Traveling internationally can be one of the most exciting and enriching experiences. Whether you’re exploring a new city, embarking on a business trip, or taking a long-awaited vacation, managing finances while abroad can be challenging. Fortunately, having the right credit card can make your journey much easier. The best credit cards for frequent international travelers are those that offer numerous benefits, such as travel rewards, no foreign transaction fees, and insurance coverage, ensuring a smooth and cost-effective trip.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best credit cards for international travelers and the features that make them stand out. Whether you’re looking for a card that helps you earn travel points, provides essential travel protections, or offers no foreign transaction fees, there’s a perfect option for you.
Why the Right Credit Card Matters for International Travel
When traveling internationally, it’s important to have a credit card that suits your needs. Some credit cards provide enhanced perks that make traveling abroad more comfortable and affordable. Here’s why choosing the right credit card matters:
- Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees: Many credit cards charge a 3% fee for every transaction made in a foreign currency. However, several credit cards waive this fee, which can save you a significant amount of money on international purchases.
- Earn Travel Rewards: The best credit cards for international travel often have robust rewards programs. Whether you earn miles, points, or cashback, these rewards can be redeemed for free flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and other travel expenses.
- Travel Insurance and Protections: Credit cards designed for international travelers often include travel insurance benefits, such as trip cancellation protection, lost baggage coverage, and car rental insurance, ensuring peace of mind during your travels.
- Global Acceptance: The best credit cards for frequent international travelers often have global acceptance. Look for cards that are widely accepted internationally, such as Visa, MasterCard, or American Express, ensuring that you won’t face issues when trying to pay for goods or services abroad.
Now that we understand the importance of having the right credit card, let’s dive into some of the best credit cards for frequent international travelers.
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Best for: Earning Flexible Travel Rewards and Maximizing Points
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the best credit cards for frequent international travelers who want to earn flexible travel rewards. The card comes with a variety of benefits, including:
- Rewards Program: Earn 2 points per dollar on travel and dining purchases and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases. These points can be redeemed for travel bookings via the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal, where points are worth 25% more. Additionally, you can transfer your points to over 15 travel partners, including airlines and hotel chains.
- Sign-Up Bonus: New cardholders can earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months, which can be redeemed for up to $750 in travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: One of the best features of this card is the lack of foreign transaction fees, which makes it perfect for international travelers.
- Travel Protections: The card offers a variety of travel protections, including trip cancellation/interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, and baggage delay insurance.
With its flexible rewards program and extensive travel benefits, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the best credit cards for frequent international travelers.
2. The Platinum Card® from American Express
Best for: Luxury Travel Perks
If you’re seeking a credit card that offers top-tier luxury benefits for frequent international travelers, The Platinum Card® from American Express is an excellent choice. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Rewards Program: Earn 5 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel and on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel. You also earn 1 point per dollar on other purchases.
- Sign-Up Bonus: New cardholders can earn 80,000 points after spending $6,000 in the first 6 months. These points can be redeemed for travel expenses, including flights, hotel stays, and more.
- Airport Lounge Access: Cardholders get access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide, including the exclusive Centurion Lounge, making it a must-have for international travelers who prioritize comfort during layovers.
- Travel Protections: The Platinum Card® includes trip delay insurance, car rental loss and damage insurance, baggage insurance, and emergency medical assistance abroad.
While it comes with a hefty annual fee of $695, the benefits far outweigh the cost for frequent travelers who want the best in luxury perks. This is one of the best credit cards for international travel if you prioritize comfort, exclusive services, and travel rewards.
3. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Best for: Flat-Rate Rewards on All Purchases
For travelers who prefer a simple, straightforward rewards program, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the best credit cards for frequent international travelers. Here’s why:
- Rewards Program: Earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, with no need to worry about rotating categories or spending limits. This flat-rate rewards structure makes it easy to rack up miles on both travel-related and everyday purchases.
- Sign-Up Bonus: New cardholders can earn 75,000 miles, which can be redeemed for $750 in travel purchases, after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Capital One waives foreign transaction fees, which is essential for international travelers who want to avoid additional costs when spending abroad.
- Travel Benefits: This card comes with travel perks like travel accident insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, and 24/7 travel assistance services.
With its easy-to-understand rewards program and global travel benefits, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of the best credit cards for frequent international travelers who value simplicity and flexibility.
4. Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Best for: Premium Travel Rewards and High-End Perks
The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is another excellent option for frequent international travelers, particularly those looking for a premium card with luxury benefits. Here’s why it stands out:
- Rewards Program: Earn 3 points per dollar on travel immediately after earning your $300 travel credit, 3 points on dining, 1 point on all other purchases. You can redeem points through Chase Ultimate Rewards, where they’re worth 50% more, or transfer them to travel partners like airlines and hotels.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months, which can be redeemed for $900 in travel expenses through Chase Ultimate Rewards.
- Luxury Travel Benefits: The Chase Sapphire Reserve® offers a wide range of luxury perks, including Priority Pass airport lounge access, a $300 annual travel credit, and comprehensive travel insurance coverage, such as trip cancellation, rental car insurance, and emergency medical evacuation.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: The card also waives foreign transaction fees, making it an excellent choice for international travelers.
Although the Chase Sapphire Reserve® comes with a $550 annual fee, the wealth of benefits, including premium travel rewards, insurance, and luxury perks, makes it one of the best credit cards for frequent international travelers.
5. Citi Premier® Card
Best for: Triple Points on Travel and Dining
If you’re looking for a credit card that earns generous rewards on travel and dining, the Citi Premier® Card is an excellent choice. Here’s what it offers:
- Rewards Program: Earn 3 points per dollar on travel, dining, and online shopping, 1 point per dollar on all other purchases. The rewards program is ideal for international travelers who spend on travel and dining experiences during their trips.
- Sign-Up Bonus: New cardholders can earn 80,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months. It can be redeemed for up to $800 in travel through the Citi ThankYou Travel Center.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: The Citi Premier® Card waives foreign transaction fees, a must-have for travelers who frequently purchase goods and services abroad.
- Travel Protections: Enjoy benefits such as trip cancellation/interruption insurance, travel accident insurance, and baggage delay protection.
With its strong rewards on travel and dining, plus solid travel protections, the Citi Premier® Card is one of the best credit cards for frequent international travelers who want to maximize their points on everyday purchases while traveling.
6. American Express® Gold Card
Best for: Dining and Earning Big Rewards on Everyday Spending
The American Express® Gold Card is an excellent option for international travelers who enjoy dining out and want to earn big rewards on food-related purchases. Here’s what makes it one of the best credit cards for frequent international travelers:
- Rewards Program: Earn 4 points per dollar at restaurants, including takeout and delivery, 3 points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, and 1 point on all other purchases.
- Sign-Up Bonus: New cardholders can earn 60,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 6 months, which can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, and more.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Like the other cards on this list, the American Express® Gold Card waives foreign transaction fees, making it a great option for international travel.
- Travel Protections: The card comes with baggage insurance, trip delay coverage, and car rental loss and damage insurance.
If you’re a foodie who loves to dine out and travel, the American Express® Gold Card offers one of the best rewards programs for international travelers.
Conclusion
When it comes to frequent international travel, choosing the right credit card is essential. The best credit cards for international travelers offer more than just great rewards—they provide critical benefits like no foreign transaction fees, travel insurance, and access to exclusive perks. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, The Platinum Card® from American Express, and the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card are all excellent choices, depending on your travel habits and preferences.
As you compare options, think about your spending patterns and travel goals. Whether you prefer earning flexible points for travel, enjoying premium perks, or earning a straightforward flat rate on every purchase, there’s a perfect card for you. Remember, the best credit cards can significantly enhance your international travel experience and help you get closer to your next dream destination with every swipe.
By using one of these top-rated credit cards, you’ll not only earn valuable rewards but also enjoy peace of mind with comprehensive travel protections and perks. Choose wisely, and your travels will be smoother, more rewarding, and cost-effective.