Living in the US, but heading to the UK soon? If you’re still paying for things with a debit card or a credit card that charges you currency conversion fees, it’s time to sort that out so you don’t end up with headaches and an insane amount of extra charges at the end of your trip. I’ve been researching and using travel credit cards for almost a decade now so I’m going to let you know which are the best credit cards for Americans to use when visiting the UK (and the rest of Europe).
What makes it a good credit card for Americans to use when visiting the UK?
No foreign transaction fees
If you’re travelling abroad with a card that charges you EVERY TIME you pay for something in a non-USD currency, you’re being RIPPED OFF. There’s absolutely no reason to put up with that since there are so many alternative options at your disposal. Save yourself the money!
Travel protections included
A major benefit of using a credit card over a debit card when you travel is that many cards include great travel protections like car insurance, baggage insurance, and more. American Express is also particularly known for being able to refund you pretty easily if you get ripped off when travelling and you will NOT get that with your bank’s debit card.
All cards offer different protections so be sure to read up on what you get and don’t get.
Earning miles or points when spending
If you’ve always been responsible with your credit card debt (which means, you pay your card in FULL each and every month) then you might as well start using a credit card that will earn you points or miles every time you use it. If you’re already going to be buying certain things or booking certain trips, why not make your money work a bit for you?
Generally, earning points with credit cards means you can redeem them on many different things, but since you’re a traveller, the travel redemptions will be the most appealing to you. Use points to get free or cheap flights, discounted or free hotels, and much more.
I’ve built up my credit card points for years and have used them to fly business class to many places around the world for a fraction of what it would cost to pay for that seat in cash. All from purchases I was already making.
Good customer service
Credit card companies tend to have much better customer service when things go wrong or someone steals your card. The stand out for me has always been American Express, I’ve never waited more the three seconds to speak to someone and they are always ready to help with absolutely anything. This is especially important when travelling abroad, in case your card is stolen or lost or you just had some problems you didn’t anticipate. You won’t get that from using a debit card.
The best credit cards for Americans to use when visiting the UK
These are the cards I think are the best for Americans who are coming to the UK to visit (and these work around the world as well!)
Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a fantastic option for Americans traveling to the UK, because first off, it has no foreign transaction fees. It also comes with valuable travel perks like trip cancellation insurance, primary car rental insurance, and lost luggage insurance, potentially saving you money on separate travel insurance. You earn points with every purchase, especially when dining out or traveling, which can be redeemed for flights, hotels, and more. With a $95 annual fee, you also get a $50 annual credit for hotel bookings through Chase. This card is widely accepted across Europe, so you shouldn’t have any issues using it while travelling. I personally use the advanced version, the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, which has even better spending rewards and perks.
Learn more about the Chase Sapphire Preferred®
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is definitely one of the best credit cards for Americans to use when visiting the UK and Europe. I actually used it while studying abroad and backpacking in Europe, so it’s been around a long time and is tried and tested. It provides travel perks like a credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck application fees (up to $120) and includes travel insurance. You’ll earn miles on your spending, which can be redeemed for flights, hotels, or gift cards. Plus, it has a low annual fee of $95 and no foreign transaction fees.
Learn more about the Capital One Venture Rewards card
American Express® Gold Card
If you prefer American Express over Chase or Capital One, the American Express Gold Card is a great choice for travelers. It has no foreign transaction fees and lets you earn Membership Rewards points, which can be used on Amex’s travel platform or transferred to various airline and hotel programs. It also offers travel protections like Priority Pass lounge access and baggage insurance*.
The $325 annual fee is offset by perks like up to $120 in annual dining credits and up to $100 in hotel credits**. See rates and fees.
Note that Amex is less widely accepted in Europe, so you’ll need a backup Visa or Mastercard. But I use the UK Business version of this card for Love and London and have made some impressive flight redemptions with the points. Plus, as mentioned a few times now, Amex has excellent customer service, so you’re covered if you lose your card abroad or have any problems. That makes the American Express Gold Card one of the Best cards for Americans to use when visiting the UK.
Learn more about the American Express Gold
Learn more about these best credit cards for Americans to use when visiting the UK and you’ll be one step closer to saving money and headaches on your trips abroad.
*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.
**Each Benefit requires enrollment via their website, terms apply to American Express Benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities within the post.
