What do I need to know before using my Tesco Bank Credit Card abroad?

Don't worry, there's no need to contact Tesco Bank and inform us that you're going abroad. Your credit card will automatically work in shops and cash machines just like it does in the UK.

Read more about our international fees, charges and security.

Some other things to consider:

  • Check your credit card to make sure it doesn’t expire while you’re abroad.
  • Take more than one card with you in case you lose your card or it becomes damaged.
  • Make sure you have our overseas contact telephone number with you (+44 1268 508027).
  • If you're using your card online when you're abroad, you may experience a delay in receiving the code we send to your phone to check it's you making the purchase.
  • Consider setting up a direct debit or standing order to cover any payments due while you’re away. Find out more about paying your credit card in our existing FAQ.
  • Make sure we have your up-to-date contact details including your mobile telephone number.
  • If your cards are registered with a card protection agency, ensure you have their contact telephone number and policy number with you.
  • If you or an additional cardholder buy foreign currency from Tesco Travel Money with your Tesco Bank Credit Card, either through our website or at an in-store bureau, this will be treated as a purchase transaction. If you buy foreign currency or travellers cheques from any other seller, this will be treated as a cash advance which will incur fees and charges.
  • Don’t let your card out of your sight, especially when making purchases in restaurants and bars.
  • Familiarise yourself with your PIN before travelling and don’t give your PIN or Online Banking security details to anyone – even if they claim to be from the police or your card company.
  • Shield your PIN with your free hand when typing it into a keypad in a shop or at a cash machine.
  • Should you lose your card, you can block your card permanently or temporarily via the Mobile Banking App. For more info please see our lost and stolen FAQ.
  • Should you block your PIN whilst abroad, you may not be able to unblock it using a foreign ATM.

When you get back:

  • Check your credit card statements carefully for unfamiliar transactions
  • If there are any, report them to us as soon as possible on 0345 300 4278*

Calls may be recorded. *This number may be included as part of any inclusive call minutes provided by your phone operator.
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