Foreign Transaction Planner
A 3% foreign transaction fee on a $5,000 trip costs you $150. This planner shows which cards in your wallet charge no FTFs, earn the best travel rewards, and should go in your carry-on — and which ones to leave at home.
Pro tip: Visa and Mastercard vs. Amex abroad
Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere internationally. American Express acceptance varies by country — strong in the UK, Japan, and Australia, but limited in Germany, Southeast Asia, and parts of South America. Always bring at least one Visa or Mastercard as your primary international card.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a foreign transaction fee?
A foreign transaction fee (FTF) is a surcharge — typically 3% of each purchase — that many credit cards charge when you make a transaction in a foreign currency or through a foreign bank. On a $5,000 trip, that's $150 in hidden fees. Many travel-focused cards waive this fee entirely.
Which credit cards have no foreign transaction fees?
Most premium travel cards waive FTFs, including the Chase Sapphire Preferred, Chase Sapphire Reserve, Capital One Venture X, Amex Gold, and Amex Platinum. Many mid-tier cards like the Capital One SavorOne and Bilt Mastercard also have no FTFs.
Should I pay in local currency or US dollars abroad?
Always pay in the local currency. When merchants offer to charge you in USD (called Dynamic Currency Conversion or DCC), they use a markup of 3-7% over the real exchange rate. Even with a 3% FTF, paying in local currency gives you a better exchange rate.
Do debit cards have foreign transaction fees?
Most debit cards charge both a foreign transaction fee (1-3%) and ATM withdrawal fees ($2-5 per transaction abroad). For overseas spending, credit cards with no FTF are almost always a better choice.
How much can I save by using the right card abroad?
On a typical $3,000-$5,000 international trip, using a no-FTF card instead of one with a 3% fee saves $90-$150 instantly. If that card also earns 3x points on travel, the total difference can be $180-$300+ per trip.