International Credit Cards: What are the Benefits of Using It During Travel Abroad?

International Credit Cards: What are their benefits while travelling abroad?

In today's post-pandemic world, digital platforms have become the norm for financial transactions. Most countries insist on using digital platforms, making Credit Cards a necessity for travellers. RBI has recognised the risks associated with carrying large amounts of foreign currency. Keeping that in mind, the apex court has recommended people to take necessary measures and limit the quantity of foreign currency they carry.

To navigate these challenges and ensure security, International Credit Cards are the ideal solution for international travellers. Offering convenience, enhanced safety and protection against fraud, Credit Cards have become indispensable tools for seamless and secure transactions abroad. Simply put, Credit Cards can help make your international journey rewarding by providing greater flexibility and peace of mind. Let us dive deep into the benefits of using international Credit Cards.

Advantages of an International Credit Card While Travelling Abroad:

Benefit 1: Worldwide acceptance and convenience

One of the major benefits of using an international Credit Card is its wide acceptance. Whether you are shopping at local markets, dining at restaurants or booking a transportation, an international Credit Card ensures hassle-free transactions. By carrying a Credit Card, you eliminate the need to carry multiple currencies, which simplifies your financial transactions abroad. It allows you to make payments at Point of Sale (POS) terminals overseas, withdraw cash from ATMs and make online purchases on global websites like Airbnb and Netflix. Additionally, for international transactions, two-factor authentication such as One-Time Password (OTP) is not mandatory which helps in ensuring smoother transactions while maintaining security.

Benefit 2: Enhanced security and fraud protection

When it comes to international travel, security is of great concern. Credit Card issuers like ICICI Bank provide Europay Mastercard and Visa (EMV) chip Credit Cards specifically designed for global usage. These cards use advanced technology to encrypt all card data in a microchip, making it difficult for hackers to duplicate or access sensitive information. The embedded chip adds an extra layer of security, protecting your card from skimming and unauthorised transactions.

Benefit 3: Competitive Foreign Exchange Rates

Currency exchange is an integral part of international travel, and using an international Credit Card can offer significant savings. When you make a transaction in a foreign currency, it is converted to Indian Rupee based on the prevailing exchange rates.

It is important to note that the conversion takes place on the settlement date with the bank, which may differ from the transaction date. Credit Card companies like Visa, Mastercard or American Express provide competitive conversion rates. By leveraging these rates, you can avoid excessive currency conversion fees and enjoy better value for your money.

Benefit 4: Exciting offers to incentivise customers

Credit Card companies offer attractive deals and incentives to enhance your travel experience. ICICI Bank for instance, has the Travel Easy Programme that unlocks exclusive benefits for ICICI Bank Credit Card holders. Through this programme, you can enjoy special offers on flight bookings, hotel stays and other travel-related services. In addition, ICICI Bank offers reward points on international transactions. For example, customers registered under the Travel Easy Programme can earn three times the number of reward points on their foreign currency transactions. These reward points can be redeemed for various benefits, making your international trips even more rewarding.

Steps to get a new ICICI Bank Credit Card:

Obtaining an ICICI Bank Credit Card for your international travels is an easy process. Follow these steps to get started:

Step 1: Research and choose the right Credit Card

Visit the ICICI Bank website or a nearby Branch to explore the available Credit Card options. Consider factors such as annual fees, rewards programmes and additional benefits for international travel. Some popular Travel Credit Card options include -

1. Emirates Skywards Credit Card

2. Accelero Credit Card

3. Unifare (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore) Metro Card

4. MakeMyTrip ICICI Bank Signature Credit Card

5. MakeMyTrip ICICI Bank Platinum Credit Card.

Select the card that aligns with your travel needs and preferences.

Step 2: Complete the application

Once you have chosen the desired Travel Credit Card, you will need to submit necessary documents to complete the application process. These include identity proof, address proof, income proof and passport-sized photographs. Ensure that you have all the required documents to speed up the process.

Step 3: Submit the application

Once done, submit the completed application form along with the required documents at the nearest ICICI Bank Branch or through the online application portal. To be on the safe side, you should double-check all information to avoid any discrepancies that may delay the approval process.

Step 4: Application processing and approval

After submitting your application, ICICI Bank will initiate the verification process. This may involve a thorough review of your submitted documents, credit history and income. ICICI Bank has taken measures to ensure an engaging customer journey and you would receive timely updates regarding the status of your application.

Step 5: Receiving and activating your Credit Card

If your application is approved, you will receive your ICICI Bank Credit Card at your registered address. Activate your Credit Card as per the instructions provided. Typically, you will need to create your card PIN, set up 3D security and two-factor authentication to activate the Card. It is advisable to read the guidelines mentioned on the Card for the same.

Step 6: Enjoy the benefits

Once your Credit Card is activated, you can start enjoying the benefits of using an international Credit Card. Utilise it for your travel-related expenses such as flight bookings, accommodation, dining, shopping and more. Make the most of the ICICI Bank rewards programme and earn points on your international transactions.

To sum it up, using an international Credit Card while travelling abroad offers numerous benefits including worldwide acceptance, convenience, enhanced security, competitive foreign exchange rates and exciting rewards. ICICI Bank provides a range of Credit Card options tailored for international travellers along with attractive offers through the Travel Easy Programme. By following the steps to obtain an ICICI Bank Credit Card, you can unlock a world of financial convenience, security and rewards, making your international travels enjoyable and worry-free.