Are you based in the US and gearing up for a big trip to France? If you’re still using a debit card or a credit card that adds currency conversion fees, it’s time to rethink that choice—those extra charges can add up fast and leave you with an unpleasant surprise by the end of your travels.
Having spent nearly a decade researching and using travel credit cards, I’ll walk you through the best cards for Americans to use in France (and throughout Europe) to help you avoid unnecessary fees and keep your trip stress-free.
What makes it a good credit card for Americans to use when visiting France?
Say goodbye to foreign transaction fees
If your credit card charges you a fee each time you pay in a currency other than USD, it’s time for an upgrade. Foreign transaction fees can add up fast, unnecessarily increasing the cost of your trip. Luckily, plenty of cards are available without these fees—meaning you can focus on enjoying France without paying extra for each transaction.
Built-in travel protections
One of the biggest perks of using a credit card instead of a debit card abroad is the range of travel protections that are often included. Many credit cards offer insurance for things like rental cars, baggage and other travel-related mishaps. So, when choosing the right credit card for you, I recommend reading through the details, so you know what coverage you can rely on during your trip.
Earn miles or points as you spend
If you’re someone who responsibly pays off their credit card each month, then using a card that earns miles or points is a smart way to maximise your spending. Many cards allow you to redeem points on travel, meaning you can save on flights, hotels and more, just by using your card for everyday purchases.
Over time, points can add up to significant savings on future travel. Personally, I’ve enjoyed business class flights and luxury hotel stays that would have been out of reach otherwise, all thanks to points accrued from everyday spending.
Reliable customer service
Credit card companies generally offer far better support than banks when you’re dealing with lost or stolen cards, or any other urgent issues while traveling. This kind of backup is invaluable while you’re abroad—you’ll have peace of mind knowing help is just a quick phone call away, something you won’t get with a standard debit card.
The best credit cards for Americans to use when visiting France
These are the cards I think are the best for Americans who are coming to France 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 France (and Europe) 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 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
Learn more about these best credit cards for Americans to use when visiting France and you’ll be one step closer to saving money and headaches on your trips abroad.
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.
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