Reader PG asks: "My husband and I already have an AMEX points-earning card, but it isn't accepted at many shops in our favorite destinations in Europe. We want a simple, no-fee cash back card as a backup for where AMEX doesn't work?"
Alright, globetrotting families, let’s talk about one of life’s little luxuries: seeing the world without a massive chunk of change siphoned from your wallet in the form of 3% foreign transaction fees. And since PG already insisted on skipping American Express, I'll save my spiel about the merits of their coupon book offerings for another time (you’re welcome).
When considering cards for spending while abroad, you want something that rewards your everyday expenses and won't tack on foreign transaction fees, as well as being easy to manage. You don't have time to juggle multiple cards for different categories while wrangling kids through security and trying to make sure you don't drive your rental car onto the Ponte Vecchio -- not that I've even been proven to have done that.
So, here’s my shortlist of cash back heroes for families heading abroad, Amex-free but rich in perks:
1. Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Rewards for the foodies, the movie buffs, and everyone in between
The Capital One SavorOne is my top pick for families who want a simple, no-fuss card that dishes out solid rewards, especially if you’re the type of family that likes to treat themselves to a little R&R in the form of a nice meal or fun outing—whether you're dining out at a quaint Parisian café or curry takeaway on one of London's 358 rainy days.
Why it's great:
- 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and grocery stores. That’s a lot of categories that just scream “family vacation.”
- No foreign transaction fees.
- No annual fee.
While the SavorOne doesn't offer huge bonuses for hotel stays or flights, the overall cash back structure is versatile enough for everyday spending while you’re abroad. And hey, keeping things simple when you’re managing a family on the go is key.
2. Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
One card, one reward rate, no brainpower required
Maybe your family doesn’t want to fuss with multiple categories. Maybe you want that sweet, sweet simplicity where every purchase earns the same cash back, whether it's a gelato in Rome or souvenirs from a Tokyo toy shop. Enter the Capital One Quicksilver.
Why it's great:
- 1.5% cash back on everything. Yes, everything—whether you’re booking a tour or just paying for gas in the rental car.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- No annual fee.
If you’re the type who doesn’t want to keep track of what earns what, but you still want to get a little something back every time you swipe, this is the way to go.
3. Chase Freedom Unlimited®
Ultimate flexibility and a few extras.
For the family that wants a little bit of everything without the annual fee or complicated points systems, the Chase Freedom Unlimited can be a strong option. It’s got a flat cash back rate, plus some category bonuses that might surprise you.
Why it's great:
- At least 1.5% cash back purchases, with 3% bonus on: dining, drugstores, and a big 5% on travel booked through Chase Travel
- No foreign transaction fees.
- No annual fee.
The Freedom Unlimited may not be as cash-back heavy in certain areas as the SavorOne, but it makes up for it with that extra travel booking bonus and its versatility for families spending both at home and abroad. Also, though its UR points are just cashback if the Unlimited is your only card, if you eventually add a premium UR-earning card to your wallet, these can be pooled and transferred to travel partners, potentially unlocking more value.
4. Citi® Double Cash Card
For the “I’ll take cash back on everything, thank you” crowd
If you’re a family that doesn’t want to play the points-and-categories game at all, but you still want to earn respectable cash back across the board, the Citi Double Cash is your card.
Why it's great:
- 2% cash back on every purchase: 1% when you buy, 1% when you pay it off. Whether it’s airfare, museum tickets, or taxis, that’s a solid return for doing what you’re already doing—traveling and paying bills.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- No annual fee.
This one’s ideal if you want cash back across all categories, no extra thinking required. And with no annual fee, it's a straightforward option that lets you earn rewards no matter where you are in the world.
5. Fidelity Rewards Visa Signature
This card flies under the radar since Fidelity isn't big in credit cards, but it gives 2% back on all purchases, with no limit, deposited straight into your Fidelity account. This could be a cash management account, 529, brokerage, etc.
Why it's great:
- 2% cash back on every purchase
- No foreign transaction fees.
- No annual fee.
This would be an obvious choice for anyone already banking with Fidelity.
Tad's Take:
While the SavorOne takes the cake for its dining and entertainment bonuses, the Quicksilver or Freedom Unlimited could be better for the family that values simplicity and flexibility. If your goal is straight cash back on every purchase, no matter where you are, the Citi Double Cash keeps it nice and easy.
Any of these cards will serve a family well while traveling abroad, keeping the fees low and the rewards flowing. So, get those passports ready, start planning the trip, and pick the card that’ll keep a little extra cash in your pocket—for more gelato, of course.
Safe travels, friends! ✈️
