Ever paid those sneaky 3% foreign transaction fees on your credit card while traveling? I certainly have — and essentially threw $90 down the drain on a $3,000 hotel stay abroad. That’s money that could’ve covered a nice dinner or another travel experience!
Foreign transaction fees typically range from 1% to 3% of your purchase amount, with most cards charging that full 3%. Fortunately, a credit card with no foreign transaction fee eliminates this unnecessary expense completely. Many of these cards also come with impressive travel perks — like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® with its 100,000-point bonus (worth $1,250 in travel) or the Capital One Venture offering 75,000 miles (equal to $1,000 in travel rewards).
Whether you’re planning an international vacation or just shopping from overseas websites, I’ve put together this list of the 15 best credit cards without foreign transaction fees available right now. No complicated jargon or sales pitch — just straightforward recommendations to help you stop wasting money on fees and start maximizing your travel benefits instead.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card stands as an exceptional travel companion for international journeys, completely eliminating those costly foreign transaction fees. When I used this card abroad, the savings were immediate compared to cards that charge the typical 3% fee.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card key features
The standout features of this Visa Signature card include a generous welcome bonus of 100,000 points after spending $5,000 in the first three months. These points are worth $1,250 when redeemed for travel through Chase Travel℠ thanks to the 25% value boost on travel redemptions.
Furthermore, the card offers an impressive rewards structure:
- 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠
- 3x points on dining, select streaming services, and online groceries (excluding Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs)
- 2x points on all other travel purchases
- 1x points on everything else
Additionally, cardholders receive a 10% anniversary point bonus based on your total purchases each year. If you spend $25,000 annually, that’s an extra 2,500 points automatically.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card pros and cons
Pros:
- No foreign transaction fees for international purchases
- Extensive travel protection including trip cancelation insurance up to $10,000 per person
- Annual $50 statement credit for hotel stays booked through Chase
- Points transfer 1:1 to 14 airline and hotel partners
- Visa network with global acceptance in over 200 countries
Cons:
- $95 annual fee
- No airport lounge access
- No TSA PreCheck/Global Entry credit
- No introductory APR offer
- Typically requires good to excellent credit score
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card pricing
The card carries a $95 annual fee. The variable APR ranges from 19.99% to 29.99%. Given the benefits, particularly the annual $50 hotel credit that offsets more than half the annual fee, the pricing represents solid value for frequent travelers.
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card best for
This card is ideal for travelers who want comprehensive protections without a premium annual fee. It’s particularly valuable for those who dine out regularly (earning 3x points) and book travel frequently.
Moreover, points enthusiasts who understand how to maximize value through transfer partners like United Airlines, Hyatt, and Emirates will find exceptional value. For instance, 70,000 points transferred to Air Canada’s Aeroplan could purchase a business class ticket worth over $7,500.
First-time travel rewards cardholders will appreciate the straightforward earning structure and reasonable annual fee while still enjoying premium travel benefits and the all-important feature of zero foreign transaction fees.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Looking for flexible travel rewards with global acceptance? The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card delivers impressive earning potential alongside a complete absence of foreign transaction fees, making it perfect for international travelers.
Capital One Venture Rewards key features
This travel-focused card currently offers a limited-time welcome bonus worth up to $1,000 in travel: 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 within the first 3 months, plus a $250 credit for Capital One Travel in your first cardholder year.
The straightforward earning structure includes:
- Unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, regardless of category
- 5X miles on hotels, vacation rentals, and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
Notably, cardholders enjoy mile transfers to 15+ travel loyalty programs, predominantly at a 1:1 ratio, including airlines like Air France-KLM, British Airways, and Emirates.
Capital One Venture Rewards pros and cons
Pros:
- Zero foreign transaction fees for international purchases
- Up to $120 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application (every 4 years)
- Complimentary Hertz Five Star status
- $50 experience credit on Lifestyle Collection hotel stays
- Flexible redemption options with no blackout dates
Cons:
- $95 annual fee
- Limited domestic airline transfer partners (JetBlue is the only U.S. carrier)
- Lower value (0.5 cents per mile) when redeeming for cash back
- Variable APR between 19.99%-29.24%
Capital One Venture Rewards pricing
The card carries a $95 annual fee with no introductory APR offer. Purchase APR ranges from 19.99% to 29.24% variable. Despite the annual fee, cardholders spending approximately $4,750 annually can effectively break even through earned rewards.
Capital One Venture Rewards best for
This card primarily suits travelers seeking simplicity and flexibility. It’s ideal for those who appreciate straightforward earning (2X on everything) without complicated category tracking. Meanwhile, international travelers benefit from worldwide acceptance and no foreign currency conversion fees.
Furthermore, cardholders who book through Capital One Travel maximize value with 5X earnings on hotels and rentals. The card works especially well for those who value redemption flexibility—using miles for past travel purchases, transferring to partners, or booking new trips without blackout date restrictions.
Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card
Budget travelers rejoice! The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card offers impressive flexibility without the burden of an annual fee, all while eliminating those pesky foreign transaction fees that can quickly add up during international trips.
Bank of America® Travel Rewards key features
The card delivers a straightforward earning structure with 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all purchases. For travel enthusiasts, bookings through the Bank of America Travel Center earn an elevated 3 points per dollar. The welcome offer stands at 25,000 bonus points after spending just $1,000 in the first 90 days—equivalent to a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.
One standout feature lies in the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program, which boosts earnings substantially:
| Preferred Rewards Tier | Required Balance | Points Bonus | Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gold | $20,000-$49,999 | 25% | 1.875 points/$1 |
| Platinum | $50,000-$99,999 | 50% | 2.25 points/$1 |
| Platinum Honors | $100,000+ | 75% | 2.625 points/$1 |
At the highest tier, your effective earnings jump to 2.625 points per dollar, outperforming many premium cards.
Bank of America® Travel Rewards pros and cons
Pros:
- No annual fee
- No foreign transaction fees
- Extremely broad definition of “travel” for redemptions, including zoos, amusement parks, aquariums
- 0% intro APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers
- Points never expire as long as account remains open
Cons:
- Best value limited to Bank of America Preferred Rewards members
- Lower base earning rate than some competitors
- Points worth only 0.6 cents when redeemed for cash back
- Requires good to excellent credit
Bank of America® Travel Rewards pricing
The card features a $0 annual fee and 0% intro APR for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers made within 60 days. Afterward, a variable APR of 18.24%-28.24% applies. Balance transfers carry a 3% fee for the first 60 days, then 4%.
Bank of America® Travel Rewards best for
This card excels for occasional international travelers seeking simplicity without annual fees. Furthermore, it’s perfect for Bank of America customers—especially those qualifying for Preferred Rewards status, where earnings become truly competitive.
Given the unusually broad definition of “travel” that includes museums, amusement parks, and even campgrounds, this card serves culture enthusiasts and outdoorsy travelers equally well. The Museums on Us program provides free access to over 225 museums nationwide on the first weekend of each month, creating additional value for art lovers.
Wells Fargo Autograph® Card
The Wells Fargo Autograph® Card represents an excellent balance of everyday value and travel perks—all without charging foreign transaction fees. This versatile card stands out with an impressive rewards structure across multiple spending categories.
Wells Fargo Autograph® Card key features
The card offers a generous rewards structure with unlimited 3X points on six everyday categories:
- Restaurants (dining in, takeout, delivery)
- Travel (airfare, hotels, car rentals, cruises)
- Gas stations and EV charging stations
- Transit (subways, rideshares, parking, tolls)
- Popular streaming services
- Phone plans (cell phone and landline providers)
Other purchases earn 1X points. New cardholders receive 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months—equivalent to $200 in cash redemption value.
Furthermore, the card includes valuable cell phone protection up to $600 per claim against damage or theft (subject to a $25 deductible) when paying your monthly phone bill with the card.
Wells Fargo Autograph® Card pros and cons
Pros:
- Zero foreign transaction fees
- No annual fee
- Strong 3X rewards across multiple everyday categories
- 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases
- Points transferable to travel partners
Cons:
- No intro APR on balance transfers
- Requires good to excellent credit
- No premium travel benefits like airport lounge access
- Variable APR ranges from 19.24% to 29.24% after intro period
Wells Fargo Autograph® Card pricing
The card features a $0 annual fee and a 0% intro APR for 12 months on purchases, after which a variable APR of 19.24%, 24.24%, or 29.24% applies. Unlike many other no-annual-fee cards, it charges absolutely no foreign currency conversion fees.
Wells Fargo Autograph® Card best for
Given its flexible rewards structure, this card is ideal for everyday spenders who occasionally travel internationally. It’s particularly valuable for those who spend heavily in the six 3X categories. Additionally, the card works well for those seeking travel benefits without paying an annual fee.
People who want to maximize cell phone protection while earning rewards on their monthly bill will find significant value here. Overall, this card offers exceptional versatility for both domestic spending and international travel without the burden of foreign transaction fees or annual costs.
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
Simplicity defines the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card. This straightforward card offers a hassle-free way to earn cash back while traveling internationally without paying a penny in foreign transaction fees.
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards key features
The card boasts unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase with no complicated categories to track. New cardholders can earn a $200 one-time cash bonus after spending just $500 within the first 3 months of account opening. Beyond everyday purchases, the card offers elevated 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, plus 5% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases through December 2025.
Consequently, redemption options remain flexible—cardholders can redeem rewards as statement credits, direct deposits, gift cards, or even cover recent purchases directly. Furthermore, rewards never expire as long as the account remains active.
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards pros and cons
Pros:
- Zero foreign transaction fees
- No annual fee
- Rewards don’t expire
- Simple 1.5% cash back structure
- 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
Cons:
- Regular APR range of 19.24% – 29.24% variable after intro period
- No bonus categories for everyday spending
- Requires excellent credit for approval
- Lower base rate than some competitor cards
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards pricing
The card features a $0 annual fee alongside a 0% intro APR for 15 months on both purchases and balance transfers. Subsequently, a variable APR of 19.24% to 29.24% applies. Balance transfers carry a fee of 3% during the first 15 months, increasing to 4% afterward.
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards best for
This card excels for travelers seeking simplicity. Hence, it’s ideal for those who prefer a straightforward earning structure without category tracking. Although not offering the highest cash back percentage available, the combination of no annual fee, zero foreign transaction charges, and uncomplicated rewards structure makes it perfect for international shoppers and occasional travelers who value ease over maximum rewards potential.
Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card
Food enthusiasts and entertainment lovers will appreciate the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card, which combines impressive cash back on dining and entertainment with zero foreign transaction fees.
Capital One Savor Cash Rewards key features
The Savor card offers a tiered rewards structure with generous earning potential:
- 3% cash back at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target), on dining, entertainment and popular streaming services
- 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
- 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
- 1% cash back on all other purchases
New cardholders can earn a $200 cash bonus after spending just $500 within the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, the card includes compelling travel benefits like complimentary concierge service and travel accident insurance.
Capital One Savor Cash Rewards pros and cons
Pros:
- No foreign transaction fees
- No annual fee
- Broad definition of “entertainment” category including movie theaters, sporting events, amusement parks, and more
- 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
- Capital One Dining access with exclusive reservations at award-winning restaurants
Cons:
- High APR range of 19.24%-29.24% variable after intro period
- Requires good to excellent credit
- 3% grocery rewards limited to grocery stores (excludes Walmart and Target)
- Balance transfer fee applies
Capital One Savor Cash Rewards pricing
The card features a $0 annual fee with a 0% intro APR for 15 months on both purchases and balance transfers. Afterward, a variable APR of 19.24%-29.24% applies. Furthermore, balance transfers incur a fee of 3% during the first 15 months, increasing to 4% later.
Capital One Savor Cash Rewards best for
This card serves best for those who spend heavily on dining, entertainment, and grocery shopping. Thus, it’s ideal for foodies who enjoy restaurants regularly while also appreciating entertainment activities. In fact, the generous 3% cash back in multiple categories makes it versatile for everyday spending. Above all, international travelers benefit from the combination of dining rewards and zero foreign transaction fees, making it perfect for sampling cuisine abroad without additional charges.
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
For travelers with fair credit scores, finding a card without foreign transaction fees can be challenging—that’s where the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card steps in. This card offers international spending benefits typically reserved for those with excellent credit histories.
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards key features
First and foremost, the card delivers unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase with no categories to track or rewards limits. Travelers receive 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. Credit building opportunities include automatic consideration for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months. In addition to these features, cardholders gain access to CreditWise from Capital One for free credit monitoring.
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards pros and cons
Pros:
- Zero foreign transaction fees
- Available to those with fair/limited credit
- Unlimited 1.5% cash back on all purchases
- Automatic credit line review after 6 months
- Extended warranty protection on eligible purchases
Cons:
- $39 annual fee
- High variable APR of 29.74%
- No welcome bonus
- No introductory 0% APR period
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards pricing
The card carries a $39 annual fee, which requires spending approximately $2,600 annually to offset through cash back rewards. Given that most credit cards for fair credit don’t offer comparable rewards, this fee represents reasonable value. The variable APR is 29.74%, making it crucial to pay your balance in full each month to avoid interest charges.
Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards best for
This card specifically serves international travelers with fair credit scores who still want to earn rewards. Therefore, it’s ideal for credit builders who want to avoid foreign transaction fees while traveling. Similarly, it works well for those looking to graduate to cards with better terms—establishing good habits with QuicksilverOne helps build eligibility for premium options like the Capital One VentureOne. The card is particularly beneficial for those who value simplicity in their rewards structure while working to improve their credit profile.
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
Students seeking to build credit while traveling internationally will find the Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card particularly valuable. This student-focused version of the regular Quicksilver card offers the same core benefits while being accessible to those with limited credit history.
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards key features
The card offers unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day with no categories to track or rewards to activate. Students booking through Capital One Travel receive elevated 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars. Furthermore, new cardholders can earn a one-time $50 cash bonus after spending just $100 within the first 3 months.
Beyond these core benefits, the card provides virtual card numbers from Eno for secure online shopping. Additionally, students receive access to Capital One Entertainment with exclusive pre-sales and tickets to events across music, sports, and dining.
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards pros and cons
Pros:
- No foreign transaction fees whatsoever
- No annual fee
- Rewards never expire for the life of the account
- Automatic consideration for higher credit line in as little as 6 months
- Flexible reward redemption options
Cons:
- High variable APR range of 19.24%-29.24%
- No introductory APR offer
- Limited credit-building features compared to some dedicated student cards
- Not as forgiving as some other student cards that waive first late payment
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards pricing
The card features a $0 annual fee with variable APR of 19.24%-29.24%. Undeniably, the absence of foreign transaction fees makes this card valuable for study abroad programs or international students shopping from overseas websites.
Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards best for
This card ideally serves students who don’t want to track bonus categories yet still want cash back rewards. Indeed, it’s excellent for those participating in study abroad programs thanks to zero foreign transaction fees. First-time cardholders will appreciate the simple rewards structure while building credit history. Lastly, it works well for busy students who lack time to maximize complex reward systems but still want value from everyday spending.
Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card
Business owners need travel flexibility without extra costs—the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card delivers precisely this for companies with international operations. This Chase business card stands out with robust travel benefits and zero foreign transaction fees.
Ink Business Preferred® key features
The card’s strongest feature is its impressive rewards structure: 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent annually in combined business categories including travel, shipping, internet/cable/phone services, and advertising purchases on social media and search engines. After reaching this threshold, purchases earn 1 point per dollar.
New cardholders receive 90,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 within the first 3 months—worth $1,125 when redeemed through Chase Travel℠ thanks to the 25% value boost.
Furthermore, points transfer at full 1:1 value to several major travel programs, creating additional flexibility for business travelers needing diverse redemption options.
Ink Business Preferred® pros and cons
Pros:
- No foreign transaction fees
- Generous welcome bonus worth $1,125 toward travel
- Employee cards at no additional cost
- Cell phone protection up to $600 per claim
- Trip cancelation/interruption insurance up to $5,000 per person
Cons:
- $95 annual fee
- $150,000 cap on bonus category spending
- High spending requirement ($8,000) for welcome bonus
- Variable APR ranges from 20.24% to 29.99%
Ink Business Preferred® pricing
The card carries a $95 annual fee with a variable APR of 20.24%-26.24%. Nevertheless, the foreign transaction fee is completely eliminated, making it ideal for businesses with international expenses.
Ink Business Preferred® best for
First, this card primarily serves small business owners with significant spending in the bonus categories. Small companies spending at least $3,167 annually in 3X categories can offset the annual fee. Likewise, businesses with international operations benefit immensely from avoiding the typical 3% foreign transaction fees.
Finally, organizations requiring employee cards appreciate the ability to add authorized users at no extra cost while maintaining spending controls.
Discover it® Miles
Travel enthusiasts looking to maximize first-year rewards should consider the Discover it® Miles card. This unique offering effectively doubles your earnings through its Mile-for-Mile match program while charging absolutely no foreign transaction fees.
Discover it® Miles key features
The card earns 1.5x Miles on every dollar spent on all purchases with no categories to remember. Most remarkably, Discover automatically matches all miles earned at the end of your first year – turning 35,000 miles into 70,000 miles worth $700. Miles maintain consistent value at 1 cent per mile regardless of redemption method.
Cardholders can redeem miles flexibly for:
- Statement credits for travel purchases within the past 180 days
- Direct cash deposits to bank accounts
- Amazon.com purchases (100 miles = $1)
- PayPal purchases
Discover it® Miles pros and cons
Pros:
- Zero foreign transaction fees
- No annual fee
- Miles never expire while account remains open
- No minimum redemption amount
- Free FICO credit score access
- “Freeze It” feature for lost cards
- First late payment fee waived
Cons:
- Less international acceptance than Visa/Mastercard networks
- No transfer partners for miles
- Requires good to excellent credit
- Variable APR of 18.24%-27.24% after intro period
Discover it® Miles pricing
The card features a 0% intro APR for 15 months on both purchases and balance transfers. Afterward, a variable APR of 18.24%-27.24% applies. The 3% introductory balance transfer fee increases to 5% after August 10, 2025. Considering there’s no annual fee, the first-year value can be substantial due to the Mile-for-Mile match.
Discover it® Miles best for
This card ideally serves travelers seeking simplicity over complex category bonuses. First-year cardholders receive exceptional value – effectively earning 3% on all purchases through the match feature. As such, it’s perfect for those planning significant expenses in their initial year of membership. Practically speaking, someone spending $1,000 monthly would earn 18,000 miles, doubled to 36,000 miles ($360 value) after the first year.
American Express® Gold Card
Culinary adventurers traveling overseas will appreciate the American Express® Gold Card, which combines premium dining rewards with travel-friendly features including zero foreign transaction fees.
American Express® Gold Card key features
The card delivers exceptional rewards for food enthusiasts:
- 4X points at restaurants worldwide (up to $50,000 annually, then 1X)
- 4X points at U.S. supermarkets (up to $25,000 annually, then 1X)[461]
- 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com[461]
- 2X points on prepaid hotels through AmexTravel.com
Yet what sets this card apart is its impressive statement credits—over $400 annually. These include $120 Uber Cash ($10 monthly), $84 Dunkin’ credit ($7 monthly), $100 Resy credit (split semi-annually), and $120 dining credit ($10 monthly) for participating partners like Grubhub and The Cheesecake Factory.
American Express® Gold Card pros and cons
Pros:
- No foreign transaction fees[432]
- Rich rewards for dining and groceries
- Over $400 in annual statement credits
- Comprehensive travel protections including baggage insurance
- Flexible point transfer to travel partners
Cons:
- $325 annual fee
- Credits divided into small monthly increments
- Requires enrollment for most credits
- Complex rewards structure
- Typically requires excellent credit
American Express® Gold Card pricing
The card carries a $325 annual fee. However, maximizing the $424 in available credits effectively offsets this cost. Additional Gold Cards (up to five) can be added with no annual fee.
American Express® Gold Card best for
This card naturally serves travelers who dine out frequently. In essence, it’s ideal for international foodies who can take full advantage of the 4X restaurant rewards globally while paying no foreign transaction fees. Furthermore, those who regularly use services like Uber, Grubhub, and Dunkin’ will extract maximum value. As such, households spending substantially on dining and groceries—while occasionally traveling internationally—find this premium card worthwhile despite its annual fee.
Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card
Want to earn travel rewards without paying an annual fee? The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card delivers this winning combination alongside zero foreign transaction fees for international travelers.
Capital One VentureOne Rewards key features
This beginner-friendly travel card earns unlimited 1.25 miles per dollar on every purchase. Beyond everyday spending, cardholders receive 5 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. New applicants can earn 20,000 bonus miles after spending just $500 within the first 3 months from account opening.
Cardholders can redeem miles for statement credits toward travel purchases, transfer to 15+ travel loyalty programs for greater flexibility, or use them for online purchases through Amazon and PayPal. Consequently, these miles never expire as long as the account remains active.
Capital One VentureOne Rewards pros and cons
Pros:
- Zero foreign transaction fees when making purchases outside the United States
- $0 annual fee
- 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
- Low spending threshold ($500) to earn welcome bonus
- Access to Capital One Travel perks including price prediction that typically saves 15% on flights
Cons:
- Lower base earning rate (1.25X) compared to premium travel cards
- Variable APR ranges from 19.24% to 29.24% after introductory period
- Balance transfer fee applies
- May not be worthwhile for high-volume spenders who could extract more value from annual-fee cards
Capital One VentureOne Rewards pricing
The card comes with a $0 annual fee, making it accessible for occasional travelers or those new to rewards cards. Additionally, it offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months on both purchases and balance transfers, after which a variable APR of 19.24%-29.24% applies.
Capital One VentureOne Rewards best for
This card primarily serves travelers seeking simplicity without annual costs. It’s ideally suited for those taking their first steps into travel rewards or modest spenders who travel occasionally. Furthermore, it works well as a companion card for international purchases due to its lack of foreign transaction fees. Granted, big spenders might extract more value from premium cards, but VentureOne provides a solid entry point into Capital One’s travel rewards ecosystem without ongoing costs.
Hilton Honors American Express Card
Hotel enthusiasts benefit from the Hilton Honors American Express Card’s blend of travel flexibility and brand-specific perks. As Hilton’s only no-annual-fee card, it eliminates foreign transaction fees completely while delivering substantial rewards for loyal guests.
Hilton Honors Amex key features
The card offers a tiered rewards structure:
- 7X points on eligible purchases directly with Hilton hotels and resorts
- 5X points at U.S. restaurants, U.S. supermarkets, and U.S. gas stations[541]
- 3X points on all other purchases
Presently, new cardholders earn 95,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after spending $2,000 in the first 6 months, up from the previous 80,000-point offer.
Yet the card’s standout feature is automatic Hilton Honors Silver Status, which includes benefits like 20% bonus points on stays, free bottled water, and elite rollover nights. Naturally, heavy spenders can earn Gold Status after $20,000 in eligible purchases within a calendar year.
Hilton Honors Amex pros and cons
Pros:
- Zero foreign transaction fees
- No annual fee[531]
- Automatic Silver Status with path to Gold
- Fifth Night Free benefit when booking with points
- Access to Amex Experiences for exclusive events
Cons:
- Lower status tier than premium Hilton cards
- Points generally worth less than other currencies
- Variable APR ranges from 20.24%-29.24%
- Requires good to excellent credit
Hilton Honors Amex pricing
The card features a $0 annual fee, making it budget-friendly for occasional Hilton guests. Accordingly, the variable APR ranges from 20.24% to 29.24%. Initially, there’s no introductory APR offer, so carrying balances can be costly.
Hilton Honors Amex best for
This card serves primarily two audiences. First, occasional Hilton travelers who can’t justify paying annual fees for premium hotel cards. Second, travelers wanting Hilton perks without ongoing costs. Effectively, it’s ideal for those who stay at Hilton properties a few times yearly while wanting to avoid foreign transaction fees during international trips[531].
I found the card’s combination of no annual fee, automatic elite status, and international fee savings creates compelling value, even with its modest entry-level benefits compared to premium offerings.
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card
Among Marriott’s credit card lineup, the Bold® option delivers exceptional value for travelers seeking hotel benefits without paying an annual fee. Remarkably, this card completely eliminates foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for international hotel stays.
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® key features
This entry-level Marriott card offers tiered rewards earning:
- 3X points for every $1 spent at participating Marriott Bonvoy properties
- 2X points on grocery stores, rideshare, select food delivery, streaming services, and internet/cable/phone services
- 1X points on all other purchases
New cardholders earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months. The card provides automatic Silver Elite Status with benefits like 10% bonus points on stays and priority late checkout when available.
Beyond that, cardholders receive 5 Elite Night Credits annually, helping progress toward higher status tiers.
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® pros and cons
Pros:
- Zero annual fee
- No foreign transaction fees
- Automatic Silver Elite status with Marriott Bonvoy
- Comprehensive travel protections including baggage delay insurance up to $100/day for 5 days
- Trip delay reimbursement up to $500 for delays over 12 hours
Cons:
- Lower rewards rate than premium Marriott cards
- Silver Elite offers limited benefits compared to higher tiers
- Requires good credit (700+ score) for approval
- No free anniversary night like fee-based Marriott cards
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® pricing
The card features a $0 annual fee with no foreign transaction fees whatsoever. Obviously, the variable APR ranges from 20.49%-27.49%, making it essential to pay balances in full.
Marriott Bonvoy Bold® best for
In contrast to premium hotel cards, this option suits occasional Marriott guests who can’t justify annual fees. It’s perfect for budget-conscious travelers seeking basic elite status benefits and those who value travel protections without ongoing costs. Given that the points earned don’t expire as long as you maintain activity every 24 months, even infrequent Marriott guests can accumulate meaningful rewards over time.
Comparison Table
| Credit Card | Annual Fee | Welcome Bonus | Base Rewards Rate | Key Benefits | APR Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chase Sapphire Preferred® | $95 | 100,000 points ($1,250 value) after $5,000 spend in 3 months | 1x points | – 5x on Chase Travel bookings – $50 hotel credit – 25% travel redemption bonus | 19.99%-29.99% |
| Capital One Venture | $95 | 75,000 miles ($1,000 value) after $4,000 spend in 3 months | 2x miles | – Up to $120 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credit – Hertz Five Star status | 19.99%-29.24% |
| Bank of America® Travel Rewards | $0 | 25,000 points ($250 value) after $1,000 spend in 90 days | 1.5 points | – 0% intro APR for 15 billing cycles – Points never expire | 18.24%-28.24% |
| Wells Fargo Autograph® | $0 | 20,000 points ($200 value) after $1,000 spend in 3 months | 1x points | – 3x points on restaurants, travel, gas, transit, streaming – Cell phone protection up to $600 | 19.24%-29.24% |
| Capital One Quicksilver | $0 | $200 after $500 spend in 3 months | 1.5% cash back | – 0% intro APR for 15 months – 5% back on Capital One Travel | 19.24%-29.24% |
| Capital One Savor | $0 | $200 after $500 spend in 3 months | 1% cash back | – 3% back on dining, entertainment, groceries – 8% back on Capital One Entertainment | 19.24%-29.24% |
| Capital One QuicksilverOne | $39 | None | 1.5% cash back | – Automatic credit line review after 6 months – Available for fair credit | 29.74% |
| Capital One Quicksilver Student | $0 | $50 after $100 spend in 3 months | 1.5% cash back | – No credit history required – Higher credit line consideration after 6 months | 19.24%-29.24% |
| Ink Business Preferred® | $95 | 90,000 points ($1,125 value) after $8,000 spend in 3 months | 1x points | – 3x points on first $150k in select categories – Cell phone protection | 20.24%-29.99% |
| Discover it® Miles | $0 | Miles match in first year | 1.5x miles | – 0% intro APR for 15 months – First late payment fee waived | 18.24%-27.24% |
| American Express® Gold | $325 | Not mentioned | 1x points | – 4x points at restaurants worldwide – $400+ in annual credits | Not mentioned |
| Capital One VentureOne | $0 | 20,000 miles after $500 spend in 3 months | 1.25x miles | – 0% intro APR for 15 months – 5x miles on Capital One Travel | 19.24%-29.24% |
| Hilton Honors Amex | $0 | 95,000 points after $2,000 spend in 6 months | 3x points | – Automatic Silver Status – 7x points at Hilton properties | 20.24%-29.24% |
| Marriott Bonvoy Bold® | $0 | 30,000 points after $1,000 spend in 3 months | 1x points | – Automatic Silver Elite status – 5 Elite Night Credits annually | 20.49%-27.49% |
Conclusion
Finding the right card that eliminates foreign transaction fees can save you hundreds of dollars on your international adventures. Throughout this guide, we’ve explored options ranging from premium travel cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® with its impressive 100,000-point bonus to no-annual-fee alternatives such as the Bank of America® Travel Rewards card.
Students and those with fair credit need not worry about getting stuck with transaction fees either. Capital One’s QuicksilverOne and Quicksilver Student cards prove that these benefits aren’t exclusively for those with perfect credit scores. Business owners likewise benefit from cards like the Ink Business Preferred®, which combines zero foreign fees with substantial category bonuses.
Most importantly, these cards offer value beyond just eliminating the 3% foreign transaction fee. Many provide compelling travel insurance, statement credits, and rewards that make international spending even more worthwhile. The American Express® Gold Card demonstrates this perfectly, delivering over $400 in annual credits alongside its global dining rewards.
Undoubtedly, your ideal card depends on your spending habits, travel frequency, and whether you prefer cash back or transferable points. Cards with annual fees generally deliver richer benefits but require strategic use to offset their cost. Conversely, no-annual-fee options like the Wells Fargo Autograph® Card offer surprising value for occasional travelers without ongoing expenses.
Remember that avoiding foreign transaction fees represents just one aspect of smart international spending. Exchange rates, acceptance networks, and travel notifications remain equally important considerations. Nevertheless, arm yourself with one of these 15 cards before your next overseas adventure, and those unnecessary 3% fees will become a thing of the past—keeping more money in your pocket for experiences that actually matter.
FAQs
Q1. What are the best credit cards for international travel with no foreign transaction fees? Top options include the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, and Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card. These cards offer travel rewards and benefits while eliminating foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for international travelers.
Q2. How can I avoid paying foreign transaction fees when traveling abroad? Use a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, such as those mentioned in this article. Additionally, consider exchanging some cash before your trip, using travel-specific prepaid cards, and always choosing to pay in the local currency when given the option during transactions.
Q3. What features should I look for in a credit card for international travel? Look for cards with no foreign transaction fees, wide international acceptance (like Visa or Mastercard networks), travel insurance benefits, rewards on travel purchases, and potentially airport lounge access or Global Entry/TSA PreCheck credits for frequent travelers.
Q4. Are credit cards with annual fees worth it for international travel? It depends on your travel frequency and spending habits. Cards with annual fees often offer more robust rewards and benefits that can outweigh the cost for frequent travelers. However, there are also excellent no-annual-fee options available for occasional international trips.
Q5. Can I get a credit card with no foreign transaction fees if I have fair or limited credit? Yes, options like the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card and Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card offer no foreign transaction fees for those with fair credit or limited credit history. These cards provide an opportunity to build credit while avoiding fees on international purchases.
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