Every year, many travelers share the same experience: standing at a checkout counter in another country, credit card in hand, hoping everything goes smoothly.
Using credit cards internationally can be one of the easiest and safest ways to pay—when you’re prepared. A few simple steps can help you avoid extra fees, reduce risk, and focus on enjoying your trip.
At Hancock Whitney, we believe confident financial decisions start with accurate information. Here’s how to use your credit cards with confidence while traveling abroad.
Most credit card issues that occur while traveling internationally can be avoided with a little pre-trip planning.
Notify Your Bank or Card Issuer: Before traveling, check with your card issuer on whether a travel notification is recommended. While many issuers automatically monitor for unusual activity, notifying your bank can help prevent disruptions and make it easier to identify legitimate purchases.
Review Foreign Transaction Fees: Foreign transaction fees can quietly increase the cost of your trip. Many credit cards charge between 1% and 3% on purchases made in a foreign currency. These fees may seem small, but they can quickly add up over the course of a vacation.
If international travel is something you do regularly, consider using a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.
Check Your Card Capabilities: Most US credit cards now include chip technology, but payment systems vary around the world. Before you travel, confirm whether your card supports PIN transactions and check how your card issuer handles purchases at unattended kiosks, such as train stations or parking terminals.
Set Alerts and Save Contact Information: Enable transaction alerts through your banking app before you leave. Real-time notifications can help you quickly spot unauthorized activity and monitor spending while you’re away.
It’s also a good idea to save your card issuer’s international customer service number in your phone and keep a written copy with your travel documents.
Foreign transaction fees are one of the most common travel expenses people overlook.
When you use your credit card in another currency, your card issuer converts the purchase to US dollars and may charge a small percentage fee. While individually small, these fees can significantly increase total trip costs.
One of the easiest ways to save money when using credit cards internationally is to choose a card that waives foreign transaction fees altogether.
A few practical habits make everyday spending overseas smoother and less expensive.
Choose Local Currency: Always select the local currency when given the option. This helps you avoid unfavorable exchange rates from dynamic currency conversion.
Use Contactless Payments when Possible: Digital wallets (such as Apple Pay™ and Google Pay®) and tap-to-pay options add convenience and an extra layer of security by protecting your card details. Digital wallets also make it easier to continue making purchases if your physical card is misplaced.
Be Intentional with ATM Use: Use ATMs connected to banks, decline conversion offers, and withdraw larger amounts less frequently. Decline any offers to convert the transaction into US dollars and avoid standalone ATMs in heavily trafficked tourist areas.
Staying aware and prepared can go a long way toward keeping your finances secure while traveling:
Monitor Accounts Regularly: Check your account activity daily using your bank’s app or mobile banking. This makes it easier to identify and address unfamiliar transactions quickly and address potential issues before they become larger problems.
Watch for Card Skimming: Before using an ATM or card reader, take a quick look for anything unusual. If a card reader appears loose, damaged, or tampered with, find another machine. Whenever possible, use contactless payments instead of inserting your card.
Keep Your Card in Sight: Whenever possible, use payment terminals at your table or pay digitally to reduce the risk of card mishandling.
Even well-planned trips can include unexpected challenges. Knowing what to do ahead of time can make the situation much easier to manage.
Report Lost Credit Cards Immediately: As soon as you realize a card has been lost or stolen, contact your issuer or use your mobile banking app to lock or freeze the card.
One of the best ways to protect yourself financially while traveling internationally is to have a backup plan.
Consider these simple strategies:
Two-Card Rule: Carry at least two credit cards from different networks and store them separately.
Share Access: If traveling with family, consider having another adult carry a backup card.
Keep a Cash Reserve Handy: Maintain a small amount of local currency for a taxi, a meal, or an emergency.
Have Access to Emergency Contacts: Keep a physical record of important card and customer service contact details in a secure location.
Failing to prepare your accounts before departure
Accepting dynamic currency conversion instead of paying in local currency
Relying on a single credit card
Ignoring suspicious transactions until after you return home
International travel creates opportunities for new experiences, meaningful connections, and lasting memories. With a little planning and awareness, your credit card can be a valuable tool for helping you confidently navigate those experiences.
Planning your next trip? Whether you're looking for a credit card with travel-friendly features or tools to manage expenses on the go, Hancock Whitney offers solutions designed to support your financial goals. Connect with a banker or explore available credit card options to find the right fit for your lifestyle.