Travel to Poland and Beyond: Your Secure Guide to Spending Abroad

International travel can be expensive, but your credit card shouldn't add to the cost. Our Visa^® Platinum Preferred Credit Cards now feature $0 foreign transaction fees.

While many cards charge an extra percentage on every purchase made outside the U.S., with us, what you see on the price tag is what you pay. It’s a simple way to keep your budget on track while you discover the world.

Pro Tip: When paying abroad, always choose to pay in the local currency (e.g., Polish Zloty rather than U.S. Dollars). This avoids "dynamic currency conversion," where third-party processors charge hidden fees and offer a lower exchange rate.

Total Control in Your Pocket

Enjoy stress-free spending with our card control features. In an emergency—whether you suspect fraud or simply misplace your card—you can instantly lock your Visa^® Platinum Preferred Credit Card through our mobile app or online banking. This ensures no unauthorized person can access your funds while you resolve the situation.

Your Pre-Travel Checklist

Notify the Credit Union: Inform us of your travel dates and destinations. This prevents our fraud systems from accidentally flagging your legitimate vacation purchases.

Diversify Your Wallet: We recommend carrying two credit cards and one debit card. Having a mix of Visa^® and Mastercard^® ensures you’re covered regardless of merchant preferences.

Secure Cash Early: Avoid high-fee airport exchange desks. Order your foreign currency before you depart to get the most competitive rates.

Set Up Alerts: Enable email or text alerts in our mobile app to monitor your transactions in real-time while abroad. (Don’t know how? We will be happy to help you!) 

Security & Monitoring While Traveling

• Digital Backups: Store secure digital copies of your passport and the front/back of your cards in a password-protected app or encrypted cloud storage.
   
• Use Credit Over Debit: For shopping in unfamiliar settings, credit cards are the safer choice. They offer more robust consumer protections and keep your primary checking account untouched in the event of a dispute.
   
• Choose Secure ATMs: If you need cash, use ATMs in well-lit, high-traffic areas—ideally inside a bank lobby.
   
• Track Your Spending: Check your mobile app daily. It’s the fastest way to spot unauthorized activity and keep your vacation budget on track.

We wish you safe and smooth travels! If you have specific questions about your Visa^® Platinum Preferred Credit Card, please don't hesitate to contact us directly. We are here to help! (248) 619-0440

Don't have a Visa^® Platinum Preferred Credit Card? Not a problem you can apply for one today. 

Not a member of Polish-American Federal Credit Union? Find out how to apply today. 

*Credit card approval subject to creditworthiness, membership, and other qualifications. Rates, terms and conditions subject to change without notice. APR = Annual Percentage Rate.
**Visa^® will not charge any foreign transaction fee on the purchases you make outside of the United States with your Card. However, there may be circumstances where ATMs or merchants charge a fee on foreign transactions.

Visa^® is a registered trademark of Visa International Service Association.

This article is based on information available in May 2025  and is subject to change. It is provided as a convenience and for general information purposes only. Our content is not intended to provide legal, tax, investment, or financial advice or to indicate that a particular PAFCU or third-party product or service is available or right for you.

For specific advice about your unique circumstances, consider talking with a qualified professional.