Why one of my most-used cards when traveling abroad may surprise you
I'm always thinking about earning and redeeming points and miles and constantly asking myself, what's the best card to use?
Points and miles have helped me substantially fund my travels over the years, as I've traveled to nearly 90 countries.
Throughout my travels, there's one card I seem to use more frequently than expected. In fact, it's not a credit card — shocking, I know. It’s actually a debit card.
The Schwab Bank Visa® Platinum Debit Card is my go-to card when traveling domestically and abroad for one sole reason: fee-free ATM withdrawals worldwide.
I travel to many destinations where cash is king. Not having to pay hefty ATM withdrawal fees offers me peace of mind, knowing that when I land, I can go straight through customs, immediately head to the ATM and then get started exploring.
Let's look at why the Schwab Platinum Debit Card will always have a slot in my wallet when traveling abroad.
The information for the Schwab Bank Visa Platinum Debit Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
What is the Schwab Platinum Debit Card?
The Schwab Platinum Debit Card is the debit card attached to the Investor checking account from Charles Schwab Bank.
The Schwab Platinum Debit Card will always have a place in my wallet, but not to make purchases. I only carry this card in the event I need to take money out of the ATM because Charles Schwab will reimburse unlimited ATM withdrawal fees worldwide at the end of each month.
Even better, there are no fees to open an account and no monthly maintenance fees.
For instance, on my most recent international trip, I went to Serbia, which is a very cash-heavy country. I couldn't even leave the airport without having the local currency, as I needed to pay for a taxi.
Whether I was paying for public transit or buying sarma (stuffed cabbage rolls) from a food vendor, I needed cash on multiple occasions. I took out cash at least 10 times on this trip, and without the Schwab Platinum Debit Card, I would have spent close to $100 on fees.
And I can’t lie—I do like to indulge in the occasional gambling at casinos. Often, when I go into a casino, I don't have any cash, so I have to go to the ATM to withdraw some. On this trip, I walked into a casino and saw a $20 ATM withdrawal fee that almost induced a mini-panic attack, but then I remembered my Schwab Platinum Debit card would reimburse me.
Pro tip: When withdrawing money or even paying for purchases abroad, always select the local currency and decline the dynamic currency conversion, as you will end up paying a conversion fee that won't be reimbursed.
Related: Credit vs. debit cards: Which is the smarter choice?
How the Schwab Platinum Debit Card fits into my overarching points and miles strategy abroad
Since I don't use the Schwab Platinum Debit Card for purchases, my credit cards are still the focal point for me to earn rewards when abroad. With most of my credit card rewards, I generally earn and burn them, so I always need to be spending on my cards to replace them.
My credit card lineup when traveling abroad
Four other cards — three travel rewards cards and one cash-back card — anchor my credit card strategy when traveling abroad:
- The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card (see rates and fees)
- The American Express® Gold Card
- The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
- The Apple Card
Each card plays a pivotal role in my strategy, but the Sapphire Preferred and Amex Gold get the lion's share of my use. None of these cards has a foreign transaction fee (for rates and fees of the Amex Gold, click here; for rates and fees of the Amex Business Platinum, click here), so I will happy swipe them abroad. Plus, I diversify my rewards by earning different transferable rewards.
The information for the Apple Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Chase Sapphire Preferred
The Sapphire Preferred is my go-to card for hotel and all general travel purchases, as it earns 2 points per dollar spent on all travel.
I generally rely on my Amex Gold Card for dining purchases, but Amex isn’t widely accepted in many countries (and even in some major cities abroad), so I turn to my Sapphire Preferred as my secondary dining card since it earns 3 points per dollar spent on dining.
Because my Sapphire is a Visa, it tends to see the most use abroad.
The card earns very valuable Ultimate Rewards points, which I transfer to one of Chase's 11 airline and three hotel partners. My go-to partners for transferring points are United MileagePlus and World of Hyatt. On the same trip to Serbia, I transferred 6,500 points to Hyatt for a brief overnight stay before my flight at the Hyatt Place Amsterdam Airport, where the cash price was slightly over $200 for the night.
Lastly, I make sure to use the Sapphire Preferred's annual $50 hotel credit for hotels booked through Chase Travel℠.
I always try to use this credit at a hotel not attached to a loyalty program since I would not get any hotel loyalty perks. Additionally, I like to save the credit for when I need an airport hotel or am in a city for just a night.
I view this credit as effectively a $50 discount on a one-night stay, and in the past years, I have even found a few hotels that cost under $50 per night (albeit these were in cheaper countries to visit), so it turned into a free night for me. It's important to note that you will not earn any points on the first $50 spent on hotel purchases on Chase Travel.
Related: Why I love my Chase Sapphire Preferred card — and will always keep it in my wallet
Amex Gold
I consider myself a foodie, and there is no better card for foodies than the Amex Gold. The $325 annual fee (see rates and fees) is worth all the points I can earn throughout the year on different bonus categories.
It's my go-to dining card as it earns 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide (on up to $50,000 per calendar year, then 1 point per dollar).
Additionally, a lesser-known benefit of the Amex Gold is that it also earns 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly, so this card has become my default card for making airline purchases.
This card earns very valuable Membership Rewards points, which I can transfer to one of Amex's 17 airline and three hotel partners. My go-tos are Air Canada Aeroplan, Iberia Club and Virgin Atlantic Flying Club.
It's important to note that I fluctuate between using the Sapphire Preferred and the Amex Gold depending on which rewards currency I am short on. For example, on my most recent trip, I used a good chunk of my Chase points balance to fund the trip, so I needed to replenish my account. I used the Sapphire Preferred for all my purchases, despite the fact that I could have earned more points by using other cards.
Related: How to maximize Amex Gold credits when traveling abroad
Amex Business Platinum
My Amex Business Platinum Card doesn't see much use on a day-to-day basis when I'm traveling abroad. In fact, I only really use this card now for the statement credits and travel perks provided.
The main purpose of this card is to provide me with airport lounge access, allowing me access to the Global Lounge Collection. The card comes with a Priority Pass Select membership, which allows me to enter the majority of lounges I visit internationally (enrollment required).
These Priority Pass lounges abroad tend to be nicer than most domestic lounges, depending on the region of the world you're traveling in. This card has also granted me entry into some Centurion Lounges internationally, including locations in Mexico City International Airport (MEX), Ezeiza International Airport (EZE) and Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN).
Related: The 10 best Priority Pass lounges around the world
Apple Card
In what might be a surprise to many, the Apple Card plays a role in my international travel card lineup. If I have any nonbonus category spending, I may use my Apple Card with Apple Pay to earn 2% back on all purchases. Typically, I would use this card abroad at places like pharmacies or souvenir stores. However, this is usually the last card I will use when abroad; sometimes, I even settle for the 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases my Sapphire Preferred or Amex Gold offers.
One benefit of using the Apple Card is that the cash back earned, known as Daily Cash, is available to use immediately instead of at the end of the billing cycle.
Related: 4 reasons to get the Apple Card
Bottom line
The Schwab Platinum Debit Card is a must-have for any traveler. Whether you're a beginner with credit cards or have 10-plus cards, like some of our staffers, this should be the next addition to your wallet, and the best part is that no hard inquiry is required.
When traveling, you never know when you'll need some cash. The Schwab Platinum Debit Card isn't a replacement for any credit cards, but it is a great card to consider if you travel often to places where cash is the main form of currency. Having this card can ensure you can withdraw cash from an ATM fee-free.
For rates and fees of the Amex Gold, click (see here)
For rates and fees of the Amex Business Platinum, click (see here).
Related: 9 types of cards you should pack for your next trip abroad
TPG featured card
Rewards
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. 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, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. 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, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.