Travel Credit Cards Germany

A travel credit card in Germany can be your best companion abroad – if you choose the right one. From saving on foreign transaction fees to earning rewards on flights and hotels, these cards are built for people who spend money outside the eurozone.

But not all travel cards are created equal. Some come with hidden costs, others with real perks. Whether you’re a frequent flyer or just planning your next getaway, here’s how to find a travel credit card that actually pays off.

What Is a Travel Credit Card?

A travel credit card is designed to give you better value when spending money abroad. Unlike standard cards, travel cards focus on perks that benefit frequent travelers – from lower foreign fees to travel insurance and bonus points.

These cards are usually Visa or Mastercard and work worldwide, both online and in physical stores. Some even include airport lounge access or flight delay compensation. They’re especially useful if you travel outside the eurozone or book in foreign currencies.

Typical features of travel credit cards

• 0% foreign transaction fees
• Free or discounted ATM withdrawals abroad
• Travel insurance (e.g. luggage loss, medical)
• Cashback or points on travel spending
• Airport lounge access or priority boarding
• Extra warranty or purchase protection
• Emergency card replacement worldwide
• Bonus miles or welcome offers

How to Apply for a Travel Credit Card in Germany

Getting a travel credit card in Germany follows the same basic process as applying for a regular credit card – but issuers may have stricter requirements due to higher credit limits or included insurance packages. You’ll usually need a good SCHUFA score, stable income, and a registered German address.

Follow these steps to increase your chances of approval and get the most out of your travel card.

Application steps

1. Compare travel credit card offers
2. Check eligibility requirements
3. Choose a suitable provider
4. Complete the online application
5. Submit required documents
6. Verify your identity
7. Wait for approval and card delivery
8. Activate and start using your card

1. Compare travel credit card offers

Start by reviewing the market. Look at cards with 0% foreign fees, travel insurance, and rewards programs that match your travel style. Some focus on cashback, others on frequent flyer miles or bonus points.

Pay close attention to the APR, annual fees, and included perks. A no-foreign-fee card with a €0 annual cost is great for casual travelers, while a premium card with lounge access and insurance may be worth the fee for frequent flyers.

2. Check eligibility requirements

Most travel credit cards require a positive SCHUFA score and proof of income. Some premium cards may ask for minimum earnings, such as €1,500–€2,500 per month, or a longer German residence history.

Check whether the issuer accepts freelancers or students (some don’t), and whether a German IBAN is required for repayments. If you don’t meet the criteria, consider starting with a basic travel or prepaid card instead.

3. Choose a suitable provider

Once you’ve identified a few options, select the provider that best matches your profile. Fintech banks like N26 or Revolut offer faster setup and lower fees, while traditional banks like DKB and Barclaycard offer strong travel packages with German support.

Check user reviews and fee transparency. Avoid providers with hidden charges on ATM withdrawals or currency conversion.

4. Complete the online application

Most travel cards can be applied for directly online. You’ll be asked for personal details including name, address, employment status, income, and bank information.

Be honest and accurate – inconsistencies may trigger rejection or follow-up verification. Applications usually take 5–10 minutes.

5. Submit required documents

Depending on the provider, you may need to upload:

• A valid passport or national ID
• Proof of address (e.g. Meldebescheinigung)
• Recent payslips or income statements
• SCHUFA self-disclosure (in some cases)

These documents confirm your identity and financial status.

6. Verify your identity

Identity verification is typically done through VideoIdent (video call with ID) or PostIdent (in person at a Deutsche Post branch). The method depends on the bank and your document type.

Make sure your ID is valid and matches the address you provided. If you’re applying from abroad, virtual banks may be more flexible.

7. Wait for approval and card delivery

Approval time can vary. Fintechs may approve within minutes; traditional banks can take several business days. You’ll be notified by email or in-app once approved.

The physical card is then shipped to your German address. Digital cards may be available instantly for online use.

8. Activate and start using your card

Once received, activate your card via the app or provider’s website. Some issuers require setting a PIN before first use.

You can now start using your card for travel bookings, foreign payments, and ATM withdrawals – often with full access to your included perks like insurance or reward programs.

Pros and Cons of Travel Credit Cards

A travel credit card can save you money and offer peace of mind on the go – but it’s not always the best fit for every user. Here er the main advantages and disadvantages to consider before choosing one:

Pros of Travel Credit Cards

• 0% foreign transaction fees: Avoid the typical 1.5–3% markup on non-euro payments.
• Travel insurance included: Many cards offer coverage for delays, lost luggage, accidents, or cancellations.
• Airport perks: Some premium cards include lounge access, priority boarding, or fast-track security.
• Reward points or cashback: Earn miles, hotel points, or cashback on travel-related spending.
• Worldwide acceptance: Visa and Mastercard are accepted nearly everywhere.
• Currency flexibility: Pay in local currencies without hidden conversion fees.
• Emergency support abroad: Some providers offer card replacement or cash advances if your card is lost or stolen.

Cons of Travel Credit Cards

• Annual fees: Premium travel cards can cost €50–€150 per year.
• Higher income requirements: Many issuers expect a stable income and good SCHUFA score.
• Limited benefits if you don’t travel: The perks only pay off if you use them regularly.
• ATM withdrawal limits: Free cash withdrawals abroad are often limited per month.
• Interest rates: If you don’t repay in full, travel cards may have high APRs (12–20%).
• Insurance exclusions: Not all insurance is comprehensive – some cover only partial costs or require minimum purchase amounts.

How to Choose the Best Travel Credit Card

Not all travel credit cards are created equal. The best card for you depends on how often you travel, where you go, and what kind of perks you actually use. By focusing on the right criteria, you can avoid overpriced options and find a card that saves you money every time you fly, spend, or withdraw cash abroad.

Key factors to consider:

• Foreign transaction fees – Look for 0% fees on purchases in non-euro currencies.
• Travel insurance – Check if medical, baggage, or cancellation coverage is included.
• Annual fee vs benefits – Make sure the perks justify any yearly cost.
• ATM withdrawals abroad – Are they free, limited, or expensive?
• Reward structure – Choose between cashback, miles, or points depending on your travel style.
• Accepted network – Ensure it’s Visa or Mastercard for global usability.
• Minimum income – Some cards require stable income or good SCHUFA.
• Lounge access or extras – Worth it only for frequent flyers.
• Mobile app & support – A good app and fast support matter when you’re on the move.

Tip: If you travel frequently outside the eurozone, prioritize fee-free foreign payments and insurance coverage. If you travel occasionally, consider no-fee or low-fee cards with basic perks instead.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Travel Credit Card

Having a travel credit card is one thing — using it strategically is another. To truly benefit from the perks and avoid unnecessary costs, it’s important to know how and when to use your card while abroad. Below are practical tips to help you maximize value and protection with every trip.

Use the card for all foreign currency purchases

Always pay with your travel card instead of exchanging cash. This avoids poor exchange rates and lets you earn rewards or cashback on every purchase.

Always pay in local currency

When shopping or dining abroad, decline DCC (Dynamic Currency Conversion) and choose to pay in the local currency. It avoids hidden fees and gives you the fair rate from your card issuer.

Activate and understand travel insurance

If your card includes insurance, make sure you know what’s covered — and what triggers activation. Many policies require that you paid for the trip using the card for coverage to apply.

Withdraw cash smartly

Use your card at fee-free ATMs where possible. Some providers allow limited free withdrawals abroad per month. Exceeding those limits can lead to steep fees.

Track spending via the app

Most travel cards offer real-time tracking and instant notifications through their app. Use this to monitor spending, detect fraud early, and lock the card if needed.

Use bonus programs

If your card earns miles or points, link it to your frequent flyer or hotel loyalty accounts. Redeem points smartly for flights, upgrades, or discounts instead of low-value gift cards.

Carry a backup card

Bring a second card or prepaid option in case your main card is lost or blocked. This ensures you’re never stranded without access to funds abroad.