Hi! Several friends have suggested that in Europe, we use our credit card as much as possible but bring the card with the lowest transaction fees & surcharges. Up until 1/1/2010, our credit union had NO transaction fees, but they said they they are now @ 1%. Does anyone have any other credit card they would recommend with low/no transaction fee and surcharges? Any other suggestions on how to pay for lodging, meals, etc. while traveling in Europe? Thanks!

Of course, if your credit union gives you back 1% on every purchase, as mine does, you come out even. Mine does not charge for ATM withdrawals in foreign countries.

Capital One has no foreign transaction fees.
At least historically this is they way it has been. There have been many changes in credit card regulations with the new year so it would be best to check.

For lodgings, the owner run places often give cash discounts. However, you have to decide whether you want carry enough cash on you vs. the convenience of using a CC.

At low end, everything is cash driven.

1% is very low--i would stick with that honestly

Another vote for Capital One!

Just got back from Thailand and got an excellent exchange rate and no fees by using CapitalOne Visa.

I've never had any problems using Capitol One overseas &
specifically got it for this purpose some time ago.

The other thing to watch out for - dynamic currency conversion. Always insist that your bills be presented in local currency, NEVER converted to your home currency as a "convenience". You do not need this "convenience" and such will cost you an added 3% or 4% whatever the merchant's agreement with Visa/MC might be.

I haven't noticed any recent complaints about this issue, so maybe it is on the decline.

http://www.travelfinances.com/blog/i...onversion-dcc/

If yours is only one pct, I wouldn't think it worth your time to be getting a new credit card if you don't want one for any other reason. If you want another one, I also recommend Capital One as they don't have any. That has nothing to do with all the other terms and charges related to a credit card, though, and it really may make a difference if you carry a balance or things where interest charges kick in.

What do you mean by "surcharges"? I've never heard of anything called a "surcharge" on my credit cards.

There isn't any reason to do something other than using a credit card for charges, if you can use one.

"Any other suggestions on how to pay for lodging, meals, etc. while traveling in Europe? Thanks!"

I'd use my ATM card to get cash for meals and small purchases, lodging and expensive purchases I'd use the 1% credit card.