Credit card vs. debit card: Know important differences and save money

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Find out why differentiating between credit and debit cards abroad is crucial. Protect yourself from expensive surprises when renting a car and at the hotel. Important tips for travelers with real credit cards.

Erfahren Sie, warum die Unterscheidung zwischen Kredit- und Debitkarten im Ausland entscheidend ist. Schützen Sie sich vor teuren Überraschungen beim Mietwagen und im Hotel. Wichtige Tipps für Reisende mit echten Kreditkarten.
Find out why differentiating between credit and debit cards abroad is crucial. Protect yourself from expensive surprises when renting a car and at the hotel. Important tips for travelers with real credit cards.

Credit card vs. debit card: Know important differences and save money

When traveling abroad, there can be unpleasant surprises if you don't know the difference between a credit and debit card. This can prove costly, especially when renting a car or checking into a hotel. To protect yourself from unexpected expenses, it's important to understand what sets real credit cards apart.

A real credit card, such as Visa or Mastercard, allows the cardholder to make overdrafts and repay the money at a later date. This offers some flexibility when paying bills and expenses abroad. In contrast, with debit cards, money is deducted directly from the linked account, which can lead to limitations, especially if unexpected costs arise.

Before traveling abroad, it is advisable to ensure that the card you are using is a genuine credit card to avoid any potential difficulties. In addition, it is advisable to find out in advance whether Visa or Mastercard is accepted at your destination to avoid payment problems and ensure a smooth travel experience.