Since the RBI permits Indians travelling abroad to only carry a limited amount of foreign currency, Credit Cards offer a great alternative. As more and more merchants insist on contactless payments in places like Europe, Credit Cards are a travel necessity, especially during a pandemic. Often Credit Cards offer attractive schemes to sweeten the deal. This is true for foreign trips, transactions made abroad, and for international purchases made online.
One may wonder how safe it is to carry a Credit Card and forex card for shopping while abroad, or to buy online from international websites. Well, if you are careful enough to observe a few precautions, this mode of payment is quite secure, time-saving, and hassle-free. For example, The RBI has recommended that consumers add transaction limits for various types of purchases, including international ones, on their cards to thwart perpetrators of fraud. The apex bank has also asked card issuers to deactivate international transactions on all new cards unless the card-holders opt in for them. This measure was introduced from 1st October 2020 to protect consumers from online fraud.
The card advantage
Here are some of the major benefits of using a Credit Card instead of hard cash while you are in an unfamiliar country, and of making international purchases through website:
- Above all, safety and security
- Interest-free loan period of at least more than a month
- Reward points accrue that can be redeemed to enjoy unique catalogued benefits
- Transactions are prompt, even though you are not in your home country
On the other hand, while travelling abroad, forex cards are a good bet as they help with multi-currency applicability, giving you the freedom to use one in various countries.
Benefits of HDFC Bank Credit Card and ForexPlus Cards
Despite minor disadvantages, Credit Cards and forex cards are among the safest options to transact in while you are abroad, as you can travel cash-free and complete your transactions at a cheaper exchange rate. In this regard, HDFC Bank Credit Cards and ForexPlus Cards deserve a special mention.
HDFC Bank ForexPlus Cards offer you several advantages:
- Convenience of payment with a single card in more than one country (as a ForexPlus card supports multiple currencies)
- Better cost-efficiency compared to other traditional modes of payments such as an international debit card or a traveller’s cheque
- Protection from foreign exchange rate fluctuations (as the rate is fed/locked at the time of card purchase)
- Helps in the creation of different currency wallets and transfer balance using NetBanking
To apply for HDFC Bank ForexPlus card online, click here
(Please note: These services continue to be available on existing MasterCard and Maestro cards. However, new cards from these brands are no longer available with effect from 22 July, 2021, as per RBI directives.)
Some of the main benefits offered by HDFC Bank Credit Cards include:
- Loan against your Credit Card.
- Easy EMI options.
- Best-in-class rewards program.
- Option to secure your card with OneAssist.
- Easy online transactions.
- Complimentary accident and permanent disability insurance, subject to terms and conditions.
To apply for HDFC Bank Credit Cards, click here.
Last words
A Credit Card or a Forex Card is not just a safe mode of payment while you’re abroad or buying something on an international website, it also offers you other inbuilt benefits. Just remember to exercise due caution before you splurge.
Read more on the different ways to manage your money when travelling abroad.
Looking to apply for HDFC Bank Credit Card? Click here to know more!
* Terms and conditions apply. Credit Card and Forex Card approvals at the sole discretion of HDFC Bank limited. Credit Card and Forex Card approvals is subject to documentation and verification as per Banks requirement.
