AK Warning About Fees for Plastic Cards on Vacation

Up to 20 euros in fees can be incurred, for example, when withdrawing 400 euros with a credit card in Turkey. In Euro countries, it is best to use the ATM card, advises the Chamber of Labor. Be cautious if the ATM is operated by an independent company, as additional fees of up to ten euros may apply. This is shown by a recent AK test with four credit card companies, prepaid, and debit cards.

Plastic Cards on Vacation: Pay Attention to Fees for Withdrawals in Euro Countries

Vacation in Italy, Spain, and other countries: When using the debit card, often referred to as an ATM card, no additional fees are incurred domestically and in the Euro area. However, depending on the checking account model, fees for booking entries may be charged, averaging 34 cents per booking. Additionally, operators of independent ATM companies, such as in Croatia and Germany, may charge additional fees of up to ten euros for withdrawals. "There are no fees for credit cards when paying in Euro vacation countries, but withdrawing money is expensive: three to 3.3 percent, at least 2.50 to four euros," says AK consumer expert Michaela Kollmann.

In Non-Euro Countries, Plastic Cards on Vacation Are Expensive

Vacation in Turkey, the United Kingdom, and other countries: "In non-Euro countries, consumers always pay fees when paying or withdrawing," warns Kollmann. With the ATM card, paying costs an average of 0.75 percent plus 1.09 euros, withdrawing costs 0.75 percent plus 1.82 euros. When using a credit card, the fees for shopping are 1.65 to two percent, for withdrawing money three to 3.3 percent (at least 2.50 to four euros) in addition to handling fees of up to two percent. Even domestically and in Euro countries, costs arise when withdrawing with a credit card: three to 3.3 percent, at least 2.50 to four euros. Be cautious with dynamic currency conversion - when withdrawing, the amount is paid out in local currency but immediately converted to euros. This can lead to an unfavorable exchange rate and additional fees.

Turkey & Co.: Card payment costs - up to 20 euros for a 400 euro withdrawal! (excluding exchange rate differences)

*BAWAG PSK, easybank, Hypo NÖ, Oberbank, Volksbank Wien
**Erste Bank, BAWAG PSK, easybank, Hypo NÖ, Oberbank, Volksbank Wien

Card complete and PayLife also offer prepaid cards, which are credit cards that can be loaded with credit. The fees are similar to those of conventional credit cards.

AK: What to consider when withdrawing or paying with a plastic card on vacation

Further information on the AK test can be found here.

(Red)

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