Ways To Lower International Transaction Fees

by Eric
(California)

I have some tips on how to lower or avoid those international transaction fees on ATMs and Credit Cards. I was looking at your Foreign Money page, and had a few tips that I live by when I travel...

First off:

I only use Capital One credit cards when I travel abroad. The 'No Hassle' commercials are true.

Capital One charges no transaction fees for international purchases. They simply convert the price into US dollars and charge that to your account. For international travel, a Capital One credit card is a blessing with no fees of any sort.

Secondly:

I use the following website to see what various banks charge to use your card abroad....
Flyer Guide Wiki for TAM Cards and Foreign Exchange
It helps people choose which card to bring and which leave home.

Before I started traveling I only had a Wells Fargo Savings & Checking account. Once I learned they charged $5+3% a transaction I opened up an ING Direct and HSBC Direct online account to keep from paying fees. HSBC used to be 0% at foreign ATM's. Unfortunately these too are charging fees now, so I'm once again searching for a cheaper way to exchange money on the road.

Hope this will help some of your other readers. Thanks for a fun website. Great info. What is your next destination? Wow, you have been almost everywhere. I'm adding to my travel resume little by little. I'll keep checking for future updates of your latest adventures.

Happy travels yourself! Eric