Using your credit card abroad

Here’s how you can make the most of your flexible friend when you travel overseas.

Plan ahead
Make sure your card payments are up to date and you have enough credit left before you travel. The last thing you want is to have to your card declined or to rack up late payment fees.

Keep your card safe
Make a note of the international number for reporting lost and stolen cards so you can act immediately. Don’t carry all your valuables in one place they may be lost or become a target for thieves. Avoid being careless when you're paying with your card. If you already have a 'Chip and PIN' card, you may want to take that instead of one that requires you to sign a slip. Many European countries are using this new technology already.

Avoid hidden fees
Every time you use your card abroad to make a purchase or a cash withdrawal you will be charged a fee. This is usually around 2.75%. 

This doesn’t sound much but adds up over a week or two. Opt for a card that doesn’t make this charge. Nationwide is one of the few issuers who don’t apply it while Liverpool Victoria only charge a 1% fee on overseas transactions.

Check your cover
Most credit cards include some travel insurance but make sure you read the small print before you rely on it. It may not cover you for everything. Don’t forget that paying with credit card can provide automatic insurance for the items you buy for a short period of time.