Santander Zero vs Halifax Clarity

themanfromamarillo

I'm looking at getting a second credit card specifically for spending abroad. Martin goes on about how great the Halifax Clarity is for holiday spending but when I did the Credit Card Eligidibility Calculator I got only a 50% acceptance chance. I did however get a 90% chance of getting the Santander Zero. I've already got a 123 and HTB ISA with them which should be good for my chances too.

I was just wondering why if there's very little difference between the two cards (besides a slightly higher interest rate for the Zero) does this card not get mentioned as a top travel card buy. It seems to be pretty perfect.

chattychappy

I have both, I've had Zero for many years, Clarity for a couple.

I've used them in the US, Europe, SE Asia and even the UK. Both are Mastercard.

I think Zero is not so well known because there have been long periods when it has not been available to newcomers.

The biggest difference is that Zero is limited to £300/day, whereas Clarity is £500/day (at least in my case). I've found that both are equally accepted. I've had the odd problem with Zero. Ditto Clarity - nothing to choose between them on that count. My interest rate was progressively jacked up to 35%APR on Zero. But no matter, I pay off a few days after withdrawal. But the difference is significant if you interest run for more than a few days on a large withdrawal.

Both have adequate online systems - nothing to choose there, IMHO.

So, based on what you say, I'd apply for Zero first. Bear in mind that all cards can get blocked, lost, stolen etc. So perhaps apply for Clarity afterwards. A couple of searches aren't an issue.

jonesMUFCforever

Does the Santander have a monthly/annual fee>?
I know the Halifax one does not.

chattychappy

jonesMUFCforever wrote: »

Does the Santander have a monthly/annual fee>?
I know the Halifax one does not.

No.

http://www.santander.co.uk/uk/credit-cards/zero-credit-card?gclid=CMvuxoCTrtICFRAW0wod2ZoOQg