Navigating the world of credit cards can be overwhelming, especially when you’re looking for the best credit card for international travel. The right credit card can not only save you money on foreign transaction fees but also unlock valuable travel rewards, airport lounge access, and travel insurance benefits. Let’s explore two standout options, each catering to different travel needs and preferences.
Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Excellent for Building Credit and Earning Flexible Travel Rewards
Why we recommend it for international travel: For those starting their credit journey or seeking a versatile, no-annual-fee card, the Chase Freedom Unlimited is an exceptional choice. While often categorized as a cash-back card, its rewards become significantly more valuable when combined with a Chase Ultimate Rewards®-earning card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred®. This combination allows you to convert your cash-back rewards into valuable travel points, redeemable for flights, hotels, and more through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal or by transferring to Chase’s travel partners. This strategy is particularly beneficial for international travelers who want to accumulate points for future trips without paying an annual fee upfront.
Earning Points for your international adventures: The Chase Freedom Unlimited offers a rewarding points structure that accelerates your earning potential. You’ll earn an impressive five points per dollar on travel purchased through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal, which includes flights, hotels, car rentals, and cruises – ideal for booking international travel arrangements. Additionally, you’ll receive three points per dollar at drugstores and on dining, useful for pre-trip essentials and meals abroad. For all other purchases, you’ll earn a solid 1.5 points per dollar, ensuring you’re consistently accumulating rewards on everyday spending that can fuel your international travels.
Valuable perks for savvy travelers: Despite being a no-annual-fee card, the Chase Freedom Unlimited provides practical benefits. While it doesn’t offer extensive travel-specific perks like lounge access, it includes shopping protections and auto rental collision damage waiver, offering peace of mind during your international trips. The ability to transfer points to premium travel cards within the Chase ecosystem is the real hidden perk, unlocking significant travel value in the long run.
Annual fee: None
Foreign transaction fees: 3 percent
Current welcome bonus: New cardholders can earn a $200 cash back bonus (equivalent to 20,000 points) after spending $500 on purchases within the first three months of account opening. Furthermore, you’ll enjoy an elevated earning rate of five percent cash back on gas station and grocery store purchases for the first year, on up to $12,000 in combined spending. This welcome offer provides a substantial boost to your rewards balance right from the start, which can be put towards your international travel fund.
Maximizing your points for international travel: A strategic way to use your points for international travel is by transferring them to airline partners like British Airways. For example, you could book a short-haul economy flight on partner airlines such as Alaska Airlines using British Airways Avios points, potentially covering flights within regions you are exploring internationally.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
The Premier Card for Luxury Air Travel and Exclusive Lounge Access
Why it’s the ultimate card for international air travel: The Platinum Card® from American Express stands out as a top-tier travel credit card, especially for frequent international travelers who prioritize luxury and convenience. Its rich suite of benefits and strong points-earning potential are designed to elevate every aspect of your journey. A key highlight is access to not one, but two extensive networks of airport lounges: the American Express Centurion Lounge network and Priority Pass Select, ensuring comfortable and relaxing airport experiences worldwide. Furthermore, elite status with Hilton Honors and Marriott Bonvoy provides valuable perks at hotels globally. The numerous statement credits offered can offset the annual fee for those who can utilize them effectively, making it a worthwhile investment for premium travelers. When it comes to redeeming points, the flexibility to transfer to a wide array of airline and hotel partners, including many of the world’s leading international carriers and hotel chains, provides unparalleled options for booking your international trips.
Accelerated points on flights and hotels for global explorers: The Platinum Card® from American Express rewards you generously for your travel spending. You’ll earn five Membership Rewards® points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel, on up to $500,000 in purchases per calendar year. This high earning rate applies to prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel as well. All other eligible purchases earn one point per dollar. This earning structure is heavily weighted towards air travel and prepaid hotels, aligning perfectly with the spending patterns of international travelers who often incur significant expenses in these categories.
Unparalleled perks for a seamless international journey: American Express has packed the Platinum Card® with a plethora of benefits and statement credits designed to justify its annual fee and enhance your travel experience. These include: an annual $200 airline incidental fee credit (select one qualifying airline); up to $200 annually in Uber Cash; up to $200 hotel credit on prepaid bookings through Amex Fine Hotels + Resorts; a $300 Equinox credit; a $240 digital entertainment credit; a $199 CLEAR® Plus credit; a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fee credit (up to $100); up to $100 in Saks Fifth Avenue credits annually; cell phone protection; and comprehensive travel insurance including baggage insurance and rental car insurance. Beyond the credits, cardholders enjoy access to sought-after restaurant reservations through Resy, and shopping protections. Enrollment is required for many of these benefits and terms apply, so it’s essential to understand the details to maximize their value.
Annual fee: Varies
Foreign transaction fees: None
Current welcome bonus: Welcome bonus offers can vary, it’s best to check the American Express website for the most up-to-date information. Historically, the welcome bonus has been substantial, often providing a significant influx of Membership Rewards points upon meeting a spending requirement in the initial months of card membership. These bonus points can be immediately put towards booking international flights or hotels.
Redeeming points for premium international experiences: Membership Rewards points earned with the Platinum Card® are incredibly versatile for international travel. Transferring points to airline partners like Delta Air Lines, Air France/KLM Flying Blue, or Singapore Airlines can unlock award flights in business or first class, offering significant value for long-haul international travel. Hotel transfers to partners like Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors can also be highly rewarding for luxury accommodations during your trips.
Choosing the best credit card for international travel depends on your individual spending habits, travel style, and credit score goals. The Chase Freedom Unlimited is a fantastic entry point with no annual fee and flexible rewards, while The Platinum Card® from American Express offers premium perks and luxury travel benefits for a higher annual cost. Carefully consider your priorities to select the card that best enhances your international travel experiences.
