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Using the wrong debit or credit card while traveling can cost you more than you think. Foreign transaction fees—typically 1% to 3% per purchase—can add up fast, leaving you with unexpected expenses. Whether you’re booking a hotel, dining out, or withdrawing cash from an ATM, these extra charges can quickly eat into your budget.
The good news? Some banks eliminate foreign transaction fees, helping you keep more of your money while abroad. Here’s a look at the best banks that let you spend internationally without the extra cost.
5 Best Debit Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fees
If you prefer using a debit card while traveling, choosing one without foreign transaction fees can save you money on every purchase. These banks offer fee-free international spending and access to ATMs worldwide, making it easier to manage your money abroad.
The Capital One 360 Checking account is a solid choice for travelers who want a no-fee banking experience.
With no foreign transaction fees, no monthly maintenance fees, and access to a vast global ATM network, it makes managing money abroad simple and affordable.
Key Features:
No foreign transaction fees – Spend internationally without extra charges.
70,000+ fee-free ATMs – Withdraw cash from Capital One, Allpoint, and MoneyPass ATMs.
No monthly fees or overdraft fees – Keep more of your money with fee-free banking.
Cash deposits at CVS – Conveniently add cash to your account at participating locations.
Varo Bank is a strong option for travelers looking to avoid fees while earning competitive savings rates.
With no foreign transaction fees, no monthly fees, and fee-free access to over 55,000 Allpoint ATMs, you can spend and withdraw cash abroad without added costs.
Plus, Varo’s savings account offers up to 5.00% APY, helping you grow your money faster.
Key Features:
Free worldwide debit card use – No foreign transaction fees or hidden charges.
55,000+ fee-free ATMs – Withdraw cash at major retailers like Target and CVS.
Up to 5.00% APY on savings – One of the highest rates available.
Early direct deposit – Get your paycheck up to two days sooner.
HSBC Premier Checking is a premium checking account for frequent travelers who want seamless international banking.
It comes with no foreign transaction fees, fee-free withdrawals at HSBC ATMs worldwide, and travel-friendly perks like emergency financial support at HSBC locations globally.
While there is a $50 monthly fee, it can be waived by meeting balance or deposit requirements.
Key Features:
No foreign transaction fees – Spend internationally without added costs.
Fee-free withdrawals at HSBC ATMs worldwide – Access cash easily in multiple countries.
Monthly fee waiver available – Avoid the $50 fee by meeting balance or deposit requirements.
Premier debit card perks – Enjoy travel-related benefits and purchase protection.
Exclusive credit card options – HSBC Premier Credit Card also has no foreign transaction fees.
5 Best Credit Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fees
Credit cards often offer better fraud protection and rewards than debit cards, making them a great choice for international travel. These cards let you spend abroad without foreign transaction fees while earning points, miles, or cash back on every purchase.
The Capital One VentureOne card is a solid choice for travelers who want to earn rewards without paying foreign transaction fees.
It offers unlimited 1.25 miles per dollar on every purchase, plus bonus miles for new cardholders. With flexible redemption options and no annual fee, it’s an affordable way to earn travel rewards.
Key Features:
No foreign transaction fees – Use your card abroad without extra charges.
Unlimited 1.25 miles per dollar – Earn rewards on every purchase.
Sign-up bonus – Get 20,000 bonus miles after meeting spending requirements.
Flexible redemption – Use miles for flights, hotels, or statement credits.
No annual fee – Keep more of your rewards without extra costs.
The Discover it® Cash Back card is a great option for travelers who want to earn rewards without paying foreign transaction fees.
It offers 5% cash back on rotating categories and automatically matches all cash back earned in the first year.
While Discover’s international acceptance is limited compared to Visa and Mastercard, it’s still a strong no-fee option for domestic and some international travelers.
Key Features:
No annual fee – Keep your rewards without paying extra.
No foreign transaction fees – Avoid extra charges on international purchases.
5% cash back on rotating categories – Earn rewards on eligible purchases each quarter.
Unlimited 1% cash back – Get consistent rewards on all other spending.
Cashback Match™ – Discover matches all cash back earned in the first year.
The Platinum and Gold Cards from American Express offer valuable rewards and premium perks for travelers.
Both cards have no foreign transaction fees and earn Membership Rewards points, but the Platinum Card focuses on luxury travel benefits like lounge access, while the Gold Card provides strong rewards on dining and everyday spending.
Key Features:
Annual statement credits – Receive credits for dining, Uber, digital entertainment, and more.
No foreign transaction fees – Spend abroad without extra costs.
Generous welcome offers – Earn up to 80,000 Membership Rewards points after meeting spending requirements.
Bonus rewards on travel and dining – Platinum earns 5X points on flights; Gold earns 4X points at restaurants.
Premium travel perks (Platinum only) – Includes airport lounge access, $200 airline credit, and hotel benefits.
The Bank of America Travel Rewards card is a great no-annual-fee option for travelers who want flexible rewards and no foreign transaction fees.
It earns unlimited 1.5 points per dollar on all purchases, with points redeemable for travel expenses. Preferred Rewards members can boost their earnings, making this card even more valuable for Bank of America customers.
Key Features:
No annual fee – Keep all your rewards without extra costs.
No foreign transaction fees – Spend internationally without extra charges.
Unlimited 1.5 points per dollar – Earn rewards on all purchases.
Sign-up bonus – Get 25,000 bonus points after meeting spending requirements.
Flexible redemption – Use points for flights, hotels, rental cars, and more.
What are foreign transaction fees, and why should you avoid them?
Foreign transaction fees are charges banks and credit card companies apply when you make a purchase in a foreign currency. These fees typically range from 1% to 3% of the transaction amount and can add up quickly, especially for frequent travelers.
Paying these fees on every international purchase can cost you hundreds over time. Since some banks and credit cards waive foreign transaction fees, choosing the right option can help you avoid unnecessary costs. Comparing banks and reading the fine print ensures you’re not paying more than necessary when spending abroad.
Finding the right bank for international travel depends on your spending habits and banking needs. Consider these key factors before making a decision:
Travel frequency: If you travel often, choose a bank that offers free worldwide ATM withdrawals and no foreign transaction fees.
Card type: Credit cards typically provide better fraud protection than debit cards and may offer travel rewards or perks.
ATM access: Look for a bank with a large global ATM network or fee reimbursements for withdrawals abroad.
Security features: Prioritize banks that offer fraud alerts, travel notifications, and 24/7 customer support.
Account fees: Avoid banks that charge monthly maintenance fees, ATM fees, or high currency conversion fees.
Even if your bank doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, you could still face other hidden costs when spending abroad. Here’s what to look out for:
ATM fees: Some banks charge fees for using out-of-network ATMs, even internationally. Look for banks that offer fee reimbursements.
Currency conversion fees: Some ATMs and merchants offer “dynamic currency conversion,” letting you pay in USD instead of the local currency—but at a bad exchange rate. Always choose to pay in the local currency.
Cash advance fees: Using a credit card to withdraw cash from an ATM usually comes with high fees and interest charges.
Tips for Managing Money While Traveling
Avoiding fees is just one part of smart money management when traveling. Keep these tips in mind to make your finances hassle-free abroad:
Carry multiple payment methods: Have both a debit and credit card in case one doesn’t work or gets lost.
Notify your bank before traveling: Some banks may flag international transactions as fraud unless you set a travel notice.
Use a budgeting app: Apps like Mint or Revolut help you track spending in real time and convert currencies easily.
Keep some local cash on hand: Not all places accept cards, so it’s smart to have cash for taxis, tips, or small purchases.
Final Thoughts
Avoiding foreign transaction fees can save you money and make managing your finances abroad much easier. The right bank or credit card will let you spend internationally without extra costs, provide strong security features, and offer easy access to cash when needed.
Before choosing a bank, consider how often you travel, whether you prefer a debit or credit card, and if the bank offers perks like ATM fee reimbursements or travel rewards. A little research now can prevent unnecessary fees later, leaving you with more money to enjoy your trip.
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