Using a US bank/credit card in England?

[uklover 1]

Hello,

So I have been over to England many many times, and for whatever reason I never used my bank/credit card for purchases like food, or movies etc...only hotels. Ive also used cash and converted. I might be going over to England next week and maybe its because im lazy, or because its more convenient, Id like to use my bank/credit card for food etc.

Will this give me issues? I ask because over there they use chip and pin. I dont want to use my bank card as a debit, but rather a credit card.

[* Kristin * 49]

Most places accept swipe cards, so you should be fine. There are a few places that do chip and pin (or cash) only... but really, you should be fine. Before I opened up a bank account in England, I used my US card

You will likely incur fees from your bank from using it, so just be mindful of what they are

Hello,

So I have been over to England many many times, and for whatever reason I never used my bank/credit card for purchases like food, or movies etc...only hotels. Ive also used cash and converted. I might be going over to England next week and maybe its because im lazy, or because its more convenient, Id like to use my bank/credit card for food etc.

Will this give me issues? I ask because over there they use chip and pin. I dont want to use my bank card as a debit, but rather a credit card.

[Amy and Nick 37]

Most bank cards are fine to use in England, however let your bank know that you are going beforehand, otherwise they may put a hold on your account thinking it is being used fraudulantly.

Also, bear in mind that using your card in a shop is going to incur a lot higher charges than just withdrawing cash from the ATM. With Wells Fargo it charges you about £5 for withdrawing, so that may be a better way to do it

[Trompe le Monde 1,107]

one place you will have trouble is if you use the ticket machines at train stations and the tube - you will have to go the ticket window to buy your tickets if you using a credit card

Most retail places will be fine though

[Amby 490]

one place you will have trouble is if you use the ticket machines at train stations and the tube - you will have to go the ticket window to buy your tickets if you using a credit card

Most retail places will be fine though

I've never had trouble using the ticket machines in the train stations when using an american card. I've had trouble buying tickets online using an american card.

[웃 910]

however let your bank know that you are going beforehand, otherwise they may put a hold on your account thinking it is being used fraudulantly.

When I went to Mexico over Christmas they put a hold on my Comerica checking account. I didn't know it until I tried to use it and got declined. Had to go in the bank and have them remove the hold.

So definitely tell your bank if you plan to use a debit card...

[Trompe le Monde 1,107]

I've never had trouble using the ticket machines in the train stations when using an american card. I've had trouble buying tickets online using an american card.

I could never use the machines with my cc - maybe it depends on the bank