Credit Card Going Abroad

Starguitar89

Hi guys, I'm going to America on holiday this October and was thinking of applying for one before I go. I have no idea about credit cards though so excuse my ignorance. I was just going to get one as a 'safety', pay a few things on it if needed, pay off the bill in full when I get back, cut the card and never use it again. Is this wise? Also can anyone recommend a particular card? I'm currently living with parents, no dependents full time job and the only bill I have to pay each month is my phone bill. I checked on Experian and my credit score is 999 apparently.

Help would be appreciated. Thanks!

grumbler

MSE article: Cheap Travel Credit Cards

CLAPTON

assuming you have no credit cards and no loans then your credit records will be very thin. (the score means nothing)

in general 'good' cards go to people with a proven record of dealing with credit well.

so you may be best to get any card (maybe one from your own bank as they know you).

in future keep the card; use it regularly and then pay in full very month ; this will build you a good credit history which will be useful if you every wanted a mortgage or a CC with benefits (i.e. cash back, rewards, good for abroad.)

TheEffect

I found when I travelled to America, a credit card was a must. My hotel required a credit card, certain bars required a credit card to start a tab, and I even had a restaurant who asked for a credit card beforehand.

Either I look like an untrustworthy guy, or it's a lot more common to hand over cards out there.

If you have limited credit history, I'd apply for Aqua, CapitalOne or finally Vanquis. Low limits, high APR, but usually a good chance of being accepted.

Fruit_and_Nut_Case

TheEffect wrote: »

I found when I travelled to America, a credit card was a must. My hotel required a credit card, certain bars required a credit card to start a tab, and I even had a restaurant who asked for a credit card beforehand.

If the OP has any intention to rent a car, a credit card is virtually essential. (Although a few people have reportedly managed without one.)

Kite2010

Probably the best "worldwide" card for someone without a good credit history will probably be the Capital One Classic Extra card.

But make sure you pay it off in full every month.

Starguitar89

Fruit_and_Nut_Case wrote: »

If the OP has any intention to rent a car, a credit card is virtually essential. (Although a few people have reportedly managed without one.)

I don't have any intention of renting a car but I think it will be useful for hotels and stuff. Reading a lot of the hotel terms and conditions they state that payment will need to be made by Credit Card. My intention was to get one of those post office pre paid cards for withdrawing cash and then apply for a credit card for reasons stated in the OP.

Starguitar89

Hi guys sorry for the double post. Further to this, have considered the Classic Extra card as recommended. What happens with cash withdrawals? I take it they will charge huge interest so it would be worth my while to pay it straight away when the statement comes in? Thanks again.

fart

Maybe enquire about an overdraft instead?

reclusive46

Starguitar89 wrote: »

Hi guys sorry for the double post. Further to this, have considered the Classic Extra card as recommended. What happens with cash withdrawals? I take it they will charge huge interest so it would be worth my while to pay it straight away when the statement comes in? Thanks again.

I wouldn't use it for cash withdrawals but you don't really need cash in the US (Just take 100 dollars with you). Its also much quicker to pay by credit card as for purchases under 50 dollars its just swipe and go (No signature). If your going to New York or LA make sure the restaurant accepts MasterCard as a couple of restaurants only take American Express (They will almost always tell you though).

adouglasmhor

fart wrote: »

Maybe enquire about an overdraft instead?

Why? what use would that be in the case the OP descibes?