Traveling abroad can be thrilling, but hidden fees and poor exchange rates can put a damper on your adventures.
The last thing you want is to lose money with every swipe of your card while paying for things like hotel rooms, dining, or souvenirs.
That’s why choosing the right travel credit card is critical for travelers who want to save money and maximize rewards.
In this post, we’ll explore the best travel credit cards for 2024, all chosen for their ability to help you avoid foreign transaction fees and enjoy perks like cashback, better exchange rates, and exclusive rewards. Let’s get started!
1. Halifax Clarity Credit Card
Why It’s Great: The Halifax Clarity Credit Card is a popular choice for globetrotters due to its 0% foreign purchase fees worldwide, meaning you won’t be charged extra when spending in foreign currencies. There’s no cash withdrawal fee either, but keep in mind that interest is charged immediately on withdrawals, even if you repay them in full by the statement date.
Key Features:
- Foreign Purchase Fee: 0% (EU and Worldwide)
- Rewards: Cashback, with up to 15% at select retailers
- Best For: Travelers seeking hassle-free spending and no foreign exchange fees.
What Sets It Apart: Many travel credit cards come with restrictions or fees, but the Halifax Clarity Card offers simplicity without sneaky charges, making it ideal for regular travelers who prefer not to deal with complex reward systems or annual fees.
2. Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card
Why It’s Great: With 0.25% cashback on all purchases, including those made abroad, this card gives you something back every time you spend. Plus, it has no foreign transaction fees and interest-free cash withdrawals, as long as you pay the balance in full monthly.
Key Features:
- Foreign Purchase Fee: 0%
- Rewards: 0.25% cashback on all purchases
- Best For: Cashback lovers and those looking for flexible rewards when traveling.
What Sets It Apart: The Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card is a fantastic choice for those who want to earn rewards as they spend, whether at home or abroad. You’ll also enjoy free cash withdrawals, making it a smart option for anyone looking to reduce fees while traveling.
3. NatWest Credit Card
Why It’s Great: This card offers no foreign transaction fees and one of the lowest interest rates available at 12.9%, making it a great choice if you’re looking for a travel credit card with a low APR. However, it lacks the cashback rewards of some of its competitors.
Key Features:
- Foreign Purchase Fee: 0%
- Rewards: None—this card is focused purely on low-interest rates, making it ideal for budget-conscious travelers.
- Best For: Those seeking low-interest rates rather than rewards or cashback.
What Sets It Apart: While other cards may offer perks like cashback, the NatWest Credit Card focuses on providing low rates, perfect for those who prioritize minimizing interest charges over accumulating rewards.
4. Chase Travel Credit Card
Why It’s Great: The Chase Travel Credit Card not only offers fee-free spending abroad, but it also provides 1% cashback on international and domestic purchases. It works as a debit card alternative with benefits similar to a credit card. While a newer option in the UK market, it is already gaining popularity for its travel-friendly features.
Key Features:
- Foreign Purchase Fee: 0%
- Rewards: 1% cashback on all purchases (up to £15/month)
- Best For: Travelers who want a flexible debit card with the advantages of a credit card, plus cashback.
What Sets It Apart: The Chase Card combines the convenience of a debit card with the perks of a credit card, making it a great option for those who want a fee-free and reward-earning travel card without the worry of interest or credit limits.
5. First Direct Credit Card
Why It’s Great: First Direct offers a generous £175 switching bonus if you open a current account with them. The fee-free spending and ATM withdrawals abroad, combined with excellent customer service, make this card a strong contender for frequent travelers.
Key Features:
- Foreign Purchase Fee: 0%
- Cash Withdrawal Fee: None
- Best For: Those who want a complete travel package, including rewards, excellent service, and cash incentives.
What Sets It Apart: The First Direct Card not only allows you to spend abroad for free, but you also get a £175 bonus just for switching. It’s perfect for those who want great service and an all-around travel-friendly card.
Bonus: Alternatives to Travel Credit Cards
If you’re not sure whether a travel credit card is right for you, there are other options to consider:
- Prepaid Travel Cards: These allow you to load money before you go and offer fixed exchange rates with no interest or borrowing, but be aware of potential fees or reloading limits.
- Travel Debit Cards: Cards like Starling Bank and Monzo offer fee-free spending abroad without the need for a credit check.
Conclusion: Choose the Right Travel Credit Card for Your Needs
Discover the Top 5 Travel Credit Cards to Save Money Abroad in 2024 – Find the best cards with no foreign transaction fees, cashback, and travel perks.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or planning a one-off trip, choosing the right travel credit card can help you save hundreds in fees and make the most of your spending abroad.
Consider your priorities—whether it’s low fees, cashback, or flexible spending options—and select a card that meets your needs. Safe travels!
