When travelling abroad, using the right credit card can save money and enhance convenience. Many standard UK credit cards charge foreign transaction fees, which can add up over time.
However, travel-friendly credit cards offer features such as no foreign transaction fees, cashback on purchases, and competitive exchange rates.
This guide explores some of the best credit cards to use abroad, highlighting their key benefits, eligibility criteria, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
What Makes a Credit Card Ideal for International Travel?
Selecting the right credit card for travel requires an understanding of the key features that provide the most benefits. Many standard UK credit cards charge foreign transaction fees, making international spending more expensive. A good travel credit card should offer:
- No foreign transaction fees: Some credit cards charge around 3% on non-sterling transactions. Cards that waive this fee can result in substantial savings.
- Competitive exchange rates: Travel-friendly credit cards often provide near-market exchange rates, helping to avoid hidden currency conversion costs.
- Cashback and rewards: Some credit cards offer cashback on purchases, allowing travellers to earn rewards on everyday spending.
- Travel perks and protections: Premium travel credit cards may offer benefits such as airport lounge access, travel insurance, and fraud protection.
- No ATM withdrawal fees: Some travel cards allow cash withdrawals abroad without additional charges, though interest may apply.
- 0% interest introductory offers: Some credit cards provide an interest-free period on purchases, helping travellers spread the cost of their trip.
Top Credit Cards for Using Abroad
Several UK credit cards offer benefits tailored for international travellers. Here are some of the best options available, based on their fees, cashback offers, and overall travel-friendly features.
1. Virgin Money Everyday Cashback (27.9%)
The Virgin Money Everyday Cashback Credit Card is a great option for travellers looking for a simple, no-fee card that offers cashback on spending.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 27.9% (variable).
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no extra charge on non-sterling transactions).
- Account Fee: £0.
- Cashback: Earn cashback on eligible purchases when enrolled in the cashback programme.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- No foreign transaction fees mean users can shop abroad without incurring extra costs.
- Cashback on spending provides an opportunity to earn money back on purchases.
- Mastercard network ensures wide global acceptance.
Potential Drawbacks:
- No introductory 0% interest period on purchases.
- Cashback eligibility depends on enrolment in the Virgin Money rewards programme.
This card is ideal for travellers who want a straightforward option with no additional fees while earning rewards on their spending.
2. Virgin Money Everyday Cashback (24.9%)
A close alternative to the 27.9% version, this credit card offers similar benefits but with a slightly lower representative APR, making it a better choice for those who may need to carry a balance occasionally.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 24.9% (variable).
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no extra charge on overseas purchases).
- Account Fee: £0.
- Cashback: Available on purchases when enrolled in the Virgin Money cashback programme.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- No foreign purchase fees, making it cost-effective for spending abroad.
- Lower APR compared to the 27.9% version, which may be beneficial for those carrying a balance.
- Mastercard network ensures worldwide acceptance.
Potential Drawbacks:
- No 0% interest period on purchases or balance transfers.
- Cashback is only available through an opt-in programme.
This card is well-suited for travellers who prioritise no foreign transaction fees and cashback, with a slightly lower APR than its 27.9% counterpart.
3. Santander All in One Credit Card
The Santander All in One Credit Card is a strong choice for frequent travellers who want a mix of cashback, no foreign transaction fees, and a 0% interest period on purchases.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 29.8% (variable).
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no fees for overseas transactions).
- Account Fee: £3 per month.
- Cashback: 0.5% cashback on all spending (up to £10 per month).
- Introductory Offer: 0% interest for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- No foreign transaction fees make it a great option for frequent international spending.
- Cashback on all purchases adds an extra incentive.
- 0% interest on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months, allowing users to spread out payments.
- Mastercard network provides worldwide acceptance.
Potential Drawbacks:
- The £3 monthly fee (£36 per year) may not be worth it for infrequent travellers.
- Cashback is capped at £10 per month, limiting earning potential.
This card is best for frequent travellers who want the convenience of interest-free spending and cashback rewards while avoiding foreign transaction fees.
4. Virgin Money Travel Credit Card (24.9%)
The Virgin Money Travel Credit Card is designed specifically for travellers, offering no foreign transaction fees and an introductory 0% interest period.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 24.9% (variable).
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no charges for spending abroad).
- Account Fee: £0.
- Introductory Offer:
- 0% interest on purchases for 9 months.
- 0% interest on balance transfers for 9 months (with a 2% transfer fee).
- 0% interest on money transfers for 9 months (with a 4% transfer fee).
- Rewards: Cashback is available through the Virgin Money app when enrolled in the cashback programme.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- No foreign transaction fees make it a great option for international spending.
- 0% interest on purchases for 9 months, allowing users to spread the cost of travel expenses.
- Cashback and additional perks through the Virgin Money mobile app.
- Mastercard network ensures acceptance worldwide.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Cashback benefits require enrolment in the programme.
- After the 9-month introductory period, interest rates apply to balances carried over.
- Balance transfers and money transfers incur fees (2% and 4%), making them less ideal for long-term balance management.
This card is a strong choice for travellers looking for a combination of no foreign transaction fees and an introductory 0% interest period on purchases.
5. Virgin Money Travel Credit Card (29.9%)
The Virgin Money Travel Credit Card (29.9%) is designed for travellers who want to avoid foreign purchase fees while benefiting from a 0% interest period on spending and balance transfers.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 29.9% (variable).
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no extra charge for transactions in foreign currencies).
- Account Fee: £0.
- Introductory Offer:
- 0% interest on purchases for 9 months.
- 0% interest on balance transfers for 9 months (2% balance transfer fee).
- 0% interest on money transfers for 9 months (4% money transfer fee).
- Rewards: Cashback available for eligible spending when enrolled in the Virgin Money cashback programme.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- No fees on foreign purchases make it a cost-effective option for international spending.
- The 9-month interest-free period on purchases allows travellers to spread the cost of their trips.
- Mastercard network ensures wide acceptance worldwide.
- Cashback opportunities through the Virgin Money mobile app offer additional savings.
Potential Drawbacks:
- A higher APR (29.9% variable) compared to some other travel credit cards.
- The 2% balance transfer fee and 4% money transfer fee can reduce the benefits of the 0% interest offer.
- Cashback benefits require enrolment in the programme.
This card is best for travellers looking for a no-foreign-fee option with an introductory 0% interest period, though it may not be the best choice for those who plan to carry a balance long-term.
6. Virgin Money Travel Credit Card (27.9%)
Similar to the 24.9% and 29.9% versions, the Virgin Money Travel Credit Card (27.9%) provides a mix of no foreign transaction fees, cashback, and an introductory interest-free period.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 27.9% (variable).
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no charge for transactions abroad).
- Account Fee: £0.
- Introductory Offer:
- 0% interest on purchases for 9 months.
- 0% interest on balance transfers for 9 months (2% balance transfer fee).
- 0% interest on money transfers for 9 months (4% money transfer fee).
- Rewards: Cashback available via the Virgin Money cashback programme.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- No foreign transaction fees, making international spending more affordable.
- The 9-month interest-free period provides flexibility in managing payments.
- Cashback rewards offer extra savings on everyday spending.
- Global Mastercard acceptance makes it useful in most travel destinations.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Similar to the 29.9% version, it has a higher APR compared to some competitors.
- The 2% balance transfer fee and 4% money transfer fee can be costly.
- Cashback benefits require enrolment in the programme.
This card is a good fit for travellers who want a balance between no foreign fees, cashback, and an introductory 0% interest period, but it may not be ideal for those who need long-term low-interest borrowing.
7. Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card
The Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card is one of the most competitive options for frequent travellers, offering cashback on all spending and zero fees on non-sterling purchases.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 28.9% (variable).
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no extra charges for overseas purchases).
- Account Fee: £0.
- Cashback:
- 0.25% cashback on all spending, including foreign purchases.
- Additional cashback through Barclaycard Cashback Rewards, offering up to 15% cashback at participating retailers.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- No foreign transaction fees, making it a cost-effective option for international spending.
- 0.25% cashback on all purchases, providing added value on both domestic and overseas transactions.
- Up to 15% cashback at selected retailers when enrolled in Barclaycard Cashback Rewards.
- No fees for ATM withdrawals abroad, provided users pay in the local currency.
- Mastercard network ensures global acceptance.
Potential Drawbacks:
- A relatively high APR of 28.9%, making it less suitable for those who carry a balance.
- Cashback rate of 0.25% is lower than some other cashback credit cards.
This card is ideal for frequent travellers who want a combination of no foreign transaction fees and cashback on all spending, without the need for an annual fee.
8. Barclaycard Rewards – Excl
The Barclaycard Rewards – Excl is another strong option for travellers, offering no foreign transaction fees and cashback rewards.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 31.9% (variable).
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no extra charges for spending in foreign currencies).
- Account Fee: £0.
- Cashback: Earn cashback on all eligible spending, similar to the standard Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- No fees on foreign purchases, reducing travel expenses.
- Cashback rewards provide additional savings on everyday transactions.
- No annual fee, making it a cost-effective choice for international travellers.
- Mastercard network ensures global acceptance.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Higher APR (31.9%) compared to the standard Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card (28.9%).
- Cashback benefits are not as high as some other reward credit cards.
This card is best suited for travellers who want a no-foreign-fee credit card with cashback but do not intend to carry a balance.
9. Zopa Credit Card
The Zopa Credit Card is a fully digital, app-based credit card designed for modern travellers who prefer managing their finances through a smartphone. It comes with no foreign transaction fees, making it a great choice for international spending.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 34.9% (variable).
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no fees for spending abroad).
- Account Fee: £0.
- Credit Limit Increases: Eligible users can request up to two optional credit limit increases per year.
- App-Based Management: Requires an Android or iOS device for activation and management.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- No fees on non-sterling transactions, making it a cost-effective choice for spending abroad.
- Fully digital experience—easy to manage through the Zopa mobile app.
- Quick application process, with a decision in as little as 60 seconds.
- No annual fee, making it a budget-friendly option.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Higher APR (34.9%) compared to some competitors.
- No cashback or rewards programme.
- Requires a smartphone for full functionality, which may not be ideal for those who prefer traditional banking.
The Zopa Credit Card is best suited for tech-savvy travellers who want a hassle-free, app-based credit card with no foreign transaction fees.
10. Zable Credit Card
The Zable Credit Card is designed for travellers looking for an option with no foreign transaction fees, quick approval, and flexibility in managing their credit.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 48.9% (variable).
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no fees for spending abroad).
- Account Fee: £0.
- Quick Eligibility Check: Fast application process with a soft credit check option.
- Managed by Lendable Ltd: A well-established digital lending provider.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- No foreign transaction fees, making international purchases more affordable.
- Quick and easy application process, with instant eligibility checks.
- No annual fee, keeping costs low for budget-conscious travellers.
Potential Drawbacks:
- High APR (48.9%), making it an expensive choice for those who carry a balance.
- No cashback or rewards, which may not appeal to those looking for additional benefits.
- Credit limit may be lower for applicants with limited credit history.
The Zable Credit Card is best for travellers looking for a quick-approval card with no foreign fees, especially those with varying credit scores.
11. NatWest Credit Card
The NatWest Credit Card stands out due to its low-interest rates compared to many competitors, making it an attractive option for those who may occasionally carry a balance.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 12.9% (variable), with a maximum rate of 18.9% for those with lower credit scores.
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no fees for spending abroad).
- Account Fee: £0.
- Mobile App Features: Users can log travel plans in the app to reduce the chances of transactions being flagged as suspicious.
- Also available through: Ulster Bank and the Royal Bank of Scotland.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- Extremely low APR (12.9%) makes it one of the most affordable travel credit cards for carrying a balance.
- No foreign purchase fees, allowing for cost-effective spending abroad.
- Mobile app integration enables travellers to pre-load travel plans, reducing the risk of blocked transactions.
- No annual fee, making it a great long-term option.
Potential Drawbacks:
- No cashback or rewards programme, meaning travellers miss out on additional benefits.
- Not the best choice for balance transfers due to a lack of introductory 0% interest offers.
This card is ideal for travellers who prioritise low interest rates over cashback and rewards while enjoying no foreign transaction fees.
12. Coutts & Co. Silk Card
The Coutts & Co. Silk Card is a premium option, available only to individuals who qualify for private banking services. It provides luxury travel perks, making it an excellent choice for high-net-worth travellers.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 19.99% (variable).
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no fees for overseas transactions).
- Account Fee: £0.
- Luxury Travel Benefits:
- Access to over 1,100 airport lounges in 300+ airports worldwide.
- Concierge service for booking travel, hotels, and exclusive experiences.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- No foreign transaction fees, reducing the cost of international purchases.
- Airport lounge access provides comfort and convenience for frequent flyers.
- Concierge service helps with trip planning, hotel upgrades, and exclusive discounts.
- No annual fee, making it more affordable than many other premium travel credit cards.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Exclusive to private banking clients, meaning it’s not widely available.
- No cashback or general rewards scheme, unlike some premium travel credit cards.
This card is best for high-net-worth travellers who qualify for Coutts private banking and want premium travel perks without an annual fee.
13. Halifax Clarity Credit Card
The Halifax Clarity Credit Card is one of the most popular travel credit cards in the UK due to its no foreign transaction fees and fee-free cash withdrawals abroad.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 23.9% (variable).
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no charges for overseas spending).
- Account Fee: £0.
- Cash Withdrawals:
- No cash withdrawal fees abroad.
- ATM providers may charge their own fees, but Halifax does not impose any charges.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- No foreign transaction fees, making it an excellent card for international spending.
- No fees for overseas cash withdrawals, making it one of the best choices for accessing money abroad.
- No annual fee, keeping costs low.
- Mastercard network ensures global acceptance.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Interest is charged immediately on cash withdrawals, even if repaid in full that month.
- No cashback or rewards, unlike some competitors.
This card is ideal for travellers who frequently withdraw cash abroad, as it does not charge additional fees for ATM withdrawals, making it one of the most cost-effective choices for accessing money overseas.
14. Monzo Credit Card
The Monzo Credit Card is a flexible, app-based credit card designed for UK residents who want a transparent, easy-to-use credit option with interest-free instalments on eligible purchases. It offers a unique “Flex” payment feature, allowing users to spread costs over time with 0% interest on purchases of £100 or more paid over 3 months.
Key Features:
- Representative APR: 29% (variable).
- Foreign Purchase Fee: £0 (no charges for spending abroad).
- Account Fee: £0.
- Starting Credit Limit: Up to £10,000 (subject to eligibility).
- Flex Payment Plan:
- 0% interest on purchases of £100+ when paid over 3 months.
- 29% APR (variable) for purchases repaid over longer periods (up to 24 months).
- No introductory offers—these 0% interest deals are ongoing.
- Eligibility Check Without Impact on Credit Score: See if you qualify before applying.
- Requires a Monzo Current Account: Users must open a Monzo current account to be eligible.
Why It’s Good for Travellers:
- No foreign transaction fees, making it an excellent choice for spending abroad.
- 0% interest instalments provide flexibility for managing larger purchases.
- App-based control allows users to manage spending, repayments, and transactions seamlessly.
- High potential credit limit (up to £10,000), offering flexibility for different spending needs.
Potential Drawbacks:
- Requires a Monzo current account, which may not be suitable for those who don’t want to switch banks.
- 29% APR (variable) is higher than some other travel credit cards.
- Missed payments may remove access to 0% interest rates on existing purchases.
This card is ideal for travellers who already use Monzo and want a flexible, no-foreign-fee credit card with built-in instalment payment options.
Comprehensive Comparison Table Travel Credit Cards:
| Credit Card | Foreign Transaction Fee | Cashback/Rewards | Introductory 0% Interest | Representative APR (Variable) | Annual/Monthly Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virgin Money Everyday Cashback (27.9%) | No | Cashback (with enrolment) | No | 27.9% | £0 | Simple cashback without foreign fees |
| Virgin Money Everyday Cashback (24.9%) | No | Cashback (with enrolment) | No | 24.9% | £0 | Lower APR than the 27.9% version with similar perks |
| Santander All in One Credit Card | No | 0.5% cashback (capped at £10/month) | 15 months | 29.8% | £3/month (£36/year) | Frequent travellers who want cashback and 0% interest |
| Virgin Money Travel Credit Card (24.9%) | No | Cashback (with enrolment) | 9 months | 24.9% | £0 | No foreign fees with a short 0% interest period |
| Virgin Money Travel Credit Card (29.9%) | No | Cashback (with enrolment) | 9 months | 29.9% | £0 | Similar to the 24.9% version but with a higher APR |
| Virgin Money Travel Credit Card (27.9%) | No | Cashback (with enrolment) | 9 months | 27.9% | £0 | Balanced choice between the 24.9% and 29.9% versions |
| Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card | No | 0.25% cashback on all purchases | No | 28.9% | £0 | Frequent travellers who want cashback with no foreign fees |
| Barclaycard Rewards – Excl | No | Cashback on eligible spending | No | 31.9% | £0 | Travellers looking for no foreign fees and basic cashback benefits |
| Zopa Credit Card | No | None | No | 34.9% | £0 | App-based card with quick eligibility checks |
| Zable Credit Card | No | None | No | 48.9% | £0 | Quick approval with no foreign fees |
| NatWest Credit Card | No | None | No | 12.9% – 18.9% | £0 | Low APR option for carrying a balance while travelling |
| Coutts & Co. Silk Card | No | Airport lounge access & concierge service | No | 19.99% | £0 | High-net-worth individuals with private banking eligibility |
| Halifax Clarity Credit Card | No | None | No | 23.9% | £0 | Best for fee-free cash withdrawals abroad |
| Monzo Credit Card | No | 0% instalments on £100+ purchases (3 months) | Ongoing 0% offers | 29% | £0 | App-based travellers who want flexible, no-fee spending abroad |
How to Choose the Right Travel Credit Card for You
Selecting the best travel credit card depends on personal spending habits and travel frequency. Several factors should be considered before applying:
- Foreign transaction fees: If you travel regularly, a credit card with no foreign transaction fees can save a significant amount over time.
- Cashback and rewards: Some cards provide cashback or travel rewards on international purchases, making them more rewarding for frequent travellers.
- Annual fees: Some premium travel cards charge an annual fee in exchange for additional perks. Consider whether the benefits outweigh the cost.
- 0% interest periods: If you plan to spread the cost of purchases, choosing a card with an interest-free period on spending can be beneficial.
- Credit limit and eligibility: Some cards require a minimum income or a strong credit history for approval. Checking eligibility before applying can help avoid rejections.
What Are the Tips for Using Credit Cards Abroad?
Maximising savings and avoiding unnecessary fees while travelling can be achieved with a few simple practices:
- Always pay in the local currency: When given the option, paying in GBP instead of the local currency can lead to poor exchange rates and additional fees.
- Inform your bank before travelling: Some banks may flag international transactions as suspicious, potentially leading to declined payments.
- Carry a backup card: In case of fraud, loss, or technical issues, having an additional credit card ensures access to funds.
- Use mobile banking: Monitoring transactions through an app helps keep track of spending and detect unauthorised activity.
- Avoid cash advances: Withdrawing cash using a credit card often incurs high fees and interest, so it is better to use a debit card or a travel-friendly credit card that waives withdrawal fees.
By choosing the right travel credit card and using it wisely, travellers can reduce costs and enjoy additional benefits while spending abroad.
Conclusion
Choosing the best credit card to use abroad depends on travel habits, spending preferences, and eligibility criteria.
Cards like the Santander All in One Credit Card and Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card offer strong benefits, including no foreign transaction fees and cashback rewards.
For those looking for introductory interest-free periods, the Virgin Money Travel Credit Card is a solid choice.
Before applying, comparing features, checking eligibility, and considering spending habits will ensure the best credit card for international travel is selected.
FAQs
What is the best credit card for avoiding foreign transaction fees?
The Santander All in One Credit Card and Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card are excellent options, as they charge no fees for overseas spending.
Which UK credit card offers the best travel rewards?
The Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card offers cashback on all purchases and additional rewards when shopping with selected retailers.
Do travel credit cards affect my credit score?
Applying for multiple credit cards in a short period can temporarily lower your credit score. However, responsible use, such as paying balances in full, can improve your score over time.
Can I use my UK credit card in every country?
Most travel credit cards work globally, especially those issued by Visa and Mastercard. However, some remote locations may have limited card acceptance.
What’s the best credit card for withdrawing cash abroad?
The Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card allows cash withdrawals abroad with no extra fees, provided payments are made in local currency.
Are there any hidden charges when using a travel credit card?
Some credit cards have hidden charges like dynamic currency conversion fees, cash advance fees, or annual fees. Reading the terms and conditions helps avoid unexpected costs.
How can I increase my credit limit while travelling?
Some credit card providers allow customers to request a credit limit increase through their banking app or customer service. Eligibility depends on payment history and credit score.
