There are a quite a few major credit cards accepted around the world, the most common are American Express, Visa, MasterCard, Discover and Capital One. They are considered global credit cards and have travel benefits and rewards that can be used in over 200 locations worldwide.
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Of the four listed, American Express is considered the most trusted and respected. According to J.D. Power, American Express card members rate them highest in six major areas, including rewards, resolving credit card disputes and overall satisfaction. Curiously, Discover Card is next in line; those who were surveyed expressed a genuine appreciation and enjoyment whenever it is used.
Visa and MasterCard are also highly sought after. Consumers who carry these credit cards are sure to find attractive features that apply to their individual needs, like access to thousands of ATM machines and outstanding cash back rewards. Capital One is a good choice because they have very low fees when it comes to international purchases and currency exchanges.
Major Benefits of Global Credit Cards
Global credit cards often provide higher bonus points to be redeemed later. For example, the Miles by Discover Card allows you to earn extra bonus air miles with your credit card without having to pay extra fees, while the Escape by Discover Card allows unlimited travel without restrictions. Your card also permits booking for hotels and car rentals without exclusions or blackout dates.
American Express actually encourages building your global credit card around your preferences. If you are looking for a credit card for travel, shopping, and rewards bonuses, you have that option. You can select from a multitude of offers tailored to your lifestyle.
The traditional American Express Green Card, for instance, provides you with basics like 24-hour global assistance if you travel over 100 miles.
Every Visa credit card carries travel benefits, but the Visa Signature credit card line has exceptional benefits, like hotel and resort discounts and entertainment savings. Purchases of tickets for international events and shows are easy and convenient. In addition, you also have access to a concierge service to assist you wherever you are.
Benefits of Using Credit Cards While Traveling Internationally
One of the main reasons people choose to carry credit cards while traveling internationally rather than cash is the rate of exchange. Depending upon where you live, your native cash value may be more or considerably less than the country you travel to. Using credit cards gives you an advantage over cash or traveler’s check exchanges because most international banks charge customers less.
In fact, you can see a 2% to 7% reduction in exchange rates between those who use credit cards vs. those who use cash or traveler’s checks to purchase foreign currency. If you use a Capital One credit card, you are not subject to any fees at all. You can enjoy this benefit everywhere this credit card is accepted and you will not be responsible for tracking extra charges each time you need money.
Best Way to Guarantee the Best Credit Card Offer
Selecting credit cards these days is never a simple task as there are so many to choose from and the benefits can be very enticing. Since you have already narrowed your options to an international credit card, you should research each one and compare each offer with your needs.
You need to know your current credit score and history since these credit cards require good to excellent ratings to qualify. If you have not already requested this information, log onto AnnualCreditReport.com and complete the required steps. You will have a copy of your credit report within minutes.
You should also familiarize yourself with the newest credit card laws so you have a clear understanding of what to expect from each credit card company that you are interested in. You can find updated information by going to the Federal Reserve website to review the bullet points and any additional attachments regarding the new rules.
Take your findings, along with your small list of credit card companies and read the terms and agreement section of each. This is where all of the fees and rates are listed; you must have full knowledge of your financial obligations before applying for your credit card.
Your final step is the application process. Each of the listed major credit card companies has an online application you can complete and submit for approval; some even offer instant approvals within 60 seconds.
Once approved, you will be on your way to enjoying all of the premium options your credit card has to offer within a few short days.
Regardless of the type of credit card, you decide on, each will provide you with the most convenient way to travel to hundreds of international locations with ease and style. They allow you access to thousands of merchants that offer goods and services all over the world.
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