The card is ideal for travel abroad. It allows you to benefit from insurance, withdraw cash or make purchases. And all this at less expense if you meet certain conditions.
Check your credit card contract
Abroad, as in France, contracts related to credit cards are not all alike. But almost all of them generally includes insurance. Especially valid when you travel if you pay your ticket (train, plane, boat) with your credit card.
You get travel insurance. And you’re covered in case of health problems for 90 days. This coverage is however limited to a certain amount. In addition, any act of redemption is subject to a deductible.
Coverage of bank cards may suffice in some countries. However, in other countries (eg USA) where medical costs are very high, take out additional insurance. In all cases, always contact your bank or insurance before incurring expenses.
Note: Only some cards (Visa Premier Gold Mastercard, etc..) Cover baggage loss, trip cancellation or civil liability.
Bank charges abroad
The credit card remains one of the means of payment more convenient travel. You will benefit first from a favorable exchange rate. However, some fees apply:
- A commission (% of total);
- Transaction fees (per transaction).
These fees depend on the country where you go and contract linked to your credit card. The commission does not generally apply in the countries of the euro area.
Ask your bank if:
- It has partnerships with local banks in the country where you will;
- It offers packages that limit costs (also including insurance loss / theft).
NB: The fees are generally higher on cash withdrawals with payments, but remain well below the withdrawals from banks abroad.
Before departure
Before you leave, you should check:
- The validity of your credit card;
- Terms of your contract;
- The maximum weekly and daily withdrawals and payments;
- Opportunities for credit card payments in the country;
- The availability of automated teller machines (ATMs) in the country;
- Acceptance of your credit card type in the country.
Also remember to take with you:
- The number of international and local (countries visited) opposition;
- The details of medical and insurance associated with the card;
- The number of your credit card and expiration date (in secure and separate).
On site
When you use your credit card abroad:
- Always ask for a ticket for the withdrawal or payment;
- Keep them to return;
- Do not sign a receipt of payment unless all boxes are filled;
- Make sure it is not possible to change the amount (add a 0 for example) when paying with a machine “iron”.
If you give your credit card to a merchant for a payment, make sure that the transaction takes place before your eyes. It has happened that an attacker copies the magnetic chip of a card.
Sign your card on the back and add the words “show ID” (show ID). This can limit the damage in case of theft or loss of the card.