westpac travel insurance on card

Westpac Complimentary Credit Card Insurance and COVID-19 (Coronavirus) FAQ

Information for westpac eligible cardholders regarding covid-19.

Information on this page is correct as of  30 June 2022 .

Stay up to date on Travel Information for COVID-19 from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT)  Smartraveller  website and  World Health Organisation  (WHO) and  Department of Home Affairs .

Always consult the smartraveller.gov.au website prior to any travel. In addition to visas, COVID-19 testing, and proof of vaccination requirements, many countries now have compulsory insurance and medical cover proof conditions. Check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you are entering. If you require additional documentation regarding the complimentary international travel insurance policy due to international entry requirements, please contact us on 1800 091 710.

From 30 June 2022, if during the period of your cover, you (and your spouse/dependents, if they’re eligible for cover) are positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic (such as COVID-19), cover may be available under the following sections:

• 1.1 Overseas Emergency Assistance
• 1.2 Overseas Emergency Medical
• 1.4 Medical Evacuation & Repatriation
• 2.1 Cancellation
• 3.1 Additional Expenses

If your travel companion is positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, such as COVID-19, which impacts your journey, cover may be available to you under the following sections: 

Note, you won’t be covered while travelling against advice or warnings issued by the Australian government and you did not take reasonable care to avoid contracting the sickness, for example by delaying travel to the country listed in a warning.

The above is a summary only, please refer to  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet  for eligibility criteria, full terms, conditions, limits and exclusions.

A General Exclusion for epidemic/pandemic applies for all claims relating to any epidemic/pandemic outside of the select benefits in the applicable policy information booklet  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet . Please note, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply.

To receive a formal outcome, Eligible Westpac Cardholders must submit a claim.

Eligible Westpac travellers who meet the eligibility criteria should be aware that other General Exclusions have the potential to apply.

What is a General Exclusion?

A General Exclusion is an exclusion which will be applied across all sections of an insurance policy, and applies regardless of when eligibility for cover was gained. Should a General Exclusion apply, this means that your complimentary credit card travel insurance excludes cover for the event, activities or circumstances (specified in the exclusion) that causes your claim.

To understand what is excluded from the Westpac Complimentary Insurance covers, please refer to Part D – Excesses & General Exclusions section and the section specific exclusions of the relevant Westpac Policy Information Booklet for which your eligible Westpac card is applicable under:  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet    and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet .

Other exclusions may apply depending upon the circumstances of an individual claim. General Exclusions include but are not limited to:

• by the Australian government (when a ‘Reconsider your need to travel’ or ‘Do not travel’ alert is in place), which can be found on  www.smartraveller.gov.au ; or
• which was published in a reliable mass media source.
• any interference with your travel plans by any government, government regulation or prohibition or intervention or official authority. For example, if  Smartraveller  has a warning, ‘Do not travel’ or ‘Reconsider your need to travel’ due to the risk of COVID-19 infection for a destination, and a cardholder chooses to ignore the warning and is infected with COVID-19, cover may be excluded. Or if a government closes its borders to inbound travellers due to COVID-19 and you are unable to enter and follow your planned travel across the closed border, cover may be excluded.

What if a Westpac Eligible Cardholder has booked travel and needs to cancel due to contracting COVID-19?

If you are unable to travel as a result of contracting COVID-19, Cancellation cover may be provided to eligible travellers, if you or your travel companion are positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic such as COVID-19, and cover is expressly included under the Cancellation section of the relevant Westpac Policy Information Booklet for which your eligible Westpac card is applicable under:  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet   and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet . If you are unable to travel as a result of an Epidemic or Pandemic related event which does not include you or your travel companion being positively diagnosed as suffering a sickness recognised as an epidemic or pandemic, for example a border closure, there may be no provision to claim as a general exclusion for epidemic and pandemic applies. A General Exclusion for epidemic/pandemic applies for all claims relating to any epidemic/pandemic outside of the cancellation benefits in the applicable policy information booklet. Please note, terms, conditions, limits and exclusions apply.

You therefore need to consider your own personal circumstances. We are not able to provide you with a cover decision before submitting a claim. To receive a formal outcome, Westpac Eligible Cardholders must submit a claim.

You should also contact your travel agent or travel service provider (airline, cruise line or Tour Company, etc) as they may be able to support you in obtaining refunds, credits or travel re-scheduling.

Can Westpac Eligible Cardholders make a claim for consideration?

Every Westpac Eligible Cardholder can submit a claim and have their individual circumstances considered in accordance with the eligibility criteria which includes the terms, conditions, limits and exclusions that apply as set out in the  Westpac Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet    and  Westpac Business Credit Cards Complimentary Insurance Policy Information Booklet .

If you would like to claim, we encourage you to claim online via  insurance.agaassistance.com.au/westpac

Call the Allianz Global Assistance Claims team

Credit cards with travel insurance

Free travel insurance is a popular feature, but cover varies a lot between credit cards. here’s how to find the best one for you..

Credit cards with complimentary travel insurance can save you hundreds of dollars on cover when you're travelling overseas. Some even offer cover for travel in Australia.

Compare credit cards with complimentary travel insurance

I took out the Bankwest Zero Platinum Mastercard (which won the 2023 Finder Award for Best Travel Credit Card) when I went to Japan with my partner. It comes with the option to upgrade, which includes a higher cancellation cover benefit.

What is complimentary credit card travel insurance?

Complimentary travel insurance is a credit card benefit that gives you access to cover for overseas trips, domestic trips or a mix of both. In most cases, you'll get cover for yourself, your partner and dependent children that are travelling with you.

You don't have to pay for this travel insurance, because it's included with your credit card. But you typically need to book your return travel using the credit card or activate the policy online before you get cover.

Types of credit card travel insurance

There are 4 main types of complimentary credit card travel insurance, with cover for different situations.

• International travel insurance Typically gives you comprehensive cover for overseas trips, including for emergency medical and dental costs, travel delays and lost or stolen luggage.

• Transit accident insurance A type of cover for injuries or accidents that happen on planes, trains, buses or other eligible vehicles. It usually only applies when you're overseas.

• Rental vehicle excess insurance Helps cover the cost of any excess you need to pay a car hire company if there's an accident. Depending on the card's insurance policy, you could get cover on rental vehicles overseas, in Australia or both.

• Domestic interstate flight inconvenience insurance The most common type of credit card travel insurance for domestic trips. Offers cover for issues such as cancelled flights, flight delays of 4 hours or more, delayed or lost luggage and funeral expenses when you're flying to a different state or territory in Australia.

What does credit card international travel insurance cover?

If you get a credit card with comprehensive overseas travel insurance, it will typically include cover for:

• Emergency medical issues
• Cancellation (for specific situations)
• Major flight delays
• Lost and stolen baggage, travel documents and valuables
• Hijacking, kidnap and ransom
• Personal liability
• Accidental death
• Funeral expenses

Does credit card travel insurance cover COVID-19?

A lot of major banks and brands offer credit card travel insurance with some COVID-19 cover in 2023, including Amex, ANZ, CommBank, NAB and Westpac.

In fact, Finder has analysed the complimentary credit card insurance policies for 14 providers and found at least 58 cards offered some cover for claims related to COVID-19 . In most cases, this includes overseas emergency medical assistance and some cancellation cover.

Similar to buying travel insurance , there are specific situations when you can and can't claim. These details are included in the insurance policy documents (or PDS).

Credit card brands that offer complimentary travel insurance with some COVID-19 cover.

Finder's analysis found these providers all offer credit cards with travel insurance that includes some cover for COVID-related claims in 2023:

• American Express
• Bank of Melbourne
• BOQ Specialist
• Bendigo Bank
• P&N Bank
• Virgin Money

Remember: You'll need an eligible credit card and will have to make sure you meet its travel insurance requirements before you can make a claim.

Pros and cons of credit card travel insurance

• Save money on buying insurance. Credit card travel insurance can save you hundreds of dollars on paying for cover when you're going overseas.
• Includes immediate family members. Your partner and children can also get cover through your credit card travel insurance when they're travelling with you and meet the eligibility requirements.
• Cover is provided by major insurance brands. Most complimentary credit card travel insurance is underwritten by Allianz, Chubb or Cover-More, which are all large, global insurance brands.
• Simple activation process. Usually, you just need to use your credit card to book a return travel ticket or activate the insurance through internet banking. Some policies also let you make claims online.
• Only covers trips up to a certain length. Overseas credit card travel insurance policies typically cover trips of up to 3 or 6 months. Interstate or domestic cover could be for as little as 7–14 days. So it won't be suitable if you're planning a longer journey or a one-way trip.
• Limited customisation. Only a few credit card travel insurance policies give you the option of adding or upgrading cover for things like extreme activities or sports.
• Credit card costs. Most credit cards with comprehensive overseas travel insurance have higher annual fees than other cards. There could also be interest charges if you book your travel and don't pay it off straight away.

Related: Credit card travel insurance saved me $200 – here's how

How to activate credit card travel insurance

Most credit card travel insurance is automatically "activated" when you meet the eligibility requirements, including for eligible ANZ, NAB and Westpac cards.

Each policy is different, but common requirements include:

• Book a return ticket. Most credit card travel insurance policies require you to book and pay for your return ticket to Australia before your trip starts.
• Use your credit card to book your travel. Usually, you need to pay for some or all of your overseas trip with your credit card. A really simple way to do this is to use it for flights, accommodation or other major costs. If you have a rewards credit card , you may be able to activate the policy by redeeming points for some or all of your travel booking.
• Make sure the length of your trip meets the policy requirements. For example, if the insurance covers trips of up to 3 consecutive months, you wouldn't be covered for a trip that's 6 months long.
• Activate the policy. Sometimes you'll need to activate your credit card travel insurance online to be eligible for full cover. For example, if you have a CommBank card with international travel insurance, you need to activate it through NetBank or by calling Cover-More to get comprehensive cover.

Remember to check the insurance policy booklet that came with your credit card for the exact requirements of your cover. You can also call the insurance provider if you have any questions (or need more proof of cover).

Who is covered by credit card travel insurance?

As well as cover for yourself, most policies offer cover for your spouse and dependent children when they meet the eligibility requirements. Some common conditions are:

• They must be travelling with you for most or all of the trip
• Some or all of their travel must be paid for using your credit card
• They must have a return ticket to Australia before the start of the trip

Check out Finder's guide to credit card travel insurance for your spouse and dependent children for more details on how this cover works.

Most credit card travel insurance policies cover people up to the age of 79. But different age limits may apply if you have a pre-existing condition.

For example, if you're over 50 years of age and have diabetes or glucose intolerance, you wouldn't get cover for those conditions with a Bankwest credit card. Finder's guide on credit card insurance and age limits has more details on different age requirements.

Pre-existing medical conditions

All travel insurance policies have specific requirements around when you will and won't be covered for a pre-existing condition.

In basic terms, a pre-existing condition is anything you have been professionally diagnosed with and/or are currently being treated for before the start of your trip. For example:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Psychological and psychiatric conditions

Some pre-existing conditions can be automatically covered by an insurance policy and others may require you to apply for cover. Depending on the policy, some conditions may not be covered at all. So, you should always check the insurance policy document for full details.

🔥 Hot tip: The easiest way to find details in the insurance policy booklet is to open your digital copy and use the find tool (Ctrl+F or Cmd+F) to search for the terms. E.g. "Pre-existing medical conditions".

How to make a claim

This process depends on the insurance provider. But as a general guide, the steps you'll need to take are:

• Contact the insurance provider. As soon as you think you'll need to make a claim, call or email the insurance provider using the contact details in the insurance policy booklet.
• Fill in the claim form. This is usually an online form or one that you can download and send back to the insurer.
• Your credit card statement showing the relevant purchase/s required to activate the policy (e.g. a travel ticket)
• A copy of a police report, if you're claiming for lost or stolen items
• Medical certificates
• Photo evidence
• Proof of ownership for lost, stolen or damaged items
• Flight itineraries and letters from carriers detailing delayed flights or unexpected events
• Submit your application. You should receive written confirmation from the insurer once you have submitted all the details online, over the phone or by mail.

How can I find the best credit card for travel insurance? 3 questions to ask

There's no single best credit card for travel insurance because everyone wants different features from a card. So here are the key questions you can ask to choose a card.

How much cover can I get for my trips?

Credit card overseas travel insurance typically offers comprehensive cover for trips of up to 3–6 months.

But there are different claim limits for specific types of cover, which are in the insurance policy document. For example, a policy might offer unlimited cover for emergency medical claims and up to $2,000 for emergency dental.

What are the costs?

Credit cards with overseas travel insurance typically have annual fees that range from $49 to over $450, although some cards do offer $0 annual fees in the first year or ongoing.

You should also check if you need to pay for some of your trip with the card to get cover and consider potential interest charges as rates can be high. And if you want to use the card overseas, check the foreign transaction fee (usually around 3%).

What other features are on the card?

Most credit cards that offer overseas travel insurance are platinum or higher-level accounts. So you could get benefits like frequent flyer or reward points, airport lounge passes or travel credit.

Just keep in mind that these features are only worth it if you use them and can justify the card's annual fee.

Other credit card travel insurance costs to look for:

• Excess payments. This is what you pay when you make an insurance claim. It's typically between $0 and $250 per claim with complimentary credit card travel insurance, which is similar to the excess for paid travel insurance . But it does vary and (can be higher).
• Out-of-pocket costs. You need to cover any essential costs (e.g. medical bills) while a claim is being processed. And if your expenses are more than the claim limit, you'll be out of pocket.
• Other policy fees. If you need to request cover for a pre-existing medical condition or if you're over the maximum age for standard cover, there may be an additional premium. Some credit cards also offer upgraded travel insurance with more coverage, which also attracts a fee.

What is interstate flight inconvenience insurance?

This type of complimentary insurance typically offers cover for trips of up to 14 days when you're flying to other states and territories in Australia. What you can claim depends on the card and the insurance policy, but some of the most common options include:

• Flight delays. If your flight is delayed for a set amount of time (e.g. 4 hours or more) and no alternative transport is provided, you could claim compensation for food and refreshments.
• Baggage delays. If your baggage is delayed (usually by more than 12 hours) you can claim compensation for essentials.
• Lost or damaged items. If your items are accidentally lost, damaged or stolen during the trip, this insurance could help cover the cost of repairs or replacement items.
• Funeral costs. In the event of accidental death during the trip, you could be able to submit a claim for costs related to the transportation of remains or cremation or burial.
• Cancellations. Usually, you'll only get cover for very specific reasons if you need to cancel a trip. For example, if the travel is non-refundable and you or a close family member becomes seriously injured before the trip.

To get cover, you usually need to pay for the return flight with your credit card before the start of your trip. There are also exclusions, claim limits and sometimes excess costs. So check the credit card insurance policy booklet for full details of the cover.

Other types of credit card complimentary insurance

Some credit cards offer complimentary insurances that relate to purchases or specific items, including:

• Purchase protection insurance. Cover for theft, accidental damage or loss of items purchased with an eligible card , typically for up to 90 days from the purchase date.
• Extended warranty insurance. Offers an extension on the manufacturer's warranty for eligible items purchased in Australia, usually for up to 12 months.
• Best-price guarantee. This cover offers a refund on the difference in price if you buy an item in-store and then find it at a lower price a few weeks later.
• Mobile phone insurance. A few credit cards offer insurance for mobile phones, including some Citi and Amex cards. Depending on the policy, you could get cover for accidental damage to your smartphone screen, theft or other types of accidental damage.

Is credit card travel insurance worth it?

The government's SmartTraveller website says travel insurance is "as important as your passport". So if you're going overseas, getting travel insurance through a credit card means you'll save money on paying for a policy. But it's important to check what's covered – especially if there's something specific you want to cover.

Credit card travel insurance is convenient but there are some situations where it falls short. Many don't automatically cover pre-existing medical conditions and lots come with a $500 excess. This can make smaller claims pointless. For example, my luggage was delayed on a recent trip. ​​I could have claimed to buy essentials. Instead, I made do with what I had. There's no way my expenses would have exceeded $500. In these situations, standalone travel insurance may be better.

Gary Ross Hunter Finder's insurance and innovations editor

Frequently asked questions

What should i do if i have a pre-existing medical condition.

Credit card travel insurance cover for pre-existing medical conditions varies depending on the policy. So here's what to do before you travel:

• Check the credit card insurance policy document to find out if your pre-existing condition is covered.
• Contact the insurance provider (not the credit card company) and ask if there is a way for you to get coverage for the pre-existing condition.
• Ask the insurer for confirmation that your pre-existing condition will be covered and/or that you'll be eligible for cover unrelated to the condition.
• Find out if there's an additional fee for getting the pre-existing condition covered (e.g. for a medical assessment). If there is a cost, you can compare it to buying insurance to help decide what will suit your trip.

Tip: Document any conversation you have with the insurance provider so you can refer to it later if you need to make a claim.

What domestic travel insurance can I get through my credit card?

A lot of credit cards offer interstate flight inconvenience insurance, which typically covers trips of up to 14 days when you book return flights to another state or territory in Australia. Some cards also offer rental vehicle excess in Australia insurance.

If your international travel includes a domestic leg as part of the booking, it may also be eligible for a limited amount of cover through a credit card's international travel insurance policy. But only a few credit cards offer comprehensive domestic travel insurance, including the American Express Explorer, Qantas American Express Ultimate and American Express Velocity Platinum.

What is transit accident insurance?

Credit card transit accident insurance offers cover for serious injuries or accidental death when you're travelling on a licensed plane, train, bus, ferry or other form of specified transportation. It also applies when you are boarding or leaving the transport. It's sometimes known as travel accident insurance and full details will be in each insurance policy booklet.

If I have high blood pressure, will I still be able to use my credit card's complimentary travel insurance policy?

High blood pressure is typically considered a pre-existing medical condition, so cover varies between credit cards and insurance policies.

For example, ANZ complimentary international travel insurance provides cover for high blood pressure (hypertension) as long as it is stable and you're not waiting for treatment , on a hospital waiting list or awaiting the results of medical tests or investigations. If any of those situations apply, you'll need to contact Allianz for confirmation of cover.

In comparison, Suncorp credit cards with complimentary international travel insurance offers cover for hypertension if you have no known heart conditions and your current blood pressure reading is lower than 165/95 .

You also need to meet the other eligibility requirements for the cover.

Do I need to travel with all my documents to get insurance?

Credit card travel insurance policies don't typically require you to travel with any extra documentation beyond what's needed for the trip (such as your passport, flight or other travel tickets and any required international visas).

But it is useful to take a copy of the credit card travel insurance policy and proof you have activated the cover (e.g. a receipt showing pre-payment for the trip). You'll need these details for any claims, so having them in a travel wallet or online folder could make it easier if something unexpected happens.

How do I get the policy number for my complimentary travel insurance?

You can check the credit card complimentary insurance policy booklet to see if there is a master or group policy number – this number is often used instead of an individual policy number. You could also call the insurance provider to get these details.

If you need the policy details for a travel company or cruise, you can also ask for a letter of eligibility.

Does credit card travel insurance cover travel agent issues?

There is typically some cancellation cover for bookings made through travel agents. For example, if you had to cancel a trip because you were seriously injured and the travel agent you booked with charged a cancellation fee.

But complimentary travel insurance won't cover travel agent errors and omissions. That's why you should always read the policy booklet for full details or call the insurance provider.

Can I get cover for trips that start overseas?

No, credit card travel insurance policies typically require your trip to start in Australia. Most policies also require you to have a return ticket to Australia before your trip.

Pictures: Shutterstock, Pexels, Flaticon

Amy Bradney-George

Amy Bradney-George was the senior writer for credit cards at Finder, and editorial lead for Finder Green. She has over 16 years of editorial experience and has been featured in publications including ABC News, Money Magazine and The Sydney Morning Herald.

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10 Responses

I would like to know if Suncorp complimentary travel insurance includes cruises. I only seem to see flight information. Do I need to purchase seperate insurance when going on a cruise.

Hi Vicki, Some cover for cruises may be available if it is an overseas cruise or a foreign-registered cruise vessel in Australian territorial waters, based on the definitions of “overseas” and “return overseas travel ticket” in the insurance policy information booklet for the Suncorp Clear Options Platinum Credit Card. But as this is a very specific question about the cover, you may want to call Allianz (the insurance provider) on 1800 072 791 to get specific details relating to cruises. Alternatively, you can compare cruise travel insurance on Finder. I hope this helps.

My parents are travelling to Greece in June for three months. They are 76 and 69 years old. They have various pre existing conditions including high blood pressure. They are pensioners. Are they able to get health insurance through a credit card?

Hi Cathy, Most credit card travel insurance will typically cover people up to the age of 79 or 81. This includes eligible cards from American Express, ANZ, Bankwest, Westpac, St.George. All of them have different details about pre-existing conditions and most include information for hypertension (high blood pressure) and other common existing conditions.

If your parents already have a credit card, they can check the relevant policy document or call the insurance provider. If they don’t have a credit card already and their trip is already booked, it could be difficult to get cover as many cards require some of the travel to be paid for with the card. But you can compare options in this guide. Alternatively, Finder has a dedicated guide for seniors travel insurance where you can compare policies and prices. I hope that helps.

Can I get card travel insurance if I am a type 1 diabetic

Hi Alan, Yes, it’s possible to get credit card travel insurance that covers diabetes. Because it’s considered a pre-existing medical condition, the cover and requirements vary between credit card insurance policies.

For example, with both St.George credit card complimentary insurance and Suncorp credit card complimentary insurance offer cover for diabetes/glucose intolerance if you:

• Were diagnosed more than 12 consecutive months ago
• Have not had any complications in the last 12 consecutive months
• Have a blood sugar level reading between between 4 and 12 or a HbA1C score of 9% or less
• Are not currently undergoing treatment for kidney, eye or nerve complications

But some other credit card insurance policies don’t offer cover for diabetes or other pre-existing conditions. If you’ve found a card you want, you can check whether diabetes is covered by looking at the credit card insurance policy booklet’s details on pre-existing conditions, or by calling the insurer listed in the booklet. I hope that helps.

Why isn’t BankWest’s Zero Platinum credit card on here? It offers a credit card with no fees, gives complimentary travel insurance, and no international transaction fees (none of the credit cards above offer that). It’s arguably the best credit card for travelling in overseas if you’re after a credit card with no fees. ING One Platinum also offers complimentary travel insurance, no international transaction fees, but costs $149 per year.

Thanks for your comment.

Yes, Bankwest Zero Platinum Mastercard doesn’t incur fees when you use it overseas plus no annual fee on the card. Although we feature a wide range of products, providers, and services, we don’t cover every product, provider, or service available in the market so there may be other options available to you. You can check out more about Bankwest Zero Platinum Mastercard and ING Orange One Platinum .

Hope this helps.

Cheers, May

Am I covered for complimentere travel insurance with a Coles platinum credit card?

Thank you for your comment.

Per checking, the platinum versions of the Coles Mastercard does not have a complimentary travel insurance. To check, kindly refer to the pages below: – https://www.finder.com.au/credit-cards/coles-credit-cards/coles-low-rate-mastercard – https://www.finder.com.au/credit-cards/coles-credit-cards/coles-rewards-credit-card – https://www.finder.com.au/credit-cards/coles-credit-cards/coles-no-annual-fee-mastercard

Regards, Jhezelyn

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Please Note - If you are cruising around Australia you need to select Pacific. With Regions, variances can apply for Bali, Indonesia, Japan and Middle East. You are not required to enter stop-over countries if your stop-over is less than 48 hours.

If you don’t know where you’re traveling to within the next 12 months, choose Worldwide to ensure you’re covered no matter where you go. If you’re travelling to multiple countries choose the region that you are visiting that is furthest away (excluding stopovers less than 48 hours). In most cases you will be covered for the closer regions as well. For example, if you choose Europe, you will also be covered in the Middle East, Asia and Pacific.

Worldwide means anywhere in the world

Americas means USA, Canada, South America, Latin America, Hawaii and the Caribbean

Europe means all European countries, including UK

Middle East refers to the area from Syria to Yemen; Egypt to Iran

Asia generally means Asia and the Indian subcontinent. For some insurers this excludes Japan*

Pacific means the South West Pacific, Australia and Indonesia/Bali*. Select Pacific for domestic cruises in New Zealand waters

New Zealand means domestic travel within New Zealand only

*Note: Variances apply for Bali, Indonesia, Japan and Middle East. Check that your destination is covered once directed to your chosen insurer’s site.

Credit card travel insurance

Complimentary or 'free' credit card travel insurance is a popular feature which many travellers rely on for cover during their travels.  Checking the fine print of your credit card travel insurance policy terms is essential - otherwise, you might find common exclusions leave you out of pocket.

What is  credit card travel insurance?

Pros and cons of credit card travel insurance.

Here's the top four pros and cons of complimentary credit card travel insurance:

Most credit card policies are underwritten by the same companies as standalone policies, so you know legitimate claims will be paid. 

Most credit card travel insurance policies specifically exclude pre-existing conditions from cover.

While standard travel insurance gets more expensive as you get older, there's no extra cost on credit card travel insurance policies. 

Many cards have an age limit or restrictions once you hit 75 years of age. Trip duration is often limited of 1 to 6 months, so you might not be covered at all even though you've paid your annual fee. 

You don't have to pay extra to be covered for places like Japan and the USA, which typically cost more with standalone policies due to .

If you're going skiing, riding a motorcycle, or partaking in adventure activities be sure to check the policy detail as they may be excluded.

You've already paid for your policy using your annual fees, so there's no additional cost to you. 

Annual card fees can be hefty. Depending upon your trip details, a standalone policy may be cheaper than your credit card annual fee.

Activating  credit card travel insurance

1. ​activation on purchase, 2. activation on value or percentage of trip purchases, 3. activation on flight purchase, 4. activation on notification.

You need to call your card provider or log in to their internet banking or app and notify them of your trip to activate the policy.

compare credit card  travel insurance conditions 

The information provided is factual at the time of writing and general in nature.  We have not considered your personal circumstances.  Eligibility requirements and terms and conditions for cover are subject to change from time to time.  Please refer to your credit card provider and the latest policy wording prior to your travels. 

Will credit card insurance cover you?

Spouse or family members, trip length.

what credit card travel insurance may not cover

Pre-existing conditions, holiday activities,   high-value items, what credit card travel insurance covers, overseas emergency medical treatment, cancellation fees and lost deposits, luggage and personal effects, public liability, credit card travel cover  faqs, is credit card travel insurance any good.

Whether credit card travel insurance is as good as or better than standalone travel insurance depends entirely on you and your circumstances. If you're going for a short trip, you've paid for your flight on your card, and you have no pre-existing medical conditions, taking advantage of 'free' credit card travel insurance might be a winner. But if you're going for a while, doing any adventurous activities, or you're got existing health issues, a standalone product may offer you the coverage you're looking for.

Which Australian credit cards come with travel insurance?

Not every credit card comes with travel insurance. Complimentary travel insurance is typically offered on premium credit or rewards cards that have higher annual fees. Check your policy documents for details or contact your bank. You can also check the table above for some of the more popular credit cards.

What is the best credit card for travel insurance?

The benefits you get with credit cards varies based on the type of card you have, the policy provider and your individual circumstances, so there isn’t actually a “best” credit card for travel insurance. Our table lists Australia's premium cards that provide travel insurance and outlines any activation criteria.

Can I cover my medical conditions with my credit card cover?

In most cases, pre-existing medical conditions will not be covered by travel insurance that comes with your credit card, but you may be able to get cover for this by contacting the insurer and paying an additional premium. You will need to check the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS), also known as policy wording to find out whether pre-existing medical conditions are covered. The alternative is a standalone travel insurance, learn more about covering your medical conditions.

Am I covered if I go skiing?

Like all insurances, some limitations apply to the travel insurance that comes with your credit card or rewards card and skiing is often one of them. Winter sports activities such as skiing and snowboarding are often excluded from credit card travel insurance, so if you're planning on hitting the slopes you should contact your provider to ensure that you have adequate cover for your planned activities. If not, opt for a standalone ski insurance policy.

Crystal Moran

With a research and journalism background, and certified in Tier 2 General Insurance General Advice, Crystal is passionate about investigating customers’ tricky travel questions and helping them find the answers they’re looking for. A writer and filmmaker whose favourite trips have been to film festivals in Cuba and South Korea, and campervanning around the USA, she loves getting to know new people and seeing a glimpse of the world through their eyes.

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How to activate free travel insurance cover on your credit card

One of the biggest perks of having a rewards card or travel credit card in your pocket is the potential for complimentary travel insurance .

While it’s a great freebie to have, the fine print on credit card travel insurance can really get you. There’s nothing worse than discovering mid-trip that you aren't adequately covered.

To ensure your travel insurance is activated before you head overseas, we’ve rounded up the major Australian credit card providers who offer complimentary travel cover for their credit cards , as well as how to activate the included travel insurance.

NOTE: Before signing up for a new card, always read the terms and conditions and get across what's covered. Most included travel insurance will exclude pre-existing conditions, and may not cover for additional activities like cruise cover or snow sports.

Credit Card Providers

American express, commonwealth bank.

Underwritten by: Chubb

Eligible American Express Credit Cards :

• Qantas American Express Ultimate Credit Card
• Qantas American Express Premium Credit Card
• American Express Platinum Edge Credit Card
• American Express Velocity Platinum Credit Card
• American Express Explorer Credit Card

How to activate: Your travel insurance cover starts when you:

• Buy a return ticket from Australia.
• INTERNATIONAL:  Pay for the full fare of that ticket with your American Express card or corresponding membership points.
• DOMESTIC:  Spend at least $500 on accommodation or the full transport fare for domestic trips on your American Express card or with corresponding membership points.
• You must be a resident of Australia, a current American Express card holder (or their spouse or dependent), and are 79 or younger at the time of purchase.

What prepaid travel costs count? This one is very specific - only the full fare of your return trip counts towards activating your travel insurance cover, including flights and cruises. For domestic trips, you will need to either spend the entire cost of your return fare (bus, train, flight, cruise, etc) or at least $500 in domestic accommodation costs to activate your travel insurance cover.

Are my spouse and dependants covered? This will depend on the type of card you have, as certain cards will cover your spouse and dependents under the age of 22. 

Underwritten by: Insurance provided by Zurich Australian Insurance Limited through its agent Cover-More Insurance Services. 

Eligible Commonwealth Bank Credit Cards:

• Commonwealth Bank Smart Awards Credit Card
• Commonwealth Bank Ultimate Awards Credit Card

How to activate: Activate cover with the press of a button via NetBank, the CommBank app, or directly with Cover-More.

What prepaid travel costs count? Cover is automatically activated for 12 months from when you make the booking for your trip. However, if you're trying to activate mid-trip keep in mind a three day waiting period applies.

Are my spouse and dependants covered? Yes, your spouse and up to ten children are covered as long as they are travelling with you (the cardholder) for the duration of the trip.

Underwritten by: Allianz

Eligible NAB Credit Cards :

• NAB Qantas Rewards Signature Credit Card
• NAB Qantas Rewards Premium Credit Card
• NAB Rewards Signature Credit Card
• NAB Rewards Platinum Credit Card
• NAB Low Fee Platinum Card

How to activate: NAB have range of travel insurance plans on their credit cards and each one is activated in a slightly different way. For your overseas travel insurance plan, you need to:

• Have an eligible card.
• Have a return trip booked from Australia.
• Before leaving Australia, spend $500 on your prepaid travel costs on the eligible NAB credit card.
• Be an Australian resident and under 91 years of age at the time of departure.

What prepaid travel costs count? Your return flights or boat trip, transport, accommodation and tours DO count, but travellers cheques and foreign currency DON’T count (check T&Cs for further information). To qualify, you need to use your NAB card or card details to purchase these items – using the account linked to your debit card via BPay or PayPal won’t activate your travel insurance.

Are my spouse and dependants covered? Yes, but they will also need a return ticket for the trip and a $500 spend each on prepaid travel costs, paid on your eligible card, and they will need to satisfy the relevant eligibility requirements.

Eligible Westpac Credit Cards :

• Westpac Altitude Black Credit Card (available in Altitude Rewards, Velocity Frequent Flyer, and Qantas Frequent Flyer varieties)
• Westpac Altitude Platinum Credit Card  (available in Altitude Rewards, Velocity Frequent Flyer, and Qantas Frequent Flyer varieties)

How to activate:  To activate travel insurance on your Westpac credit card, you'll need to have:

• A return ticket to Australia booked before you leave
• An eligible Westpac card
• Paid for $500 of your prepaid travel costs with that card before leaving Australia

You must also be under 81 years old and an Australian resident.

What prepaid travel costs count? Your return flight, accommodation, other travel while you’re away and any tours that might be on your itinerary can be included in the $500 figure.

Are my spouse and dependants covered? Yes, as long as they also have a return ticket and $500 of their travel costs have been paid on the Westpac credit card in question, and are travelling with the cardholder for at least 50% of their travel time.

Eligible ANZ Credit Cards :

• ANZ Frequent Flyer Platinum
• ANZ Frequent Flyer Black
• ANZ Rewards Platinum
• ANZ Rewards Black
• ANZ Rewards Travel Adventures
• ANZ Platinum

How to activate: At $250, ANZ has one of the lowest thresholds for activation. To activate your ANZ travel insurance, all you need to do is:

• Have one of the above eligible cards
• Use it to purchase just $250 of your prepaid travel costs
• Have a return flight from Australia
• Be under 81 years old

What prepaid travel costs count? This can include flights, other transport, accommodation or tours for you and your spouse or dependent children. Unfortunately, you won’t be able to use your reward points towards your $250 payment.

Are my spouse and dependants covered? As long as they are travelling with you, have a return ticket and $250 of their prepaid travel costs have been paid on your ANZ card.

Eligible Citi Credit Cards :

• Citi Prestige Credit Card
• Citi Premier Credit Card
• Citi Rewards Credit Card

How to activate:  To get your insurance up and running, you’ll need to make sure:

• Your overseas trip does not last more than 6 consecutive months.
• Your travel ticket was purchased using an eligible Citi credit card or via the associated frequent flyer program.
• If you're purchasing with frequent flyer points, you must spend a minimum of 15,000 points accrued on a Citi Card or through Citi Rewards over a 12 month period prior to buying your travel ticket. 

What prepaid travel costs count? Only the cost of your overseas travel ticket is relevant to your travel insurance policy activation.

Are my spouse and dependants covered? Yes, as long as they’ve met the same eligibility requirements as the cardholder, which means paying for their ticket using the eligible Citi credit card. They will also need to be travelling with you for at least 50% of the trip.

Eligible HSBC credit cards :

• HSBC Platinum Qantas Credit Card
• HSBC Platinum Credit Card
• HSBC Premier World MasterCard
• HSBC Star Alliance Credit Card

The HSBC Low Rate Credit Card does offer domestic travel insurance, but not international. 

How to activate: There are two simple steps to activating travel insurance on an HSBC credit card, which are:

• Have a return ticket for your trip
• Spend at least $500 with your card on prepaid travel costs before you leave.

You will also need to be an Australian resident.

What prepaid travel costs count?  In the $500 you need to spend towards your trip, you can include your return tickets and prepaid accommodation costs.

Are my spouse and dependants covered? Yes, but they need to activate their travel insurance in the same way you do. They’ll also have to be travelling with you for at least 50% of the trip.

Eligible St. George Credit Cards :

• St. George Amplify Rewards Signature Credit Card
• St. George Amplify Rewards Platinum Credit Card
• St. George Amplify Qantas Signature Credit Card
• St. George Amplify Qantas Platinum Credit Card

How to activate: To activate your St. George travel insurance cover, you’ll need to make sure:

• You've bought a return ticket to Australia for your trip
• You've paid $500 of your prepaid travel expenses with your eligible St. George card
• You're under 81 years old and an Australian resident

What prepaid travel costs count? Accommodation, flights, other travel, and tours can all contribute to the $500 required to activate your included travel insurance.

Are my spouse and dependants covered? Your spouse and any dependents are covered as long as they are travelling with you at least 50% of the time and meet the criteria of having a return ticket, $500 of their prepaid travel expenses paid on your card, and are under 81 years old. 

Underwritten by: Cover-More

Eligible Bankwest Credit Cards :

• Bankwest Qantas World Mastercard
• Bankwest Qantas Platinum Mastercard
• Bankwest More Platinum Mastercard
• Bankwest More World Mastercard
• Bankwest Zero Platinum Mastercard
• Bankwest Breeze Platinum Mastercard

How to activate: You’ll be automatically covered as long as you hold one of the eligible Bankwest cards. Keep in mind if you're over 80 years old you won't have access to complimentary medical cover. 

What prepaid travel costs count? There are no minimum prepaid travel costs required to activate your cover. You can see your complimentary cover through either the Cover-more or Bankwest apps. This policy only covers the basics. You do have the option to upgrade to a more comprehensive cover for an added premium.

Are my spouse and dependants covered? Yes! Once you are eligible, they are too, as long as they’re travelling with you for the duration of the trip.

Don’t forget these important rules!

Our mantra here at Mozo may as well be, “Always read the product disclosure statement ”, as this will tell you what the inclusions/exclusions are of your chosen policy.

Here are some things to keep in mind about your travel insurance policy if you activate it through your credit card:

• Pre-existing medical conditions aren’t covered under most of these policies. If you’re travelling with a pre-existing medical condition, you might have to think about purchasing a standalone policy that suits your needs.
• Unless it's specified (like with Amex or HSBC) you don’t NEED to pay for your return ticket with your credit card to be eligible, but it’s a good way to spend a chunk of the required amount.
• The period of cover generally ranges from 3-6 months, but it’s important to check your particular policy.
• Most of the time, there’s no need to tell your bank that you’re travelling - your cover is automatically applied once you meet the eligibility requirements. It might be helpful anyway, to prevent foreign charges being flagged as fraudulent!
• For spouses or dependent children to be covered, they usually need to be travelling with the card holder for the duration of the trip. Check your policy for an exact definition of who qualifies as a dependent, because the age limit sometimes changes from policy to policy. (Otherwise, check out our guide to family travel insurance ).
• A lot of these travel insurance policies have age limits, usually up to 80 years of age. If you or someone you’re travelling with needs seniors' coverage, take a look at our handy seniors guide.

Ready to jet-set? Here’s a pre-trip travel document checklist to get you started.

Head to the best travel insurance hub for more expert tips, or find more of the best credit cards for some year round picks. 

Meanwhile, if complimentary travel insurance isn't enough, start comparing standalone travel insurance policies below.

Compare travel insurance policies - last updated 20 May 2024

Mozo experts choice awards won:

• Exceptional Value Ski Travel Insurance - 2024
• Exceptional Value Essential Travel Insurance - 2024
• Exceptional Value Comprehensive Travel Insurance - 2024

International Travel Insurance

Covid medical cover, covid cancellation cover, overseas hospital, cancellation cover.

Get protection in a few simple steps with Freely travel insurance all in the palm of your hand. Freely Travel offers 24/7 emergency and medical support, 24/7 customer service. Plus, you can tailor your policy so you only pay for what you need, and adapt your cover in near real time. Add-ons such as car rental excess, snow sports or other activities also available. Receive 10% off your travel insurance policy with promo code: MOZO10. T&Cs apply, go to site for full detail.

Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits may apply to any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. These terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits could affect the level of benefits and cover available under any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. Please refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and the Target Market Determination on the provider's website for further information before making any decisions about an insurance product.

To see the Pre-existing Conditions and Activities covered by this policy please visit our detailed page about this product.

Comprehensive

Enjoy unlimited medical cover and 24/7 emergency assistance services when you travel. Get unlimited cover for cancellation fees and prepaid travel expenses. Cover for luggage and travel documents. $5,000,000 personal liability cover.

Be prepared for the unexpected on your adventures with Butter Travel Insurance. Emergency medical and hospital cover. COVID-19, accident and personal liability cover. Optional trip cancellation & interruption cover. Customise your cover with added extras like Motorcycle and ski cover (T&Cs apply).

Backed by the NIB, one of Australia’s largest travel insurance providers, Travel Insurance Saver brings you peace of mind on your travels. Compare three tiers of insurance cover, featuring benefits like 24 hour emergency assistance, emergency medical cover, luggage cover, cancellation cover and more.

• Exceptional Value Annual Multi-Trip Travel Insurance - 2024

International Comprehensive Single

Enjoy the security of single trip cover on your next holiday with Southern Cross Travel Insurance. Get 24 hour emergency assistance, cover for cancelling or changing your journey before you leave, protection for lost, stolen or damaged goods as well as cover to replace lost or stolen cash, banks or travel documents. Be in to win 1 of 5 $1,000 cash prizes! T&Cs Apply. Offer ends 30 September 2023.

• Exceptional Quality Travel Insurance - 2024
• Travel Insurance Company of the Year - 2024

Be covered for international overseas and medical expenses. Emergency medical assistance 24 hours/365 days a year. Cover for cancellation fees and lost deposits. Cover for luggage and personal money. Dependents covered free of charge (conditions apply). Limited COVID cover available. Cancellation cover for COVID claims limited to $3,500.

Get the security of unlimited medical cover and 24/7 emergency assistance services when you travel. Get cover for cancellation fees and prepaid travel expenses. Cover for luggage and travel documents. $2,500,000 personal liability cover.

^See information about the Mozo Experts Choice Travel Insurance Awards

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While we pride ourselves on covering a wide range of products, we don't cover every product in the market. If you decide to apply for a product through our website, you will be dealing directly with the provider of that product and not with Mozo.

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Important information on terms, conditions and sub-limits

Terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits may apply to any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. These terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and sub-limits could affect the level of benefits and cover available under any of the insurance products shown on the Mozo website. Please refer to the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and the Target Market Determination on the provider's website for further information before making any decisions about an insurance product.

• Australia & New Zealand Cruisers

Cruising. Westpac and ANZ complimentary Travel Insurance

By sanne , July 19, 2023 in Australia & New Zealand Cruisers

Recommended Posts

I’ve searched the T&C PDFs of both Westpac and ANZ Credit card Complimentary Travel Insurance and can’t find any mention of cover for cruises and medical evacuation from a cruise ship. Maybe someone can point me in the right direction.   

And from what I read, the cancellation of a trip is capped at $20,000 for ANZ and in unlimited for Westpac. Maybe someone is able to confirm that.

Thanks for your help. 

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I can only guide you re ANZ Complimentary Insurance.

The Booklet I refer to covers these cards

ELIGIBLE CARDS: The complimentary insurance outlined in this booklet is available to the eligible beneficiaries of the following credit cards: • ANZ Frequent Flyer Platinum • ANZ Frequent Flyer Black • ANZ Rewards Platinum • ANZ Rewards Travel Adventures • ANZ Rewards Black • ANZ Platinum

Do you have one of these cards? If so, page 14 defines Overseas as

"outside of Australia and its territories, and includes when you are aboard a foreign registered cruise vessel in Australian territorial waters"

Therefore further down on whats covered, page 21

Overseas Emergency, medical and evacuation are unlimited.

And yes, cancellation is capped at $20,000 so you need to work out if that is good for your situation.

For us, our cruise holidays are never more than that.

31 minutes ago, sanne said: I’ve searched the T&C PDFs of both Westpac and ANZ Credit card Complimentary Travel Insurance and can’t find any mention of cover for cruises and medical evacuation from a cruise ship. Maybe someone can point me in the right direction.    And from what I read, the cancellation of a trip is capped at $20,000 for ANZ and in unlimited for Westpac. Maybe someone is able to confirm that.   Thanks for your help. 

Further to cheznandy The Westpac has a similar cluase under their Definitions see below

Definitions There are some words in this booklet that have a special meaning. These words and their meanings are set out in the table below and are highlighted in italics throughout the booklet. Headings have been included for ease of reference but do not form part of the terms and conditions of the cover available Word Meaning

Overseas     

outside of Australia and its territories, and includes when you are aboard a foreign registered cruise vessel in Australian territorial waters.

So you are covered as I see it for Unlimited Overseas Emergency, medical and evacuation 

as cheznandy said above.

BUT as always don't assume we are right, contact your bank and make sure your are covered.

And that there are not small riders or conditions we missed in our readings of the T&Cs and PDS

5 minutes ago, Ozwoody said: Hi Sanne   Further to cheznandy The Westpac has a similar cluase under their Definitions see below   Definitions There are some words in this booklet that have a special meaning. These words and their meanings are set out in the table below and are highlighted in italics throughout the booklet. Headings have been included for ease of reference but do not form part of the terms and conditions of the cover available Word Meaning   Overseas      outside of Australia and its territories, and includes when you are aboard a foreign registered cruise vessel in Australian territorial waters.   So you are covered as I see it for Unlimited Overseas Emergency, medical and evacuation  as cheznandy said above.   BUT as always don't assume we are right, contact your bank and make sure your are covered. And that there are not small riders or conditions we missed in our readings of the T&Cs and PDS      

Great advice John, I have called often over the years we have been using this insurance to clarify any changes in wording, they have always been great to talk to over the phone.

2022cruisey

The ANZ FF Black definitely covers cruising.  They will also email you with a certificate that you can show if you are going to New Caledonia.

Thank you very much  cheznandy, 2022cruisey, and Ozwoody for your excellent reply to my queries. Very kind of you all to post the relevant paragraphs. Much appreciated. 

We use the ANZ card cover for cruising. There is a handy webpage to 'check your cover ' (underwritten by Allianz) where you enter your type of card, destination (I always select worldwide) and dates of trip. They then send you a certificate via email which shows the cruise and covid cover on page 2.  This is what we show when boarding a cruise to New Caledonia where this cover is required.

Similar to answer above, we never require more than $20000 cancellation cover.

LittleFish1976

Prior to covid I used ANZ card insurance for a cruise. I was very concerned about making sure I would be covered for a cruise by them, and more importantly for any medical evacuation from the ship. I emailed them and asked them if they could confirm those things. The email they sent me was comforting as they clearly stated that yes, I was covered for those specific eventualities. I felt happy having it in writing from them and particular to my situation. They can also send you the master policy number for complimentary insurances in case you need to present it as proof of insurance anywhere.

• 2 weeks later...

Only last week I applied for and received free travel insurance through our Westpac mastercard, for next year's trip, which includes two cruises (Oceania and Cunard).  I completely missed reading the last section of the Letter of Eligibility we received, and being concerned about cover for the cruises, I rang the helpline.  A patient and efficient person confirmed we are automatically covered for cruises, and directed me to, "Eligibility for Cover while Cruising and for Epidemic/Pandemic (such as COVID-19) Cover".  

Hope this answers your question, as it did mine  🙂

11 hours ago, Mareblu said: Only last week I applied for and received free travel insurance through our Westpac mastercard, for next year's trip, which includes two cruises (Oceania and Cunard).  I completely missed reading the last section of the Letter of Eligibility we received, and being concerned about cover for the cruises, I rang the helpline.  A patient and efficient person confirmed we are automatically covered for cruises, and directed me to, "Eligibility for Cover while Cruising and for Epidemic/Pandemic (such as COVID-19) Cover".   Hope this answers your question, as it did mine  🙂

I wish the Westpac card (underwritten by Allianz) covered my pre existing medical condition.

7 hours ago, cruisine21 said: I wish the Westpac card (underwritten by Allianz) covered my pre existing medical condition.

Yep! Me too!

I agree that pre-existing conditions are a real problem, and probably why more people don't travel.

Really like that people are ringing there Credit Card Insurer to clarify cover, and reporting back here.

Gives us some confidence that we are covered, not just thinking we might be.

Thanks guys for your posts.

4 hours ago, Mareblu said: I agree that pre-existing conditions are a real problem, and probably why more people don't travel.

Agree with that comment, Linda.

Re the Westpac CC insurance. My son has this card and asked me if his fiancé who lives  with him at the same address is considered his ‘spouse’ in the T&C. I will give them a call but first of all I’d ask since there are some very knowledgeable and helpful people here. 

1 hour ago, sanne said: Re the Westpac CC insurance. My son has this card and asked me if his fiancé who lives  with him at the same address is considered his ‘spouse’ in the T&C. I will give them a call but first of all I’d ask since there are some very knowledgeable and helpful people here. 

If they live together and are in a relationship then the law views them as being in a de facto relationship which is as good as married in the eyes of the law so I should think the answer is 'yes'. Do the T&Cs mention 'de facto spouse'?

Thank you LittleFish1976. I have just received this from Westpac ( Allianz). I’ve posted it to be helpful to others.

Please be advised that according to Policy information booklet (on page 18), Definition of   Spouse:

“ the partner of the cardholder who is in a permanent relationship with the cardholder at the time the journey or trip starts.”

According to above information if you are in permanent relationship however not married, you will be considered as partners  under this definition

Should you require any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us on the number below.

17 minutes ago, sanne said: Thank you LittleFish1976. I have just received this from Westpac ( Allianz). I’ve posted it to be helpful to others.     Please be advised that according to Policy information booklet (on page 18), Definition of   Spouse:   “ the partner of the cardholder who is in a permanent relationship with the cardholder at the time the journey or trip starts.”   According to above information if you are in permanent relationship however not married, you will be considered as partners  under this definition   Should you require any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us on the number below.  

You're welcome sanne. Glad you had confirmation that works out well for your family.

• 4 months later...

On 7/28/2023 at 3:52 PM, Mareblu said: Only last week I applied for and received free travel insurance through our Westpac mastercard, for next year's trip, which includes two cruises (Oceania and Cunard).  I completely missed reading the last section of the Letter of Eligibility we received, and being concerned about cover for the cruises, I rang the helpline.  A patient and efficient person confirmed we are automatically covered for cruises, and directed me to, "Eligibility for Cover while Cruising and for Epidemic/Pandemic (such as COVID-19) Cover".   Hope this answers your question, as it did mine  🙂

Hi, I'm just sorting my insurance now for a January cruise and have Westpac Platinum card. Was this sentence "Eligibility for Cover while Cruising and for Epidemic/Pandemic (such as COVID-19) Cover"  specifically stated in the letter you received or in the policy document?

Many thanks

Hi phoenixx,

On Page 3 of Letter of Eligibility:

"Under this group policy, the eligible traveller/s listed  below have access to International Travel Insurance which includes epidemic/pandemic (such as COVID-19) coverage and cover while cruising including while aboard a foreign registered cruise vessel in Australian territorial waters.  Cover is outlined in the sections below, subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and applicable sub-limits outlined in the Policy Information Booklet."

The PI Booklet is viewable online as part of the complete information forwarded by Westpac, and a scan through reveals the normal travel insurance inclusions and exclusions.  Allianz is the underwriter.

Hope this helps.

2 hours ago, Mareblu said: Hi phoenixx, On Page 3 of Letter of Eligibility:   "Under this group policy, the eligible traveller/s listed  below have access to International Travel Insurance which includes epidemic/pandemic (such as COVID-19) coverage and cover while cruising including while aboard a foreign registered cruise vessel in Australian territorial waters.  Cover is outlined in the sections below, subject to the terms, conditions, exclusions, limits and applicable sub-limits outlined in the Policy Information Booklet."   The PI Booklet is viewable online as part of the complete information forwarded by Westpac, and a scan through reveals the normal travel insurance inclusions and exclusions.  Allianz is the underwriter. Hope this helps.  

I'm in NZ and policy is with AIG. I've just spoken to them and there is no Covid cover! How stupid is that, if Westpac Australia cover Covid but NZ does not, what's the difference? (Rhetorical question but really, that's seems unfair). It also does not cover when in NZ waters, which I see yours does.

MicCanberra

Be very wary of CC insurance as it can be very tricky, some have a minimal spend on each item of travel I.e. $250 on flights, another on hotel, another on the cruise  not just on the whole trip.

56 minutes ago, MicCanberra said: Be very wary of CC insurance as it can be very tricky, some have a minimal spend on each item of travel I.e. $250 on flights, another on hotel, another on the cruise  not just on the whole trip.

Thanks, Mic, but we checked that point, and we are clear.  W’s is cumulative.

1 hour ago, phoenixx said: I'm in NZ and policy is with AIG. I've just spoken to them and there is no Covid cover! How stupid is that, if Westpac Australia cover Covid but NZ does not, what's the difference? (Rhetorical question but really, that's seems unfair). It also does not cover when in NZ waters, which I see yours does.

Gosh, that’s very one-sided.

Newbie here….I have ANZ card with complimentary travel insurance.  I know that Covid is covered.   

Wondering if you get confined in your room on a cruise for say 5 days, anyone knows whether there is any compensation from ANZ Allianz travel insurance?  

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This information is general in nature and has been prepared without taking your objectives, needs and overall financial situation into account. For this reason, you should consider the appropriateness of the information to your own circumstances and, if necessary, seek appropriate professional advice

Conditions, credit criteria and fees and charges apply, credit provided by Westpac Banking Corporation ABN 33 007 457 141 AFSL and Australian credit licence 233714.

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1. The earning and redemption of Altitude Points is subject to the Altitude Rewards Terms and Conditions or Altitude Business Rewards Terms and Conditions. The terms and conditions outline which purchases are eligible for points and the circumstances when you will not earn points, including when your account is overdue. Any unclaimed Rewards Points will expire 90 days from the day the account is closed. Eligible purchases do not include interest, fees and charges, cash or ATM cash advances, cash equivalent transactions, gambling transactions, a purchase from or payment to a local, state or federal government or government related agency, BPAY or similar transactions (such as Post Billpay), refunds and balance transfers debited from the card account.

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Introduction to C&F Travel Insured

• Types of Policies Offered

C&F Travel Insured Cost

• How to Purchase and Manage Your Policy
• Customer Service and Claims Experience
• Compare C&F Travel Insurance
• Why You Should Trust Us

C&F Travel Insured International Review 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Between booking your hotel and packing all your travel essentials, even the most avid planners may overlook trip insurance. Travel insurance can help you recuperate financial losses to give you peace of mind, no matter how far away you are from home.

We are here to break down C&F Travel Insured coverage options, costs, and how the company compares to its competitors.

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Offers 2 major plans including CFAR coverage on the more expensive option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancellation for job loss included as a covered reason for trip cancellation/interruption (does not require CFAR coverage to qualify)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Frequent traveler reward included in both policies
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1 million in medical evacuation coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is only $100,000
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews on claims processing indicate ongoing issues
• C&F's Travel Insured policies allow travelers customize travel insurance to fit their specific needs. Frequent travelers may benefit from purchasing an annual travel insurance plan, then adding on CFAR coverage for any portions of travel that may incur greater risk.

Crum and Forster is an insurance company that provides a wide array of corporate insurance products covering property, casualty, accident, and health. It also offers travel insurance under the name Travel Insured International. Included among our guide on the best international travel insurance , C&F Travel Insured offers comprehensive coverage with unique add-ons that distinguishes itself from many of the best travel insurance companies . 

While policies aren't particularly low-cost for most single travelers, they're exceedingly cheap for families traveling with kids as kids are heavily discounted under the Protector Edge plan and completely free under the Protector plan. 

C&F Travel Insured also has an annual multi-trip policy which has an optional cancel for any reason upgrade. It's noteworthy since most annual plans don't offer CFAR upgrades. It also offers medical emergency coverage for pre-existing conditions, which is also uncommon among annual plans. 

Types of Policies Offered by C&F Travel Insured

C&F Travel Insured offers two coverage options: Worldwide Trip Protector and Worldwide Trip Protector Edge.

With this travel insurance agency, you'll find an a la carte of coverage options and optional policy add-ons like "cancel for any reason" (CFAR) and "interrupt for any reason" (IFAR) coverage.

You'll find a comprehensive list of features included in each policy below:

C&F Travel Insured International Annual Multi-trip Protector

C&F Travel Insured's annual plan covers all trips under 45 days taken within a year. This policy is only available to travelers under 80. 

Additional coverage options from C&F Travel Insured

If you need more coverage, you may fancy C&F Travel Insured's vast array of insurance add-ons and riders.

• Cancel for any reason coverage — Receive up to 75% of the cost of your trip for unused, forfeited, or nonrefundable deposits. Policy must be purchased within 21 days of initial trip payment.
• Interrupt for any reason coverage — Starting 72 hours after your scheduled departure, C&F will reimburse up to 75% of nonrefundable costs. IFAR coverage is specific to land and water bookings.
• Cancel for work reasons coverage — Get reimbursed for up to 100% of the cost of your or your traveling partner's trip due to a work conflict.
• Air flight only, accident, death, and dismemberment coverage — Provides compensation for accidents during your flight.
• Electronic equipment coverage — Get reimbursed for electronics stolen, damaged, or destroyed during your trip.
• Event ticket registration fee protection — Receive reimbursement for unused, forfeited, or nonrefundable event ticket registration fees.
• Rental car damage and theft — Get coverage for rental car damages beyond your control.
• Travel inconvenience — Receive reimbursement for covered events such as closed attractions, beach closures, and flight delays.
• Bed rest — Get reimbursed for unforeseen ailments and injuries requiring bed rest or quarantine for at least 48 hours.

The premium you pay will depend on various factors, including the age of the travelers, destination, and total trip costs. The  average cost of travel insurance  is 4% to 8% of your travel costs.

After inputting some personal information, such as your age and state of residence, along with your trip details, like travel dates, destination, and trip costs, you'll get an instant quote for C&F Travel Insured plans available for your trip. And from there, it's easy to compare each option based on your coverage needs and budget.

Now let's look at a few examples to estimate C&F Travel Insured's travel insurance costs.

As of 2024, a 23-year-old from Illinois taking a week-long, $3,000 budget trip to Italy would have the following travel insurance quotes:

• Worldwide Trip Protector Edge: $105
• Worldwide Trip Protector: $ 140

Premiums for C&F Travel Insured plans are between 3.5% and 4.6% of the trip's cost, well within the average cost of travel insurance.

C&F Travel Insured provides the following quotes for a 30-year-old traveler from California heading to Japan for two weeks on a $4,000 trip:

• Worldwide Trip Protector Edge: $141
• Worldwide Trip Protector: $177

Once again, premiums for C&F Travel Insured plans are between 3.5% and 4.4% of the trip's cost, within and below the expected range of travel insurance costs.

A Texas family consisting of two 40-year-old parents with a 10-year-old and 4-year-old on a two-week trip to Australia for $20,000:

• Worldwide Trip Protector Edge: $420
• Worldwide Trip Protector: $624

Quotes for this trip cost between 2.1% and 3.1%, below the average cost of travel insurance. Note that insuring children with C&F Travel Insured is heavily discounted with the Edge plan and completely free with the Protector plan.

A 65-year-old couple looking to escape New Jersey for Mexico for two weeks with a trip cost of $6,000 would have the following quotes:

• Worldwide Trip Protector Edge: $562
• Worldwide Trip Protector: $782

Premiums forC&F Travel Insured plans for older-age travelers are between 9.4% and 13%, which is well above the average cost for travel insurance. 

C&F Travel Insured Annual Multi-Trip Policy

Annual policies for C&F Travel Insured cost the following: 

Adults: $94 yearly

Kids: $64 yearly

Prices will vary based on optional add-ons attached to your policy.

How to Purchase and Manage a C&F Travel Insured Policy

Purchasing a policy with C&F Travel Insured is simple. You'll first need to go to the C&F Travel Insured website to acquire a quote. You'll need to be prepared to provide the following information:

• Travel dates
• State of residence
• Number of travelers
• Age of traveler(s)
• Cost of trip per traveler
• Initial payment date
• Type of travel (cruise/other)
• Email address

Once you input this information, you'll be taken to the quotes page, where you can select a policy and add any desired riders. While you don't have to add your destination when receiving a quote, you'll have to add a destination once you check out. 

How to File a Claim with C&F Travel Insured International

When you experience a loss on your trip, you'll need to act quick when filing a claim, within 20 days of experiencing the covered loss. You can start a claim by filling out a short form with the plan number listed on your confirmation of benefits document and your last name. 

Alternatively, you can give the company a call at 855-752-8303. C&F Travel Insured's hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. EST. You can also email the team at [email protected]. 

According to the Explanation of Benefits, C&F Travel Insured will pay out within 30 days of receiving proof of loss. Once this period has elapsed, your payout will begin accruing interest at 9% APY.

C&F Travel Insured Customer Service and Claims Experience

C&F Travel Insured has overall positive customer reviews, receiving an average of 4.4 stars out of five on its Squaremouth page and 4.1 stars out of five on its Trustpilot page. Customers were very complementary of the buying process, saying that customer service representatives were helpful and knowledgeable about policy options.

Reviews were mostly complementary of the claims process, saying it was straightforward and wait times weren't too long. One customer on Squaremouth says their claim took just 48 hours to process.

Its BBB page fares far worse, receiving an average of 1.06 stars out of five. While reviews on BBB were overwhelmingly negative, C&F Travel Insuredwas far more diligent in responding to these reviews than Squaremouth or Trustpilot, usually addressing them within a business week. 

Compare C&F Travel Insured

Learn more about how C&F Travel Insured compares to popular travel insurance plans.

C&F Travel Insured International vs AIG Travel Guard

The most similar plan from Travel Guard is the mid-tier Travel Guard Preferred Plan. Below, we've outlined some of the main features of this insurance policy.

• Up to $150,000 in trip cancellation coverage
• Up to $225,000 in trip interruption coverage
• A maximum of $800 in travel delay coverage
• A maximum of $50,000 in emergency medical coverage
• Up to $150,000 in emergency evacuations
• Up to $1,000 coverage for baggage loss, theft, or damage

Below, you'll find coverages for C&F Travel Insured Worldwide Trip Protector plan.

• 100% in trip cancellation coverage
• 150% trip interruption coverage
• Up to $1,000 in travel delay coverage after six hours
• A maximum of $100,000 in medical emergency coverage
• Up to $1 million in emergency evacuations
• Up to $1,000 in coverage for baggage loss, theft, or damage

At a glance, C&F Travel Insured Worldwide Trip Protector offers more travel insurance coverage than Travel Guard. Travel Guard's travel insurance also caps the dollar amount of its trip cancellation and interruption coverage, which is something to keep in mind before buying travel insurance.

Read our AIG Travel Insurance review here.

C&F Travel Insured International vs iTravelInsured

iTravelInsured Travel Insurance 's most popular plan is the Travel SE plan.

• 150% in trip interruption coverage
• Up to $250,000 (primary coverage) for emergency medical coverage
• Up to $2,000 ($125 daily limit) in travel delay coverage for delays after 12 hours.
• $1,500 ($250 per item) maximum for baggage loss, theft, or damage

You'll find more comprehensive medical and baggage loss coverage with iTravelInsured Travel Insurance's SE plan than C&F Travel Insured Worldwide Trip Protector.

iTravelInsured Travel Insurance Travel LX and C&F Travel Insured WorldWide premium package also offer CFAR and IFAR coverage. Remember, your cost may vary based on personal factors such as age and travel destination. It's best to generate rates using the companies' quote tools and compare prices.

Read our iTravelInsured Insurance review here.

C&F Travel Insured International vs Credit Card Travel Insurance

Buying insurance through a travel insurance company like C&F Travel Insured is one of many ways to get coverage. However, travel insurance may also be a perk included in your credit card. It's essential to check if any of your credit cards offer travel insurance and if the coverage is sufficient to meet your needs.

A separate travel insurance policy can help you fill gaps in your credit card's travel insurance coverage . For instance, many credit cards offer trip cancellation and interruption coverage but not medical coverage. C&F Travel Insured's Travel Medical Protector plan may be a good addition if you only need to add medical-related coverage.

Read our guide on the best credit cards with travel insurance  here.

C&F Travel Insured FAQs

C&F Travel Insured offers comprehensive coverage, but stands out for its riders as well as its pricing for family trips.

C&F Travel Insured's prices are middling, with lower rates for children and high rates for senior travelers.

The customer service at C&F Travel Insured is particularly good compared to its competitors, with communicative staff and a fast claims process.

C&F Travel Insured typically offers customization options for their policies, allowing customers to add more coverage and select from a number of add-ons.

The claim filing process with C&F Travel Insured is streamlined and user-friendly, with support from their customer service team to assist policyholders throughout the process.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed C&F Travel Insured

We looked at C&F Travel Insured's coverages and compared it to the best travel insurance policies. We analyzed coverage options, claim limits, available add-ons, and typical insurance policy costs. The right policy will offer sufficient coverage for your situation at the most competitive price.

C&F Travel Insured offers aggressive options if you're willing to pay a bit more. It also offers budget travel insurance plans for those looking to supplement credit card or other protections already in place. To find the travel insurance that makes sense, check out different providers and compare quotes.

You can read more about our ratings methods for insurance providers here.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

**Enrollment required.

• Main content

14 Best Travel Credit Cards of May 2024

Best travel cards main takeaways.

• Money has evaluated hundreds of credit cards, comparing their fees, benefits, welcome offers, travel insurance policies and more.
• The top credit cards for travel offer high rewards on travel purchases, which can be redeemed for airfare, hotel nights, cash back, statement credits or more.
• Our picks feature the best travel cards for every budget and include no-annual-fee, low-annual-fee, premium and business cards.

Why Trust Us?

Our editorial team has spent well over a thousand hours analyzing, evaluating and comparing the top credit card offers in the market. We carefully vet each card’s fine print in order to understand their features, limitations and potential benefits for consumers. We review cards independently, ensuring our content is accurate and guided by editorial integrity. Read our full methodology to learn more.

• 46 travel credit cards evaluated
• 10+ data points used, including ongoing fees, reward programs and welcome offers
• 100+ sources reviewed

Money.com has partnered with CardRatings.com for our coverage of credit card products. Money and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. This site does not include all card companies or all available card offers. O ur top picks are listed strictly in alphabetical order.

Our Top Picks for Best Travel Credit Cards

Best no-annual-fee travel credit cards.

• Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card – Best no-annual-fee travel card for flat rate rewards
• Bilt Mastercard® – Best no-annual-fee travel card for paying rent
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card – Best no-annual-fee card for travel partners
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® – Best no-annual-fee travel card for domestic travel
• Discover it® Miles – Best no-annual-fee travel card for simple rewards
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card – Best no-annual-fee travel card for everyday spending

Best low-fee-annual-fee travel credit cards

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card – Best travel card for flat-rate rewards
• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card – Best travel card for flexible rewards

Best premium travel credit cards

• American Express® Gold Card – Best travel card for dining
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card – Best low-cost premium travel card
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® – Best premium travel credit card
• The Platinum Card® from American Express – Best travel card for lounge access

Best business travel credit cards

• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express – Best business travel card

Best airline travel credit cards

• United℠ Explorer Card: Best airline credit card

Best Travel Credit Cards Reviews

Our top picks are listed in alphabetical order.

Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• Earns 1.5x points on all purchases
• No bonus category for travel
• Few benefits compared to other cards
• Limited redemption options

Why we chose it: The Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card is an easy-to-use card best suited for travel reward beginners or those who are already Bank of America customers.

Some cardholders can earn up to 75% more points if they are Bank of America Preferred Rewards members — that’s up to 2.62 points for every dollar spent.

However, the card doesn’t offer hotel and airline point transfer partners, travel insurance or extended warranty and purchase protection. Additionally, you can only redeem your points as statement credit to cover travel and dining purchases.

All information about Bank of America® Travel Rewards Credit Card has been collected independently by Money.com

• No annual or foreign currency conversion fee (Click herehttps://www.wellsfargo.com/credit-cards/bilt/terms/">here; for rates and fees)
• Use it to pay your rent and earn rewards without incurring any processing fees
• You can earn double points on all purchase categories (except rent payments) on the first of every month (up to 10,000 points)
• Earn 2x points on travel (when booked directly through an airline, hotels, car rental agencies and cruise lines)
• No welcome bonus or introductory APR period
• Points redeemed for statement credits are worth 0.55 cents each
• You must make at least five transactions in a statement period to earn points
• Rent payments can only be made to one rental property per month

Why we chose it: The Bilt Mastercard® lets you earn travel rewards on rent payments without incurring any processing fees — unlike most credit cards that typically charge around 2.5% to 2.9% per rent payment.

You can use the card to pay rent without worrying about surcharges. Once you get approved for the card, all you have to do is set up an account through the Bilt app or website and use your assigned routing and account number to pay rent through your usual payment portal. You can also use your card even if your landlord only accepts checks, and Bilt will send a check on your behalf.

Additionally, Bilt doubles the card’s rewards rates on the first of every month, which means you can earn 6x points on dining, 4x points on travel and 2x points on other purchases (up to 10,000 points per month). However, this bonus doesn’t apply to rent rewards.

On the downside, the Bilt Mastercard® doesn’t offer a welcome bonus, and points redeemed for statement credits are only worth 0.55 cents each.

• Can transfer your miles to 16 travel partners
• Earns 5x miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Doesn't earn bonus points on airfare
• No domestic travel partners

Why we chose it: The Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card is a great option if you’re looking for a no-annual fee travel credit card with a simple rewards structure.

You can use your miles to book travel through the Capital One Travel portal or as a statement credit to cover travel purchases made from airlines, hotels, rail lines, car rental agencies and more.

You can also transfer your points to one of Capital One’s 16 travel partners, which include international airlines such as Avianca and British Airways. This option is notable since travel credit cards with no annual fee don’t typically offer the option to transfer your reward to airline and hotel partners.

However, the card’s list of bonus categories is limited compared to some other no-annual-fee credit cards, and Capital One doesn’t offer bonus points on airfare booked through Capital One Travel.

• Includes trip cancellation/interruption and car rental insurance
• Features a high flat cash back rate combined and popular bonus categories
• 3% foreign transaction fee

Why we chose it: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is the best credit card for traveling domestically. It offers a 1.5% flat cash back rate on most purchases plus it has several appealing bonus categories, including travel and dining.

This card charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, that is, on any transactions made in currency other than US dollars. However, if you mostly travel within the U.S., this card is an excellent option.

For one, you’ll earn an additional 1.5% on each of the card’s bonus categories during the first year of card membership (or up to the first $20,000 spent).

Also, although using this card abroad is not recommended, you can still use it to book international trips while you’re home, and you’ll earn 5% cash back if you book it through Chase Travel℠.

You can redeem your rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and even transfer them to other cards that earn Chase Ultimate Rewards® points. It’s also worth noting that this card is one of the few no-annual-fee credit cards with rental car coverage and trip cancellation and interruption insurance.

• No annual or foreign transaction fees
• Discover matches the total miles you earned at the end of the first year
• Earns 1.5x miles on all purchases
• See your FICO score on the Discover mobile app, online and on statements
• Few benefits compared to other travel cards
• Doesn't include extended warranty or purchase protection

Why we chose it: The Discover it® Miles Credit Card is a no-frills card ideal for travelers who don’t want to keep track of bonus categories, earning caps or redemption values.

The card earns a flat 1.5x miles on all eligible purchases without any annual caps. You can redeem your miles for statement credits and account deposits at a rate of 1 cent per mile. You can also use your rewards through Amazon and PayPal checkout with the same value.

Also, the card’s welcome bonus is easily one of the best in the market: Discover matches every mile you’ve earned at the end of your first membership year — without any spending requirements.

However, while the Discover it® Miles Credit Card is a great starter travel card, its lack of bonus categories could hinder your reward-earning potential in the long run. Additionally, Discover cards aren’t as widely accepted internationally as Visa Signature and World Mastercard, for example.

All information about the Discover it® Miles Credit Card has been collected independently by Money.com.

• Earn 3x points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, select streaming services and cell phone plans
• Includes cell phone protection plan
• No airline or hotel transfer partners
• Doesn't include travel insurance
• Netflix and HBO are not eligible for streaming bonus

Why we chose it: The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is the best travel reward card for everyday spending, offering high rewards on several popular spending categories, including travel, dining, gas, streaming services and cell phone plans.

Its travel bonus category is particularly noteworthy because you can earn points regardless of where you make your reservations, whether it’s directly with an airline or through a third-party travel site like Booking.com. (Most travel credit cards limit travel rewards to bookings made exclusively through the card issuer’s travel portal.)

The card also includes rental car insurance and a cell phone protection plan when you use it to pay your monthly bill.

All information about the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card has been collected independently by Money.com.

Best Low-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

• Earn 2x miles per dollar on most purchases
• Up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck(R)
• Includes travel accident and car rental insurance
• Fewer bonus categories than other cards with a similar annual fee ($95)
• Doesn't offer travel rewards for flights
• Car rental insurance is secondary

Why we chose it: The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is the best credit card for travel miles if you want to earn a high reward rate and not worry about bonus categories.

The Capital One Venture Rewards is ideal for those who want to get the most out of their spending without worrying about tracking bonus categories and spending caps.

You can redeem your miles on the Capital One travel portal and as statement credits to cover travel purchases at a value of one cent per mile. Additionally, you may transfer your miles to more than 15 airline and hotel partners.

However, keep in mind that Capital One doesn’t have domestic travel partners, which can be a drawback if you mainly travel within the U.S.

• Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel purchases through Chase TravelSM
• Receive a point bonus each account anniversary
• Includes primary rental car insurance
• Earn 3x per $1 on dining, including eligible delivery and takeout meals, select streaming services and grocery purchases
• $95 annual fee
• Doesn't offer a Global Entry/TSA PreCheck(R) application fee credit

Why we chose this card: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is the best travel credit card for frequent travelers who want to earn valuable rewards while paying a low annual fee.

The card features six reward categories that offer outstanding rewards on flights, hotels, restaurants and more. You can redeem your points for statement credits, account deposits, gift cards and more. But you can get the most bang for your buck by redeeming them for travel purchases through the Chase Travel℠ portal, which increases your point’s usual one-cent value by 25%.

You can redeem your points for statement credits, account deposits, gift cards and more. But you can get the most bang for your buck by redeeming them for travel purchases through Chase Travel℠, which increases your point’s usual one-cent value by 25%.

You can also transfer your points to one of Chase’s 14 travel partners at a 1:1 ratio (one Chase point equals one hotel point or airline mile). These include popular airlines and hotels like JetBlue, Southwest, United, Marriott and Hyatt.

Best Premium Travel Credit Cards

• Earns 4x points on restaurants worldwide, takeout and food delivery within the U.S.
• Up to $120 in annual dining credits, issued as a $10 statement credit per month for select restaurants (enrollment required)
• Up to $120 as Uber Cash annually ($10 per month) for food delivery orders and rides in the U.S. after you add the American Express(R) Gold Card to your Uber account
• Earn 4x points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x)
• High annual fee ($250)
• Includes few travel perks and insurance policies compared to similarly priced cards

Terms apply. Please click here for applicable rates and fees.

Why we chose it: The American Express® Gold Card is ideal for foodies, offering a high reward rate at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets, takeout and food delivery. (Terms apply.)

The American Express® Gold Card also offers statement credits worth up to $240 combined — almost enough to offset the card’s $250 annual fee. These include:

• Up to $120 every year in dining credits ($10 per month) for select restaurants and food delivery services. The list includes Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and Shake Shack (Enrollment required)
• Automatically get $10 monthly in Uber Cash to use on Uber Eats or Uber rides in the U.S. (after you add the American Express® Gold Card to your account)
• $100 credit for dining, spa services and other activities when you book a two-night minimum stay at a hotel from The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel
• Terms apply

However, note that the American Express® Gold Card offers fewer travel perks than some other premium cards — for instance, it doesn’t offer trip cancellation and interruption insurance or TSA PreCheck® or CLEAR® Plus fee credits.

• 10,000 bonus miles every year
• Statement credit of up to $300 for bookings made through Capital One Travel
• Up to a $100 credit on Global Entry or TSA PreCheck(R)
• Skip the line and get car upgrades when renting a car with Hertz
• High annual fee ($395)
• Fewer bonus categories than other premium cards
• No domestic airline transfer partners

Why we chose it: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the best credit card for travel miles if you want to earn a high reward rate and not worry about bonus categories.

The Capital One Venture X also includes noteworthy perks such as:

• 10,000 bonus miles every year (starting on your first anniversary)
• $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel
• Up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges worldwide with Priority Pass™ Select and Plaza Premium Group
• Authorized users at no extra cost (many cards have an annual fee of $75 or more for each additional user)

All in all, the Venture X is a solid option that can easily compete with other premium travel cards, especially considering its more affordable annual fee.

• Up to $300 in statement credits each anniversary year to cover travel purchases
• Transfer your points to 14 travel partners (including United, Southwest, JetBlue and Marriott)
• Points worth 50% more when redeemed for travel expenses through Chase TravelSM
• Comprehensive travel insurance coverage, including emergency dental insurance
• High annual fee ($550)
• Doesn't include a cell phone protection plan

Why we chose it: The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is the best credit card for travelers looking for a high reward rate on travel and additional benefits like comprehensive travel insurance and airport lounge access worldwide.

Your points are worth 50% more when you redeem them for travel through the Chase Travel℠ portal. This means each point is worth 1.5 cents per point instead of one cent, like most travel cards. Also, the Chase Sapphire Reserve® provides several high-end benefits such as:

• $300 annual travel credit to cover travel-related purchases like airfare, hotels, car rentals, rideshares, buses, trains, tolls and/or parking
• Access for you and two guests to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide (after a one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select)
• Statement credit of up to $100 every four years for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck® or Nexus

The Sapphire Reserve does have a $550 annual fee. But if you take advantage of the $300 annual credit and other perks, the benefits can definitely outweigh its cost.

• Access to the widest network of airport lounges of any card
• Complimentary elite status in the Marriott and Hilton hotel loyalty programs
• Hundreds of dollars in annual statement credits for travel, dining and more
• High annual fee ($695)
• Doesn't include baggage delay, travel accident and primary rental car insurance
• Limited bonus categories

Terms apply. Click here for rates and fees.

Why we chose this card: The Platinum Card® from American Express offers a list of premium benefits that no other travel card offers, including the widest network of airport lounges and room upgrades at Hilton and Marriott hotels. (Terms apply.)

The Platinum Card® from American Express features an impressive list of high-end travel benefits, including:

• Complimentary access to over 1,400 airport lounges, including Priority Pass, Delta SkyClub and Amex’s own Centurion lounges (enrollment required)
• Gold status in the Marriott and Hilton loyalty programs, which makes you eligible for room upgrades, free breakfast and late checkouts (enrollment required)
• $200 back each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings made through American Express Travel and paid with your Platinum Card® (Hotel Collection bookings require a minimum two-night stay)
• Up to $200 per year when incidental fees, such as checked bags, are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card® (with one selected qualifying airline)
• Complimentary premium status in Avis Preferred®, Hertz Gold Plus Rewards®, and/or National Car Rental® Emerald Club (must enroll through your Amex online account using your card)

The Platinum Card® from American Express does have a hefty $695 annual fee. However, for people who travel often and will take advantage of its annual credits and travel perks, it might almost pay for itself.

Best Business Travel Credit Cards

• 5X points on flights and prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com
• Around $1,000 in yearly statement credits for select business purchases
• Access to a wide network of airport lounges (terms apply)
• Around $600 in perks in Fine Hotels + Resorts(R) locations booked through American Express Travel (for stays of two nights)
• Secondary rental car coverage**

Why we chose it: The Business Platinum Card® from American Express features an extensive list of benefits that make it an ideal travel and business credit card.

With this card, you can access over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide, comprehensive travel insurance and extra amenities at hundreds of hotels, like daily breakfast and free internet access. Additionally, you get a $200 credit to cover baggage fees, in-flight refreshments and more and up to $100 for Global Entry or $85 for TSA PreCheck® every four or 4.5 years respectively. (Terms apply.) (Enrollment required.)

The card also offers several yearly statement credits for business-related purchases that include up to $400 per year ($200 between January and June and $200 between July and December) for U.S. purchases with Dell.

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express does have one of the steepest annual fees ($695) among travel credit cards, but its extensive list of benefits makes it a no-brainer for business owners who travel frequently.

Best Airline Travel Credit Cards

• Free first checked bag for you and a companion
• Up to $100 as a statement credit for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck(R) or NEXUS every 4 year
• 25% back as a statement credit on food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights
• Complimentary priority boarding for you and companions traveling on the same reservation
• $95 annual fee (after the first year)
• No intro APR period
• Rewards are only valuable when used with United

Why we chose it: The card_name has a low annual fee and gives you valuable benefits that make up for it, such as priority boarding for everyone on the reservation and a free checked bag for you and one companion.

Other perks the card includes are:

• Two one-time passes for United Club℠ airport lounges each account anniversary year
• 25% back as a statement credit on in-flight purchases like food, beverages and Wi-Fi
• Up to $100 every four years to cover the cost of TSA PreCheck®, Global Entry or NEXUS
• Comprehensive travel insurance (auto rental collision damage waiver, baggage delay insurance, lost luggage reimbursement, trip cancellation/interruption insurance and trip delay reimbursement)

The United℠ Explorer Card earns miles on United purchases, including tickets, inflight food, beverages, Wi-Fi and more. You also earn rewards at restaurants and select hotel stays.

You can use your miles to book flights on United Airlines or its partners, including Avianca, Lufthansa and Air Canada. You can also redeem them for seat upgrades, inflight Wi-Fi passes and more — although United miles are usually more valuable when used for airfare.

Travel Credit Cards Guide

The best credit cards for travel do more than offer high reward rates on flights and hotel stays. They also provide rewards for everyday spending and perks such as travel insurance , airport lounge access and annual statement credits.

Here’s a rundown of how these cards work:

What is a travel credit card?

Travel credit cards offer benefits and rewards geared towards individuals who travel frequently or want to earn travel benefits.

They provide high rewards for travel-related expenses such as flights, hotels, rental cars and dining. You can then use these rewards (in the form of points or miles) to book travel reservations. Some cards also let you transfer your rewards to hotel and airline partners or redeem them for statement credits, cash back, gift cards and more.

On top of the rewards, these cards often feature several travel-related perks, such as no foreign transaction fees, hotel discounts, travel insurance, free checked bags and airport lounge access.

How do travel credit cards work?

Travel credit cards give you a certain number of points or miles per dollar on eligible purchases. They often offer around 5x points or more for airfare, hotel rooms, rental cars and more. Some cards may also count parking, bus fares, taxis, tolls and ferries as travel purchases.

Besides travel, you’ll typically get bonus points in additional spending categories. For example, some cards may offer 3x points per dollar on dining, groceries, drugstores or streaming services. All other eligible purchases usually get at least one point (1x) per dollar.

You can then redeem your points for flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises and more. Card issuers also usually let you redeem your points for non-travel options like statement credits, cash back or gift cards.

How to use credit card points for travel

Travel credit cards have rewards programs through which you can earn points (or miles). Well-known point programs include Chase Ultimate Rewards®, American Express Membership Rewards® and Citi ThankYou® Rewards.

To redeem your points, go to your travel card’s rewards program portal. The process may differ across credit card issuers, but you’ll usually be able to access it through your online account on the issuer’s website or app.

Points are usually worth one cent each. However, some issuers increase their value if you redeem them for travel. For example, Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card points are worth 1.25 cents when used to book flights through the Chase Travel℠ portal.

Points may also be worth less than a cent, depending on how you redeem them. For example, some cards allow you to use your points at Amazon checkout. While this might sound convenient, this option may bring down the value of points to around 0.8 cents.

Some cards also allow you to transfer your rewards to select airline and hotel partners. Typically, you can transfer rewards to these loyalty programs on a 1:1 ratio, meaning that 1,000 credit card points are worth 1,000 loyalty program points.

Difference between points and miles

You’ll earn points or miles depending on which travel credit card you have. For example, Chase travel credit cards earn points, while Capital One travel cards earn miles. Miles and points typically have similar value (around one cent each) and redemption options.

However, keep in mind that several cards that earn miles are tied to a specific airline — like the United℠ Explorer Card. In this case, you can only use your rewards for purchases with the issuing airline such as flights, seat upgrades, inflight dining and more.

Pros and cons of travel credit cards

• Some cards offer up to 10x points per dollar on travel purchases.
• Many have additional bonus categories for dining, grocery shopping and more.
• They may include travel benefits like priority boarding, airport lounge access and late hotel checkouts.
• Points or miles can also be redeemed for cash back, statement credits, gift cards and more.
• Highest reward rates are usually limited to purchases made through the card issuer's travel portal.
• They might not offer high rewards on spending outside of the travel category.
• Some of the best ones can have steep annual fees and require good to excellent credit
• Redeeming points or miles for anything other than travel can reduce their value to less than one cent per dollar.

Types of travel credit cards

Here’s a rundown of the differences between the three main types of travel credit cards:

Airline credit cards

Airline credit cards are ideal for people who regularly fly with the same airline. These cards earn miles you can redeem for flights, seat upgrades, inflight dining, airport lounge access and other travel-related purchases but typically only with the issuing airline.

Some of the best airline travel credit cards include benefits like free checked bags, priority boarding and discounts on in-flight purchases.

Hotel credit cards

With hotel credit cards, you can only redeem your points for stays, discounts and other benefits with one particular hotel chain.

For example, the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card earns points for Hilton’s loyalty program, which you can redeem for free nights in the company’s properties, including Hilton Garden Inn and Waldorf Astoria hotels.

Hotel credit cards may also offer complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, late checkouts and bonus points for purchases made during your stay.

General travel credit card

General travel credit cards are more flexible than airline or hotel cards. They aren’t affiliated with a single airline or hotel chain, so their points can be used to book flights, hotel stays, rental cars and more from different companies.

These cards may also offer useful perks for frequent travelers, like airport lounge access. They can also cover the cost of a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck® membership, which allows you to skip the long lines at airport security or customs.

How to choose a travel credit card

Picking the best travel rewards credit card boils down to how often you travel, which cardmember perks you’d benefit the most from and the categories you spend the most on.

Here are some factors to keep in mind when choosing the best card for you:

• Do you travel often? A travel rewards credit card offers high reward rates on travel spending, and you’ll get the most bang for your buck when you use their points on flights, hotels and car rentals. If you don’t take trips often but want to pile up rewards, a cash-back credit card might be a better fit.
• Assess your everyday spending. Many travel cards have additional bonus categories other than travel, like dining, supermarkets, streaming services and drugstores. Consider your day-to-day spending habits and pick a card with bonus categories that fit your lifestyle.
• Consider the card’s annual fees. No-annual-fee travel cards usually have few travel benefits. The best travel credit cards charge annual fees of at least $90 and can go as high as $700. However, these are often best for those that travel enough to take advantage of their benefits.
• General travel card vs co-branded cards. General travel cards have more flexible redemption options. On the other hand, co-branded cards are often tied to a specific airline or hotel, which can limit your options. Still, they do provide valuable perks like free checked bags, in-flight discounts and hotel upgrades.
• Compare extra travel perks. Some cards offer extras like annual statement credits for flights and hotels or upgrades when renting cars. Take the time to compare each card’s roster of add-ons and pick one that will best suit your travel plans.
• Compare insurance policies. The best credit card travel benefits include insurance policies that cover travel accidents, rental cars, trip cancellations and more. These policies can vary widely based on the issuer and the card’s annual-fee tier.
• Beware foreign transaction fees. Most travel credit cards don’t charge foreign transaction fees. Some cash-back cards may offer outstanding rewards for travel purchases but charge around 3% fees on purchases outside the U.S.
• Look beyond welcome offers. A 60,000-point welcome bonus can be enticing. However, it shouldn’t be your deciding factor, especially if you’ll end up paying a high annual fee without getting your money’s worth.

How get the most out of your travel credit card

To get the most out of your travel credit card, you need to use it as often and strategically as possible. This way, you can earn points or miles with each purchase, which you can then redeem for free or discounted flights, hotels and more.

Use your travel card to pay most of your purchases and bills and then pay your card off in full each month. This will help you earn points while avoiding interest charges and high credit card debt , which can impact your credit score.

Here are some other tips to maximize your rewards and benefits:

• Consider adding an authorized user to your account. They’ll earn points with every purchase they make, and those will get added to your overall total. However, make sure to pick someone who will use the card responsibly since you’ll be legally liable if they ever fail to pay their monthly bills.
• Redeem your rewards for travel through the card issuer’s website. This redemption option usually offers the highest value compared to gift cards or merchandise, for example.
• If your card offers travel protections (like travel accident or luggage insurance), use it to pay for your passenger fares. This way, you could be reimbursed in the event of an accident or lost luggage, for example.
• Use your airline or hotel card to sign up for the company’s frequent flyer or frequent guest loyalty program. You’ll often earn extra points or miles when you’re a member and use your co-branded card to pay for flights, hotel stays and more.
• If you can transfer points from other credit cards to your travel card, take advantage of this feature. This way, you can accumulate extra points for travel booking and sometimes even increase their value.

Best Travel Credit Cards FAQs

What is the best travel credit card, what is the best credit card for international travel, how to travel for free with credit cards, what is the best credit card for travel miles, what is a welcome bonus on a credit card, how we chose the best travel credit cards.

We ranked the best credit cards for travel based on their annual fees, benefits, reward rates and redemption flexibility.

Fees: We compared interest rates and foreign, cash advance and balance transfer fees for more than 50 credit cards. We also considered their annual fee, looking for those that offered the most for the money.

Ongoing benefits: Intro APR and bonus offers are attractive, but they can only get you so far. We focused on cards with year-round benefits such as travel insurance or cell phone protection plans.

Reward rates: We preferred cards that allow you to earn extra points from travel expenses, as well as those that provide significant bonus rewards in popular spending categories, like dining, supermarkets or streaming services.

Redemption flexibility: Our picks don’t limit your redemption options to just travel. Some let you use your points for Amazon purchases, for example. We also preferred issuers that allowed cardholders to transfer their points to airline and hotel partners.

Summary of Money’s Best Travel Credit Cards of May 2024

• Discover it® Miles Credit Card – Best no-annual-fee travel card for simple rewards

Money.com has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Money.com and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

To see rates and fees for the American Express® Gold Card, visit this link . Terms apply.

To see rates and fees for The Platinum Card® from American Express, visit this link . Terms apply.

To see rates and fees for The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, visit this link . Terms apply.

* Insurance disclosures for American Express Cards on this page:

Trip Delay Insurance: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Baggage Insurance Plan: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Global Assist Hotline: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Card Members are responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.

Extended Warranty, Purchase Protection, Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

Car Rental Loss & Damage Insurance: Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

** Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $75,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

*** Car Rental Loss and Damage Insurance can provide coverage up to $50,000 for theft of or damage to most rental vehicles when you use your eligible Card to reserve and pay for the entire eligible vehicle rental and decline the collision damage waiver or similar option offered by the Commercial Car Rental Company. This product provides secondary coverage and does not include liability coverage. Not all vehicle types or rentals are covered. Geographic restrictions apply. Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

© Copyright 2024 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

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Our top picks for the best credit cards for international travel

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Best Credit Cards for International Travel of 2024

• Some of the best credit cards for international travel are the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , Chase Sapphire Reserve® , The Platinum Card® from American Express , and the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card .
• The best credit cards for traveling internationally offer generous rewards and travel perks.
• Welcome bonuses can add significant value to the base-level benefits.
• These travel cards have annual fees ranging from $0 to $695.
• When choosing a credit card for overseas travel, consider the fees, global acceptance rate, rewards redemption options and earning potential.

If you’re a traveler, you make purchases constantly. Credit cards for international travel can help you get the most value from these purchases, as they provide rewards that make future trips more affordable.

Many also offer perks, such as TSA PreCheck credits and lounge access, so every trip feels more luxurious. With so many options — and varying annual fees — it can be hard to figure out which one is the right fit. 

To help you choose, this guide covers:

• The best credit cards for international travelers
• How to choose the right overseas travel credit card
• Making the most of a travel card

Let’s take a look at the best credit cards for international travel.

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best for flexible travel perks and a reasonable annual fee
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best for flexible rewards and luxury perks
• The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for luxury international travel perks
• American Express® Gold Card: Best for travelers who love dining out
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best for simple travel rewards and a low fee
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card: Best for simple rewards & premium travel perks
• Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for cash back on travel & dining
• Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for college students traveling abroad

Best for flexible travel perks and a reasonable annual fee

Chase sapphire preferred® card.

Earn 5X points on Chase Travel purchases, 3X points on dining, online grocery purchases, and select streaming services, and 1X points on other purchases.

Best for flexible rewards and luxury perks

Chase sapphire reserve®.

Earn 10X points on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Travel, 10X points on Chase Dining purchases, 5X points on flights booked through Chase Travel, 3X points on non-Chase travel and dining, and 1X points on all non-bonus spending.

Best for luxury international travel perks

The platinum card® from american express.

Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel (on up to $500,000 per calendar year), 5X points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel, and 1X points on other eligible purchases.

Card Details

More card info

• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
• Terms Apply.
• Excellent rewards rate for travel purchases
• Qualify for $1,500+ in statement credits
• Very generous welcome offer
• High annual fee of $695
• Many statement credit offers are too specific and hard to use
• Non-travel-perks aren’t spectacular

The Amex Platinum card can be well worth the steep annual fee if cardholders can dedicate themselves to utilizing its benefits.

Best for travelers who love dining out

American express® gold card.

Earn 4X points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per year in purchases, then 1X) and restaurants (plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.), 3X points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com, and 1X points on other eligible purchases.

• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
• Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
• Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Generous welcome offer
• High rewards potential
• Many transfer partners available
• High annual fee
• Complicated statement credits
• Good or excellent credit recommended

For self-proclaimed foodies, this card has great reward potential. But if you can’t maximize the statement credits, it may not provide enough value to make the annual fee worth it.

Best for simple travel rewards and a low fee

Capital one venture rewards credit card.

Earn 5X miles per dollar on hotel stays or rental cars booked through Capital One’s portal and 2X miles on all other purchases.

• Miles won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Travel insurance protections incuded
• Earn flexible rewards for travel
• Reasonable $95 annual fee
• Requires good or excellent credit
• No everyday spending bonus categories

For the casual traveler, the simple reward structure and low annual fee of the Venture Card make it a good low commitment option.

Best for simple rewards & premium travel perks

Capital one venture x rewards credit card.

Earn 10X miles on hotel and rental car purchases made through Capital One Travel, 5X miles on airfare purchased through the portal, and 2X miles per dollar spent on all other purchases.

• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you’ll get Capital One’s best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Miles can be redeemed for travel purchases, transfers to international airlines, and more
• Can qualify for hundreds of dollars in credits each year
• Huge welcome offer
• $395 annual fee
• Large spending requirement to earn the welcome bonus
• Excellent credit required

The high earning potential and annual travel credit make this a standout option for frequent travelers.

Best for cash back on travel & dining

Capital one savorone cash rewards credit card.

Earn 3% cash back on dining purchases, entertainment, and popular streaming services. Earn 3% cash back at grocery stores, and earn 1% cash back on all other purchases.

• 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months (then 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR).
• Balance transfer fee of 3% for the first 15 months; 4% at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer you at any other time
• No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won’t expire for the life of the account and there’s no limit to how much you can earn
• No foreign transaction fees
• No rotating categories that you need to sign up for
• No spending cap
• No annual fee
• Low sign-up bonus

It’s not as loaded with travel benefits as some, but this card is a decent option for rewards on everyday purchases and travel.

Best for college students traveling abroad

Capital one savorone student cash rewards credit card.

Earn unlimited 3% back on eligible grocery, restaurant, streaming, and entertainment purchases. Earn 1% back on everything else.

• Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won’t be responsible for unauthorized charges
• No foreign transaction fees or hidden fees
• Earn up to $500 a year by referring friends and family when they’re approved for a Capital One credit card
• Build your credit with responsible card use
• Whether you’re at a 4-year university, community college or other higher education institution, this card might be an option for you
• Good cash back rewards & welcome bonus
• Highest cash back requires booking through Capital One
• Possible high APR depending on credit worthiness

One of the best student cards out there, the SavorOne Student card allows students to rack up rewards on everyday purchases and travel.

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the best travel credit cards available today. It includes perks such as a $50 annual hotel credit and a rewards program with multiple bonus earnings tiers — a great value, especially considering the reasonable $95 annual fee. Plus, when you redeem your points on travel through the Chase Travel portal, you’ll get a 25% increase in value. And this card has no foreign transaction fees, so you can spend freely on international trips.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card review

The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a premium travel card that provides a ton of value if you travel frequently. In return for the $550 annual fee, you’ll get a $300 travel credit, a free Priority Pass Membership, a credit toward TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, and more. If you book your travel through the Chase Travel portal, you’ll earn 5X points for flights and 10X points for hotels. Plus, when you redeem those points in the portal, they’re worth 50% more than they would be if you redeemed them for cash.

Chase Sapphire Reserve Card review

The Platinum Card® from American Express has one of the highest annual fees out there — $695 per year. However, you’ll likely get your money’s worth if you travel often. Although there are too many to list in this short review, some of the Platinum Card’s benefits include a $200 hotel credit when you book certain hotels, up to $200 in Uber Cash per year, up to $200 for airline fees, $189 for CLEAR Plus, and free access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection. You’ll earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on flights and hotels booked with American Express Travel and 1X points for other purchases. American Express cards aren’t always accepted overseas, though, so keep that in mind.

Amex Platinum Card review

With an annual fee of $250, the American Express® Gold Card is a midrange offering. It’s ideal if you spend a great deal on restaurants and groceries; these categories earn 4X points. Flights booked through American Express Travel earn 3X points. The perks aren’t as extravagant as the Platinum Card but are still impressive: up to $120 dining statement credit, up to $120 in Uber Cash, and a $100 credit toward experiences at The Hotel Collection properties (minimum 2-night stay required). However, American Express cards aren’t always accepted overseas, so it may be best to have another card in your back pocket just in case.

Amex Gold Card review

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is one of our favorite credit cards for budget-minded travelers. Like the Chase Sapphire Preferred, it has a $95 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees. Plus, you’ll get $100 for TSA PreCheck and free Hertz Five Star status. Earn 2X miles for every purchase or 5X miles when you book rental cars or hotels using Capital One Travel. Miles are unlimited, and you can choose from a variety of redemption options.

Capital One Venture Rewards Card review

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is the highest-tier travel credit card from Capital One and comes with an annual fee of $395. It includes a $300 travel credit, a free Priority Pass Membership, and up to $100 for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry — and on top of that, every year you’ll get a bonus of 10,000 miles. What really sets this card apart is the earning potential. When you book through Capital One Travel, you’ll get 10X miles for rental cars and hotels and 5X miles on flights. All other purchases earn 2X miles.

Capital One Venture X Rewards Card review

The Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card has no annual fee or foreign transaction fees but comes with a solid cash-back rewards program that can help you offset the cost of travel. You can earn 5% back for hotels and rental cars in the Capital One portal, 3% back at restaurants, grocery stores, and entertainment, and 1% on everything else. It wouldn’t be the best option for frequent travelers, though, as it’s lacking in additional travel-specific benefits.

Capital One SavorOne Card review

If you’re a college student whose spending tends to be concentrated on food, the Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card could be a good fit. With this card, you can earn 5% back on eligible travel purchases and 3% back on restaurant, grocery store, and entertainment purchases; all other purchases earn 1%. So you can accumulate rewards throughout the year on your regular purchases and then use those rewards to cut the cost of your spring break trip. The SavorOne student also has no annual fee, and you can make purchases overseas without incurring foreign transaction fees.

Capital One SavorOne Student Card review

For anyone who travels internationally — even if it’s not on a regular basis — a travel credit card is worthwhile. As long as the card earns rewards, all your everyday and travel purchases can rack up points, miles or cash back that you can use to defray the cost of future trips. Add in benefits such as free lounge access and travel credits, and you can enjoy a more comfortable journey.

Pros and cons of credit cards for international travel

• High reward-earning potential on travel worldwide
• Many cards have valuable welcome offers
• Some cards have international airport lounge access
• No foreign transaction fees on most travel cards
• High annual fees on many premium cards
• Some cards (namely American Express) have a lower international acceptance rate
• Limited rewards redemption options on some cards

In most cases, a credit card is better than a debit card for international travel — assuming that your credit card doesn’t charge international fees, that is. 

Credit cards come with fraud protection, which means you’re not liable if your account numbers are stolen or used without authorization when you’re abroad. Plus, everything you spend on the trip will earn rewards.

The best credit card for overseas travel is a personal decision; it depends on your travel habits, preferences and financial situation. For every card you evaluate, consider the following factors.

International acceptance

In general, Visa and Mastercard have the widest acceptance rates across the world — you shouldn’t have any trouble using them in most international locations. Discover cards and American Express cards are not as widely accepted.

Foreign transaction fee

Foreign transaction fees are one of the biggest considerations when choosing the best credit card for foreign travel. A card that doesn’t charge you to make purchases overseas can save you a great deal of money.

The majority of travel credit cards come with an annual fee. If you’re a regular traveler, the perks that come with that fee usually make it easy to recoup the cost. If you go overseas occasionally, consider a card with a $0 annual fee — that way, you can still earn rewards, but you won’t lose money on unused benefits.

Welcome bonus

A great welcome bonus can add significant value to a credit card, for example, the Capital One Venture X Rewards card, which comes with a bonus of 75,000 miles. If you use those miles in the Capital One portal, it equals about $750 — nearly double the annual fee.

The rewards program is a key element of a travel credit card; earn enough points or miles, and you can get flights and hotel rooms for free. 

To maximize earnings, make sure to choose a rewards credit card with bonus categories that match your spending habits. If you’re overseas regularly, for example, you might look for a credit card that has high multiples for flights and hotels.

Consider the redemption value too. Many cards transfer points or miles at a 1:1 ratio but offer a higher ratio for travel booked in the bank’s portal.

Travel benefits

The benefits are half the fun of a travel credit card. Look for cards with perks such as:

• Free airport lounge access
• Credits toward NEXUS, TSA PreCheck or Global Entry  
• Travel credits
• Credits for hotels or rideshares
• Premium status with rental car companies

Travel protections

Most credit cards for international travel include some type of insurance, including:

• Baggage insurance
• Rental car insurance
• Trip delay insurance

Every travel credit card is different, which means that you probably won’t get everything you need in a single card. One might have a better rewards earning rate, while another offers better lounge access or travel credits.

If you travel internationally regularly, you can maximize the benefits by getting more than one credit card. Watch the annual fees, and run calculations to ensure that the perks outweigh the costs.

Once you choose a credit card for international travel, use these tips to stay safe and save money.

Notify your card issuer that you’re traveling

Before you travel, call the bank to let it know you’re going overseas; you can also create a travel notification in your online card-management portal. This step reduces the risk that the issuer will freeze your card when you try to use it overseas.

Pay in the local currency

Any time you’re presented with the option to pay with or without a currency conversion, always opt for the latter. By paying in the local currency, your bank will handle the conversion to U.S. dollars — usually at a lower rate.

Use manned payment stations

In some parts of the world, unmanned checkouts won’t accept your card if it doesn’t use a chip-and-pin system. However, as contactless payments become more popular across the globe, you can avoid this issue by tapping your digital wallet.

Don’t use an ATM

Unless it’s an emergency, you should never use your credit card to take out cash. Cash advances often come with fees and a higher annual percentage rate (APR). If you need cash, it’s better to use a debit card without foreign transaction fees.

Know what benefits come with your card

Many cards come with benefits, including travel insurance and coverage for lost luggage. Understanding these perks can help you avoid buying things you’re already getting for free.

A credit card isn’t the only way to pay for purchases when you’re traveling overseas. You might also consider these alternatives.

Debit cards

Debit cards are always an option when you’re traveling. Be prepared for discrepancies in PIN formats; some countries use six or eight digits, which can cause a problem if your card has a four-digit PIN. Debit cards can also be vulnerable to fraud, especially if you’re using ATMs regularly. Protect yourself by setting up automated purchase notifications and minimizing your account balance.

Prepaid cards

Many prepaid Visas and Mastercards can be used internationally. Read the terms and conditions carefully; some cards charge fees for international transactions.

Cash is still a valid form of payment. Smaller stores, especially those in developing countries, might refuse to accept anything else. For safety, avoid carrying large amounts of cash and pay attention to ATM fees.

What credit card is best for international travel?

The best credit card for traveling abroad depends on your needs. If you travel overseas regularly, a card with a strong rewards program and luxury travel perks could be worth a high annual fee (like Chase Sapphire Reserve® ). For occasional travel, look for a lower annual fee and solid rewards (like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card ).

What’s the advantage of using a credit card when traveling internationally?

Credit cards have excellent fraud protection, which is handy if your card is stolen on a trip. Plus, you can earn rewards on your flights, hotels, activities and restaurant meals.

What is the most accepted credit card for international travel?

Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted cards around the world.

Is American Express or Visa better for international travel?

Visa is better than American Express for travel as it’s accepted in more places.

Is it safe to use a credit card when traveling abroad?

It’s safe to use a credit card when traveling internationally — just make sure to choose one with no foreign transaction fees.

Which transfer partners are best for credit cards with international travel?

The best transfer partners depend on your card issuer. American Express cards have a wide range of transfer partners, including Delta SkyMiles; Capital One cards offer strong transfer options among international providers.

Which international travel credit cards have sign-up bonuses?

Our picks for the best credit cards for traveling all have welcome bonuses. You’ll usually get a better bonus if you opt for a premium card with an annual fee, such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve Card or The Platinum Card from American Express .

Elizabeth Smith is an experienced travel and finance writer who specializes in topics including credit cards, travel insurance, and personal finance. Travel insurance, in particular, has both professional and personal significance for Smith. She’s traveled to 73 countries, and has extensive experience choosing and using various policies — she understands how valuable the right plan can be in an emergency, and loves to help readers find the perfect fit.

Smith comes to the world of finance from a scientific and technical background. She spent more than 10 years writing about engineering, science, and technology for universities and private companies. When she’s not writing or traveling, Smith can usually be found hiking or Nordic skiing.

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Westpac banking corp's dividend analysis, exploring the sustainability and growth of dividends.

Westpac Banking Corp ( WEBNF ) recently announced a dividend of $0.15 per share, payable on 2024-06-25, with the ex-dividend date set for 2024-05-09. As investors look forward to this upcoming payment, the spotlight also shines on the company's dividend history, yield, and growth rates. Using the data from GuruFocus, let's look into Westpac Banking Corp's dividend performance and assess its sustainability.

What Does Westpac Banking Corp Do?

Warning! GuruFocus has detected 7 Warning Signs with WEBNF.

High Yield Dividend Stocks in Gurus' Portfolio

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Westpac is Australia's oldest bank and financial services group, with a significant franchise in Australia and New Zealand in the consumer, small business, corporate, and institutional sectors, in addition to its major presence in wealth management. Westpac is among a handful of banks around the globe currently retaining very high credit ratings. The bank benefits from a large national branch network and significant market share, particularly in home loans and retail deposits.

A Glimpse at Westpac Banking Corp's Dividend History

Westpac Banking Corp has maintained a consistent dividend payment record since 2019. Dividends are currently distributed on a bi-annually basis. Below is a chart showing annual Dividends Per Share for tracking historical trends.

Breaking Down Westpac Banking Corp's Dividend Yield and Growth

As of today, Westpac Banking Corp currently has a 12-month trailing dividend yield of 5.23% and a 12-month forward dividend yield of 5.44%. This suggests an expectation of increased dividend payments over the next 12 months. Over the past three years, Westpac Banking Corp's annual dividend growth rate was 18.80%, extended to a five-year horizon, this rate decreased to -8.00% per year. And over the past decade, Westpac Banking Corp's annual dividends per share growth rate stands at -5.80%.

Based on Westpac Banking Corp's dividend yield and five-year growth rate, the 5-year yield on cost of Westpac Banking Corp stock as of today is approximately 3.45%.

The Sustainability Question: Payout Ratio and Profitability

To assess the sustainability of the dividend, one needs to evaluate the company's payout ratio. The dividend payout ratio provides insights into the portion of earnings the company distributes as dividends. A lower ratio suggests that the company retains a significant part of its earnings, thereby ensuring the availability of funds for future growth and unexpected downturns. As of 2024-03-31, Westpac Banking Corp's dividend payout ratio is 0.77, which may suggest that the company's dividend may not be sustainable. Westpac Banking Corp's profitability rank , offers an understanding of the company's earnings prowess relative to its peers. GuruFocus ranks Westpac Banking Corp's profitability 4 out of 10 as of 2024-03-31, suggesting the dividend may not be sustainable. The company has reported positive net income for each year over the past decade, further solidifying its high profitability.

Growth Metrics: The Future Outlook

To ensure the sustainability of dividends, a company must have robust growth metrics. Westpac Banking Corp's growth rank of 4 out of 10 suggests that the company has poor growth prospects and thus, the dividend may not be sustainable. Revenue is the lifeblood of any company, and Westpac Banking Corp's revenue per share , combined with the 3-year revenue growth rate , indicates a strong revenue model. Westpac Banking Corp's revenue has increased by approximately -0.20% per year on average, a rate that underperforms than approximately 79.99% of global competitors. The company's 3-year EPS growth rate showcases its capability to grow its earnings, a critical component for sustaining dividends in the long run. During the past three years, Westpac Banking Corp's earnings increased by approximately 24.20% per year on average, a rate that underperforms than approximately 31.41% of global competitors. Lastly, the company's 5-year EBITDA growth rate of -2.30%, which underperforms than approximately 84.65% of global competitors.

Given Westpac Banking Corp's historical dividend performance, current yield, and growth rates, investors might remain cautiously optimistic about the sustainability of its dividends. However, the company's moderate profitability and growth metrics suggest that careful monitoring of its financial health and market position will be crucial. For those looking to explore further, GuruFocus Premium users can screen for high-dividend yield stocks using the High Dividend Yield Screener .

This article, generated by GuruFocus, is designed to provide general insights and is not tailored financial advice. Our commentary is rooted in historical data and analyst projections, utilizing an impartial methodology, and is not intended to serve as specific investment guidance. It does not formulate a recommendation to purchase or divest any stock and does not consider individual investment objectives or financial circumstances. Our objective is to deliver long-term, fundamental data-driven analysis. Be aware that our analysis might not incorporate the most recent, price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative information. GuruFocus holds no position in the stocks mentioned herein.

This article first appeared on GuruFocus .

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The journalists on the editorial team at Forbes Advisor Australia base their research and opinions on objective, independent information-gathering.

When covering investment and personal finance stories, we aim to inform our readers rather than recommend specific financial product or asset classes. While we may highlight certain positives of a financial product or asset class, there is no guarantee that readers will benefit from the product or investment approach and may, in fact, make a loss if they acquire the product or adopt the approach.

To the extent any recommendations or statements of opinion or fact made in a story may constitute financial advice, they constitute general information and not personal financial advice in any form. As such, any recommendations or statements do not take into account the financial circumstances, investment objectives, tax implications, or any specific requirements of readers.

Readers of our stories should not act on any recommendation without first taking appropriate steps to verify the information in the stories consulting their independent financial adviser in order to ascertain whether the recommendation (if any) is appropriate, having regard to their investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs. Providing access to our stories should not be construed as investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or product, or to engage in or refrain from engaging in any transaction by Forbes Advisor Australia. In comparing various financial products and services, we are unable to compare every provider in the market so our rankings do not constitute a comprehensive review of a particular sector. While we do go to great lengths to ensure our ranking criteria matches the concerns of consumers, we cannot guarantee that every relevant feature of a financial product will be reviewed. We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, Forbes Advisor Australia cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of this website. Forbes Advisor Australia accepts no responsibility to update any person regarding any inaccuracy, omission or change in information in our stories or any other information made available to a person, nor any obligation to furnish the person with any further information.

What Is A Debit Card?

Published: May 16, 2024, 4:44pm

Reviewed By

Table of Contents

Debit card: what is it and do i need one, debit card numbers explained, debit cards vs credit cards, frequently asked questions (faqs).

A debit card allows you to spend money from your bank account without needing to withdraw cash. Unlike a credit card, it is linked to a transaction account that contains your funds—be it a little or a lot. This means when you use your debit card, you are spending money you already have—rather than borrowing money, or ‘credit’, from your financial institution.

This guide looks at how debit cards work, including whom they may suit best, and how they compare to credit cards.

If you open a transaction account at a bank, you will likely be issued with a debit card connected to the transaction account. This means you can spend money on the go, anywhere that debit cards are accepted.

In today’s increasingly cashless world, debit cards are accepted nearly everywhere. It is unusual for a store, restaurant or retailer—especially post-Covid—to only accept cash.

However, prior to debit cards coming into circulation in Australia in the early ’80s, customers would need to go to their bank and withdraw cash directly from an account using a withdrawal slip.

These days, debit cards have become such a normality that they can even be incorporated into mobile wallets on our smartphones, helping consumers access their money at all times—even when overseas.

Whether or not you need a physical debit card comes down to how you like to spend and manage your money. Some Australians may choose to have only a credit card, that they can then pay off directly from a bank account that isn’t linked to a debit card. Others may prefer to only use cash—however, as stated, this is a lot more difficult in our post-Covid world.

Ultimately, debit cards can help you manage your money efficiently as you are only able to spend the money available in your account and therefore don’t have the risk of falling into credit card debt. Usually, you can also see your funds online or via an app, which also helps visualise your spending clearly and make for better budgeting.

Related: Our Pick Of The Best Debit Cards For Australians

What Age Can You Get a Debit Card?

Commonly, the age at which you are eligible for a debit card in Australia is 14 years old. However, the age that you can open a transaction account with a linked debit card depends on the bank.

Using the big four banks as an example, 14 years is the minimum age requirement for debit cards for both Commonwealth Bank and NAB. At ANZ, this age requirement is lowered slightly to 12 years old.Westpac, on the other hand, offers everyday bank accounts and debit cards to children as young as eight. However, for those aged under 14, a signatory will need to open and operate the Westpac account on the child’s behalf.

Some banks also offer a version of a debit card widely known as an Eftpos card, an ATM card, or, at Commbank for example, a ‘Keycard’. These are cards targeted towards the younger generation, with the key difference between a keycard and debit card being that a keycard cannot be used for online purchases. Therefore, parents and guardians can ensure their children have access to pay for things by themselves, but not to spend online.

Wealth creator and founder of The Investor’s Way, Andrew Woodward, believes that these banking products are a positive trend.

“By providing kids with access to defined amounts of [money] and teaching them that once it is gone there is no more until their next pay cycle or pocket money payment will teach them how to manage their [finances],” he told Forbes Advisor Australia.

“These are skills that are invaluable, and sadly lacking in modern society.”

Can a Debit Card Be Used Online?

Yes. A debit card can be used online to make purchases. As explained above, there are another version of cards that can be only be used for physical transactions and ATM withdrawals, but that is not the case with a debit card.

Ultimately, debit card work in the same way as credit cards when shopping online. You will need to enter your details, including your name, card number, card expiry and CVV.

Do Debit Cards Charge Fees?

Usually a debit card won’t charge any monthly account keeping fees, but some still do—so make sure you are aware of any potential fees that might come with your account.

On Forbes Advisor Australia’s list of our top picks for best debit cards , two cards charged a monthly fee: the Commonwealth Bank Everyday Account Smart Access and the Westpac Choice Transaction Account. However, both cards had the same provisions to wave the monthly fee if you are under 30 years of age or deposit a minimum of $2,000 a month into your account.

Monthly fees aren’t the only charges to be wary of. Some financial institutions may charge you for transactions such as internet banking, ATM withdrawals, or overdraft fees.

Considering how you spend your money can help you evaluate the type of debit card that would best suit your needs, without eating into your bank balance.

A debit card will come with lots of different numbers, which can be confusing for first-time users. This is a breakdown of what they each mean:

• Debit card number: Your debit card number is a 16-digit number that is usually on the front of the card. This is not your bank account number, but the card number you would use when shopping online or making transactions over the phone. It is also a way for your bank to verify your identity.
• Expiry date: A card will list its expiration date (again, usually on the front) to specify when the card will expire. Most banks will automatically re-send a new card to cardholders before this date, but it’s important to be aware of it regardless.
• CVV: A CVV, which is the ‘card verification value’, is often printed on the back of your debit card near the signature panel. This is a three-digit code that you will need to enter when shopping online, and is an extra security measure designed to keep your debit card protected from theft.

Debit cards and credit cards can look almost identical, and are used in a very similar manner—but they differ in a crucial way. With a credit card, you are taking out a loan from your financial institution, which needs to be repaid in a specified period of time, or you will be subject to interest charges, often as high as 20% or more.

Woodward tells Forbes Advisor Australia that the “single most important recommendation” he makes to his clients is to “cut up credit cards and only use debit cards”.

“With the statistics that less than 5% of Australians retire with enough money or assets to support themselves in retirement , we can trace this unfortunate number to our reliance on credit and the ‘need it now’ mentality,” he explains.

“It may take some time to transition away from credit, however, the longer you are using other people’s money, the further away from financial security you will be.”

However, for some Australians, a credit card may still be the best option—especially considering some of the credit cards offer perks   on offer, such as travel rewards and the ability to earn points. The trick is to know your own spending habits and whether you will be able to pay off the credit card balance in full each month. It’s important to consider your financial needs and capabilities before making a decision on what type of card would suit you best.

Related: Our Pick Of The Best Credit Cards For Australians In 2024

Is a debit card or credit card better?

Whether or not a debit card or credit card is the better choice for you is up to an individual. However, Andrew Woodward, wealth creator and Founder of The Investor’s Way, told Forbes Advisor Australia his number-one piece of advice for his clients is to get rid of their credit cards.

This is because credit cards incur interest if not repaid on time. Debit cards, on the other hand, only allow you to access funds you already have available in your bank account. This means you susbtantially lessen the risk of falling into debt.

Related: How To Crush Your Credit Card Debt

What’s the youngest age you can get a debit card?

While most financial institutions in Australia require a child to be at least 12 to 14 years before being able to apply for a debit card, there are some exceptions. For example, Westpac offers debit cards to children as young as eight. In order for the account to be opened, however, a signatory will be required on the child’s behalf. Once the child is 14 years or older, they can choose to remove said signatory from their accounts.

Can you earn interest on a debit card?

As a debit card is linked to a bank account, there is the ability to earn interest on your balance depending on which bank and card you are using. For standard transaction accounts, an interest rate on your monthly balance may be quite low. Conversely, for high-interest savings accounts linked to debit cards, you may be able to reap the rewards if you meet all the monthly criteria.

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Sophie Venz is an experienced editor and features reporter, and has previously worked in the small business and start-up reporting space. Previously the Associate Editor of SmartCompany, Sophie has worked closely with finance experts and columnists around Australia and internationally.

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Citi strata premier card replaces citi premier: enjoy travel insurance and other new benefits, in addition to a new name, the card offers new travel protections and bonus rewards categories..

Citi is an advertising partner.

Citi has rebranded its popular mid-tier Citi Premier® travel credit card as the Citi Strata Premier ℠  Card . The new Strata Premier Card is nearly identical to the old Citi Premier except it has additional travel protections, bonus spending categories and a new limited-time welcome offer .

If you're interested in applying for this card, here's what you need to know about the card's benefits and how to qualify for the intro bonus .

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.; 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations; 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases

Welcome bonus

Earn 70,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $700 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com

Regular APR

21.24% - 29.24% variable

Balance transfer fee

5% of each balance transfer, $5 minimum

Foreign transaction fee

Credit needed.

Good/Excellent

See rates and fees . Terms apply.

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card details

The Citi Strata Premier ℠  Card earns transferrable Citi ThankYou points and earns them in bunches. It also currently offers a welcome bonus worth 70,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first three months of account opening.

This bonus is worth $700 in gift cards, cash back or travel (booked through thankyou.com ). To potentially get even greater value, you can also transfer these points to any Citi ThankYou travel partners , including Air France/KLM (Flying Blue), Avianca, Singapore Airlines and Virgin Atlantic. Having the option to transfer your points unlocks all sorts of opportunities.

For example, you could take advantage of the monthly Flying Blue promo rewards and use the bonus points to book two round-trip economy awards flights from the U.S. to Europe which can easily cost over $500 a person depending on your itinerary. Want to go somewhere a little more tropical? Transfer those 70,000 points to Avianca LifeMiles and you have enough to book two round-trip economy awards flights from the U.S. to the Caribbean .

New Citi Strata Premier Card benefits

Aside from a new name and some travel protections, the new Citi Strata Premier is mostly the same as the Premier card it replaces.

One change is that the Strata Premier is making permanent the old Premier's limited-time spending category bonus of 10X points on hotels, car rentals and attractions when booked through CitiTravel.com You're also now able to earn 3X at EV charging stations.

But the most notable changes with the Strata Premier are the new travel coverages, including:

• Trip cancellation/interruption
• Lost or damaged luggage
• MasterRental coverage (car rental insurance)

What's staying the same with the Citi Strata Premier Card?

The Citi Strata Premier's annual fee is staying at $95, and you'll continue to earn:

• 3X points on air travel
• 3X points on hotels (not booked through CitiTravel.com)
• 3X points at restaurants
• 3X points at supermarkets
• 3X points at gas stations
• 1X points on all other purchases

You'll still receive an annual hotel benefit valid for $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more that you book through CitiTravel.com. This card continues to have no foreign transaction fees and access to Citi Entertainment as well as all of the same Citi ThankYou transfer partners.

As before, if you have a Citi cash-back card, such as the Citi Double Cash® Card or the Citi Custom Cash® Card , you can pair it with the Citi Strata to convert your cash-back rewards into fully transferrable points.

Citi Double Cash® Card

Earn 2% on every purchase with unlimited 1% cash back when you buy, plus an additional 1% as you pay for those purchases. To earn cash back, pay at least the minimum due on time. Plus, for a limited time, earn 5% total cash back on hotel, car rentals and attractions booked on the Citi Travel℠ portal through 12/31/24

Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

0% for the first 18 months on balance transfers; N/A for purchases

19.24% - 29.24% variable

For balance transfers completed within 4 months of account opening, an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of each transfer ($5 minimum) applies; after that, a balance transfer fee of 5% of each transfer ($5 minimum) applies

Fair/Good/Excellent

Read our Citi Double Cash® Card review.

Citi Custom Cash® Card

Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2025.

Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $1500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

0% APR on balance transfers and purchases for first 15 months

5% of each balance transfer ($5 minimum)

Excellent, Good, Fair

Read our Citi Custom Cash ® Card review .

How to qualify for the Citi Strata Premier Card

You'll want a good-to- excellent credit score to have the best chance of being approved for the Citi Strata Premier. There is also an additional restriction for qualifying for this card's intro bonus. If you've received an intro bonus for the Strata Premier or the Premier card within the last 48 months, you can't earn the bonus again with a new Strata Premier Card.

It's important to note that this 48-month restriction applies to when you received the intro bonus points, not when you opened the account. If you opened a Citi Premier card in April of 2020 but didn't earn the intro bonus until early July 2020, you have to wait 48 months from July — not April — to be able to earn the Strata Premier's bonus.

Alternatives to the Citi Strata Premier Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card charges the same annual fee as the Strata Premier Card and offers similar benefits. It too earns transferrable travel rewards and has a long list of travel and purchase protections. But while the cards seem similar on the surface, dig a bit deeper and you'll find the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card has a few advantages over the Citi card.

The Chase Ultimate Rewards® airline and hotel transfer partners include programs such as World of Hyatt, Southwest Rapid Rewards and Air Canada Aeroplan, which help make Chase's network one of the best in the travel rewards space. The Sapphire Preferred also features more robust protections than the Strata Premier, including purchase protection and extended warranty protection on top of travel insurance.

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, and $50 annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.

Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

21.49% - 28.49% variable on purchases and balance transfers

Either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater

Excellent/Good

Terms apply.

Read our Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card review .

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (see rates and fees ) doesn't have the same long list of bonus spending categories you get with the Strata Premier. Instead, it earns at least 2X miles on every purchase, which makes it a strong option for everyday purchases outside of standard bonus categories. The Capital One Venture Rewards also allows you to transfer miles to a strong list of partner travel programs or keep things simple by offsetting travel purchases with miles at a rate of one cent each.

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

5 Miles per dollar on hotel and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, 2X miles per dollar on every other purchase

Earn 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

N/A for purchases and balance transfers

19.99% - 29.99% variable

$0 at the Transfer APR, 4% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account at a promotional APR that Capital One may offer to you

Bottom line

The Citi Premier Card is now the Citi Strata Premier . With this renaming, a few of the benefits are changing, but it is largely the same card. However, the biggest weakness of the Citi Premier has been solved with this update, which includes the addition of travel insurance perks.

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Dollar Mostly Flat as Market Mulls Inflation Outlook

FILE PHOTO: Woman holds U.S. dollar banknotes in this illustration taken May 30, 2022. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration/File {hoto

By Herbert Lash and Iain Withers

NEW YORK/LONDON (Reuters) -The dollar retreated against major currencies on Friday as market speculation continues to swirl about the timing of Federal Reserve interest rate cuts amid signs of cooling yet persistent inflation and a softening U.S. economy.

While consumer prices for April, reported on Wednesday, rose less than expected - leading to a risk-on flavor in equity markets - various Fed officials have sounded words of caution about when rates may fall, limiting the dollar's decline this week.

The dollar index, which tracks the U.S. currency against six peers, slid 0.04% to 104.44 after earlier trading about 0.3% higher.

"The market has turned cautious on the prospect for rate cuts in the near term. The overall picture, though, does appear consistent with a fading of the U.S. exceptionalism trade," said Karl Schamotta, chief market strategist at Corpay in Toronto.

"We are seeing signs of slowing momentum in the U.S. economy," Schamotta added. "All of that is translating into less upward pressure on the dollar at the same time you are seeing a brightening of prospects elsewhere."

Futures markets reduced the outlook for lower U.S. rates, with less than 45 basis points of cuts seen by December, down from almost 50 on Wednesday, and a cut of 21 bps in September, down from almost 25 bps.

"The market over-reacted perhaps on Wednesday, and now we're seeing a little bit of that over-reaction come off and that inflation could re-accelerate," said Matt Weller, global head of research at FOREX.com in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

U.S. inflation accelerated in the first quarter amid strong domestic demand after moderating for much of last year. Last month's slowdown was a relief after data on Tuesday showed a jump in producer prices in April.

Policymakers said on Thursday that still-high inflation warrants keeping rates at current levels, and that reaching the Fed's 2% inflation target will take longer than previously thought.

A surprisingly large 0.9% jump in import prices on Thursday kindled worries that rising import costs will only add to inflationary pressures.

Even though markets are pricing European rate cuts beginning in June, recent data has shown some upside surprises. Germany's economy grew more than expected last quarter and investor morale is at a two-year high.

Euro zone consumer inflation data on Friday came in at 2.4% year-on-year in April, in line with a Reuters poll.

The euro rose 0.06% against the dollar to $1.0872.

Euro zone policymakers have increased confidence that inflation will ease back to target next year due to easing price pressures, ECB Vice-President Luis de Guindos said on Friday.

Largely disappointing Chinese data on Friday helped keep market risk sentiment in check. Factory output topped forecasts but retail sales slowed and home prices fell at their fastest pace in more than nine years.

Sterling rose 0.31% to $1.2705, while the dollar gained 0.17% on the Japanese yen at 155.64.

In cryptocurrency markets, bitcoin was up 1.89% at $66,517.00.

(Reporting by Herbert Lash, additional reporting by Iain Withers and Tom Westbrook in Singapore; Editing by Timothy Heritage, Will Dunham and Emelia Sithole-Matarise)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

Tags: Canada , Switzerland , United States , New Zealand , United Kingdom , Europe , Japan , Australia

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