Have you ever swiped your credit card abroad, only to spot extra charges on your statement later? It’s frustrating, right? That’s where understanding the US Bank Altitude Go foreign transaction fee comes in handy, especially if you’re eyeing this card for its rewards.
What Makes the US Bank Altitude Go Card Stand Out?
The US Bank Altitude Go Visa Signature Card packs a punch for food lovers and streamers. With no annual fee, it’s easy on the wallet from day one. You earn 4X points on dining, takeout and delivery up to $2,000 per quarter, then 1X after that.
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It also gives 2X points on groceries, gas, EV charging, and streaming services. All other purchases net 1X points.
New users snag 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in the first 90 days. That’s worth $200 when deposited into a US Bank account.
But what about international use? That’s where the foreign transaction fee sneaks in. We’ll dive deeper soon.
Key Rewards and Benefits at a Glance
Let’s list out the highlights:
- Dining Rewards: 4X points on meals out or delivered, capped quarterly.
- Everyday Perks: 2X on groceries and fuel, plus streaming credits up to $15 annually.
- Intro APR Offer: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 15 billing cycles.
- No Annual Fee: Keeps things simple and cost-free year after year.
Does the US Bank Altitude Go Have a Foreign Transaction Fee?
Yes, it does. The US Bank Altitude Go foreign transaction fee is 3% on each purchase made outside the US. This applies whether you’re buying in foreign currency or US dollars abroad.
Why does this matter? For a $500 spend overseas, that’s an extra $15 tacked on. It adds up on longer trips. Many travel cards skip this fee entirely, so this one might not suit frequent globetrotters.
But if your travels are rare, the card’s strong dining rewards could outweigh this drawback. Think about your habits. Do you dine out more than you jet off?
How the Foreign Transaction Fee Works
Foreign transaction fees cover currency conversion and processing costs. For the US Bank Altitude Go, it’s straightforward: 3% on every international buy.
This fee kicks in for:
- Purchases in another country, even if charged in USD.
- Online buys from foreign merchants.
It doesn’t apply to domestic transactions, of course. Cash advances abroad? Those hit with a separate 5% fee, plus the 3% foreign charge. Double whammy.
Picture this: You’re in Paris, grabbing croissants. That €10 charge converts to about $11, plus 3% fee, making it $11.33. Small, but it compounds.
Pros and Cons of the US Bank Altitude Go for International Travel
Every card has upsides and downsides. The US Bank Altitude Go shines in rewards but lags in travel-friendly features.
Pros:
- Solid points on food and streaming, useful anywhere.
- Visa Signature benefits like roadside assistance and travel protections.
- No annual fee means low commitment.
Cons:
- 3% US Bank Altitude Go foreign transaction fee hurts overseas budgets.
- No travel insurance or lounge access.
- Points redemption favors US Bank deposits over travel bookings.
Comparing Fees to Other US Bank Cards
How does it stack up within the family? Let’s compare in a simple table.
| Card Name | Foreign Transaction Fee | Annual Fee | Key Perk |
|---|---|---|---|
| US Bank Altitude Go | 3% | $0 | 4X on dining |
| US Bank Altitude Connect | 0% | $95 | 5X on travel |
| US Bank Cash+ | 0% or 3% (varies) | $0 | 5% cash back categories |
The Altitude Connect waives foreign fees but charges annually after the first year. For no-fee options, Cash+ might offer 0% on some versions, but check specifics.
Tips to Avoid or Minimize the US Bank Altitude Go Foreign Transaction Fee
Don’t let fees ruin your adventures. Here are smart ways to handle them.
- Use a No-Fee Card for Travel: Pair the Altitude Go with one like Capital One VentureOne. It has 0% foreign fees and travel rewards.
- Pay in Local Currency: Always choose the local option at ATMs or terminals to avoid merchant conversion fees.
- Track Expenses: Use apps to monitor spends abroad. Spot fees early.
- Redeem Points Wisely: Turn points into statement credits to offset fees indirectly.
Alternatives to the US Bank Altitude Go Without Foreign Fees
Looking for better travel options? Consider these.
- Chase Sapphire Preferred: 0% foreign fees, 5X on travel via Chase, $95 annual fee.
- Capital One Quicksilver: 0% fees, 1.5% cash back everywhere, no annual fee.
- Discover it Cash Back: No foreign fees, rotating 5% categories.
These dodge the 3% hit while offering rewards.
For more, check the official US Bank credit cards page.
Hidden Costs: Other Fees on the US Bank Altitude Go
Beyond foreign transactions, watch these.
- Balance Transfer Fee: 5% or $5 minimum.
- Cash Advance Fee: 5% or $10 minimum.
- Late Payment Fee: Up to $41.
The variable APR ranges from 17.49% to 27.49% post-intro. Pay on time to avoid interest.
International cash pulls? They’re cash advances, plus the foreign fee. Better to use debit for cash needs.
Real-World Example: A Trip Abroad with the Card
Imagine a week in Mexico. You spend $1,000 on hotels, food, and souvenirs.
- Foreign transaction fee: $30 (3%).
- But you earn 4X on dining ($300 spend = 1,200 points).
- Points value: About $12 redeemed.
Net cost: $18 extra. Not terrible for occasional trips, but frequent flyers might rethink.
Is the US Bank Altitude Go Worth It Despite the Fee?
It depends on your lifestyle. If dining and streaming dominate your spends, yes. The no annual fee and bonus points make it appealing for domestic use.
For travel buffs, the US Bank Altitude Go foreign transaction fee might tip the scales toward alternatives. Weigh your annual international spends. Under $1,000? The fee’s minimal.
Many users love it for everyday rewards. One friend racked up points on takeout during lockdowns, redeeming for cash.
Maximizing Rewards to Offset Fees
Boost value by:
- Hitting the quarterly dining cap for max points.
- Using the $15 streaming credit yearly.
- Redeeming for deposits at 1 cent per point.
This way, rewards can cover occasional fees.
FAQs: US Bank Altitude Go Foreign Transaction Fee
Q. What is the exact US Bank Altitude Go foreign transaction fee?
A. It’s 3% on each purchase made outside the US or with foreign merchants. This covers currency conversion and applies even to USD charges abroad.
Q. Does the fee apply to online international purchases?
A. Yes, if the merchant is based overseas. For example, buying from a UK site triggers the 3% fee, regardless of currency.
Q. Are there ways to waive the foreign transaction fee on this card?
A. No built-in waivers, but you can offset it by using another card for travel or redeeming points as statement credits.
Conclusion
The US Bank Altitude Go offers great rewards for foodies and streamers, but its 3% foreign transaction fee means it’s not ideal for heavy international use. Consider your travel frequency before applying. With no annual fee and solid perks, it fits many wallets just fine.
Disclaimer: This post shares general insights based on current card details. Credit card terms can change, so verify with US Bank directly. I’m not a financial advisor, consult one for personal advice.
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