The Passport to Savings: 7 Benefits of a Travel Credit Card

Do you find yourself daydreaming about your next travel adventure? It could be hiking through the dense Amazon rainforest or strolling along the cobblestone streets of historic European cities. It should go without saying that dream holidays like these require that you plan your budget for a truly memorable vacation, making a travel credit card an indispensable companion for your trips.

Whether you're a seasoned globetrotter or an aspiring world traveler, your credit card affords you peace of mind—not to mention the funds you need to carry out your grand dreams in whatever destination.

Discover the various travel credit card benefits you can use abroad in this handy guide!

7 Benefits of a Travel Credit Card

Travel credit cards are among the best ways to carry money, especially if you have a jet-setter lifestyle. Here are some of their advantages:

1. Earn free flights
   One of the most alluring benefits of credit cards is the opportunity to earn free flights through miles conversion. This perk stands out for its significant cost-saving potential, allowing you to offset the expense of air travel, which can be a major component of your budget.
   
   By accumulating miles through everyday spending, sign-up bonuses, and targeted promotions, you and other cardholders can unlock access to flights that you thought weren’t possible, providing you with flexibility in choosing airlines and travel dates without blackout restrictions.
   
   If you’re looking for a travel credit card that will allow you to earn free flights, then RCBC’s Visa Platinum Card is the perfect companion. For as low as a Php25 overseas in-store or online purchase, you will be able to earn 1 PREFERRED AIRMILE. You may also accumulate 1 PREFERRED AIRMILE for every Php48 for local spend at 1:1 conversion of points to Asia Miles, Mabuhay Miles, or AirAsia Rewards.
2. International credit card acceptance
   A primary concern for many travelers is whether their destination accepts their credit cards. Fortunately, you can eliminate those worries as some travel credit cards offer international use, such as RCBC credit cards, making transactions much more seamless wherever your adventures take you.
   
   Not only can you use the card for cashless transactions while shopping, but you can also withdraw at ATMs that have the Cirrus, Plus, JCB, or UnionPay logos. You only need to use your cash advance PIN to get your funds.
3. Converting overseas spend
   With a travel credit card, you can more effectively oversee transactions, such as flights, shopping, lodging, etc., by automatically converting foreign charges into installments. This flexibility helps manage larger expenses incurred abroad more comfortably, enabling smoother budgeting and financial planning while traveling..
   
   If you’re looking to capitalize on this particular benefit, then you’re in luck. RCBC offers a UNLI 0% Installment, allowing you to convert your individual, single-receipt transactions, whether conducted online or abroad, into installment payments.
   
   RCBC’s UNLI Installment grants you 0% interest for 3 months or extended payment options up to 36 months with minimal interest rates. Take advantage of this feature with no minimum amount required for conversion and no limit on how many times you can use it.
4. Decreased markup fees on currency exchanges
   You may encounter currency exchange fees when you use a traditional credit card for transactions in a foreign country, with charges maxing out at 3.5% of the total purchase amount. However, these additional charges are necessary since it will cover the cost of converting currencies.
   
   With travel credit cards, you can enjoy lower markup fees on currency exchanges than traditional ones. You get more value for your money when converting currencies, allowing for better budget management.
5. Lower fraud susceptibility
   Visiting new destinations is exhilarating but can expose you to potential risks, including credit card fraud. Criminals may use skimming devices to capture your credit card information when you swipe your card at compromised ATMs and other terminals. Fortunately, travel credit cards have advanced security features against these risks.
   
   Unlike traditional magnetic stripe cards, travel credit cards feature EMV® (Europay, Mastercard, and Visa) chip technology. These chips generate unique transaction codes each time you use your card to purchase something, making it extremely difficult for fraudsters to clone your information.
   
   Additionally, they feature sophisticated fraud detection mechanisms to monitor your card activity in real time. If these chips detect suspicious transactions, the issuer can promptly alert you and take necessary action to prevent further instances of fraud.
6. Insurance coverage for delayed or lost luggage
   Lost luggage is one of the most unfortunate incidents that could happen when you go on a holiday. While airlines are legally responsible for compensating you when such an event occurs, they have a waiting period of when they consider a bag lost.
   
   With travel credit cards, you can gain additional compensation if your airline cannot cover everything. They also offer insurance coverage for delayed or lost luggage to compensate you for the inconvenience.
   
   Remember that you are only eligible for coverage if you use the travel card to book your flight.
7. Purchase protection and travel insurance
   Anything can happen abroad, such as flight cancellations, medical emergencies at the airport, or situations involving item loss or breakage.
   
   Travel credit cards from RCBC Credit provide exclusive benefits such as travel insurance and purchase protection, providing financial security wherever you go. These cover your hospital stay and emergency transportation service. If your medical situation requires you to isolate, you’ll have access to a quarantine allowance abroad.
   
   Purchase protection also provides reimbursement when products you bought overseas are damaged or lost. This safeguard is still in place even after leaving the country where you purchased the item.
   
   Whether you're exploring the wonders of the world or simply enjoying a weekend getaway, these benefits offer invaluable peace of mind.
   
   Speaking of purchase protection and travel insurance, RCBC’s Visa Platinum card affords its cardholders up to Php5,000,000 worth of purchase protection coverage and complimentary Travel Insurance, with Travel Medical and COVID-19 coverage, providing peace of mind if unexpected trip-related inconveniences occur.
   All you need to do is charge all your international travel-related needs to your card, and you’re already set up to enjoy unrivaled protection and assurance when traveling abroad.
8. Abundant travel perks
   What better way to relax while waiting for your flight than to stay in a lounge with plush seating, gourmet refreshments, and a serene ambiance? Travel credit cards offered by RCBC Credit provide access to these exclusive areas for a relaxing pre-flight experience.

Some of the lounges you can visit are:

• PAGGS (Philippine Airport Group Support Solutions)
  RCBC Credit's travel credit card holders can enjoy the comfort of the PAGGS lounge located in NAIA Terminals 1 and 3. Whether you need a quiet space to nap, catch up on work, or grab some complimentary snacks, PAGGS lounges offer a haven for travelers.
• Priority Pass Lounge
  The Priority Pass Lounge is a global network of airport lounges where you—as a travel credit cardholder—can receive complimentary access regardless of your airline or class of service. The amenities include Wi-Fi, refreshments, and comfortable seating.
• Lounges in Japan and other countries
  Are you a frequent traveler to Japan or select international destinations? If so, RCBC’s JCB Credit Card offers exclusive perks tailored to enhance your travel experience. Gain complimentary access to over 50 airport lounges worldwide, including JCB Plaza Lounges, where you can unwind and recharge during your journey.
  
  Also, enjoy up to a 20% discount on car rental services, making transportation arrangements hassle-free wherever you go. Need assistance or recommendations? Access our 24/7 Concierge Desk to cater to your travel needs promptly.
  
  Plus, travel with peace of mind, knowing you're covered by free travel insurance of up to ₱1 million for every trip. With your RCBC JCB Credit Card, every journey becomes not just a destination but a seamless and memorable experience.

The World is Your Oyster When You Travel

Whether you’re a jet-setter or a first-time tourist in an international destination, the benefits of a travel credit card are the key to unlocking a world of comfort and confidence. From international acceptance to travel insurance, these cards make your vacation convenient and secure.

Looking for a travel credit card with global acceptance and exceptional privileges? Consider RCBC Credit’s various offerings. Apply now and turn your travel dreams into reality filled with perks.