General Use

Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in the U.S., but a few things are worth knowing before you rely on one.

• Interest rates and annual fees vary a lot by card, so check the terms before you apply for one here.
• Any balance you carry needs to be paid off before you head home, so try to spend only what you can pay off.
• If a store can’t read your card, ask about “chip and PIN” vs. “chip and signature.” U.S. cards sometimes work differently than the ones you’re used to.
• Keep a backup card or a small amount of cash somewhere separate from your wallet, in case your primary card is lost, stolen, or frozen.

Before You Leave Home

A little prep before you travel can save you a headache once you land.

• Call your bank or set a travel notice online so your card isn’t flagged or frozen for “suspicious activity” once you start using it in the U.S.
• Ask your bank about foreign transaction fees, since some charge extra on every purchase made outside your home country.