15 Hidden Fees Americans Often Face on International Trips

2. The Unseen 3% "Foreign Transaction Tax"

Many Americans forget that their everyday credit and debit cards quietly tack on a foreign transaction fee, usually 1-3% of every purchase made abroad. It doesn’t sound like much per swipe, but on a week-long trip, this "invisible tax" can add hundreds to your expenses. The Ingenious Part: It’s buried in your statement, not displayed at checkout. Sidestep it: Before you travel, get a credit or debit card specifically advertising "no foreign transaction fees." Many travel rewards cards and some bank accounts offer this essential perk.