Beachgoers Financially Transacting on the Shoreline
When planning a trip abroad, understanding the payment methods accepted in your destination is crucial. Here's a breakdown of the recommended payment methods for traveling in Europe and beyond, focusing on credit cards and debit cards.
Credit Cards
Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted across Europe, especially in cities and tourist areas. American Express is accepted but less commonly, particularly in smaller businesses or rural areas.
To avoid extra costs, it's advisable to select credit cards that do not charge foreign transaction fees. For instance, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card offers rewards on travel and dining purchases abroad.
When using credit cards, it's best to use them for larger purchases and carry some local currency cash for small transactions, tips, or places that don't accept cards.
Debit Cards
Debit cards are practical and secure solutions for young travelers. Cards like Charles Schwab Investor Checking and Betterment Checking offer no foreign transaction fees and unlimited ATM fee reimbursements, making them excellent for travelers seeking to minimize costs.
The Wise International Debit Card offers competitive currency conversion rates and low ATM fees on first withdrawals monthly but may have limits.
It's important to pay attention to possible foreign currency and withdrawal fees when choosing a card. Many banks charge foreign currency conversion fees (1-3%) and ATM fees, sometimes as high as $15 per withdrawal with non-partner ATMs.
To avoid fees, use bank accounts or cards known for no foreign transaction fees and ATM fee reimbursements, such as Charles Schwab. Withdrawing larger amounts less frequently can also help minimize the number of ATM fees.
Other Tips
- It's advisable to check the general credit limit, daily, and weekly limits for payments and cash withdrawals beforehand.
- Bank cards displaying the Girocard logo are typically accepted in many stores and at ATMs, especially abroad.
- In the USA, almost no payment or booking process is possible without a credit card.
- For international travel, it may be recommended to get travel vaccinations based on the destination, according to STIKO.
- Smartphones can be used for payment at the beach via services like Apple Pay or Google Pay.
- Travelers should make copies of ID, passport, and payment cards before departure and store them securely.
Emergency Measures
In case of a lost payment card, use the 116 116 hotline (or +49 116 116 or +49 30 4050 4050 from abroad) to block the card. It's important to check how to block a card in case of emergency and consider fees when withdrawing money.
Banks may offer replacement solutions for lost cards, such as issuing a new card for a fee or an emergency cash withdrawal via a hotline. A small amount of cash for emergencies is usually sufficient when traveling, as cash can be withdrawn locally if needed.
Remember, it's essential to inform your bank about planned stays abroad to prevent card blocking due to an "unfamiliar location."
For detailed information about payment methods in the travel destination, visit www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/reiseundsicherheit.
[1] NerdWallet
[2] Forbes Advisor
[3] The Points Guy
[4] Bankrate
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