What are foreign transaction fees?

Foreign transaction fees are charges applied by credit card issuers when you make purchases in a currency other than U.S. dollars. These fees typically range from 3% to 5% of the purchase amount and can add up quickly when traveling abroad.

Why should I use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees?

Using a card with no foreign transaction fees allows you to save money on international purchases and earn rewards without losing value to fees. These cards also offer competitive exchange rates and travel-related benefits.

Do I need a premium card to avoid foreign transaction fees?

No. While many premium travel cards waive foreign transaction fees, there are also excellent no-annual-fee options like the Bilt Mastercard® that offer the same benefit, along with valuable rewards.

Is American Express widely accepted abroad?

American Express acceptance has improved in many countries, especially in major cities. However, Visa and Mastercard tend to have broader acceptance in smaller towns and remote destinations, so it's wise to bring a backup card.

Can I earn rewards on rent payments with a no-fee card?

Yes. The Bilt Mastercard® allows you to earn 1 point per dollar on rent payments (up to 100,000 points annually), even if your landlord doesn’t accept credit cards. This is one of the few no-annual-fee cards offering this feature with no foreign transaction fees.

Which no-foreign-transaction-fee card is best for travel perks?

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a top pick for frequent travelers. It includes airport lounge access, annual travel credits, and strong rewards for travel bookings—with no foreign transaction fees.