jillmc

We need a backup credit card for travel to Italy next year....I have found a few CC's that have great sign on bonuses...but my eyes are crossing as I read through Internet postings about them...most of our travel is domestic and we rent through VRBO, so airline/ hotel loyalty programs hold little appeal. Interest rate is a moot point-we pay all balances in full every month.
So. I am looking at Capital One Venture, and Chase Sapphire. Anyone with experience actually using accrued points for travel? I was set to apply for the Cap One, until I started reading how fraud sensitive they are...blocking cards even after you notify them when and where you are traveling, and I am confused on the amount of points you can use at one time.....help!

barri1

I have the Chase card, as there are no fees when you are in Europe. I went to Paris, and Ireland. When you charge there, they will ask you if you want them to convert to dollars, don't. Let Chase do it.. I haven't used the miles, but my nephew, and brother use them, and it was very easy. They also have a bonus if you use a certain amount within three months.

dunster

I agree that you need to use card that won't charge conversion fees, as that can be an unexpected expense.

paoberle

Get a card that charges no conversion fees. The fees can mount up quickly.

Joset

my husband went to spain for a month and a half this spring. he set up an account with charles schwab
and got there credit card and they have atms all over europe and he never got charged a fee for using it
he really like it.

Luvluvluv2quilt

We went to Italy in September. It was a fabulous trip! So excited for you! We used Capital One for most things we charged. We were really happy we took euros with us. I got them from Wells Fargo. They had a good rate that was actually better than anything we saw while we were there. It takes a few days to receive them. They have a delivery fee that they waived. I would also highly recommend getting a Global Entry card if you don't already have one. It saved us lots of time returning. Plus it works as TSA so you don't need both. One one last thing....it's not only the fee on cards you need to be aware of...it's also the exchange rate they use. Happy Holidays!