Q: I'm traveling abroad to France, Germany, Italy and Switzerland. Which credit cards have no international fees?

A: Credit card issuers have turned foreign exchange fees into a battleground over affluent customers, so it's a good time to start shopping for airline credit cards and other feature accounts that let you travel fee-free. Some of our favorite offers include:

• The Platinum Card from American Express. The classic travel charge card got back in the game this year by eliminating foreign transaction fees. With this American Express card take advantage of premium travel benefits such as access to over 600 lounges worldwide when you enroll in Priority Pass Select. And to help with baggage fees, flight-change fees, in-flight food and beverage purchases you can receive up to $200 annually in a statement credit with the airline of your choice. Utilize both of these benefits to help offset the cost of your annual membership fee.
• British Airways Visa Signature Card. Even though the U.K.'s not on your travel list, you might end up on one of BA's planes, or on a codeshare flight operated by one of their partners. Chase's new airline credit card with British Airways eliminates foreign transaction fees when you use your card on purchases made outside the United States and can help you earn miles for your next trip.
• Any Capital One Card. For years, Capital One was the only major credit card company that did not charge foreign transaction fees. Grab their Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card or Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card to be spared foreign transaction fees while earning miles. I enjoy traveling with Capital One because I can get same-day posting for online payments, perfect if I'm in danger of exceeding my trip budget.

When visiting Europe, take only two or three credit cards with you. That way, a lost wallet won't mean canceling every credit and debit card in the world with your name on it. Pack cards from two different payment networks, like an American Express and a Visa. You're less likely to run into trouble when a merchant accepts just one.

Consider backing up your credit cards with a "chip and PIN" prepaid debit card, like the ones Travelex offers. Some retailers won't accept your American magnetic stripe cards, so keep your "chip and PIN" or some extra local currency handy in case of an emergency.