Job Discussion Forums

[Omeo]

This seems like something that should've been asked before, but I couldn't find it, so here goes: What's the best credit card to have when traveling abroad? I'm basicly looking for one that's accepted in a lot of places and one that will hopefully give me a good deal on air miles for plane tickets. Thank you.

[fancynan]

Just last year I got a Capital One card for traveling. I learned that most credit cards charge a transaction fee for any purchases made outside of the US (I am American). Capital One does not charge an extra fee. They also reward miles for airline flights but I am not really sure how that works.

[tedkarma]

I used to have three cards from three different places - but in the financial consolidation over the last 8-10 years they all ended up with Chase. And, I am happy they did!

I can do everything online. I can monitor the account and can have them take money out of my bank account to pay my charges. AND, no extra fees for overseas charges. Can also do paperless statements so I am not swamped with (by the time I get them) out of date information.

http://www.chase.com/PFSCreditCardHome.html

A good online bank or credit union also helps for getting other bills paid. My credit union even has a file for me with presigned wiring forms so I can even wire money into my account in Thailand with just an e-mail request (all the account info is filled in to prevent other types of problems!).

Getting your finances well-organized before you head overseas can save a LOT of time and trouble.

[Omeo]

Thanks for the help, so far. By the way, I'm primarily interested in Japan and Europe, if that helps with the suggestions.