With restrictions on air travel being slowly eased out, people are once again flocking to holiday destinations. However, it is important to continue to take precaution. Remember to wear a mask, sanitise, and follow all local and international protocol for COVID 19 safety to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Planning a holiday abroad is a lot of fun, almost as fun as the actual trip itself. Yet sometimes, expenses can stand in the way of you living out your dream vacation. Thankfully, you do not have to concern yourself with the nitty-gritty of paying for things while on your holiday. Just purchase a Credit Card and say goodbye to your payment worries.
Why should you use a Credit Card?
There are several benefits to using a Credit Card with travel privileges or one that is specially designed for overseas travel.
Airport lounge access:
You can enjoy a comfortable wait for your flight in special lounges, unaffected by the chaos. Many banks have tie-ups with airport lounge chains, allowing you to enjoy these services free of cost – or for a small charge, depending on the type of card you hold. With the HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card, you enjoy a complimentary Priority Pass membership that offers access to 1000+ airport lounges across the world. Another card by HDFC Bank, the HDFC Bank Millennia Credit Card provides complimentary access to eight domestic airport lounges as you travel across India, along with other CashBack benefits.
Airline memberships:
Banks also collaborate with different airlines, offering airline memberships to Credit Card users. Perks include free excess baggage, seat upgrades etc. For instance, the 6E Rewards -Indigo HDFC Bank Credit Card offers 2.5% 6E rewards on Indigo.
Personal concierge services:
HDFC Bank Credit Cards allow you to book theatre tickets and hotel rooms, rent a car, and make fine-dining reservations. Doing this saves you a lot of effort and time that you can use to relax on your vacation abroad, instead of fretting over daily chores.
What should you keep in mind?
Bank reward programs and priority customer services offer several other services that give users the peace of mind to enjoy a vacation abroad. But it is essential to take some precautions before and during your vacation to ensure a smooth experience:
Get a ‘no transaction fee’ card:
Banks charge 2-3% on all foreign currency transactions on a regular Credit Card. If you travel abroad often or stay for a long duration, it makes sense to purchase a Credit Card that does not charge a hefty transaction fee.
Choose the right type of card:
Based on your travel plans, you should research and get a card accepted in the destination country. Europe usually has chip and PIN cards, while vendors in America generally have chip and signature cards. The systems for these cards are not always compatible with each other.
Call issuer before departure:
Credit Cards are no longer enabled for international transactions by default. Starting 1st October 2020, persons travelling abroad or needing to use their Credit Cards for international transactions will need to activate their cards by contacting the issuer. This initiative has been taken to protect consumers from fraud. You can also voluntarily limit international transactions on your Credit Card as an additional security measure.
Make transactions in the local currency:
To avoid confusion, vendors often state their prices in US Dollars and offer to issue bills in USD as well. While convenient, this practice is not beneficial for you financially because vendors will charge a higher exchange rate than your bank.
Mix it up:
Credit Cards are not accepted everywhere. Street markets still operate on a cash basis around the world, so it is essential that you carry cash (and possibly a Debit Card) along with your Credit Card.
Use it right:
It is common knowledge that Credit Cards should not be used to withdraw cash (also called a Cash Advance) as you are charged a high-interest rate. Similarly, you shouldn’t swipe your debit card for purchases abroad because you will be charged a high foreign transaction fee.
Avail of maximum benefits:
Most banks have a comprehensive rewards programme, and it is essential to maximise the benefits you get from this. Try to purchase from vendors with tie-ups to your bank and get as many services as possible through bank partners. Doing this will give you several rewards in the form of loyalty points, which you can redeem later. Some banks also offer specific unique programmes, such as HDFC Bank Golf Benefit, allowing cardholders to take golf lessons in India and abroad.
Enjoying a vacation always involves proper planning, especially when it comes to finances. Credit Cards, such as the HDFC Bank Credit Cards, offer ease of use, not only making your stay in a foreign land much easier, but also an unforgettable one!
Looking to apply for an HDFC Bank Credit Card? Click here to get started.
Looking to fly for free on your next trip? Here’s how a Credit Card can help you.
*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances.
Credit Card approvals at the sole discretion of HDFC Bank limited. Credit Card approvals is subject to documentation and verification as per Banks requirement.
Chat With Eva