points / $1
Bonus Offer
20,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is the best international credit card with no annual fee because it has a $0 foreign fee and gives good rewards. Cardholders earn 3 points per $1 spent on restaurant, travel, gas, transit, streaming services and phone plans, as well as 1 point per $1 spent on other purchases.
What We Don’t Like: The card’s regular APR is pretty high, so plan to pay the bill in full monthly to avoid interest and maximize your savings.
Who Should Get It: Apply for the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card if you have good credit and you don’t want to pay an annual fee or commit to a single airline or hotel chain.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best for Below-Average Credit
BEST INTERNATIONAL CREDIT CARD FOR LIMITED/AVERAGE CREDIT
4.8WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.8
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Improve Credit by Paying in Full Each Month"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
5.0
User Reviews
3.1
Market Comparison
5.0
fees: 5.0
rewards: 5.0
cost: 4.9
Other Features: 5.0
No Foreign Fee
Works Wherever Visa Is Accepted
Regular APR
18.24% - 32.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 1.5% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good, Fair, Limited History
Regular APR
18.24% - 32.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 1.5% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good, Fair, Limited History
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card offers 1 - 1.5% cash back on purchases, has no annual fee or international transaction fees, and accepts people with limited credit.
What We Don’t Like: The Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card offers bonus rewards only after 12 months of on-time payments. Like most other credit cards these days, it also has a high APR.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for the Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card if you are new to credit but want to save money on international transactions.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best for Bad Credit
BEST INTERNATIONAL CREDIT CARD FOR BAD CREDIT
4.4WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.4
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Rebuild Damaged Credit by Paying in Full Each Month"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.7
Market Comparison
4.4
fees: 5.0
rewards: 5.0
cost: 4.5
Other Features: 3.0
No Foreign Fee
Works Wherever Visa Is Accepted
One-Time Fees
$0
Regular APR
29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Monthly Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1.5 points / $1
Accepted Credit
Bad
One-Time Fees
$0
Regular APR
29.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0
Monthly Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1.5 points / $1
Accepted Credit
Bad
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card is the best international credit card for bad credit thanks to its favorable fees and rewards. This card won’t charge you foreign transaction fees or annual fees, and it will give you 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases.
What We Don’t Like: You have to put down a deposit of $200, which will act as your credit limit.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for the Bank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card if you have bad credit and you want to avoid foreign fees when traveling or shopping internationally.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best for Students
Best International Credit Card for Students
4.5WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
4.5
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Build Credit by Paying in Full Each Month (Students)"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.3
User Reviews
4.1
Market Comparison
4.6
fees: 5.0
rewards: 3.8
cost: 4.9
Other Features: 5.0
Purchase intro APR
0% for 6 months
Transfer intro APR
10.99% for 6 months
Transfer Fee: 3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*
Regular APR
18.24% - 27.24% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 2% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Fair, Limited History
Purchase intro APR
0% for 6 months
Transfer intro APR
10.99% for 6 months
Transfer Fee: 3% intro balance transfer fee, up to 5% fee on future balance transfers (see terms)*
Regular APR
18.24% - 27.24% Variable
Annual Fee
$0
Rewards Rate
1 - 2% Cash Back
Accepted Credit
Fair, Limited History
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The Discover it® Student Chrome offers 2% cash back at gas stations and restaurants (up to $1,000 spent each quarter combined), and 1% back on all other purchases. You will also get an introductory APR of 0% for 6 months on purchases. Perhaps even more importantly, you won’t have to pay annual membership fees or fees for making international transactions.
What We Don’t Like: The Discover it® Student Chrome has a regular APR of 18.24% - 27.24% Variable after the introductory promotion ends, which means carrying a balance from billing period to billing period could quickly cut into your savings from rewards. In addition, Discover cards may not be widely accepted in your favorite international destinations.
Who Should Get It: Consider applying for the Discover it® Student Chrome if you’re a student who is studying abroad or just seeing the world while on break. Just make sure that Discover is accepted where you travel.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
Best for Business
Best International Business Credit Card
3.9WalletHub Rating
WalletHub Rating
3.9
This card has been scored using WalletHub’s proprietary credit card rating system. We evaluated the card for various cardholder needs and picked the rating for the need most relevant to this page ("Business - Earn Travel Rewards"). The rating for this card may vary on other pages where a different need is used. A rating of 5 is the best a card can receive.
Editor’s Rating
4.6
Market Comparison
3.8
fees: 4.2
rewards: 3.7
cost: 4.0
Other Features: 0.0
No Foreign Fee
Works Wherever Mastercard Is Accepted
Regular APR
20.24% - 28.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0 intro 1st yr, $95 after
Rewards Rate
1 - 5 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Regular APR
20.24% - 28.24% (V)
Annual Fee
$0 intro 1st yr, $95 after
Rewards Rate
1 - 5 points / $1
Bonus Offer
60,000 points
Accepted Credit
Excellent, Good
Editors’ Thoughts
Why We Like It: The U.S. Bank Business Altitude™ Connect World Elite Mastercard® is the best business credit card for international travel because of its attractive bonus rewards and international benefits. It offers an initial bonus of 60,000 points for spending $6,000 in the first 180 days, plus 1 - 5 points per $1 spent on purchases normally. It also gets you airport lounge access, and you won’t have to pay foreign transaction fees.
What We Don’t Like: This card has high membership fees starting the second year your
account is open.
Who Should Get It: Apply for the U.S. Bank Business Altitude™ Connect World Elite Mastercard® if you’re a business owner who travels abroad or makes purchases from foreign vendors. You also need to have good credit or better personally.
Pros, Cons & More Details
Pros, Cons & Details
WalletHub's Research
- Our picks for the best credit cards for international travel
- How we picked the best international credit cards
- Sources
- Beginner’s guide to international credit cards
- About the author
- User questions & answers
- Expert opinions
Our Picks for the Best Credit Cards for International Travel
In general, the best credit cards for international travel work all around the globe, in hundreds of countries and territories, offering really good rewards without charging international fees (unlike more than 90% of cards). Many also have a feature calledchip and PINfor easier use and added security abroad. Plus, the best credit card for international travel can save you as much as8%on currency conversion alone.
Fortunately, there are lots ofgreat international credit cardsavailable right now. Below, you can see how WalletHub’s editors’ picks compare in some key categories.
Best Credit Cards for International Travel Compared
| Credit Card | Best For | Annual Fee |
| Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card | Overall | $95 |
| Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card | Limited/Average Credit | $0 |
| U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card | Excellent Credit | $0 intro 1st yr, $95 after |
| U.S. Bank Business Altitude™ Connect World Elite Mastercard® | Business | $0 intro 1st yr, $95 after |
| Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see Rates & Fees) | Travel Rewards | $95 |
| Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card | Initial Bonus | $95 |
| U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card | Best Value | $400 |
How We Picked the Best International Credit Cards
To identify the best international credit cards, WalletHub’s editors compare major credit card offers based on how well their rewards, fees and otherWalletHub Rating components suit the needs of international travelers. More specifically, WalletHub analyzes the foreign travel benefits offered by personal credit cards from the top 10 issuers, excluding student and co-branded cards.
In addition to the top cards overall, we select the best secured card and the best card for business to make sure different types of travelers' needs are met.
How Two-Year Cost Is Calculated
Two-year cost is used to approximate the monetary value of cards for better comparison and is calculated by combining annual and monthly membership fees over two years, adding any one-time fees or other fees (like balance transfer fees), adding any interest costs, and subtracting rewards. Negative amounts indicate savings. When fees or other terms are presented as a range, we use the midpoint for scoring purposes. Rewards bonuses and credits have been taken into account for two-year cost calculations. However, bonuses applicable to only a very small portion of cardholders are not considered. For example, credits and bonuses awarded for spending or redeeming rewards through a company portal with non-co-branded cards have not been taken into account. Similarly, bonuses and credits related to spending with specific merchants using a non-co-branded card have not been taken into account (for example, if Card A offers credits with DoorDash, this feature would not be factored into calculations because it is hard to assess how many cardholders would use the benefit or exactly how much value they'd get from it).
Cardholder Spending Profiles
Given that different users have different goals and are likely to use their credit cards differently, we identified spending profiles that are representative of different users’ financial priorities and behaviors. For each cardholder type, we have assumed a specific amount of monthly spending by purchase type (e.g., groceries, gas, etc.), as well as an average balance, balance transfer amount, amount spent on large purchases and average monthly payment. Spending assumptions are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for consumers and PEX data for businesses.
For more details, view the full methodology from our International Credit Card Study.
Sources
WalletHub actively maintains a database of 1,500+ credit card offers, from which we select the best international credit cards for different applicants as well as derive market-wide takeaways and trends. The underlying data is compiled from credit card company websites or provided directly by the credit card issuers. We also leverage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics to develop cardholder profiles, used to estimate cards’ potential savings.
Beginner’s Guide to International Credit Cards
Is a Credit Card or a Debit Card Better for International Travel?
A credit card is better for international travel than a debit card because credit cards offer far superior rewards and better fraud protections. The right travel rewards credit card can save you $500 to $1,000+ on a single international trip, whereas debit cards with rewards are quite rare. Plus, when someone makes fraudulent purchases with your debit card, you lose money and have to get it back. With a credit card, you have the opportunity to notice and dispute the fraud before paying the bill.
Although a credit card is a better choice as your main payment method internationally, you should still bring a debit card with you when you travel abroad. You won’t be able to pay for everything with a card, so an inexpensive way to access cash will come in handy.
Learn more about using credit and debit cards for international travel.
Pros andConsof International Credit Cards
| Pros | Cons |
| No foreign transaction fees | Annual fees |
| Travel rewards | High interest rates |
| Widespread acceptance | Rewards may expire |
| Low currency conversion rates | Points/miles could be devalued |
| Chip-and-PIN | Redemption roadblocks in some cases |
| Travel insurance | Higher annual fees |
| Airport lounge access |
The biggest advantages of international credit cards are convenience and savings. International credit cards work in more than 200 countries and territories, and they automatically provide low currency conversion rates that save you about 7% compared to exchanging hard currency. The lack offoreign transaction fees saves you another 3%, and rewards can add at least another 1% - 2% more.
International credit cards do have some flaws, though. For example, most won’t have a low interest rate, even as an introductory promotion. As a result, you need to pay your full statement balance monthly to maximize your savings. International cards often have high annual fees, and some have fine print that could make the rewards not quite as rewarding, but they will still save you money if you use them responsibly.
Bear in mind that not all international credit cards have all of the advantages or disadvantages described above, but they are common. Learn more about the pros and cons of international travel credit cards.
Types of International Travel Credit Cards
The two main types of international credit cards are Visa and Mastercard, as they are accepted pretty much everywhere in the world that takes credit cards. Cards on other networks are accepted internationally, too, but fewer merchants take them.
There are also chip-and-PIN cards and chip-and-signature cards. Both types of credit cards are accepted internationally, though chip-and-PIN is most compatible with international payment systems.
In addition, you’ll find credit cards affiliated with major international hotels and airlines, as well as credit cards with general-purpose travel rewards and even some with cash back or no rewards at all. Some of these cards won’t charge annual fees, and others will make you pay extra for standout perks. There are pretty much as many types of international credit cards as there are types of credit cards in general.
Learn more about the types of credit cards that work internationally.
International Credit Cards for Bad Credit
The best international credit card for bad credit is theBank of America® Travel Rewards Secured Credit Card because it has a $0 foreign transaction fee,a $0 annual fee, and good rewards. It also works wherever Visa is accepted. Although there isn’t as much of a selection of international credit cards for people with bad credit as there is for people with higher scores, some good options are indeed available.
International Credit Cards on WeChat Pay
Foreign visitors to China can now link an international credit card to WeChat Pay in order to more easily make purchases in the country. Visa, Mastercard, Discover, Diner’s Club and JCB cards are all compatible, at least in theory. Reports are mixed about whether this new feature actually works as advertised yet.
Top Cards for Lounge Access While Traveling Internationally
Overall:Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Learn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website- Rates & FeesTerms ApplyBiggest Lounge Network:
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Learn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website - Rates & FeesGenerous Guest Policy:
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card
Learn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website - Airline Rewards:
Lufthansa Credit Card
Learn MoreLearn More - Hotel Rewards:
Hilton Honors Aspire Credit Card
Learn MoreLearn More - Rates & FeesTerms ApplyBusiness Travel:
The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
Learn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website
- Overall:
- Biggest Lounge Network:
- Generous Guest Policy:
- Airline Rewards:
- Hotel Rewards:
- Business Travel:
Learn more about the best credit cards for lounge access.
How to Choose an International Travel Credit Card
To choose the best international credit card for your needs, first start by excluding any credit cards that charge foreign transaction fees. You might also want to eliminate cards that are not on the Visa or Mastercard network, since other networks’ acceptance isn’t as reliable internationally. Next, compare the cards’ rewards to determine which offers suit your spending habits the best and estimate how much you’re likely to earn with each. Finally, subtract any annual fees from your estimated rewards and select the card that figures to save you the most overall.
Learn more about who should get an international credit card and how to pick the best travel credit card.
How to Use a Credit Card Internationally
- Make sure you have a Visa or a Mastercard.
VisaandMastercardare the most widely accepted types of credit cards and automatically provide inexpensive currency conversion, so bringing one is a wise move, whether you make it your main payment method or just have it as a backup. Credit cards on other networks may not work everywhere you go.
- Take the opportunity to earn lots of rewards.
The best travel credit cards can provide enough rewards to pay for your whole trip, or at least subsidize the expense significantly. For example, putting an international trip on a new card is a great way to meet the spending requirement for an initial bonus. That can easily get you more than $700.
- Avoid foreign transaction fees.
Only using credit cards without foreign transaction fees when traveling abroad is essential. Otherwise, you’ll spend around 3% more than necessary, which could add up to quite a lot on a big trip.
- Stick to manned checkout stations.
Unmanned payment terminals, like you might find in a parking garage or train station, may not accept your credit card unless you have a chip-and-PIN card. On the other hand, any major U.S. credit card should work abroad if you can interact with a person.
- Pay in the local currency.
It can be difficult to tell the true cost of things when you’re abroad and dealing with a foreign currency, and merchants have been known to offer a quick conversion to dollars. This might seem like a kind gesture, but it’s often a ploy to use a high exchange rate and pocket some extra money courtesy of an unsuspecting tourist. This is calleddynami currency conversion.
- Don’t use the ATM.
Unless it’s a real emergency, avoid using your credit card to withdraw cash from an ATM while abroad. Doing so is known as acash advanceand will be very expensive. You’ll have to deal with an ATM-owner surcharge, plus a high credit card fee and APR. Instead, you should bring adebit card with no foreign feesin order to withdraw cash when you need it.
- Know what benefits you’re entitled to.
International credit cards often come with secondary benefits such as travel accident insurance, lost/delayed baggage insurance, emergency medical services and more. Knowing what’s available to you before you leave for your trip will make any issues that come up a lot easier to handle. On that note, your credit card’s guide to benefits includes some important contact information that you may need. Writing that information down somewhere could come in handy, especially if you don’t have reliable internet access.
Learn more about when and how to use a credit card internationally.
About the author
John S Kiernan
John Kiernan has covered the credit card industry for more than 15 years as a writer and editor for WalletHub. His work has been featured by major media outlets such as The Washington Post, Fox News and The New York Times and has been cited by industry regulators such as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
Credit Cards For International Travel FAQ
Finding the best credit card can be tough. But you’ve got the knowledgeable WalletHub community on your side. We encourage everyone to share their knowledge while respecting our content guidelines. Please keep in mind that editorial and user-generated content on this page is not reviewed or otherwise endorsed by any financial institution. In addition, it is not the financial institution’s responsibility to ensure all posts and questions are answered. WalletHub independently collected information for some of the cards on this page.
Most Popular
15
Upvotes
What is the easiest travel credit card to get approved for?
Reply
15
thomas friedman, WalletHub Credit Card Analyst
@tom_friedman
The Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card is one of the easiest travel credit cards to get approved for because it is available to people with bad credit. This card offers 1 - 3% cash back, and travel purchases are eligible for the highest rewards rate. The Bank of America Custom Cash Secured Card also comes with a $0 annual fee.
Some of the easiest travel credit cards to get approved for:
- Ongoing Rewards:
Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Secured Credit Card
Learn MoreLearn More - Rates & FeesUnlimited Cash Back:
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Learn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website - Bad Credit:
U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa® Secured Card
Learn MoreLearn More - Limited Credit History:
Petal® 2 Visa® Credit Card
Learn MoreLearn More - Rates & FeesStudents:
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
Learn MoreLearn Moreon issuer's website
- Ongoing Rewards:
- Unlimited Cash Back:
- Bad Credit:
- Limited Credit History:
- Students:
For more options, check out our editors' latest picks for the best travel credit cards and...
1
Upvotes
What is the most widely accepted credit card brand?
Reply
Adam McCann, Financial Writer
@adam_mcan
The most widely accepted credit card brand is Mastercard, which is accepted in 210+ countries and territories. Virtually all merchants that take credit cards in those countries and territories will accept Mastercard, though there may be rare exceptions.
Most Widely Accepted Credit Card Brands
- Mastercard: 210+ countries and territories, nearly all merchants
- Visa: 200+ countries and territories, nearly all merchants
- American Express: 198 countries and territories, less merchant coverage than...
1
Upvote
Is it better to use a travel card or a credit card?
Reply
1
Christie Matherne, Credit Card Writer
@christie_matherne
It's better to use a travel credit card if you travel frequently because you can get travel-based rewards and benefits that a regular credit card might not offer. These benefits include travel insurance, airport lounge access, and annual travel credits.
Using a card geared toward travelers rather than a regular credit card can help you get the maximum value out of your spending. If you don't travel often, however, another type of credit card – a cash...
1
16
Upvotes
Do I need to let my credit card company know Im traveling?
Reply
16
1
WalletHub
@WalletHub
You don't need to let your credit card company know you're traveling, but it's always a good idea. To protect you from fraud, credit card issuers look for charges that seem to be out of the ordinary, or “suspicious activity”. So, if they suddenly start seeing charges pop up on your card in a different state or country, they may decline the charge, assuming it's fraudulent. In order to keep your credit card from being...
6
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25
Upvotes
What is the best credit card for travel in Europe?
Reply
25
2
Adam McCann, Financial Writer
@adam_mcan
The best credit card for travel in Europe is the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card because it gives 1 - 5 points per $1 spent on purchases, plus an initial bonus of 60,000 bonus points for spending $4,000 in the first 3 months, worth $750 in travel. Chase Sapphire Preferred also has a $0 foreign transaction fee. The annual fee is $95, and you need good credit or better for approval.
If you're looking to rely on a popular European airline, the British Airways Credit Card and the Lufthansa Credit Card are both good choices. There are plenty of other...
7
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16
Upvotes
How do you calculate exchange rates?
Reply
16
WalletHub
@WalletHub
You can calculate an exchange rate by dividing the amount of the currency you start with by the amount of the foreign currency you'll get back. For example, if you have $100 and you get €80 back, your exchange rate would be 100/80 = 1.25 euros per dollar.
Most of the time, someone else will calculate the exchange for you. Credit cards automatically handle currency conversion when you make a purchase from a foreign merchant.
...
8
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17
Upvotes
Are there any fees for international credit card use?
Reply
17
1
John S Kiernan, Managing Editor
@John
Yes, there can be fees for international credit card use. But they're avoidable if you make the right moves, starting with picking the right credit card. Foreign transaction fees are the main concern, as many credit cards charge them. But there are plenty of no foreign fee cards for you to consider.
Fees to consider when using your card internationally:
- Foreign transaction fees: Many credit cards come with foreign transaction fees when you buy from internationally-based merchants....
11
1
24
Upvotes
What is the best credit card for study abroad?
Reply
24
Joyce Brown, WalletHub Credit Card Analyst
@j.brown
The best credit card for study abroad is the Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card (see Rates & Fees) because it has a $0 foreign transaction fee, a $0 annual fee, and good rewards. You'll earn 1 - 8% cash back spent normally, plus an initial bonus of $50 for spending $100 in the first 3 months. You can get approved with limited credit, too.
If you're going to spend most of your time in a foreign country in the near future, you definitely want a card that won't charge you extra on international purchases. But there are actually several options that may work well, depending on your individual needs and wants.
Best Credit Cards for Study Abroad in 2024
All of these cards are strong contenders to be the best credit card for study abroad. That's especially true considering they offer a lot more than rewards and low fees. You'll also receive perks like travel insurance to give you even more peace of mind when...
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