Best credit card to use for USA

set

Hi

Can anyone help? I have a HSBC Mastercard and dont really want to change and get another one so can anyone explain the charges on using this card abroad please?

It has details on this site but still not sure!!!!!?????

Will I be charged everytime I use the card?

Will I be charged any interest as I plan to pay off balance as soon as I get back?

Will I be charge for taking money out of ATM?

And anything else you can think of!!

Thank you very much

KTF

1. Yes
2. Not unless you take cash out on it.
3. Yes

If you want a credit card that doesnt charge you for purchases overseas then look at the Nationwide or Post Office credit cards.

gt94sss2

When you use your card abroad, HSBC will convert the transaction into GBP. To do this, they will use the Mastercard exchange rate, and apply 2.75% of the amount as a foreign exchange fee. All credit card companies charge a fee of this sort, apart from Nationwide and the Post Office.

Some other companies also charge a flat fee, each time you use your card overseas - HSBC doesn't do this.

Otherwise, it works just like in the UK, you are not charged any interest
as long as you use it in shops etc, and pay the bill off in full each month.

However, just like in the UK, if you take money out of an ATM, they start charging interest immediately. HSBC also charge 2.5% (minimum £2.50) if you take money out of an ATM.

As such, if you do want to take money out of an ATM - you are much better off using a debit card

HSBC's credit card charges are here

Regards
Sunil

Zebedee69

American Express? Lol only joking the name would suggest you'll be welcomed with open arms but the truth is you wont find anywhere that accepts it.

Get a Mastercard, the PO Card is good and has free foriegn exchange transactions.

cheatthecheatingcheaters

It can't be said enough, get a Nationwide card. They don't charge for international purchases. They are the only ones as far as I know. I have used mine for a couple of years.

Please note: When using a UK credit card overseas, you must call them prior to any visit to inform them you are going to whatever country. If you don't, they might just freak out and cancell your card. It's happened to me a dozen times. "Apparently someone in Argentina used your card". Yes, dumbass, that was me.

Best to call in advance.

KTF

Last time I told Nationwide I was going on holiday they said there was no need to be informed anymore.