Credit Cards Getting Declined Overseas

[Baritone]

International travel is interesting to do, and even more interesting if your credit cards get declined.

Many Americans are facing just that, when they go to pay for *whatever* their credit cards are getting declined. The reason? Different technologies for running them.

According to a Washington Post article, "MasterCard (NYSE: MA), Visa and American Express (NYSE: AXP) representatives say every business that accepts their cards must agree to accept swipe-and-sign cards as well as chip and PIN ones." Despite this, you may still run into hassles. You can avoid them by being prepared. Carry some extra cash, for example, and look for staffed vending stations when you're ready to buy.

On a related note, beware international transaction fees on your credit card. Popular card-issuers like Citigroup (NYSE: C), Wells Fargo (NYSE: WFC), US Bancorp (NYSE: USB), and GE Money (NYSE: GE) are just a few of the companies that tack on these charges, so be careful when you travel.

Fool.com

[fred333]

That is actually a pretty scary thing.

[s.jenkins]

i've heard even europeans' cards get declined, too. then when they come back home, their cards are just messed up. i have a friend who had this happen to him twice in different trips.

[GoodCreditMan]

Always make a backup plan before you travel.

[s.jenkins]

yeah. but carrying cash is sometimes a hassle.

[GoodCreditMan]

Traveler's checks and debit cards work great.

[xavier11]

U got a very good suggetion but i don't know anything about it

please tell me if u get any reliable solution

[jugroo]

yeah backup is really necessary