Traveling internationally is exciting, but managing your money abroad can get tricky. From currency exchanges to fraud risks, it’s important to have a money system that’s secure, simple, and stress-free. After years of travel, I’ve locked in a strategy that works in nearly any country — and it centers around using the right mix of debit and credit cards.

My Travel Card Strategy: Simple but Effective

I carry 7 credit cards, but only 1–2 physical cards come with me on a trip — the rest are stored digitally on my phone using Google Wallet or Apple Pay. My system is simple:

• Debit card = for ATM withdrawals (local currency only)

• Credit card = for everything else (purchases, hotels, restaurants, etc.)

This keeps my wallet light and my finances safer. Plus, it’s built to avoid unnecessary fees and headaches.

Why It Works

1. Credit Cards Offer Better Fraud Protection
Credit cards come with strong consumer protections. If fraud happens, it’s on the card company to deal with it — not you. Debit card fraud, on the other hand, can drain your account and take days or weeks to resolve.

2. No Foreign Transaction Fees
I only use travel-focused credit cards with no foreign transaction fees. This saves me up to 3% on every purchase. That adds up fast on an international trip.

3. Debit Cards for Cash, Not Purchases
Use debit cards to withdraw local currency from bank ATMs, not for making purchases. I personally use Charles Schwab’s debit card, which reimburses all ATM fees globally. Just avoid sketchy convenience store ATMs — stick to bank branches or machines located inside secure buildings.

4. Digital Wallet = Less to Lose
I keep nearly all of my cards on my phone, meaning if my wallet is stolen, I still have access to all my accounts. It’s fast, secure, and tap-to-pay is widely accepted in many countries.

My Favorite Travel Credit & Debit Cards

Looking for the best cards to use abroad? These are all top picks with no foreign transaction fees and travel-friendly perks:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® – Great for earning travel & dining rewards

• Capital One Venture Rewards – Easy-to-use miles for all purchases

• Amex Platinum – Premium benefits like lounge access and travel insurance

• Charles Schwab Debit Card – No ATM fees worldwide, perfect for withdrawing local currency

• Discover it® Miles – Strong for earning miles + cashback match in year one

Smart Backup Practices

Even with great cards, things can go wrong. That’s why I follow these travel-tested backup tips:

• Bring 2 credit cards and 1 debit card from different banks – If one bank has issues, you’re covered

• Leave one credit + one debit card locked in the hotel safe

• Use mobile apps to lock/unlock your cards instantly

• Carry $50–$100 in emergency cash in a hidden pouch

• Set transaction alerts so you’re notified of any suspicious charges

Small Tips That Make a Big Difference

When it comes to travel, small things can have a big impact. For example, if you’re heading to Mexico, tipping is an important part of local etiquette — and knowing how much to tip can save you from awkward situations. I recommend checking out this helpful guide from Ventana Travel:
👉 Essential Tipping Tips for Your Next Mexico Vacation

Also, if you want more advice on international travel — from logistics to destination tips — I highly suggest visiting ventanatravel.com. It’s packed with expert recommendations that can take a lot of stress out of trip planning.

Final Thoughts

With the right mix of credit cards, a single fee-free debit card, and some simple precautions, you can explore the world without worrying about your money. Use credit for purchases, debit for cash, and keep backups just in case.

International travel can be unpredictable — but your financial setup doesn’t have to be.