Is the Apple Card good for international travel?

Is the Apple Card Your Ideal International Travel Companion? A Closer Look

The allure of international travel is undeniable. From exploring ancient ruins to sampling exotic cuisine, the world beckons. But navigating foreign currency exchange and transaction fees can quickly dampen the travel spirit. That’s where the right travel card can make a significant difference. The Apple Card, with its sleek design and integration with Apple Pay, promises a streamlined experience. But is it truly a good choice for your next international adventure?

The short answer is: it has potential, but you need to be aware of its limitations.

The Upsides for the Global Traveler:

• Apple Pay Acceptance: Apple touts acceptance in over 80 countries, and with the increasing prevalence of contactless payment terminals, this is a major advantage. Paying with Apple Pay through your iPhone or Apple Watch can be incredibly convenient and feel more secure than handing over a physical card.
• Simplicity and Transparency: The Apple Card excels at clarity. You see your daily spending in real-time within the Wallet app, making it easy to track expenses while abroad. The breakdown of your purchases also helps you stay within budget.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees: This is a crucial benefit. Many credit cards levy foreign transaction fees (typically around 3% of each purchase), which can quickly add up during a trip. The Apple Card doesn’t charge these fees, saving you a significant amount of money.

The Downsides and Considerations:

• Apple Pay Reliance: While Apple Pay acceptance is growing, it’s not universally available. You’ll likely encounter situations where you need a physical card, particularly in smaller establishments or less developed regions. The physical titanium Apple Card doesn’t offer any rewards different from the digital version and should primarily be used as a backup.
• Mastercard Acceptance: The Apple Card runs on the Mastercard network. While Mastercard is widely accepted globally, Visa generally has slightly better acceptance rates in some regions. If you’re traveling to areas with limited payment infrastructure, a Visa card might be a safer bet.
• No Travel Insurance or Perks: Unlike some premium travel credit cards, the Apple Card doesn’t offer travel insurance (e.g., trip cancellation/interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance) or other valuable travel perks like airport lounge access or rental car insurance. If these features are important to you, you’ll need to supplement the Apple Card with another card.
• Cash Advances are Costly: Avoid using the Apple Card for cash advances while traveling. The interest rates and fees associated with cash advances are typically high, making it an expensive way to obtain foreign currency.

The Verdict:

The Apple Card can be a useful addition to your international travel arsenal, primarily for its lack of foreign transaction fees and the convenience of Apple Pay in areas where it’s widely accepted. However, it shouldn’t be your only travel card.

Recommendations:

• Use it as a Supplement: The Apple Card shines as a secondary card for Apple Pay transactions in countries with good contactless infrastructure.
• Bring a Backup: Always carry a physical card, preferably a Visa card, for situations where Apple Pay isn’t accepted. A card with robust travel insurance and perks can also provide peace of mind.
• Plan Ahead: Research the payment methods commonly accepted in your destination. This will help you determine the best cards to bring and ensure you’re prepared for any payment scenario.

Ultimately, the “goodness” of the Apple Card for international travel depends on your individual needs and travel style. By understanding its strengths and weaknesses, you can make an informed decision and ensure a smoother and more enjoyable international adventure.