Save Money On Your Dream Trip: Does Alaska Airlines Credit Card Charge For International Transactions?

When venturing beyond domestic borders, understanding the fees associated with your credit card becomes paramount. The question of whether Alaska Airlines credit cards charge international fees is a common concern among travelers. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the nuances of these fees, providing you with clear answers and practical tips to minimize expenses.

Alaska Airlines Credit Cards and International Fees

The short answer is yes, Alaska Airlines credit cards do charge international fees. These fees are incurred when you make purchases or withdraw cash in a currency other than the US dollar.

Foreign Transaction Fee

The foreign transaction fee is a percentage of the transaction amount typically ranging from 1% to 3%. This fee is charged by the credit card issuer and is applied to all purchases made in foreign currencies.

Currency Conversion Fee

In addition to the foreign transaction fee, Alaska Airlines credit cards also charge a currency conversion fee. This fee is a markup on the exchange rate used to convert foreign currencies into US dollars. The currency conversion fee can vary depending on the card issuer and the specific currency being converted.

Exceptions and Exemptions

There are a few exceptions and exemptions to Alaska Airlines‘ international fees:

• Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card: This card does not charge a foreign transaction fee. However, it does charge a currency conversion fee.
• Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan® Gold Business card: This card offers a reduced foreign transaction fee of 1%.
• Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan® MVP Gold Mastercard®: This card offers a reduced foreign transaction fee of 1%.

How to Avoid or Minimize International Fees

While avoiding international fees entirely may not be possible, there are several strategies you can employ to minimize expenses:

• Use a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees: Consider the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card.
• Use a currency exchange service: Compare exchange rates from different providers to find the best rates.
• Withdraw cash from ATMs that offer low or no fees: Look for ATMs that are operated by your bank or partner banks.
• Make purchases in local currency: Avoid using your credit card for purchases that can be made in local currency.

Impact on Travel Rewards

It’s important to note that using a credit card that charges international fees can impact your travel rewards. When you earn points or miles on a transaction that incurs a fee, the fee amount is deducted from the total earned rewards.

Key Points: Weighing the Benefits

Whether the benefits of Alaska Airlines credit cards outweigh the international fees depends on your individual spending habits and travel frequency. If you frequently travel internationally and make large purchases, the fees can add up quickly. However, if you primarily use your credit card for domestic purchases, the benefits of the card’s rewards program may outweigh the international fees.

Popular Questions

Q1. Why do Alaska Airlines credit cards charge international fees?

A1. Alaska Airlines credit cards charge international fees to cover the costs associated with processing foreign transactions and currency conversion.

Q2. Are there any ways to avoid international fees on Alaska Airlines credit cards?

A2. Yes, you can avoid international fees by using a card that does not charge foreign transaction fees, such as the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card.

Q3. How do international fees impact travel rewards?

A3. International fees are deducted from the total earned rewards when using a credit card that charges such fees.