
Traveling abroad can be daunting, especially when it comes to navigating foreign currencies, languages, and customs. With an American Express card, you can make international travel a breeze.
American Express offers a wide range of cards designed specifically for international travel, such as the Platinum Card and the Centurion Card. These cards often come with benefits like no foreign transaction fees, which can save you a significant amount of money on your transactions abroad.
You can use your Amex card to withdraw cash from ATMs, make purchases, and even book travel arrangements online. Many Amex cards also offer travel-related benefits, such as travel insurance and concierge services.
One of the most valuable benefits of using an Amex card for international travel is the ability to earn rewards and points on your purchases. This can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and other travel-related expenses, making your trip even more affordable.
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Amex Explorer Card Benefits

The Amex Explorer Card offers a range of benefits for international travel, including $400 to spend on travel every year, which can be used for eligible domestic and international flights, hotels, or car hire via American Express Travel.
You'll also get complimentary domestic and international travel insurance, covering medical emergency expenses, cancellation, and COVID-19-related issues. However, be aware that there are exclusions and conditions that apply.
One of the perks of the Amex Explorer Card is airport lounge access, allowing you and a guest to enjoy complimentary entry to The Centurion Lounge at Sydney or Melbourne International Airport once a year.
Key Benefits of Amex Explorer Card
The Amex Explorer Card offers some amazing benefits, and I'm excited to share them with you.
You can receive $400 to spend on travel every year, which is a huge plus for frequent travelers. This credit can be used to purchase eligible domestic and international flights, hotels, or car hire via American Express Travel.
Complimentary domestic and international travel insurance is also included, which is a great safety net for your trips. You'll need to purchase the return trip on your Card to be eligible, and the policy includes cover for medical emergency expenses, cancellation, and COVID-19.
Airport lounge access is another perk, allowing you and a guest to enjoy complimentary entry to The Centurion Lounge at Sydney or Melbourne International Airport once a year.
Here are the key benefits of the Amex Explorer Card at a glance:
- Receive $400 to spend on travel every year
- Complimentary domestic and international travel insurance
- Airport lounge access to The Centurion Lounge at Sydney or Melbourne International Airport
Key Benefits of Qantas Amex Card
The Qantas Amex Card offers some amazing travel benefits that can make your trips more enjoyable and rewarding. You can earn 2 Qantas Points for every $1 you spend on eligible Qantas products and services.
One of the standout benefits of the Qantas Amex Premium Card is access to the Qantas Club Lounge. You'll get two complimentary invitations each year, after purchasing select Qantas products and services with your Card.
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The Qantas Amex Ultimate Card takes it to the next level with an Annual Qantas Travel Credit worth $450. This can be used on eligible domestic or international Qantas flights each year, when you book through American Express Travel.
With the Qantas Amex Ultimate Card, you'll also get airport lounge access, including two complimentary passes each year to The Centurion Lounge at Sydney or Melbourne international airport.
Here are the key benefits of the Qantas Amex Card at a glance:
- Qantas Amex Premium Card: Earn 2 Qantas Points per $1 spent on Qantas products and services, Qantas Club Lounge access, and complimentary domestic and international travel insurance.
- Qantas Amex Ultimate Card: Annual Qantas Travel Credit worth $450, airport lounge access, and unlimited earning potential for Qantas Points.
International Travel Policy
American Express International Travel makes it easy to navigate foreign lands with their comprehensive International Travel Policy.
For the most part, this policy covers a wide range of travel-related expenses, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and travel delays.
You can purchase a travel insurance policy through American Express, which offers coverage for unexpected medical and travel-related expenses.
In the event of a medical emergency, American Express will provide you with a list of recommended medical facilities and emergency services.
American Express will also cover up to $500,000 in medical expenses for emergency medical evacuations.
One notable exclusion is coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, which is not included in the standard policy.
In addition to medical expenses, the policy also covers trip cancellations and interruptions due to unforeseen circumstances.
If your trip is cancelled or interrupted, American Express will reimburse you for non-refundable travel expenses, up to a maximum of $10,000.
Travel delays are also covered, with reimbursement for expenses such as meals and accommodations up to $500 per day.
Consider reading: Bank of America Credit Card Trip Insurance
Travel Fees and Charges
Travel fees and charges can add up quickly when traveling internationally. Consider direct flights to avoid extra fees charged by airports along the way.
International travel baggage fees can be steep, but if you're not the traveling-light sort, an airline credit card can be your best friend. You may be eligible for a second free bag or more when booking with that card.
You may also pay foreign transaction fees on your credit card when making purchases abroad in a foreign currency. These fees are typically around 3%, but vary from card to card, and can make a significant impact on your pocketbook.
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Travel Fees and Charges
Travel fees and charges can add up quickly, especially when traveling internationally. You may end up paying more than $16 billion in additional fees and taxes alone, according to one analysis.
Direct flights can be a good way to reduce fees, as you won't have to pay extra fees charged by every airport along the way. Consider your flight itinerary and check for any extra fees involved.
International baggage fees can be steep if you check more than one bag. If you have an airline credit card, you may be eligible for a second free bag or more, depending on the card and your seat upgrade.
Foreign transaction fees can add up quickly too, typically around 3% of your purchase. If you spend $2,500 on a trip, you could end up with $75 in fees.
It's usually best to have a no foreign transaction fee credit card for international travel. This can save you money and make your travel budget go further.
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Qantas Ultimate

The Qantas Ultimate card is a great option for frequent flyers, with unlimited earning potential for Qantas Points.
The annual fee for this card is $450, which may be a bit steep for some travelers. However, the benefits it offers make it a worthwhile investment for those who can take full advantage of it.
You'll earn Qantas Points that are transferred to your Qantas Frequent Flyer account each month, making it easy to redeem for Classic Flight Rewards.
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Travel Assistance
Travel Assistance is a vital part of American Express international travel. You may be eligible for 24/7 emergency assistance and coordination services whenever you travel more than 100 miles from home.
These services include medical, legal, and passport referrals, emergency cash wires, and missing luggage assistance. Card Members may be responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers.
You'll also get notified if anything unusual is spotted on your account, thanks to American Express' account and fraud alerts.
Global Assist Hotline
If you're traveling more than 100 miles from home, you may be eligible for 24/7 emergency assistance and coordination services through the Global Assist Hotline.
You can access medical, legal, and passport referrals, emergency cash wires, and missing luggage assistance with just a phone call.
Card Members may be responsible for the costs charged by third-party service providers, so be aware of any potential expenses.
This service can be a lifesaver if you're in a tricky situation while traveling, and it's great to know that help is just a phone call away.
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Automatically Detects Your Activities
American Express uses advanced account monitoring processes and software to keep an eye on customer accounts and prevent fraud. This allows the security team to detect when a cardholder is abroad.
You don't need to specifically tell American Express of your travel plans in advance.
Find a Match
Finding the right American Express international travel credit card can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Consider a branded credit card that lets you earn miles in your preferred airline's loyalty program.
If you're loyal to a specific airline, you can earn miles that can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, or other travel perks. Some American Express credit cards offer this benefit.
Having multiple credit cards for specific purposes can make sense, such as using one for flights, another for hotels, and a third for rental cars. This way, you can earn rewards and benefits tailored to your travel needs.
Some American Express international travel credit cards have no annual fee, while premium cards charge a fee for more extensive perks. It's essential to weigh the costs and benefits before making a decision.
Managing Your Card
You can access your American Express International Travel benefits online or through the American Express app.
To make a payment or check your balance, you can log in to your account on the American Express website or mobile app.
Avoiding Fees
Avoiding fees is crucial when traveling internationally, and American Express can help you save money in several ways. Consider direct flights to avoid fees charged by multiple airports. Direct flights can be a great option to save on international travel taxes and fees.
Related reading: Capital One Atm Card International Fees
To avoid extra baggage fees, check your airline's policy on free checked bags. Many airlines offer free checked bags for international flights, so it's worth checking before booking. If you're not the traveling-light type, an airline credit card can be a lifesaver, offering free checked bags or upgraded seats with free baggage allowance.
Foreign transaction fees can also eat into your budget, typically ranging from 2-3% of your purchase. To avoid these fees, consider using a no foreign transaction fee credit card, like some American Express cards. This can save you around $75 on a $2,500 trip, which can add up quickly.
To stay connected while traveling, consider your cell provider's international roaming plans. Paying for a one-month plan can be less expensive than racking up international roaming fees. Alternatively, use a prepaid SIM card for local communication or save communications for when you have free Wi-Fi, which can often be found at hotels or public hotspots.
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Thrifty Ways to Stay Connected
Staying connected while traveling doesn't have to break the bank. One way to save is to check with your cell provider about special plans for where you're headed. This can be less costly than paying international travel fees.
You can also use a prepaid SIM card for local communication if your phone is unlocked. Many phones are unlocked these days, but it's always a good idea to check with your provider.
Free Wi-Fi is another option, but be sure to confirm with your host or hotel that it's available and free. Some hotels charge a per-visit or even per-day fee, so it's worth asking.
Here are some options to consider:
- Paying for a one-month plan with your cell provider
- Using a prepaid SIM card
- Saving communications for when you have free Wi-Fi
Add Credit to Digital Wallet
Adding credit to your digital wallet can make international payments easier, but don't forget to carry your physical credit card too.
Paying with digital wallets bypasses the usual signature or PIN requirement, making the transaction more secure. This is because digital wallets automatically authenticate the transaction without revealing the credit card number to the merchant.
You might want to keep your physical credit card in a less obvious place to avoid potential thieves. Digital payment services may not work or be accepted in every country or at all merchants.
Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees
Foreign transaction fees can add up quickly, especially if you're not aware of them. These fees are typically around 3%, but vary from card to card.
You may not think twice about these fees, but they can make a significant impact on your wallet. For example, if you spend $2,500 on a trip, you could end up with $75 in fees.
Having a no foreign transaction fee credit card is usually the best option for international travel. This can save you money and reduce the stress of unexpected fees.
It's essential to consider these fees before making a purchase abroad. You can avoid them by choosing a credit card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees.
Learning and Resources
American Express Cards are great for international travel, offering travel-specific rewards and benefits that you earn just by visiting a new or familiar corner of the world.
Having access to money wherever you are is essential, and Amex Cards make it easier by providing a way to earn rewards and benefits while abroad.
All Amex Cards attract a Currency Conversion Fee of 3% for international spend, so be sure to factor that in when planning your trip.
Expand your knowledge: American Express Travel with Points
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to activate my Amex for overseas use?
To use your Amex overseas, you must activate it, including Supplementary Cards and Personal Cards, with no limit to the number of Cards that can be activated. Activation is a separate process for each Card.
Sources
- https://wise.com/us/blog/amex-travel-notification
- https://www.americanexpress.com/us/security-center/card-assistance-abroad/
- https://www.americanexpress.com/en-au/articles/life-with-amex/travel/cards-for-international-travel/
- https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/credit-cards/credit-intel/international-travel-fees/
- https://www.americanexpress.com/en-us/credit-cards/credit-intel/best-international-travel-credit-card/
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