Is the Apple Card good for travel?

Is the Apple Card a Good Travel Companion? A Balanced Look

The allure of the Apple Card is undeniable. With its sleek design and integration within the Apple ecosystem, it’s easy to see why many are drawn to it. But when it comes to travel, the burning question remains: Is the Apple Card a truly good companion for your adventures? While it possesses some attractive features, understanding its limitations is crucial before packing it alongside your passport.

One definite advantage the Apple Card offers is its broad acceptance. Backed by Goldman Sachs and operating on the Mastercard network, its global reach is impressive. This means you’ll likely find it accepted in a wide range of establishments, from restaurants in Rome to boutiques in Bangkok. This simplifies payments, both domestically and internationally, offering a level of convenience that can be especially appealing when navigating unfamiliar environments. Knowing you can rely on your card for most transactions can ease the stress of travel and reduce the need to carry large amounts of cash.

However, relying solely on the Apple Card for travel might not be the wisest strategy. The rewards structure, while straightforward, isn’t particularly lucrative for travel-specific expenses. You earn 3% daily cash back on Apple purchases and purchases made at select merchants using Apple Pay, 2% daily cash back when using Apple Pay, and 1% everywhere else. This is decent, but falls short compared to dedicated travel cards that often offer higher rewards on categories like flights and hotels.

Furthermore, the Apple Card lacks some travel-specific benefits often found in other cards. Think about travel insurance, baggage protection, or even access to airport lounges. These perks can be incredibly valuable when unforeseen circumstances arise, offering peace of mind and potentially saving you money during your trip. The Apple Card simply doesn’t offer this level of protection.

Foreign transaction fees are another crucial consideration. Thankfully, the Apple Card doesn’t charge them. This is a significant advantage over many other cards that can tack on extra charges for every purchase made abroad, quickly eating into your travel budget.

Ultimately, the suitability of the Apple Card for travel depends on your individual needs and travel style.

Here’s a breakdown to consider:

• Pros:

  • Wide Acceptance (Mastercard Network)
  • No Foreign Transaction Fees
  • Convenient Integration with Apple Pay

• Cons:

  • Limited Travel-Specific Rewards
  • Lacks Travel Insurance and Protection Benefits
  • No Airport Lounge Access

The Verdict:

The Apple Card can be a convenient supplemental card for travel, particularly for its widespread acceptance and the absence of foreign transaction fees. However, it shouldn’t be your primary travel card if you’re seeking optimal rewards and comprehensive travel protection. If you prioritize maximizing rewards on travel expenses and require features like travel insurance, a dedicated travel credit card will likely be a more advantageous choice. Consider pairing the Apple Card with a travel rewards card for a more well-rounded approach to your travel finances.