Traveling abroad is expensive wherever you go. It is good to think in advance about how to pay for the trip, because different payment methods have different advantages and disadvantages. Are Discover cards accepted in Europe?

If you plan to use the Discover card abroad, make sure you have to plan ahead because the card network is not accepted everywhere. Some retailers not only do not allow payments using the Discover card, but there are also entire countries where there is no coverage. Doing homework in advance can help you avoid unpleasant surprises.

Where is the Discover card accepted?

Before embarking on a journey, check the Discover online map to see if your card will be accepted at your destination. Discover card acceptance varies widely from country to country – even within the same continent.

Before traveling, you must know your four-digit PIN number, which is used to withdraw cash from an ATM. Most credit and debit cards used in Europe, Canada and Australia will also be equipped with “chip and PIN” technology, with a magnetic payment chip embedded in the card. Discover began issuing them to members in the US, and daily transactions will be easier if your card already has it.

How much does it cost to use my US Discover card abroad?

Fee 1: Exchange rates

First, the cost of your purchase will be changed to USD using the daily exchange rate set by Discover.Discover does not publish its exchange rates, but it usually turns out to be slightly less favorable than the actual exchange rate on Google.

Fee 2: ATM fees

If you withdraw cash from an ATM, fees may also apply. This can mean an additional percentage of added fees that you have already paid, or a fixed amount for withdrawal. However, you can reduce or avoid these fees by choosing an ATM from the Discover network. If you take an advance with a credit card, you can expect the fees to be very high.

Are Discover cards accepted in Europe?
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Fee 3: Dynamic currency conversion (DCC)

Wherever you are in the world, you may be asked if you want your purchase to be processed in USD instead of in local currency. This is known as dynamic currency conversion (DCC). It looks like it offers services to customers, but don’t be fooled. Always avoid DCC.

Fee 4: interest on the credit card

If you use a credit card, the process for calculating the costs used will be similar. However, you can also charge interest if you don’t pay the invoice at the end of the month:

Tips for using the Discover card internationally

Report a lost or lost credit card – if your Discover card is lost or stolen while traveling, you can use the Discover Freeze it feature to lock your account in a few seconds by calling Discover or logging into your account.

Make sure you’re not liable for fraud – in case someone steals your credit card information, report it to your credit card company immediately and check your account frequently for fraudulent activity.

 

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