Best Credit Cards for International Travel for Students in 2024
Travelling internationally as a student can be an enriching experience, but it also comes with its own set of financial challenges.
Choosing the right credit card can help you manage your expenses, avoid unnecessary fees, and even earn rewards.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best credit cards for international travel for students in 2024.
Why You Need a Travel Credit Card
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Many credit cards charge a fee for purchases made outside your home country. Travel cards often waive these fees.
- Travel Rewards: Earn points or miles for flights, hotel stays, and more.
- Travel Insurance: Some cards offer travel insurance, covering things like trip cancellations or baggage loss.
- Building Credit: Using a credit card responsibly helps build your credit score, which is crucial for future financial activities.
Top Credit Cards for Students in 2024
1. Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
Why It’s Great for Students:
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Save on every purchase abroad.
- Rewards Program: Earn 2x points on travel and dining, and 1x on all other purchases.
- Sign-Up Bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after spending $4,000 in the first three months.
Considerations: This card has a $95 annual fee and may require a good credit score.
Learn more about Chase Sapphire Preferred®
2. Discover it® Student Cash Back
Why It’s Great for Students:
- No Annual Fee: Keep costs low.
- Cashback Rewards: 5% cash back on rotating categories each quarter, up to the quarterly maximum (must activate), and 1% on all other purchases.
- First-Year Cashback Match: Discover matches all the cash back earned at the end of the first year.
Considerations: It offers a 0% intro APR on purchases for six months, and then a standard variable APR applies.
Learn more about Discover it® Student Cash Back
3. Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards
Why It’s Great for Students:
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Ideal for international travel.
- Unlimited 1.5% Cash Back: On every purchase, every day.
- No Annual Fee: This makes it more affordable for students.
Considerations: Requires a fair credit score.
Learn more about Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards
4. Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students
Why It’s Great for Students:
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Perfect for international use.
- Unlimited 1.5 Points per $1 Spent: Redeem for travel purchases.
- No Annual Fee: Keeps your budget intact.
Considerations: Offers 25,000 online bonus points after making $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days.
Learn more about Bank of America® Travel Rewards for Students
Tips for Using Your Credit Card Abroad
- Notify Your Bank: Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid getting your card blocked.
- Understand Your Fees: Be aware of any ATM withdrawal fees or other charges.
- Use Local Currency: When given the option, choose to pay in the local currency to get a better exchange rate.
- Keep Track of Your Spending: Use your bank’s app to monitor transactions and avoid overspending.
FAQs
1. What are the best credit cards for international travel for students in 2024?
Some of the best options include the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card, the Discover it® Miles Card, and the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card, all of which offer no foreign transaction fees and valuable rewards.
2. Do these credit cards have annual fees?
Many travel credit cards have annual fees; however, some options, like the Discover it® Miles Card and the Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card, have no annual fee, making them ideal for students.
3. What benefits do these credit cards offer for international travel?
These cards typically offer benefits such as no foreign transaction fees, travel insurance, purchase protection, and rewards points that can be redeemed for travel-related expenses.
4. How can I earn rewards with these credit cards?
Most travel credit cards allow you to earn rewards by making everyday purchases.
Some cards offer bonus points for travel-related purchases, dining, or groceries, helping students accumulate rewards quickly.
5. What should I consider before choosing a travel credit card?
Consider factors like annual fees, interest rates, rewards structure, and benefits specifically for travellers, such as travel insurance and emergency assistance. Also, check for any foreign transaction fees.
6. Is it difficult to get approved for a travel credit card as a student?
It may be easier to get approved for a card designed for students or those with limited credit history. Many issuers offer cards specifically tailored for students that have more lenient approval criteria.
7. Can I use these credit cards to withdraw cash abroad?
Yes, you can use these credit cards to withdraw cash from ATMs internationally.
However, be aware that cash advances may incur higher fees and interest rates, so it’s best to use a debit card for cash withdrawals when possible.
Conclusion
Choosing the right credit card can make your international travels smoother and more affordable.
Consider your spending habits, the card’s benefits, and any associated fees before making a decision.
The cards listed above are excellent options for students looking to explore the world in 2024. Safe travels!
