Hello everyone,
I'm back from a several-month trip around the world and learned a lot. I thought I was well-equipped with my Neon, Revolut, and Wise credit cards (for two people). Good terms, favorable currency exchange rates etc. You all know how it is.
What I realized is that Visa is actually more widely accepted than Mastercard worldwide. And when both credit cards are accepted, Visa is usually cheaper (due to local bank fees). In Switzerland or Europe, you practically never notice a difference. But in remote parts of the world, it's noticeable.
Another thing I learned: Debit and prepaid credit cards only work if the point of sale has a permanent internet connection (which makes sense). If you want to pay with a credit card on a moving train far away or on a remote island without a stable, permanent internet connection, there's only one option (beside cash): a proper credit card (not a debit or prepaid). Those always work, even if the point of sale doesn't have an internet connection.
I'm still happy with my fintech debit cards. The terms and conditions are generally very good for travel. However, what I'm looking for as a backup is a credit card with the following requirements:
Thanks for your comments!
Cheers, Martin
I'm back from a several-month trip around the world and learned a lot. I thought I was well-equipped with my Neon, Revolut, and Wise credit cards (for two people). Good terms, favorable currency exchange rates etc. You all know how it is.
What I realized is that Visa is actually more widely accepted than Mastercard worldwide. And when both credit cards are accepted, Visa is usually cheaper (due to local bank fees). In Switzerland or Europe, you practically never notice a difference. But in remote parts of the world, it's noticeable.
Another thing I learned: Debit and prepaid credit cards only work if the point of sale has a permanent internet connection (which makes sense). If you want to pay with a credit card on a moving train far away or on a remote island without a stable, permanent internet connection, there's only one option (beside cash): a proper credit card (not a debit or prepaid). Those always work, even if the point of sale doesn't have an internet connection.
I'm still happy with my fintech debit cards. The terms and conditions are generally very good for travel. However, what I'm looking for as a backup is a credit card with the following requirements:
- To be used exclusively for travel abroad
- A true credit card (not a debit or prepaid card)
- No annual fee
- Visa
- Attractive exchange rates
- Payment via eBill
- Cashback: not important
Thanks for your comments!
Cheers, Martin
