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Is credit or debit better for travel?

Yes, using a credit card internationally is the best way to go about paying for things when you're abroad. It's safer because you don't have to carry as much cash, and all major credit card companies offer $0 fraud liability guarantees.



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Big spenders can benefit substantially from travel credit cards, especially ones that offer annual spending bonuses. Travel cards offer generous incentives for substantial spending. Rewards range from airline and hotel elite status to free hotel nights and even companion passes.

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The advantage of using a debit card on vacation is that it forces you to stay within your vacation budget and not spend any more than you have in the bank. Also, debit cards can be used nearly anywhere your credit card is accepted.

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Using a debit card that reimburses ATM-operator fees and doesn't charge ATM fees or foreign-exchange fees can save you money when traveling abroad. Being able to withdraw small amounts of foreign currency without having to worry about fees can be convenient, especially if you're hopping from one country to another.

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Credit card transaction fees are typically higher than debit cards. Shops may charge a fee, and banks may charge a conversion fee for the payment. If the merchant hasn't displayed fee notices, travelers should inquire with the staff. Credit cards may be subject to ghost charges or temporary holds.

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Should You Use Cash or Credit When Traveling to Europe? Most international travelers will end up using a combination of cash and cards when visiting Europe. While credit cards are accepted in most situations, currency can be more convenient for public transportation and small vendors.

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Mastercard and Visa are the most widely accepted credit cards in the Dutch retail space; American Express tends to be accepted only by major retailers in the Netherlands who have an international client base – although Amex acceptance is growing.

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A foreign transaction fee is a surcharge on credit card purchases made outside of the U.S. They might also apply to purchases made with debit and prepaid cards. Fees can vary, depending on the card issuer, card network and product but typically range from 1% to 3% of the transaction.

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