We usually think of spending when it comes to credit cards. But looking at it from a different angle, saving on our travels by using credit cards with perks puts more money in our pockets, which is even better. I’ve been answering a lot of questions recently about the different perks on cards, so thought I’d remind us of my favorite, most useful three. Though it may seem obvious, these traveler-friendly credit card perks are often overlooked.
Primary Rental Car Coverage
Have you ever felt pressured when renting a car to purchase rental car coverage? Of course you have. We all have. Use a credit card with primary rental care coverage when making your booking and you’ll be able to decline that auto collision damage waiver. Do make sure that you really understand what’s covered with your credit card’s policy and if there are exclusions. For certain types of damage, with primary coverage you won’t have to file a claim with your personal auto insurance. Your credit card will reimburse you up to a set amount. When looking at costs to buy rental car coverage, having a credit card with primary rental coverage probably saves up to $30 a day.
No Foreign Transaction Fee
You might recall the story of my friend who got stuck in Mexico without a credit card that had no foreign transaction fees. Foreign transaction fees are in the 3% range and add up fast. And be sure to watch for those transaction fees when making foreign purchases online if you’re booking something through a website based in another country.
Waived Baggage Fees
Co-branded airline credit cards allow us to avoid those pesky checked baggage fees. Lately I haven’t seen a checked bag fee for less than $25. Even if the credit card charges an annual fee, often the savings on bag fees pays for itself. Some of the cards also waive bag fees for at least one person on your reservation as well. You may have to book your flight using that co-branded credit card to get this perk, so be aware of the rules. That’s an easy savings of $100 for a couple checking one bag each on a roundtrip ticket.
Sometimes we’re focused on the big picture of travel and can easily overlook the simplest ways to save some money. It’s always good to offer a reminder.