Alaska Air Visa Platinum for Canadians.....extra fees

[DianeH]

I just discovered Alaska Airline Platinum Visa charges a 3% international fee on all purchases outside of Canada.

I was told it is clearly stated in my cardholder agreement, but of course they don't tell you about it until after you've applied, and received your card and your cardholder agreement!

I asked about the senerio of purchasing airline tickets from Alaska Air and using the card to add to our mileage account. I was told I would be charged an additonal 3% on the tickets since the reservation department is 'international'.

Is anyone else aware if this?

Diane

[Dave M]

It's actually right there in the T&C that you would read before signing up online: "International Transaction Fee: 3% of each foreign transaction." It's in the same place as the annual fee, interest rate and other terms.

[DianeH]

Oops, guess that why I need glasses....thanks Dave!

[Mush]

If you use the VISA to get your tickets through a Canadian travel agent, there is no fee. I think it is a currency exchange fee. Also I purchased tickets from Alaska this year. I was charged in Canadian funds and I don't think I paid any 3% fee, but i'll chouble deck ! Most CCards charge a similar exchange fee, don't they ??

[clipper]

Originally Posted by Mush

If you use the VISA to get your tickets through a Canadian travel agent, there is no fee. I think it is a currency exchange fee. Also I purchased tickets from Alaska this year. I was charged in Canadian funds and I don't think I paid any 3% fee, but i'll chouble deck ! Most CCards charge a similar exchange fee, don't they ??

Yes, other credit cards have something similar except they build it into the converted amount. You can find it in the fineprint in their website or the back of the statement. Some call it a currency conversion fee or foreign currency conversion fee.

The last time I compared some credit cards was Oct 22, 2005:
American Express Airmiles - 2.5%
American Express Small Business Gold - 2.2%
Bank of America Alaska Airlines Visa - 3%
Mosaik Mastercard Westjet - 2.5%

We use our Alaska Airlines Visa for everyday use in Canada. We use our American Express more when we travel.