Using credit cards in australia

ozskipper

Your better off flying with Qantas! Mind you, I have a vested interest given my nickname

You'll have no problems using CC in Australia. Chip on cards is uncommon, but using a PIN is everywhere. You can't sign for a debit card transaction - only credit cards.

You might be better off opening a Nationwide Account before you go as they don't charge for o/s transactions.

sly_dog_jonah

JoseChungsDoomsday wrote:

I'm going to be travelling around OZ soon and was wondering if anyone has been and what experiences did they have when using their CC?

I'm wondering if they use chip and pin and if you need to bring any ID when using it in a shop (like spain)?

I'm planning on using my Lombard Direct card to avoid the 2.75%

Many thanks

I got back from 7 weeks in Oz & Nz two weeks ago, the tan is fading!

Put all spending on Nationwide Credit Card and got cash out using Nationwide Flexaccount debit card (also used this for purchases without problems). Got great dollar rates in both countries, never had any problems or need to show ID. Nearly got caught out once when one company tried to charge me in GBP instead of AUD, but it didn't get past me It was one of the Whitsunday Island sailing companies, just so your aware.

The only place I was able to use my PIN instead of signing was a random petrol station in NZ. The manager said he'd had a Brit in recently whose PIN had worked so I tried it too and hey presto.

I took a backup credit card and two debit cards but never had to call upon them. Irrespective of the debit/credit card used, you have to say 'Credit' when they ask which account to use at EFTPOS, I think this routes it via VISA/Mastercard network.

Beware that some smaller adventure/activity companies prefer dealing with cash, and might have to use old style 'impression' receipts if they offer payment by card at all.

Have a cracking time out there! I won't even try to write recommendations for things to do because it's such a vast place with so many things to do, I'd be here all day!

Catseyez

You'll have such a great time!!

I spent a few months there last year. I used chip & pin a lot and I never had any problem. I used my Nationwide account and credit card so never incurred any charges.

If you don't have one already, I suggested you take out a Nationwide credit card pronto!

If you're going to Queensland, you must go sailing around the Whitsunday Islands!!

JoseChungsDoomsday

Catseyez wrote:

If you don't have one already, I suggested you take out a Nationwide credit card pronto!

If you're going to Queensland, you must go sailing around the Whitsunday Islands!!

Thanks for all your help!

I already have a nationwide with current account and a lombard direct mastercard so I'm good! :cool:

HGLTsuperstar

Check that first, I think Lombard is only 0% commission in Europe, whilst N'wide is world wide, (shame they've stopped the cashback overseas though so have transferred to the Comic Relief card so at least someone benefits from them!)
PS Oz is fab, I left my heart....

JoseChungsDoomsday

HGLTsuperstar wrote:

Check that first, I think Lombard is only 0% commission in Europe, whilst N'wide is world wide, (shame they've stopped the cashback overseas though so have transferred to the Comic Relief card so at least someone benefits from them!)
PS Oz is fab, I left my heart....

yeah, lombard is 0% worldwide ( http://www.lombarddirect.com/cards_basics.html ) .

I cant wait, thoug it was a very sudden decision and have no idea how to plan anything! though I'm sure it'll all work out! :rolleyes: