Whats the best credit card for my situation?

deano.uk_3

Hi.
im taking a year out next year to go traveling with my girlfriend when she finished uni... only problem is should i have a credit card to take as backup?
i bank online with first direct and was going to apply for there one.
http://www.firstdirect.com/creditcards/credit_card.shtml

being new to credit cards, would i have to pay for it, even if i dont use it, or just pay back what i spend on it each month (with interest)
like will it cost me money if i leave it in the back of my wallet collecting dust?
thanks alot
Dean

Bokken_2

Welcome to MSE
Have a look at Martins credit card articles and decide from there.
I used Nationwide credit card in the states last year no problems and a lot of others have reconmended it as there are no currency exchange charges.
You are still charged interest on the purchases/cash from a ATM unless you pay it off in full after each statement date.
The limit was fairly low at £3500.
Also have a look at the American Express Travellers Cheque card.You pre load the card and then use it instead of cash.

grumbler

Yes Nationwide credit card is the best for purchases abroad; their debit card is the best for withdrawals/purchases: The cheapest way to spend overseas: save 6% article. Their cash card can be used too without charges.

Amex travellers cheque card is not good in fact unless some bonus is offered when you take it: American Express travel card . Some travel agents used to offer bonuses in the past when the card was launced, but I haven't heard anything recently.

Coveredinbees!!!!

I'm waiting on my nationwide cardright now. 0% for 9 months, you could set up a direct debit before you go to pay min payment and do a bit of stoozing or do a DD to pay the total bill each month.

JoseChungsDoomsday

if you want to stick to online credit cards, there is always the smile cash back card which has a low interest rate. But i would recommend sticking with nationwide