If you’re not a frequent traveller but you’re planning on an international trip, the issue of using credit cards overseas might be new to you. Will you be able to use your Australian credit cards to purchase from merchants in other countries? Will it be just like using your credit card at home? Let’s discuss overseas use of your Australian credit cards today, including some things you need to know before you go.

Can You Use Your Card Overseas?

In most cases, the simple answer will be “yes.” Most Australian credit cards can be used overseas.

The Type of Credit Card Matters

As long as your credit card is tied to a major worldwide credit card organisation (like Visa, MasterCard, or American Express), you should be able to use it when travelling internationally — assuming your destination country accepts such cards. If you use a Visa like the HSBC credit card for example, you can use that card at any of the more than 22 million worldwide merchants accepting Visa credit cards.

There are exceptions of course, such as store-specific credit cards. If the country you plan to visit doesn’t have that retailer, your card won’t be of any use to you there. Check the terms and conditions from your issuing bank to get specific terms related to overseas use of your credit card.

Tips and Cautions When Using Your Credit Card Overseas

Unfortunately using your Australian credit card overseas isn’t quite the same as using it at home. For example, some countries require chip and pin credit cards. So if you still have a swipe-style card you might run into international merchants who aren’t sure how to process it. They’re still required to — through either a pin or signature purchase. It’s just a potential difficulty you should be aware of, especially with small merchants who might not get many international customers.

An even bigger issue to be aware of is the added cost of using your Australian credit card in another country. Credit card issuers charge more for these transactions. You might even be hit twice — with an overseas transaction charge and a currency conversion fee. Specific rates and fees for international purchases will vary, so check that with your credit card company before you leave for your trip. The last thing you want to do is run your credit card over its limit, or too close to it, when you’re far away from home because you weren’t aware of the added fees.

So yes, in most cases you can indeed use your Australian credit card when travelling internationally. And while it might cost you a bit more with fees, keep in mind that it can be much safer carrying credit cards (which can be replaced) than cash when you’re in an unfamiliar land.