multi currency travel card

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Multi-currency Cash Passport™. One Card, Ten Currencies.

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Multi-currency Cash Passport

10 currencies, locked in rates.

Lock in exchange rates each time you load and top up. Load up to 10 different currencies on one card. Pound Sterling, Euros, US Dollars, Australian Dollars, Canadian Dollars, New Zealand Dollars, South African Rand, Turkish Lira, Swiss Francs and Emirati Dirhams.

Stay in control

Manage and track your Cash Passport on the go via your mobile, tablet, laptop or PC. Login to  My Account  and stay in control of your money. 

Accepted at millions of locations

Preload your Cash Passport and use like you would a credit or debit card in-store, online or to withdraw local currency at ATMs.

Global assistance

Help is only a call away. If your card is lost, stolen or damaged, we can replace it quickly or provide you with emergency cash up to the available balance on your card (subject to availability).

Today's exchange rates*

Running low on travel money.

Multi-currency Cash Passport is reloadable, allowing you to top up any of your currencies, anywhere, anytime.

You can top up in 5 ways:

• Bank transfer (via phone or internet banking)
• Via the mobile app
• Over the phone
• In participating branches

Learn more about your top up options.

Keep track of your travel money

You can use your mobile, tablet, laptop or PC to login to My Account  and stay in control of your travel money.

Register for My Account , so you can:

• Track your spending
• Top up your card
• Transfer between currencies
• Retrieve your PIN number
• Suspend your card temporarily

You can also download the Cash Passport mobile app, available for iOS and Android devices.

Travel with confidence

Safe and secure access to your money

Cash Passport uses Chip and PIN technology which means you can rest assured you have additional security making your card safer than carrying cash. Accepted at millions of locations and cash machines worldwide.

Looking for a back-up card for safe keeping? Simply purchase an additional card when ordering online or in-store.

We're here to help

We're only a call or email away at all times. Our global assistance team will help you if your card is lost, stolen or damaged.

We can replace your card quickly or provide you with access to emergency cash up to the available balance on your card (subject to availability), so you can keep enjoying your holiday.

Need further help?

View our frequently asked questions or feel free to contact us .

Cash Passport™ app

The new Cash Passport app has an improved design that makes managing your travel money faster and easier.

Start travelling smarter in just a couple of taps. Activate your Cash Passport card from your mobile, download the app from the iOS or Android store, log-in, and load up with your preferred currency. Simple!

Now you can securely store your payment card details in the Cash Passport app, so whenever and wherever you are, you can top up with up to 10 currencies, including Euros, US, Australian and Canadian Dollars and British Pounds at the touch of a button.

Stay in control the smart way. The new message centre feature lets you stay on top of tailored notifications, including low balance and transaction alerts. Keeping you up to date with your own personal need to know information.

Move money between your currencies with just a couple of taps – it’s that simple! Quickly move money between 10 currencies and spend more time enjoying your holiday.

Priceless Cities

Priceless Cities is a program available exclusively to Cash Passport cardholders and provides access to unforgettable experiences in the cities where you live and travel.

There’s a world of possibilities waiting for you to explore, so why not break free from your routine for a moment, a night, or even a weekend? Fuel your passions. Make memories to last a lifetime. Start Something Priceless.

Find out more

Multi-currency Cash Passport is issued by PrePay Technologies Limited pursuant to license by Mastercard  International. PrePay Technologies Limited is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 (FRN: 900010) for the issuing of electronic money and payment instruments. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

*Foreign exchange rates can fluctuate and the rate that applies one day will not necessarily be the same on any other day. The exchange rates set out on this website apply to top-ups that are made via this website only and that are applied to your card account within four hours. We will provide you with the applicable exchange rate at the time you top up.

Apple and the Apple logo are trademarks of Apple Inc. registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service of Apple Inc. registered in the U.S. and other countries. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.

Today’s exchange rates*

MASTERCARD BENEFIT INQUIRIES

Within the U.S.: 1-800-Mastercard (1-800-627-8372) | Outside the U.S.: Mastercard Global Service Phone Numbers

Availability of insurance benefits on your card may vary by card issuer. Please refer to your issuing financial institution for complete insurance benefit coverage terms, conditions and exclusions.

*Card registration required. Certain exceptions apply. Click here for terms and conditions .

†Requirements may vary. See card packaging for details or contact card issuer.

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AC conversion™ Visa* Prepaid Card

The best travel companion. Safely carry up to 10 currencies in one card.

Get the card for $0 and have the currencies you need ready to go.

Make touchless payments a breeze in over 40 countries with a single card

Travel like a local. Easily load up to 10 currencies on one card and avoid conversion fees. Whether you’re train hopping through Europe or hanging ten in Australia, exact fare is a tap away.

One card to carry on trips to more than 40 countries around the globe.

There’s no fee to order the card, no fee to load it and no conversion fees when you make a purchase.

Use the app to load up to 10 currencies at a time on the go. Shop wherever Visa is accepted.

Carry less cash. Load up to 10 currencies.

Lock in a great exchange rate each time you load. That means you don’t have to worry about exchange rate fluctuations. Plus, there’s no extra conversion fee.

How does it work?

• No minimum load required.

Activate it

• Register your account and retrieve your PIN from the Manage My Card page Opens in a new window. . 
• Or, to activate by phone, call 1-800-482-8347 Opens your phone app. .
• Load from the app or sign on from your web browser Opens in a new window. .
• Choose from up to 10 currencies for 45 countries.

Load on the go with the AC conversion App

Manage your card from the palm of your hand. Reload as you go so you never run out of currency on your trip.

• Check your balance
• Keep track of your spending
• Transfer money from one currency to another
• Retrieve your PIN

Manage your card online Opens a new window in your browser.

Get the prepaid travel card that takes your money further

• Save money on conversion fees
• Make travelling more convenient with 10 currencies on 1 card
• Advanced chip and pin technology keeps your money safe
• Shop with foreign currency on global e-commerce sites 1

Frequently asked questions

To load funds onto your card, use your mobile app or sign onto your account at acconversion.cibc.com Opens in a new window. . The website also works on your phone or tablet on the go.

There is no minimum amount you have to load.

The maximum the card can hold is the equivalent of $20,000 CA in your choice of currencies.

The maximum load amount in any 24-hour period is the equivalent of $3,000 CA.

It’s easy to check your balance. Simply choose one of the following options:

• Sign onto your account at acconversion.cibc.com Opens in a new window.
• Use the mobile app. You can download the app for both Apple and Android operating systems
• Call the number shown on the back of your card and follow the automated prompts to speak with a live agent

Yes. However, you should be aware that many restaurants and hotels factor in an automatic tip or other incidental expenses when authorizing your purchase transaction.

Advance bookings — Hotels and car rental agencies can place a hold on funds that may exceed your balance. However, use of your card for settlement of a final amount will be treated as a normal purchase.

Places that could require a tip or extra charge — Certain merchants, including restaurants and hair salons, may add an additional 20% to the purchase amount prior to authorization of the transaction. This puts a hold on the full amount of the transaction. Although this is normal, it means you will not have use of the funds until the hold is released or it may exceed the balance available on your card and lead to a decline of the transaction.

The CIBC Air Canada AC conversion Visa Prepaid Card is protected by advanced chip and PIN technology to minimize fraud and theft. It also comes with Emergency Card Replacement Service, Emergency Cash Service and Protection from unauthorized use of cards or account information.

All fees related to your card are provided to you in the terms and conditions.

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Please note: Multilanguage sites do not provide full access to all content on CIBC.com. The full CIBC website is available in English and French.

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The Best Multi-currency Travel Card For Travellers — YouTrip vs Revolut vs InstaReM vs TransferWise Review

Which multi-currency travel card to get? YouTrip, Revolut, InstaReM, or TransferWise?

Correct as of: 9 Nov 2019 The views in this article represent the opinions of the writer only. 

As a frequent traveller, I’ve been a big fan of digital multi-currency travel cards since YouTrip launched the first digital multi-currency travel card in Singapore (2018).

While they’re not a replacement for credit cards that collect miles, they’re an alternative everyday card for spending overseas.

With so many “travel” related cards popping up recently, I’ve taken up the task of pitting the main players — YouTrip, Revolut, TransferWise, and InstaReM — up against each other. Hopefully at the end of this digital multi-currency travel card review, we’ll all have a better idea of which multi-currency card best fits our needs.

Here’s a handy TL;DR summary table if you can’t wait:

Some key features and considerations — costs, exchange rates, security, application process .

Key Features of the different digital Multi-Currency Travel Cards

The basic premise of a digital multi-currency travel card is that they all promise preferential exchange rates with little to no fees. So what sets them apart?

If you’re already familiar with these cards, scroll down to the next section on costs & exchange rate differences.

For savvy Singaporean travellers, you should be familiar with the first digital multi-currency travel card player that started here in August 2018. Developed by You Technologies Group Limited, the company is based in both Hong Kong and Singapore. They recently secured the principal licence to be a direct Mastercard issuer.

YouTrip allows you to pay overseas with no fees in 150+ currencies. Having used YouTrip for a year, I really loved how fuss-free and convenient it was. It works really well as an overseas debit card + multi-currency wallet, and have already saved me hundreds of dollars.

Read also: YouTrip Review

Founded in the UK back in July 2015, Revolut just made its way to Singapore, and is the first neobank to partner with Visa here. More than just a multi-currency travel card, Revolut has plenty of features that seems to position itself as an all purpose debit card as well. It’s the only player that offers three different cards with a subscription plan .

The paid tiers allow you higher limits for ATM withdrawals, a lower currency exchange fee (see section below), priority customer support, nicer physical cards, and LoungeKey Pass access. The Metal Card also offers 1% cashback on overseas spending.

What’s interesting to note is that other than acting as a multi-currency wallet and overseas debit card, Revolut also allows you to transfer money abroad. They have an in App budgeting/analytics tool, and a feature called Vault that can automatically round up your purchases to the nearest dollar and save it in your account.

If you are new to travel wallets and multi-currency cards, I’d suggest taking your time to explore the different features.

TransferWise — Platinum Debit Card

Another UK based company, TransferWise started in 2011 as a fuss-free and low-cost way to remit money overseas online. Their trademark neon green debit card is supported by Mastercard and also allows you to spend overseas at preferential exchange rates.

The amazing thing about TransferWise, is that you can get access to your own account in multiple countries. This currently includes: – an Australian account number and BSB code – a British account number and sort code – an European IBAN – a New Zealand account number – a US account number and routing number

You can also store up to 40+ different currencies in your account, the most amongst all the multi-currency wallets.

InstaReM — AMAZE Card

Founded in Singapore in 2015, InstaReM is a digital cross-border remittance company focussed on making it easier and cheaper to send money globally. Their new AMAZE Card allows you to link up to 5 debit or credit cards and continue earning cashbacks, reward points and air miles. The AMAZE card is currently only available in Singapore and will be launching in December 2019.

Costs & Exchange Rates of YouTrip, Revolut, TransferWise & InstaReM

Probably the section most people care about.

Basic Cost : Free Exchange Rates : Real-Time Interbank Mid-Market Rate Currency Exchange Fees : No Commission Overseas ATM Withdrawal : SGD5 per withdrawal

– YouTrip is free to use and does not charge any commission – The interbank mid-market rates is typically much better than the ones credit companies use — which is very close to the physical money changer or google interbank rates. As of 4th Nov 2019, YouTrip also offered to match the exchange rates on other multi-currency wallets. – For overseas ATM withdrawal, there’s a S$5 charge per withdrawal, so it’s best to plan ahead and draw enough if required.

Basic Cost : $0 to S$19.99/month Exchange Rates : Real-Time Interbank Mid-Market Rate Currency Exchange Fees : 0-2.5% depending on membership and market hours Overseas ATM Withdrawal : Free up to SGD350 (Standard), SGD700 (Premium), SGD1050 (Metal) every month. 2% Fair Usage Fee after.

– A currency exchange fee is charged based on a few factors — your membership level (standard, premium or metal card), amount you exchange each month, and London’s market hours. With Revolut, you are split into either a “Regular” or “High Frequency Standard” customer.

*High Frequency Standard rates are charged to standard users (free membership) who have exchanged more than S$9,000 or equivalent in any rolling month.

To protect themselves against currency fluctuations, Revolut also locks in the closing rate for the weekend (UTC) and charges more currency exchange fees. Here’s the breakdown:

Exchange Fees during market hours (UTC, Mon-Fri)

Exchange Fees after market hours (UTC, Sat-Sun, trading holidays)

*Pro-Tip : Do your money changed from Monday to Friday (UTC).

– ATM withdrawal is free up to certain amounts depending on your membership level. Standard: S$350/month Premium: S$700/month Metal Card: S$1050

A 2% usage fee is charged for amounts exceeding your limit but that shouldn’t be an issue when travelling in places where card payment is widely accepted.

TransferWise — Platinum Debit Card (Borderless Account)

Basic Cost : Free Exchange Rates : Real-Time Interbank Mid-Market Rate Currency Exchange Fees : 0.35-2% Overseas ATM Withdrawal : Free up to SGD350 per 30 rolling days. 2% fee after limit is hit

– Like YouTrip, TransferWise is totally free to use and also uses the real-time interbank mid market rates. – Uses a fixed percentage fee, depending on the currencies exchanged. The fee is clearly shown at the point of exchange and you can test it for yourself on the TransferWise pricing and fee converter .

Here are some common currency conversion fees for TransferWise Platinum Debit Card holders):

– Similar to Revolut, there is a cap on the overseas ATM withdrawal limit for TransferWise. The main difference is that there are no Premium Plans/Cards to increase your limit.

Basic Cost : Free Exchange Rates : Real-Time Interbank Mid-Market Rate Currency Exchange Fees : 0.25-1% (assuming it’s the same as their transfer fees) Overseas ATM Withdrawal : N/A

Launching in December, we are eagerly waiting for details of the InstaReM AMAZE Card to see how it compares to the rest. However, we can use their current zero-margin exchange rates as a benchmark. You can test the various exchange rates and fees using the InstaRem Currency Converter .

Here are some common currency exchange fees for InstaRem:

At a glance, the fees are slightly better than TransferWise. However interbank mid-market exchange rates might differ. They don’t make it easy for us to compare, but I compared anyway (see below).

Exchange Rate Comparison — YouTrip vs Revolut vs InstaReM vs TransferWise

Here’s a comparison of exchanging SGD1,000 to USD at the point of writing. As the currency exchange rate was changing constantly, I refreshed the rates at the same time so the gap within each is probably about 3 seconds. It’s as fast as I can manage using 3 phones and a laptop. 😛

1 The test was conducted on a weekday, so I do expect the fees to rise over the weekend. 2 InstaReM’s rate is based off their remittance service, while YouTrip, Revolut, and TransferWise was based off the money exchange feature on the respective multi-currency wallet.

Note : It’s probably best to do your own tests if you are exchanging large amounts of money as I’m pretty sure the exchange rates will fluctuate more as the competition heats up.

Security Features of YouTrip, Revolut, TransferWise & InstaReM

If you misplaced your card, YouTrip allows you to deactivate it temporarily by toggling a button on the YouTrip App. If you find it again in-between the couch, you can easily activate it again. Compared to the traditional way of calling the banks to deactivate your debit/credit card permanently, this is much more convenient and fuss-free.

Revolut has the ability to freeze (deactivate) the card temporarily too.

What I found interesting is function to create Disposable Virtual Cards — perfect for times when you have to make an online payment through a dodgy looking website.

According to Revolut, the Disposable Virtual Card will automatically be destroyed and a new one is generated each time an online payment is made. This reduces the risk of online credit card fraud since it can only be used once. However, this feature is only available for Premium & Metal Card users. You can also control other security features from the Revolut App directly, like turning on location-based security, or disabling contactless payments, ATM withdrawals, online payments, or magnetic stripe payments based on your needs.

Similar to YouTrip and Revolut, you can easily freeze or cancel your card. An additional feature is the implementation of 2FA for desktop logins. This can be done via SMS, a phone call, or the TransferWise App. You can also set monthly spending limits

InstaReM – AMAZE Card

To be updated.

Which Multi-Currency Travel Card is better for me?

While there are plenty of overlaps, I do think that the strengths of each card suits different types of travellers.

For the Fuss-free Traveller: YouTrip

Probably the simplest and easiest card to understand and use, YouTrip does as it says — it saves you money for spending overseas. There are no frills or additional features (currently). If you don’t want to worry too much about when to exchange currencies, nor have a need to remit money overseas, this is a great alternative to carrying lots of cash around.

For those who want a multi-purpose spending card: Revolut

The most sophisticated of the lot, Revolut has a lot of useful features for the global citizen. More than just a travel card, you can also use it like a global everyday spending card, and to transfer money overseas.

For those who have a need to remit money: TransferWise

With the ability to store up to 40+ different currencies, TransferWise is definitely ahead if you travel to many non mainstream countries or need to send money abroad. The ability to have local bank account numbers is a huge plus.

For those who have multiple debit/credit cards: InstaReM

While we wait for the card to launch, it’s current premise looks really promising — consolidate all your cards and rewards while having better exchange rates for overseas spending.

Hope you found this review useful. Do let us know if there are other things we might have missed out on in the comments section below!

For more travel inspiration, follow us on Instagram , YouTube , and Facebook !

          View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by The Travel Intern (@thetravelintern) on Aug 27, 2019 at 6:23am PDT

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• Travel Money

A safe-to-use, prepaid, reloadable, multi-currency card that’s not linked to your bank account

No charges when you spend abroad*

Make contactless, Apple Pay and Google Pay™ payments

Manage your account and top up or freeze your card easily with our Travel app

*No charges when you spend abroad using an available balance of a local currency supported by the card.

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A chance to win £5000 when you top up a new or existing Travel Money Card*. Offer ends 12 May

*Exclusive to travel money cards. Promotion runs 4 March to 12 May 2024. 1 x £5,000 prize available to be won each week. Minimum equivalent spend of £50 applies.

Why get a Travel Money Card?

Carry up to 22 currencies safely.

Take one secure, prepaid Mastercard® away with you that holds multiple currencies (see ‘common questions’ for which).

Accepted in over 36 million locations worldwide

Use it wherever you see the Mastercard Acceptance Mark – millions of shops, restaurants and bars in more than 200 countries.

Manage your card with our travel app

Top up, manage or freeze your card, transfer funds between currencies, view your PIN and more all in our free Travel app .

It’s simple to get started

No need to carry lots of cash abroad. Order a Travel Money Card today for smart, secure holiday spending.

Order your card

Order online, via the app or pick one up in branch and load it with any of the 22 currencies it holds.

Activate it

Cards ordered online and in-app should arrive within 2-3 working days. Activate it by following the instructions in your welcome letter.

It’s ready to use

Spend in 36 million locations worldwide, and top up and manage your card in the app or online.

Stay in control

Manage your holiday essentials together in one place on the move, from your Travel Money Card and travel insurance to extras like airport parking.

New-look travel app out now

Our revamped travel app’s out now. It makes buying, topping up and managing Travel Money Cards with up to 22 currencies a breeze. Buying and accessing Travel Insurance on the move effortless. And it puts holiday extras like airport hotels, lounge access and more at your fingertips. All with an improved user experience. Find out what’s changed .

Order a Travel Money Card

Order your card online – or through the Post Office travel app – and we'll deliver it within 2-3 days. Just activate it and go.

Need it quick? Visit a branch

Pick up a Travel Money Card instantly at your local Post Office. Bring a valid passport, UK driving licence or valid EEA card as ID. 

Need some help?

We’re here to help you make the most of your Travel Money Card – or put your mind at ease if it’s been lost or stolen

Lost or stolen card?

Please immediately call: 020 7937 0280

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To read our FAQs, manage your card or contact us about using it:

Visit our Travel Money Card support page

Common questions

How can i order my card.

There are three ways that you able to obtain a Travel Money Card, each very simple.

Please note, you must be a UK resident over the age of 18 to obtain a Travel Monday Card.

• Via our travel app: you can order and store up to three Travel Money Cards in our free travel app . Delivery will take 2-3 working days.
• Online: follow our application process  to order your card online. Your card will take 2-3 working days to be delivered. Once it arrives you can link it to our Travel app to manage on the go. 
• In branch: simply find a nearby Post Office branch and pop in to get your Travel Money Card there. Please remember to take a valid passport, UK driving licence or a valid EEA card in order to obtain your card, and you can take it away the same day.

Whichever way you choose to order your card, don't forget to activate it once it arrives. Full details of how to activate your card will be provided in your welcome letter, to which your card will be attached if it’s been sent in the post.

How do I use my card?

Travel Money Card is enabled with both chip & PIN and contactless, so you can make larger and lower-value value payments with it respectively. For convenience, you can also add it to Apple Pay and Google Wallet.

You can load it with between £50 and £5,000 (see more on load limits below). You can use it to pay wherever the Mastercard Acceptance Mark is displayed. And you can withdraw cash with it at over 2 million ATMs worldwide (charges and fees apply, see 'Are there top-up limits?' below).

Your Travel Money Card is completely separate from your bank account so it’s a safe and secure way to pay while you’re abroad.

How can I manage my card?

After you've activated your card, you can manage it using our travel app or via a web browser. You can check your recent transactions, view your PIN, transfer funds between different currency ‘wallets’, top up your card, freeze your card and more.

Our travel app brings together travel essentials including holiday money, travel insurance and more together in one place. As well as managing your Travel Money Card you can buy cover for your trip, access your policy documents on the move, book extras such as airport parking and hotels, and find your nearest ATM while overseas or Post Office branches here in the UK.

Which currencies can I use?

The Post Office Travel Money Card can be loaded with up to 22 currencies at any one time. You can top up funds on the card and transfer currencies between different ‘wallets’ for these currencies easily in our travel app or online.

Currencies available:

• EUR – euro
• USD – US dollar
• AUD – Australian dollar
• AED - UAE dirham
• CAD – Canadian dollar
• CHF – Swiss franc
• CNY – Chinese yuan
• CZK – Czech koruna
• DKK – Danish krone
• GBP – pound sterling
• HKD – Hong Kong dollar
• HUF – Hungarian forint
• JPY – Japanese yen
• NOK – Norwegian krone
• NZD – New Zealand dollar
• PLN – Polish zloty
• SAR – Saudi riyal
• SEK – Swedish Krona
• SGD – Singapore dollar
• THB – Thai baht
• TRY – Turkish lira
• ZAR – South African rand

What are the charges and fees?

Full details of our charges and fees can be found in our   Travel Money Card terms and conditions .

The Post Office Travel Money Card is intended for use in the countries where the national currency is the same as the currencies on your card. If the currency falls outside of any of the 22 we offer on your card, you’ll be charged a cross-border fee. For example, using your card in Brazil will incur a cross-border fee because we do not offer the Brazilian real as a currency. 

Cross border fees are set at 3% and are only applicable when you use your currency in a country other than the ones we offer. 

For more information on cross border fees, please visit our cross border payment page.

There are no charges when using your card in retailers in the country of the currency on the card. This means that a €20 purchase in Spain would cost you €20 and will be deducted from your euro balance. 

To avoid unnecessary charges to your card, wherever asked, you should always choose to pay for goods or withdraw cash in the currencies of your card. For example, if you are using the card in Spain you should always choose to pay in euro if offered a choice; choosing to pay in sterling (GBP) in this example would allow the merchant to exchange your transaction from euro to sterling. This would mean your transaction has gone through two exchange rate conversions, which will increase the total cost of your transaction. 

For loads in Great British pounds, a load commission fee of 1.5% will apply (min £3, max £50). A monthly maintenance fee of £2 will be deducted from your balance 12 months after your card expires. Expiration dates can be found on your TMC; all cards are valid for up to 3 years. 

A cash withdrawal fee will be charged when withdrawing cash from a UK Post Office branch or from any ATM globally that accepts Mastercard.  

We have listed all available currencies and their associated withdrawal limits and charges below: 

EUR – euro Max daily cash withdrawal: 450 EUR Withdrawal charge: 2 EUR

USD – US dollar Max daily cash withdrawal: 500 USD Withdrawal charge: 2.5 USD

AED – UAE dirham Max daily cash withdrawal: 1,700 AED Withdrawal charge: 8.5 AED

AUD – Australian dollar Max daily cash withdrawal: 700 AUD Withdrawal charge: 3 AUD

CAD – Canadian dollar Max daily cash withdrawal: 600 CAD Withdrawal charge: 3 CAD

CHF – Swiss franc Max daily cash withdrawal: 500 CHF Withdrawal charge: 2.5 CHF

CNY – Chinese yuan Max daily cash withdrawal: 2,500 CNY Withdrawal charge: 15 CNY

CZK – Czech koruna Max daily cash withdrawal: 9,000 CZK Withdrawal charge: 50 CZK

DKK – Danish krone Max daily cash withdrawal: 2,500 DKK Withdrawal charge: 12.50 DKK

GBP – Great British pound Max daily cash withdrawal: 300 GBP Withdrawal charge: 1.5 GBP

HKD – Hong Kong dollar Max daily cash withdrawal: 3,000 HKD Withdrawal charge: 15 HKD

HUF – Hungarian forint Max daily cash withdrawal: 110,000 HUF Withdrawal charge: 600 HUF

JPY – Japanese yen Max daily cash withdrawal: 40,000 JPY Withdrawal charge: 200 JPY

NOK – Norwegian krone Max daily cash withdrawal: 3,250 NOK Withdrawal charge: 20 NOK

NZD – New Zealand dollar Max daily cash withdrawal: 750 NZD Withdrawal charge: 3.5 NZD

PLN – Polish zloty Max daily cash withdrawal: 1,700 PLN Withdrawal charge: 8.5 PLN

SAR – Saudi riyal Max daily cash withdrawal: 1,500 SAR Withdrawal charge: 7.50 SAR

SEK – Swedish Krona Max daily cash withdrawal: 3,500 SEK Withdrawal charge: 20 SEK

SGD – Singapore dollar Max daily cash withdrawal: 500 SGD Withdrawal charge: 3 SGD

THB – Thai baht Max daily cash withdrawal: 17,000 THB Withdrawal charge: 80 THB

TRY – Turkish lira Max daily cash withdrawal: 1,500 TRY Withdrawal charge: 7 TRY

ZAR – South African rand Max daily cash withdrawal: 6,500 ZAR Withdrawal charge: 30 ZAR

Are there top-up limits?

Yes, all currencies have top-up limits and balances. See full information below, which is applicable to all currencies available on the Travel Money Card.

• Top-up limit: minimum £50 – maximum £5,000
• Maximum balance: £10,000 at any time, with a maximum annual balance of £30,000
• Read more Travel Money Card FAQs

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Find out more information by reading the  Post Office Travel Money Card's terms and conditions .

Post Office Travel Money Card is an electronic money product issued by First Rate Exchange Services Ltd pursuant to license by Mastercard International. First Rate Exchange Services Ltd, a company registered in England and Wales with number 4287490 whose registered office is Great West House, Great West Road, Brentford, TW8 9DF, (Financial Services Register No. 900412). Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Post Office and the Post Office logo are registered trademarks of Post Office Limited.

Post Office Limited is registered in England and Wales. Registered number 2154540. Registered office: 100 Wood Street, London, EC2V 7ER. 

These details can be checked on the Financial Services Register by visiting the  Financial Conduct Authority website  and searching by Firm Reference Number (FRN).

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Best Forex Card for International Travel

A forex card is one of the most convenient and safe ways to carry cash and exchange money for your travels abroad. It's a widely accepted payment and is simple to use, like a credit or debit card. When selecting a type of forex card, you need to consider the countries you are traveling to. Find out more about the best forex card for international travel, their benefits and how to use them. 

5 Best Forex Cards for International Travel

Wise travel card, axis bank forex card, indusind bank multi-currency forex card, travelex money card, hsbc everyday global travel card, what is a forex card, how to choose a forex card for international travel, low exchange rates, ability to hold multi-currency, ability to reload online.

• EVM Chip-enabled 

Special Perks

Cut down on international travel expenses using forex cards.

• Frequently Asked Questions 

Quick look: Best Forex Cards

• Best for Exchange Rate: Wise Travel Card
• Best for Discounts and Exclusive Rewards: Axis Bank Forex Card
• Best for Low Fees: Travelex Money Card
• Best for Convenience: IndusInd Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card
• Best for No International Transaction Fees: HSBC Everyday Global Travel Card

The following are among the best five forex cards and their features:

With the Wise Travel forex card, you can enjoy a better exchange rate and lower fees than your bank. The Wise Travel Card is ideal for purchasing goods online from other countries, and it charges no transaction fees.  The Wise card is accepted across the MasterCard network.

Best for: Frequent travelers

Card Validity: The validity of your card is stated on the front of the card. Wise will notify you when it's time to order a new one.

Number of Currencies : 50+

Fees and Charges:  

• After making two withdrawals of up to $100 each month for free, you'll be charged $1.50 per withdrawal. 
• There's a 2% fee on any amount you withdraw above $100.
• Wise charges a fee of $9 when you order a card.
• Best exchange rates globally
• One of the lowest conversion fees on the market
• No international transaction fees
• No annual or monthly fees
• Extremely low costs to send money overseas

Cons: 

• If you require a replacement card, it may take up to two to three weeks to arrive.
• You can only top up your account online or in the app. 
• There are no cash or check payment options.
• There are no credit facilities.

Axis Bank provides four different types of forex cards. Each card has unique perks and disadvantages, so you can select which suits your requirements. The Axis Bank forex card offers emergency assistance and a miles program. Using Mastercard's contactless technology, the card offers quick and secure payments.

Best for: Students

Card Validity: 5 years

Number of Currencies : 16

• Issuance Fee – 300 Indian rupees (INR)
• Reload Fee – 100 INR
• Add-on Card Fee – 100 INR
• Cash withdrawal: $2.25 
• Balance inquiry: $0.5
• Replacement card fee (Domestic): $3 
• Replacement card fee (International): $15 
• Cross Currency Fee – 3.5%
• 24-hour emergency assistance
• Locked exchange rate: Your money on the card is unaffected by the fluctuation in the dollar exchange rate.
• The Axis Bank Forex Card is widely accepted in all retail outlets and online retailers that accept MasterCard or Visa credit and debit cards.
• Charges fees for signing up, reloading and cash withdrawals from ATMs other than those operated by Axis Bank.
• If the card is not used for longer than 36 months, there is an inactivity fee of $5 or the indicated fee for each currency.
• Axis bank forex cards only support a limited amount of currencies.

The IndusInd Bank multi-currency forex card has an embedded chip, which makes transactions secure and simple. Indusind forex card provides currency withdrawals from all VISA ATMs and currency fluctuation protection. IndusInd Multi Currency Forex card also provides add-on features, such as zero foreign markup rates.

Best for: Frequent international travelers

Card Validity: 3 years

Number of Currencies : 14

Fees and Charges:

• Issuance fee – 300 INR
• Cross currency fee – 3.5% markup 
• Re-issuance of card fee – 100 INR
• ATM cash withdrawal fee- $2
• Reload fee – 100 INR
• Inactivity fee – $3 per quarter after 18 months of inactivity
• Two free ATM withdrawals each month per currency
• There is no extra charge on International bookings and payments for hotels, restaurants, flights, retailers and gas stations made with the travel card.
• It offers protection given against currency fluctuations.
• You cannot reload the card at foreign locations. 

The Travelex Money Card is a contactless prepaid forex card. Pre-loading your Travelex Money Card before a trip allows you to manage your travel budget better. You can pay for goods and services online and at physical stores worldwide. Travelex Money Card does not charge fees for international ATMs withdrawal or purchases. 

Card Validity: The validity of your card is stated on the front of the card.

Number of Currencies : 10

• Currency transfer fee - Foreign exchange rate applies; varies each day.
• Foreign exchange fee - If you use your card for a transaction in a currency that is not listed on it you will be charged a 5.75% fee. This fee also applies if there is not enough money on the card to cover the transaction in the local currency, and the rest is taken from another currency.
• Individuals can use it anywhere Mastercard is accepted.
• Travelex doesn't charge ATM fees.
• If your card is lost or stolen, you can withdraw funds from your account through Western Union or Moneygram agents.
• The currency rates are less favorable than those offered by other international travel forex cards.
• It only supports a limited amount of currencies.

The HSBC Everyday Global Travel Card provides an excellent conversion rate for U.S. dollars. When you use HSBC ATMs, you can withdraw cash without paying the 10% withdrawal fee. HSBC forex card does not charge a foreign transaction fee. When you tap and pay with payWave, Apple Pay or Google Pay, you can receive 2% cash back for transactions under $100.

Best for: Individuals traveling to or within the United States and Australia, and transferring overseas.

Card Validity: The validity of your card is stated on the front of the card. HSBC will notify you when it's time to order a new one.

• HSBC does not charge ATM fees, but local operators may charge additional fees or set limits.
• Foreign currency conversion fees are calculated in different scenarios based on HSBC real-time or VISA exchange rates.
• Excellent USD exchange rate.
• There are no ATM fees, foreign transactions, currency conversion costs or monthly fees.
• Multiple currencies can be managed in a single account online or via the HSBC mobile banking app.

A forex card is a prepaid travel card that you can preload with the foreign currency of your choice before embarking on your trip. A forex card can be used to pay for shopping and lodging expenses or to get cash from an ATM in your travel destination's local currency.

When you use a forex card, you do not have to pay a conversion fee every time you swipe the card. Forex cards provide better exchange rates than cash purchases of foreign currency. Currency fluctuations do not impact forex cards because they are preloaded at fixed exchange rates. It is a secure and simple means of holding and transacting foreign currencies.

The following are factors to consider when selecting a forex card for international travel.

When you purchase a forex card and load it with the currency of your choice, it is not affected by currency fluctuations. When selecting a forex card, find out about its exchange rate and fees, as these might significantly increase your expenses. Read the exchange rate fees listed for each forex card and choose the most affordable ones that meet your requirements.

A multi-currency forex card is a card that can hold several currencies. This feature is essential if you plan to visit several countries during your trip. Choose a forex card that supports the currencies of the countries you visit. This way, you won't need to plan for cash each time you pass a border or worry about exchange rate changes.

The forex card you select should have an online reload feature, allowing you to instantly transfer funds from your bank account. This function may come in handy if you run out of money while traveling and cannot visit a bank or wait for a fund transfer.

EVM Chip-enabled 

The most important factor to consider when getting a forex card is its security features.  Magnetic-stripe cards are vulnerable to card skimming, which allows hackers to clone and abuse them. Ensure that your currency card has an EVM chip for security. The chip's encryptions prevent attackers from using data-reading devices and technology to obtain your card information.

Some forex card issuers provide you with special perks, like discounts, cash back, miles and access to airport services. Find out if a forex card offers additional benefits before choosing one because doing so could help you save money and cut down on travel costs.

Most forex card issuers have mobile apps that allow you to monitor your transactions online and easily reload your card when your funds run out. Forex Cards are one of the most efficient, safe and cost-effective ways to carry money when traveling internationally. Select one of the best forex cards and get easy access to making international transactions at affordable rates.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is a forex card worth it.

Forex cards offer better exchange rates, discounts and additional features that make financing international travel easy.

Do forex cards work?

Yes. After signing up and activating your forex card, you can use it to make purchases and payments.

Is a forex card better than a debit card?

For international travel, a forex card is recommended because they have a better exchange rate and do not charge a conversion fee on every international transaction.

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Learn more about FOREX.com ’s low pricing and how you can get started trading with FOREX.com.

Here Are the Four Best Travel Money Cards in 2024

François Briod

Co-Founder of Monito and money transfer expert, François has been helping Monito’s users navigate the jungle of money transfer fees, bad exchange rates and tricks for the last ten years.

Jarrod Suda

A writer and editor at Monito, Jarrod is passionate about helping people apply today’s powerful finance technologies to their lives. He brings his background in international affairs and his experiences living in Japan to provide readers with comprehensive information that also acknowledges the local context.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

From the multitude of bank fees and ATM charges to hidden currency conversion fees, there's no question that spending your money abroad while travelling can be costly — and that's saying nothing about the cost of the holiday itself!

As you prepare for your trip abroad, the golden rule is that you'll save the most money by using the local currency of your destination. This means withdrawing local cash at foreign ATMs and using a debit card to pay directly in the local currency. For example, if you're from the UK, using your bank's debit card that accesses your British pounds will likely lose you money to hidden fees at ATMs abroad and at local merchants.

In general, we rate Revolut as the best travel card all around. Its versatile account and card can be used to spend like a local pretty much anywhere in the world. ✨ Get 3 months of free Revolut Premium as a Monito reader with our exclusive link .

If you're from the EU, UK, or US, here are a few more specific recommendations to explore:

• Best for travelling from the UK: Chase
• Best for travelling from the US: Chime ®
• Best for travelling from the Eurozone: N26

If it's not possible for you to spend in the local currency when travelling abroad, then spending in your home currency while using a card that doesn't charge any hidden exchange rate markups from your bank (e.g. only the VISA or Mastercard exchange rates to convert currency) is still a good bet for most people.

In this guide, we explore cards that waive or lower ATM fees and that hold multiple currencies. Spend on your holiday like a local and enjoy peace of mind after each tap and swipe!

Best Travel Cards (And More!) at a Glance

Best travel money cards.

• 01. What is the best best multi currency card? scroll down
• 02. Are prepaid currency cards really it? scroll down
• 03. Monito's best travel money card tips scroll down
• 04. FAQ about the best travel cards scroll down

Revolut: Best All-Rounder

Revolut is one of the most well-known fintechs in the world because it offers services across Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Oceania.

• Trust & Credibility 8.9
• Service & Quality 7.9
• Fees & Exchange Rates 8.3
• Customer Satisfaction 9.4

Revolut is available in many countries. You can double-check if it's available in yours below:

Here's an overview of Revolut's plans:

Revolut Ultra is currently only available in the UK and EU.

Like Wise, Revolut converts your currency to the local currency of your travel destination at an excellent exchange rate (called the 'Revolut Rate', which, on weekdays, is basically on par with the rate you see on Google), making it a good way to buy foreign currency before travelling abroad. As always though, bear in mind that Revolut's exchange rates might be subject to change.

Revolut's Standard Plan only allows currency exchange at the base mid-market exchange rate for transfers worth £1,000 per month. ATM withdrawals are also free for the first €200 (although third-party providers may charge a withdrawal fee, and weekend surcharges may also apply). These allowances can be waived by upgrading memberships.

N26: Good Bank For EU Travellers

One of the most well-known neobanks in Europe, N26 and its debit card operate in euros only. However, N26 is a partner with Wise and has fully integrated Wise's technology so that you never have to pay foreign transaction fees on your purchases outside of the eurozone. While N26 does not have multi-currency functionality, N26 will apply the real exchange rate on all your foreign purchases and will never charge a commission fee — making N26's card a powerful card for EU/EEA residents who travel across the globe.

• Trust & Credibility 7.9
• Service & Quality 8.0
• Fees & Exchange Rates 9.3
• Customer Satisfaction 8.1

These are the countries in which you can register for an N26 account:

And here is an overview of the various plans and account:

This low-fee option for banking is also ideal for travellers who do not belong to a European bank but frequent the Eurozone. For example, N26 is available for residents and citizens of Switzerland, Norway, and other European Economic Area countries that do not run on the Euro.

These citizens, who are in close proximity to the Eurozone, will save each time they spend with an N26 card while in Europe. N26 provides three free ATM withdrawals per month in euros but does charge a 1.7% fee per ATM withdrawal outside of Europe.

Take a look at our guide to the best travel cards for Europe to learn more.

Wise: Best For Multi-Currency Balances

Load up to 54 currencies onto this card at the real exchange rate, giving you access to truly global travel.

• Trust & Credibility 9.3
• Service & Quality 8.9
• Fees & Exchange Rates 7.6
• Customer Satisfaction 9.6

These are the countries in which you can order a Wise debit card:

Unlike banks, credit unions, airport kiosks, and foreign ATMs, Wise is transparent about never charging a hidden exchange rate margin when you convert your home currency into up to 54 currencies. The live rate you see on Google or XE.com is the one you get with Wise.

An industry-low commission fee per transaction will range from 0.35% to 2.85%, depending on the currency.

Chase: Great UK Bank For Travel

A recent arrival from the USA, Chase is one of the UK’s newest digital challenger banks and comes with a rock-solid reputation and no monthly charges, no currency conversion charges, no withdrawal fees, and no other charges for everyday banking from Chase. It’s a simple, streamlined bank account with an excellent mobile banking app and a great cashback offer. However, it doesn’t yet offer more advanced features like international money transfers, joint accounts, business banking, overdrafts and loans, and teen or child accounts.

• Trust & Credibility 10
• Fees & Exchange Rates 10
• Customer Satisfaction 8.7

Chime: Great Account For US Travelers

Chime  is a good debit card for international travel thanks to its no foreign transaction fees¹. Unlike multi-currency accounts like Revolut (which let you hold local currency), Chime uses the live exchange rate applied by VISA. This rate is close to the mid-market rate, and Chime does not add any extra markup to your purchases, although out-of-network ATM withdrawal and over-the-counter advance fees may still apply.

• Trust & Credibility 9.5
• Service & Quality 8.8
• Fees & Exchange Rates 9.8

While Chime waives ATM fees at all MoneyPass, AllPoint, and VISA Plus Alliance ATMs within the United States, this fee waiver does not extend to withdrawals made outside the country. For withdrawals abroad, Chime applies a $2.50 fee per transaction, with a daily withdrawal limit of $515 or its equivalent. This is in addition to any fees charged by the ATM owner. Therefore, we recommend Chime primarily for card purchases rather than relying on it for withdrawing cash while traveling internationally.

• No  foreign transaction fees ¹;
• Uses VISA's exchange rate ( monitor here ):
• A $2.50 fee per ATM withdrawal made outside of the United States;
• More info:  Read our  Chime review  or  visit their website .

Best Travel Money Cards in 2024 Compared by Country

In the table below, see our comparison summary of the four best travel cards for 2024 by country:

Last updated: 8 January 2024

What's The Best Prepaid Card to Use Abroad?

Travel cards come in many varieties, such as standard credit cards or debit cards with no foreign transaction fees or cards that waive all foreign ATM withdrawal fees.

What is a Multi-Currency Card?

Multi-currency cards are a specific type of travel card that allows you to own all kinds of foreign currencies, which you can instantly access when you pay with your card abroad. By spending the local currency in the region of travel , you bypass poor foreign exchange rates. ATMs and cashless payment machines will treat your card like a local card.

We have already mentioned a few multi-currency cards in this review, but we will also introduce Travelex . Travelex's Money Card also allows you to top up several foreign currencies — albeit at exchange rates slightly poorer than the real mid-market rate .

Wise Account

Wise has one of the best multi-currency cards available on the market.

Read our full review for more details.

Revolut is impressive for its vast options in currencies and its additional services.

Our in-depth review explores Revolut's services in detail.

Travelex offers a prepaid travel money card that supports 10 currencies and waives all ATM withdrawal fees abroad.

• Trust & Credibility 9.0
• Service & Quality 5.8
• Fees & Exchange Rates 7.1
• Customer Satisfaction 9.3

Travelex charges fees, which fluctuate according to the exchange rates of the day, in order to convert your home currency into the currencies that it supports. But once the currency is on the card, you'll be able to spend like a local. Learn more with our full review .

Don’t Let Banks, Bureaux de Change, and ATMs Eat Your Lunch 🍕!

Are you withdrawing cash at an ATM in the streets of Paris? Exchanging currencies at Gatwick airport? Paying for a pizza with your card during a holiday in Milano? Every time you exchange currencies, you could lose between 2% to 20% of your money in  hidden fees . Keep reading below to make sure you recognize and avoid them.

Currency Exchange Fees Eating My Lunch? What’s That?

You’re often charged a hidden fee in the form of an alarming exchange rate.

At any given time, there is a so-called “ mid-market exchange rate ” — this is the real exchange rate you can see on  Google . However, the money transfer provider or bank you use to exchange currencies rarely offers this exchange rate. Instead, you will get a much worse exchange rate. They pocket this margin between the actual rate and the poor exchange rate they apply, allowing the bank or money transfer provider to profit from the currency exchange. 

In other words, you or your recipient will receive less foreign currency for each unit of currency you exchange. All the while, the provider will claim that they charge zero commission or zero fees.

So the question now is… how can you avoid them? Thankfully, the best travel money cards will allow you to hold the local currency, which you can access instantly with a tap or swipe. Carrying the local currency avoids  exchange rate margins  on every purchase.

Top Travel Money Tips

• Avoid bureaux de change. They charge between 2.15% and 16.6% of the money exchanged.
• Always pay in the local currency and never accept the  dynamic currency conversion .
• Don't use your ordinary debit or credit card unless it's specifically geared toward international use. Doing this will typically cost you between 1.75% and 4.25% per transaction. Instead, use one of the innovative travel money cards below.

By opting for a travel card without FX fees, you can freely swipe your card abroad without worrying about additional charges. However, saving money doesn't stop there. To make the most out of your travel budget, consider using  Skyscanner , one of the most powerful flight search engines available that allows you to compare prices from various airlines and find the best deals.

With Skyscanner's user-friendly interface and comprehensive search options, you can discover cheap flights and enjoy your holidays with peace of mind and more money in your pocket.

Best Travel Money Card Tips

When you convert your home currency into a foreign currency, foreign exchange service providers will charge you two kinds of fees :

• Exchange Rate Margin:  Providers apply an exchange rate that is poorer than the true  "mid-market" exchange rate . They keep the difference, called an  exchange rate margin .
• Commission Fee:  This  fee  is usually a percentage of the amount converted, which is charged for the service provided.

With these facts in mind, let's see what practices are useful to avoid ATM fees, foreign transaction fees, and other charges you may encounter while on your travels.

Tip 1: While Traveling, Avoid Bureaux de Change At All Costs

Have you ever wondered how bureaux de change and currency exchange desks are able to secure prime real estate in tourist locations like the Champs-Élysées in Paris or Covent Carden in London while claiming to take no commission? It’s easy: they make (plenty of) money through hidden fees on the exchange rates they give you. 

Our study shows that Bureaux de Change in Paris charges a margin ranging from 2.15% at CEN Change Dollar Boulevard de Strasbourg to 16.6% (!!) at Travelex Champs-Élysées when exchanging 500 US dollars into euros for example. 

If you really want cash and can’t wait to withdraw it with a card at an ATM at your destination, ordering currencies online before your trip is usually cheaper than exchanging currencies at a bureau de change, but it’s still a very expensive way to get foreign currency which we, therefore, would not recommend.

Tip 2: Always Choose To Pay In the Local Currency

Don’t fall for the dynamic currency conversion trap! When using your card abroad to pay at a terminal or withdraw cash at an ATM, you’ve probably been asked whether you’d prefer to pay in your home currency instead of the local currency of the foreign country. This little trick is called dynamic currency conversion , and the right answer to this sneaky question will help you save big on currency exchange fees.

As a general rule, you always want to pay in the local currency (euros in Europe, sterling in the UK, kroner in Denmark, bahts in Thailand, etc.) when using your card abroad, instead of accepting the currency exchange and paying in your home currency. 

This seems like a trick question - why not opt to pay in your home currency? On the plus side, you would know exactly what amount you would be paying in your home currency instead of accepting the unknown exchange rate determined by your card issuer a few days later.

What is a Dynamic Currency Conversion?

However, when choosing to pay in your home currency instead of the local one, you will carry out what’s called a “dynamic currency conversion”. This is just a complicated way of saying that you’re exchanging between the foreign currency and your home currency at the exact time you use your card to pay or withdraw cash in a foreign currency, and not a few days later. For this privilege, the local payment terminal or ATM will apply an exchange rate that is often significantly worse than even a traditional bank’s exchange rate (we’ve seen margins of up to 8%!), and of course, much worse than the exchange rate you would get by using an innovative multi-currency card (see tip #3). 

In the vast majority of times, knowing with complete certainty what amount you will pay in your home currency is not worth the additional steep cost of the dynamic currency conversion, hence why we recommend always choosing to pay in the local currency.

Tip 3: Don't Use a Traditional Card To Pay in Foreign Currency/Withdraw Cash Abroad

As mentioned before, providers make money on foreign currency conversions by charging poor exchange rates — and pocketing the difference between that and the true mid-market rate. They also make money by charging commission fees, which can either come as flat fees or as a percentage of the transaction.

Have a look at traditional bank cards to see how much you can be charged in fees for spending or withdrawing $500 while on your holiday.

These fees can very quickly add up. For example, take a couple and a child travelling to the US on a two-week mid-range holiday. According to this study , the total cost of their holiday would amount to around $4200. If you withdraw $200 in cash four times and spend the rest with your card, you would pay $123 in hidden currency exchange and ATM withdrawal fees with HSBC or $110 with La Banque Postale. With this money, our travellers could pay for a nice dinner, the entrance fee to Yosemite Park, or many other priceless memories. 

Thankfully, new innovative multi-currency cards will help you save a lot of money while travelling. Opening an N26 Classic account and using the N26 card during the same US holidays would only cost $13.60.

Need Foreign Cash Anyway?

In many countries, carrying a wad of banknotes is not only useful but necessary to pay your way since not every shop, market stall, or street vendor will accept card payments. In these cases you'll have two options to exchange foreign currency cheaply:

1. Withraw at an ATM

As we've explored in great depth in this article, withdrawing money from a foreign ATM will almost always come with fees — at the very least from the ATM itself, and so it's therefore the best strategy to use a travel debit card that doesn't charge in specific ATM withdraw fees on its own to add insult to injury. That said, if you need cash, we recommend making one large withdrawal rather than multiple smaller ones . This way, you'll be able to dodge the fees being incurred multiple times.

2. Buy Banknotes (at a Reasonable Rate!)

As we've also seen, buying foreign currency at the airport, at foreign bank branches, or in bureaux de change in tourist hotspots can be surprisingly expensive. Still, not all exchange offices are equally pricey . If you're looking for a well-priced way to exchange your cash into foreign currency banknotes before you travel, Change Group will let you order foreign currency online and pick them up at the airport, train station, or a Change Group branch just before you leave for your holiday. A few pick-up locations in the UK include:

• London centre (multiple locations),
• Glasgow centre,
• Oxford centre,
• Luton Airport,
• Gatwick Airport,
• St. Pancras Station.

(Note that Change Group also has locations in the USA, Australia, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Austria, and Finland!)

Although its exchange rates aren't quite as good as using a low-fee debit card like Revolut, Change Group's exchange rates between popular currencies tend to be between 2% to 3%, which is still a lot better than you'll get at the bank or at a touristy bureau de change in the middle or Paris or Prague!

FAQ About the Best Travel Money Cards

Having reviewed and compared several of the industry's leading neobanks, experts at Monito have found the Wise Account to offer the best multi-currency card in 2024.

In general, yes! You can get a much better deal with new innovative travel cards than traditional banks' debit/credit cards. However, not all cards are made equal, so make sure to compare the fees to withdraw cash abroad, the exchange rates and monthly fees to make sure you're getting the best deal possible.

• Sign up for a multi-currency account;
• Link your bank to the account and add your home currency;
• Convert amount to the local currency of holiday destination ( Wise and Revolut convert at the actual mid-market rate);
• Tap and swipe like a local when you pay at vendors.

Yes, the Wise Multi-Currency Card is uniquely worthwhile because it actually converts your home currency into foreign currency at the real mid-market exchange rate . Wise charges a transparent and industry-low commission fee for the service instead.

More traditional currency cards like the Travelex Money Card are good alternatives, but they will apply an exchange rate that is weaker than the mid-market rate.

The Wise Multi-Currency Card is the best money card for euros because unlike banks, credit unions, airport kiosks, and foreign ATMs,  Wise  is transparent about never charging a hidden exchange rate margin when you convert your local currency into euros with them.

The live rate you see on Google or XE.com is the one you get with  Wise . An industry-low commission fee will range from 0.35% to 2.85%. USD to EUR transfers generally incur a 1.6% fee.

Learn more about how to buy euros in the United States before your trip.

There are usually three types of travel cards, prepaid travel cards, debit travel cards and credit travel cards. Each have pros and cons, here's a short summary:

• Prepaid travel cards: You usually need to load cards with your home currency via a bank wire or credit/debit card top-up. You're then able to manage the balance from an attached mobile app and can use it to pay in foreign currencies or withdraw cash at an ATM abroad tapping into your home currency prepaid balance. With prepaid travel cards, as the name indicates, you can't spend more than what you've loaded before hand. Some prepaid card providers will provide ways to "auto top-up" when your balance reaches a certain level that you can customize. On Revolut for example, you can decide to top-up £100/£200/£500 from your debit card each time your balance reaches below £50.
• Debit travel cards: Some innovative digital banks, like N26 or Monzo, offer travel debit cards that have the same advantages than a Prepaid Travel Cards, except that they're debit card directly tapping into your current account balance. Like a Prepaid travel card, you can't spend more than the balance you have in your current account with N26 or Monzo, but you can activate an overdraft (between €1,000 or €10,000 for N26 or £1,000 for Monzo) if you need it, for a fee though.

Note that even if they're Prepaid or Debit cards, you can use them for Internet payments like a normal credit card.

• Credit travel cards: You can find credit cards made for international payments offering good exchange rates and low fees to withdraw money abroad, but you'll need to pay interests in your international payment if you don't pay in FULL at the end of every month and interest on your ATM withdrawals each day until you pay them back.

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Our recommendations are built on rock-solid experience.

• We've reviewed 70+ digital finance apps and online banks
• We've made 100's of card transactions
• Our writers have been testing providers since 2013

Other Monito Guides and Reviews on Top Multi Currency Cards

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You’re probably all too familiar with the often outrageous cost of sending money abroad. After facing this frustration themselves back in 2013, co-founders François, Laurent, and Pascal launched a real-time comparison engine to compare the best money transfer services across the globe. Today, Monito’s award-winning comparisons, reviews, and guides are trusted by around 8 million people each year and our recommendations are backed by millions of pricing data points and dozens of expert tests — all allowing you to make the savviest decisions with confidence.

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Multi-currency cards are a low-fee, prepaid alternative to cash and traditional bank cards that are designed to be used abroad

Mutli-currency prepaid travel money cards

Mutli-currency prepaid travel money cards are a unique kind of payment method which are designed to be more cost-effective than a standard UK credit or debit card when used abroad. They are intended to be a modern replacement to Travellers Cheques as they are more secure, more widely accepted and can be used anywhere in the world that accepts VISA or MasterCard.

Like traditional bank cards they are made of high-quality, durable plastic and come complete with chip-and-pin protection as standard which means they are just as secure as a regular bank card. However, unlike traditional bank cards, prepaid cards are not linked to your bank account in any way which means you cannot go overdrawn with them; you simply 'load' British pounds onto your card over the phone or internet (paying using your regular bank card) and top your balance up when it runs out. There are no hidden charges and no surprise bills when you return home from holiday.

Most prepaid travel cards are free to purchase (a minimum initial top-up of around £50 is usually required) and are suitable for everyone from solo travellers and couples to families and large groups. Multiple cards can be linked to the same account which is perfect for families on a budget and any left-over currency at the end of your trip can be converted back into Pounds, usually at the rate you bought it at.

• Once you sign up for a card you'll be asked to create an account on the card issuer's website. This is where you'll login to check your account balance and top your card up whenever you need to. The first time you sign up you'll need to load a small amount of British pounds on to your prepaid card and this balance will show up on your account straight away.
• Your prepaid card will arrive in the post usually within a couple of working days of placing your order. It will contain a PIN number and instructions on how to activate the card which usually involves logging back into your account and following a few instructions. Once activated your card is ready to use. TIP: You can change your PIN by taking your prepaid card to any UK cash machine just like a regular bank card.
• You can use your prepaid card just like you would a regular UK bank card to pay for goods and services or withdraw cash anywhere that accepts VISA or MasterCard. Any time you make a payment on the card, the amount (plus any applicable fees) will be deducted from your card balance. Once your balance reaches zero, you cannot spend any more until you top it up. As the card is not linked to your bank account in any way, you cannot go overdrawn; there is no overdraft or credit facility associated with your prepaid card and no monthly statements.
• You can top-up or reload your prepaid card at any time with your standard UK debit or credit card by logging back into your online account. Most cards also allow you to top-up by phone, SMS and via the Post Office. Once you have reloaded your card your balance will be available almost instantly so if you top-up in your hotel room you can withdraw the cash by the time you leave your room!
• If you need any help or advice, or if your card is lost or stolen you can ring the 24-hour helpline provided by your card issuer.

What really makes prepaid travel cards worthwhile is how much cheaper they are to use when overseas compared with regular bank cards. To understand why, first you have to understand a little bit about how the charges can add up when you use your regular bank card when you're outside of the UK.

Firstly there's the exchange rate. If you use your UK bank card outside of the UK your bank will convert your British Pounds into the local currency using their daily exchange rate at the time you make the payment. High street banks are notorious for having some of the worst exchange rates because they don't have to be competitive. Your bank will also add on transaction or point-of-sale fees which can be a fixed amount or a percentage of the total transaction value. That's a fee you have to pay your bank every time you use your card or withdraw money when you're away!

So how are prepaid multi-currency cards different? Well most card providers we compare offer far better exchange rates than UK banks which means you'll get a better deal right from the start. As for the transaction fees - prepaid cards offer much lower or even no transaction fees (FX fees) so you only pay what you see and nothing else. You'll have to compare our prepaid cards to see which one is best for you - some charge FX fees but withdrawing money from an ATM is free. Some offer no FX fees but charge for cash withdrawals.

Benefits of using a currency card

• Cheaper to use overseas than a typical UK credit or debit card
• Your balance is preloaded in advance so you can't go overdrawn or run up debt
• Top-up any time from your UK bank account or debit card
• Chip-and-pin protection and contactless payments

Limitations of using a currency card

• Taking cash can still be cheaper
• Not all merchants accept prepaid cards, especially petrol stations and smaller businesses
• Some ATMs may still charge you for withdrawing cash
• Can be expensive to use in the UK

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Best prepaid travel money cards 2024

In this article

Which prepaid travel card do you need?

The best multi-currency prepaid cards, the best sterling prepaid cards, what exchange rate do you pay.

• Fees and charges to watch out for

Alternatives to prepaid travel cards

Is it worth getting a prepaid card, prepaid travel cards faqs.

Prepaid travel cards, also known as 'currency cards', allow you to load money in pounds and spend in another currency.

They typically come with no foreign exchange fees on spending or cash withdrawals and usually allow you to lock in competitive exchange rates, saving you money compared with using your everyday debit or credit card.

Here are the different types of prepaid travel cards to consider packing for your next trip:

• Multi-currency prepaid cards allow you to load several currencies onto one card, ideal for visiting multiple destinations. For example, you could have £100, $200 and €300 stored on one card in different 'wallets'. You can lock in rates by converting when you load the cash, or store some money in pounds to convert later.
• Sterling prepaid cards  offer the most flexibility, as you can load your card with pounds and spend in dozens of different currencies. Each time you spend or withdraw cash, the pounds are converted to the required currency at the exchange rate on the day. This may make it harder to forecast how much money you'll have available in any given destination.

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Multi-currency prepaid cards allow you to load a variety of major currencies in one place.

We've analysed the main providers of multi-currency prepaid cards including the type of currency offered, load fees (loading money onto the card), fees for withdrawing cash, and inactivity fees that could catch you out. 

Please note the table is ordered alphabetically, not ranked in order of features.

The Post Office Travel Money Card can load the most currencies, however, charges apply for cash withdrawals at an ATM - so if you're planning on doing this during your holiday, you might be better off with a different card.

Sainsbury's, Travelex and Asda had similar offers with free ATM withdrawals and £500 limits. Nectar cardholders can get better exchange rates at Sainsbury's, so this may be worth considering. 

All the cards allow you to load money that is immediately converted to a foreign currency free of charge. However, more than half of the providers charge a fee of up to 2% for topping up your wallet with pounds to convert at a later date. So if you plan on doing this often you may be better off with one that doesn't charge. 

Sterling prepaid cards offer the most flexible option for travellers and our analysis shows they can be as competitive as single and multi-currency deals.

We looked at the exchange rates offered, as well as the fees you'll pay and maximum balances. 

These cards are convenient as it means you can load as much currency as you want into your account, however, you'll need to download an app to use them.

The Revolut card is free and you will incur no fees on the exchange rate if you convert money Monday to Friday - therefore it's worth loading up and exchanging before the weekend. You'll be charged fees if you withdraw more than £200 a month.

The Wise card uses the interbank exchange rate but charges a smaller 0.45% fee every day of the week. It also has two fee-free cash withdrawals of up to £200 each month. 

Both Wise and Revolut are regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and operate under e-money licenses. This means your money is not protected by the FSCS, however, your money is held in ring-fenced client accounts with a bank which means your money can't be lent out. 

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Prepaid card providers offer different exchange rates.

Some use the 'interbank rate' (the rate banks charge one another) and others may use Mastercard or Visa's exchange rates.

In some cases, a provider may pick one of these rates, then apply a percentage on top, usually between 1% and 2.5%.

When picking a prepaid travel card you should compare the exchange rates offered as well as the card's fees.

Fees and charges to watch out for 

Prepaid cards designed for spending abroad are usually cheaper than spending on your everyday debit or credit card.

However, almost all prepaid cards currently on the market come with a variety of fees and charges. Common charges to watch out for include:

• Application fees - some providers apply a one-off charge to open the account ranging from £5 to £10, though most will offset this if you load a certain amount.
• Monthly fees - the worst prepaid cards will charge an ongoing fee just for holding the card. It can range from £2 to £5 a month, which can be hugely expensive over a year.
• Top-up fees  - if you're using a credit card to top up your prepaid card you could be charged a fee by your prepaid card provider. Plus as it counts as a 'cash transaction' your credit card provider could charge you a fee and interest. So it's usually best to use a debit card to top-up your account.
• UK and foreign ATM withdrawal fees - some prepaid cards charge for using ATMs abroad, usually £1.50 to £2 per withdrawal. Some providers will waive the fee if you withdraw a certain amount. You can minimise the risk of being hit with fees by planning how much you want to spend before you travel and taking out cash in one lump sum.
• Cross border fees - if you use your prepaid card for a transaction that's not in your card's currency, you could be charged a fee of around 2.75%.
• Inactivity fees - if you don't use your card you could also face a penalty. Some providers will charge around £2 a month if you haven't spent on the card within 12 months.
• Replacement fees - prepaid cards, like credit and debit cards, come with an expiry date, which can range between one and five years after opening. You'll normally have to pay a renewal fee of around £5 if you want to continue to use the account.
• Redemption fees  - some providers charge a fee to get any money you haven't used back. This can be up to £10 so it's wise to only load what you plan to spend and nothing more.

Prepaid cards also often come with limits on loading and transactions, which could leave you in a tricky situation if you aren't aware of them. 

Prepaid cards are a safe way to carry cash overseas. But you won't be able to spend from your main current accounts or borrow money in an emergency.

A credit card with low fees on overseas spending can work out as the best option for purchases made abroad, as long as the bill is paid off in full each month. For a credit card with low overseas spending fees, check out the best travel credit cards .

Alternatively, many banks offer debit cards with fee-free overseas spending. We round up your options in our guide to the  best debit cards to use abroad .

That said, applying for a credit card or current account for a debit card requires a credit check, whereas applying for a prepaid card doesn't. So if you have a poor or no credit history it will be easier for you to get a prepaid card.

Currensea has launched what it calls the 'first UK direct debit travel card'. This card is linked to your bank account which means you do not need to top up the card, as long as you have money in your account.

It provides a layer over your existing bank account that will allow you to spend in all 180 currencies without charges. It uses the interbank exchange rate for 16 major currencies and Mastercard rates for all other available currencies.

Currensea doesn't charge any non-sterling transaction fees or dormancy fees. For personal accounts, there is a 0.5% markup on the exchange rate. ATM withdrawals are free under a limit of £500 a month. After this, a 2% fee will be applied.

If you're considering getting a prepaid travel card, here are the pros and cons to weigh up.

Each card provider will have its own terms and conditions, so read them carefully before you sign up.

What are the pros of getting a prepaid card?

• Widely accepted around the world.
• Comes with chargeback protection.
• Can help you budget and avoid overspending.
• Could be cheaper for overseas spending and withdrawals.

What are the disadvantages of getting a prepaid card?

• Not accepted for pre-authorised transactions such as hiring a car.
• No Section 75 protection on purchases over £100.
• Low withdrawal limits and no way to borrow money in an emergency.
• Come with a variety of fees including charges for lack of use.

Still have questions about prepaid travel cards? Take a look at our FAQs to see if we have the answer.

Are prepaid cards secure?

Prepaid cards offer a secure way to carry cash when abroad.

They come with the same security features as credit and debit cards, so you need a Pin to withdraw cash or use them in person. However, many are now contactless so you may not need a Pin for smaller purchases.

It's also worth bearing in mind that prepaid cards offer no protection for losses under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act .

However, redress may be possible under the MasterCard or Visa chargeback scheme.

What if the prepaid card provider goes bust?

The Financial Services Compensation Scheme does not cover deposits onto prepaid cards.

Most prepaid providers will deposit customers' cash in a ring-fenced account held in a bank or building society. So, if the prepaid company goes bust, your money should be protected by the bank holding your cash.

However, if the bank or building society fails, your cash won't be protected. So you should never store lots of money on a prepaid card, just what you need to spend in the near future.

Where can I use a prepaid travel card?

Prepaid cards are usually issued by major card networks like Visa or Mastercard, meaning they can be used in millions of places around the world, as well as online, just like a debit or credit card.

You should be able to use your card at most ATMs abroad, and at most retailers that accept card payments.

However, there are some notable exceptions to this, including car hire firms, hotels and petrol stations that require pre-authorisation.

Should I pay in pounds or in the local currency?

When abroad you will sometimes be asked if you want to pay or withdraw cash in sterling or the local currency. This is called dynamic currency conversion and is usually best avoided.

With a specialist prepaid card you'll get a better rate paying in the foreign currency rather than in sterling. In fact, you might be charged a fee for paying in sterling if you don't have a multi-currency card.

What happens if my prepaid card is lost or stolen?

Like travellers cheques , your money is safe and will be replaced if the prepaid card is lost or stolen.

However, you might be charged for calling the customer helpline and for emergency card replacement by courier.

As long as you contact the provider of your prepaid card and get it blocked, you shouldn't lose out on any money, though you may have to pay up to £10 for a replacement card.

Bear in mind that if your prepaid card is contactless it could be used for a series of small, fraudulent transactions, so always alert your card provider as soon as possible. It's also worth alerting local police or security services if there's been a theft - you may need an incident number to claim losses back on your travel insurance.

Why can't I use it for car hire or a hotel room?

Most prepaid cards don't allow you to make pre-authorised transactions. These are often required when you have to pay for something where the final cost hasn't been decided, or where you use the service before paying.

As such, you may not be able to use your prepaid car to pay for petrol at the pump, hire a car, or pay for a hotel room.

What if I have an emergency or run out of money overseas?

You'll be able to load more money onto your prepaid card after you've activated it, usually through the provider website or app.

Most cards have daily withdrawal limits, so make sure you can withdraw enough cash to cover your spending for the full day.

Keep in mind that prepaid cards don't have a borrowing facility, so you won't be able to rely on it for emergency funds. For this reason, it can be wise to bring a travel credit card overseas with you, in case you need to buy flights home or pay for out-of-pocket medical expenses.

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International Student Identity Card (ISIC)

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Exclusive offers

• Travel to Europe and get 10% VIP discount on shopping of luxury brands across 9 distinctive shopping villages in United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Italy, Spain, Germany and Belgium.
• Save up to 60% on luxury brands from more than 1,300 boutiques, famous restaurants and true 5-star hospitality.
• Offer valid from 15th May, 2023 to 31st December, 2024
• T&C Apply
• This festive season apply for the Axis Bank MULTI-CURRENCY Forex Card and get an exclusive 6% discount on booking attraction tickets via Klook
• Apply with the promo code AXIS6OFF and avail the 6% discount , with a minimum spend of $50 and maximum discount of $6 (equivalent)
• Hurry limited slots available
• Offer valid from 1st November, 2023 to 31st March, 2024.
• Book an international flight via Cathay Pacific Airlines and also apply online for Axis Bank MULTI CURRENCY Forex Card for your overseas travel.
• Enjoy Zero issuance fees with discounts* on select currencies.
• The same can be redeemed post completion of flight booking.
• *50 paise discount on first time loading on Swiss Franc, Sterling Pound, US Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Euro, New Zealand Dollar and Australian Dollar and a 10 Paise discount on Hong Kong Dollars.
• Discounts applicable only when applied digitally.
• Offer valid from 10th November till 31st December, 2023.
• Apply for the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) for free with the Axis Bank Multi-currency Forex Card.
• A globally recognized identity card for students travelling abroad for studies with more than 1,50,00 exclusive discount offers across various merchants valid in more than 125+ countries.
• Students must exclusively apply for the ISIC card through the link https://isic.co.in/campaign/visa
• The Visa Forex offer is not valid on the UK/US website.
• Offer valid till 30th September, 2024.
• Apply for a complimentary international SIM card for your overseas travel
• The SIM card comes with 28 days validity
• International E-Sim/Physical SIM card option, up to 5GB data and up to 50 Minutes talk time
• To know more about the offer, click here
• Offer valid till 24th October, 2024.

Everything you need to know about FOREX CARD

Travelling with Axis bank FOREX CARD

• Get 24x7 emergency assistance by TripAssist, in case you lose your card or money
• Carry up to 16 widely used currencies in one card
• Make payments at the rate you loaded/reloaded your card
• Enjoy lowered rates on Southeast Asian currencies
• Priority and Burgundy customers enjoy issuance fee waiver of ₹ 300
• Enjoy locked-in exchange margin
• Enjoy a flat 30 paise discount on exchange margin, if you are an Axis Bank Account holder on reloading via Internet & Mobile Banking
• Enjoy bookings for dining, tours, sight-seeing with a widely accepted card

Travelling with Debit cards/Credit cards/Cash

• Handling multiple denominations can be difficult during cross-country travels, not to mention the damage that cash might endure for your festive travel this season!
• Lost your wallet? A trip to the police station is probably your only hope.
• Transaction charges could pile up on swiping other credit & debit cards
• Most times, cash runs out when you least expect it
• Fluctuating rates might be costly affair

Customer Reviews

Here's what our customers have to share about their experience

Mukhtar was happy with our process: “The process was really helpful and easy for me. I was able to complete it in just 20 minutes. It will be really beneficial for my future endeavors. Thank you team Axis for your extraordinary support.“

Uday found the process easy to follow: “The guidelines were easy to follow and I received my Forex card within 6 days. Superb job, Axis Team“

Vinay appreciated the quick Turnaround: “The process was clear and simple. It only took me 5-6 minutes to apply and my card was delivered in just 4-5 working days.“

K.S. Suresh admired the branch Operations: “I got the card within 30 mins when i visited the branch , very fast and good job done.“

Uma being a senior citizen appreciated the staff: “Very Happy with the staff who helped us for the Forex Card , It was quite fast , specially since we were not net savy and Senior Citizens.“

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Important Links

Know more about forex cards.

Half information is dangerous, hence click to know more about Forex Cards and get a complete knowledge about it.

What is a Forex Card?

A Forex Card is an easier and more secure option of handling your Foreign Exchange while travelling abroad. Much like a regular bank (Credit/Debit) cards, Forex Cards can be used to pay for your expenses in a local currency abroad and withdraw cash from ATMs. The Forex Card is a preloaded card and can be loaded across with multiple currencies.

What are the types of Axis Bank Forex Cards?

Currently, Axis Bank offers 4 variants of the Forex Card to its customers.

• Multi-Currency Forex Card.
• World Traveller Forex Card.
• Diner's Card.
• Axis Bank Club Vistara Forex Card.

What are the benefits of a Forex Card?

The benefits of a Forex Card include:

• Safe and convenient way to carry currency when overseas.
• Various currencies available on a single card, for frequent travellers and/or multi-country tours.
• Locked in exchange rates as on loading the card, protecting you from rate fluctuations.
• Inclusion of insurance in case of the card being lost or stolen.
• Replacement or delivery of emergency cash/card to the user's overseas location in case of a lost/stolen card.
• Option to retain, encash or transfer currency loaded on a card.
• Special Travel offers and 'Miles' on the loading of currencies and usage.

Which currencies can be loaded onto the Forex Card?

Currently the following currencies are available on Multi-Currency Forex Card:

USD(United States Dollars), EUR(Euro), GBP(Great Britain Pounds), SGD(Singapore Dollars), AUD(Australian Dollars), CAD(Canadian Dollars), JPY(Japanese Yen), CHF(Swiss Franc), SEK(Swedish Krona), THB(Thai Baht), AED(UAE Dirham), SAR(Saudi Riyal), HKD(Hong Kong Dollars), NZD(New Zealand Dollars), DKK (Danish Kroner) and ZAR(South Africa Rand).

At your request, you are being redirected to a third party site. Please read and agree with the disclaimer before proceeding further.

This is to inform you that by clicking on the "Accept" button, you will be accessing a website operated by a third party namely . Such links are provided only for the convenience of the client and Axis Bank does not control or endorse such websites, and is not responsible for their contents. The use of such websites would be subject to the terms and conditions of usage as stipulated in such websites and would take precedence over the terms and conditions of usage of www.axisbank.com in case of conflict between them. Any actions taken or obligations created voluntarily by the person(s) accessing such web sites shall be directly between such person and the owner of such websites and Axis Bank shall not be responsible directly or indirectly for such action so taken. Thank you for visiting www.axisbank.com

This is to inform you that by clicking on the hyper-link/ok, you will be accessing a website operated by a third party namely Such links are provided only for the convenience of the Client and Axis Bank does not control or endorse such websites, and is not responsible for their contents. The use of such websites would be subject to the terms and conditions of usage as stipulated in such websites and would take precedence over the terms and conditions of usage of www.axisbank.com in case of conflict between them. Any actions taken or obligations created voluntarily by the person(s) accessing such web sites shall be directly between such person and the owner of such websites and Axis Bank shall not be responsible directly or indirectly for such action so taken. Thank you for visiting www.axisbank.com

Cover arranged by Axis Bank for its customers under Digit Illness Group Insurance Policy (UIN GODHLGP20142V011920). Participation to group insurance is voluntary.

Please select one of the below options to proceed

State Bank Multi-currency Foreign Travel Card

Chip & PIN Protected Prepaid Card. All your travel currency on one card.

You can easily reload your State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card ++ with more funds ahead of your next trip, until the Card expiry date. Simply take your State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card, valid passport and Form A2 (available at branches) and top up at FTC issuing branches of State Bank of India – subject to FEMA guidelines and other regulations. Click here for a detailed list of branches.

Reloadable until expiry date on the Card - within the limits of the Card ++

++ Until Card expiry and subject to reload limits (see Fees and Limits table). Limits are subject to FEMA regulations, imposed by The Reserve Bank of India from time to time.

• Multiple currencies on one Card
• Withdraw local currency at over 2 million ATMs worldwide, accepting Mastercard cards, or use your Card to pay directly for goods and services at 34.5 million merchants, wherever you see the Mastercard Acceptance Mark (other than in India, Nepal and Bhutan, or for payment of goods in Indian Rupees or the currencies of Nepal and Bhutan)
• Locking in the value of your Card balance, whenever you (re)load your State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card, could help you to avoid exchange rate fluctuations and variances while you're abroad, and clear charges give you the control to manage your budget
• No bank account information is required to obtain and start using your State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card
• Manage your Card online, with secure visibility of balances and transaction details, and services like an ATM locator

Your State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card is not linked to your bank account and comes with 24/7 Global Assistance. If your State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card is lost or stolen, please contact our Card Services team immediately, so that they can cancel it. If you have an additional Card, you can use it to access your funds. If both your Cards are lost or stolen, our Card Services team can offer assistance, including emergency cash replacement up to the available balance on your Cards (subject to availability in the relevant location).

• Chip and PIN protected
• Additional Card available for backup
• 24/7 Global Assistance, including free Card replacement if your Card is lost or stolen
• Peace of mind, as the Card is not linked to your bank account

Here's how it works...

State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card ("Foreign Travel Card") is the smart way to carry your travel money. Simply load one or more of the following currencies- US Dollars, British Pounds, Euros, Singapore Dollars, Australian Dollars, Canadian Dollars and UAE Dirham to your State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card and when you're travelling, use your Card to withdraw money from over 2 million ATMs worldwide accepting Mastercard® cards, or to pay for goods and services in shops, restaurants and hotels around the globe, displaying the Mastercard Acceptance Mark (other than in India, Nepal and Bhutan, or for payment of goods in Indian Rupees or the currencies of Nepal and Bhutan).

If you have insufficient funds in a transaction currency to pay for a transaction, the balance of the transaction will automatically be deducted from other available currency (ies) on your Card, in the following order of priority: USD, EUR, GBP, SGD, AUD, CAD and AED, subject to the applicable exchange rate and cross currency fee (see Fees and Limits Table).

With the State Bank Multi-currency Foreign Travel Card, you can lock in the exchange rates on your currencies each time you reload+. Simply visit FTC issuing branches of State Bank of India.

Looking for your nearest branch? Click here for a detailed list of branches.

+ Please note that any loads or reloads are made at the relevant exchange rate, applicable for Foreign Travel Card, on the day that the load is processed (this varies from day to day).

SIMPLY PREPAY AND GO!

State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card is a prepaid currency card that can be pre-loaded with your spending money in up to seven Currencies and then used at ATMs and merchants abroad1, displaying the Mastercard® Acceptance Mark.

If you have insufficient funds in transaction currency to pay for a transaction, the balance of the transaction will automatically be deducted from any other available currencies on your Card, in the following order of priority: USD, GBP, EUR, SGD, AUD, CAD and AED, subject to the applicable exchange rate and Cross Currency fee (see Fees and Limits section of this website or the Fees and Limits Table in the Terms and Conditions).

1 Due to FEMA regulations, the State Bank Foreign Travel Card cannot be used at ATMs or merchants in India, Nepal and Bhutan, or for internet purchases where the website is registered in India, Nepal or Bhutan, or at websites accepting payment in Indian Rupees or the currencies of Nepal and Bhutan. In addition, there may be some other countries where usage of the Card is prohibited. Please click here to verify the list of prohibited countries.

Want to put more money onto your card.

Your State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card can be reloaded, so you need never run short of money during your travels.

1. Return to any participating branch of State Bank of India, with your State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card, valid passport and PAN Card. Fill in the prescribed application form and Form A2 (available at branches)

2. If you think you may need to have your State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card reloaded whilst travelling overseas, you can leave a completed Form A2, a copy of your PAN Card and passport, plus a letter authorising a family member or friend in India to carry out the reload on your behalf. We may load the Card on receipt of the above documents from a family member or friend, along with a letter, signed by you. However, State Bank of India reserves every right in such cases, to verify that any person purporting to act on your behalf is so authorised and to identify and verify the identity of that person in accordance with the know-your-customer norms prescribed by The Reserve Bank of India.

• A reload fee applies to all reloads and may vary from time to time
• Reloads are made at the relevant exchange rates on the day that the reload is processed. The exchange rates for the available currencies will vary from day to day and may vary per reload location

DYNAMIC CURRENCY CONVERSION (DCC)

Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) is an optional service that is sometimes offered by retailers and ATM operators abroad, giving cardholders the choice of paying in either the currency of the country they are visiting or their own domestic currency. You should not use your Foreign Travel Card to make a purchase or ATM withdrawal in Indian Rupees (as you are prohibited from doing so by law) and you should choose to pay in the local currency. Please note that there will be an additional cost if the point of sale transaction or ATM withdrawal is in a currency other than the currencies on the card, or if more than one currency on your card is used to pay for the transaction. Please refer to the Fees and Limits Table for further information in the fees and limits section of this website or in the Terms and Conditions. Other benefits include:

• Multiple currencies on one card
• Card security (benefit of not being linked to a bank account)
• Access to worldwide ATM withdrawals
• 24/7 Global Assistance
• Additional Card to access the same funds
• Competitive exchange rates

RESTRICTIONS

Please note, due to FEMA regulations, the State Bank Foreign Travel Card cannot be used at ATMs or merchants in India, Nepal and Bhutan, or for internet purchases where the website is registered in India, Nepal or Bhutan, or at websites accepting payment in Indian Rupees or the currencies of Nepal and Bhutan.

There are a number of countries where the use of State Bank Foreign Travel Card is currently prohibited. If you attempt to withdraw cash from a cash machine, or use your Card at shops, restaurants, hotels and online in any of these countries, your request will be declined and the reason given as 'Decline, prohibited country'.

The countries currently affected are: Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan and Syria

Card Security

WE'RE DEDICATED TO PROTECTING YOU Unfortunately, terms like 'ID theft' and 'fraud' are all too familiar nowadays. We are very aware of the threat and concerns you have regarding such issues, which is why fraud prevention is of paramount importance to us.

We know our customers. Every day we monitor transactions on our Cards, to detect unusual behaviour and if we spot something uncharacteristic, we'll contact you to verify your transactions. The State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card is chip and PIN protected, with both cash withdrawals and purchases protected by PIN.

• Sign your Cards immediately when you receive them
• Check your transactions regularly and report anything unusual immediately to the 24/7 Card Services team
• If you print statements from the internet, keep them safe and shred them when you’ve finished using them
• Never give your personal details to someone who phones you claiming to be from a reputable company or even from MasterCard /SBI
• Don’t give out your details in response to unsolicited email
• Be wary of anyone who asks for common security details, like your mother’s maiden name, date of birth, or information about your work
• Never give your PIN to anyone, not even if they claim to be from State Bank of India
• Don’t let yourself get distracted when using ATMs – somebody may be trying to get to know your PIN

Never write down a PIN or keep it together with the Card. Be very alert when using ATMs, and ensure that:

• The machine has not been tampered with
• Nobody can watch you entering your PIN
• Card and cash are concealed and safe before you leave the machine
• You retain any printed records for safe disposal at a later time
• If your Card is retained, contact Card Services immediately for assistance

Always keep your Card in sight when making a purchase or it may get skimmed.

“Skimming” occurs when the genuine data on a card’s magnetic strip is electronically copied onto another card, allowing fraudsters to steal the funds on your card. This can happen at petrol stations, restaurants, bars and at ATMs. Skimmed card information is often sold on to organised crime groups.

Make sure that you're using a secure browser. A secure browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Mozilla Firefox will indicate whether the website you are visiting is secure or not.

Broken key or padlock = unsecured Unbroken key or padlock = secured

These browsers scramble your personal data before sending it, so no one else can read it. Ensuring that your computer has up-to-date virus protection and a firewall will help protect you from attacks.

Key points when buying goods/services on the Internet:

• Know who you are dealing with. Use a reputable company and type its internet address into the browser yourself
• If the website gives you the option of using a secure checkout, opt for yes
• Just as you save till receipts, in case you need to return or exchange something, you need to keep a record of all transactions too. Print and save a copy of your completed order form and your order confirmation

“Phishing” is an attempt by fraudsters to “fish” for your card or account details. Phishing attempts usually appear as an email apparently from your bank or card issuer. Within the email, you are then encouraged to click on a link to a fraudulent log-in page, designed to capture your details.

We may contact you by email, but we will NEVER ask you to click on a link that directs you to enter or confirm your security details. If you are in any doubt about the authenticity of an email appearing to be from us, telephone Card Services immediately.

“Pharming” employs the same type of tricks as Phishing to lure you to a site address, but uses hidden software to redirect you from real websites to the fraudulent ones.

This is particularly clever, as it hijacks trusted brands of well-known banks, online retailers and card issuing companies and convinces you to respond under cover of trust to enter your personal details.

Just remember, if you are asked to type your PIN into a website along with your Card details, it is probably a fraudulent website, and you should close the browser and contact Card Services immediately.

If you lose your State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card or it is stolen, reporting this to Card Services immediately will help protect the funds on the Card. Our dedicated team is on hand 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to help you get back to enjoying your travels.

Please click here for information on how to report your Card as lost or stolen.

Before you go

TRAVEL TIPS Some ATMs (cash machines) may charge a withdrawal fee, in addition to any fee associated with your State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card. Some cardholders advise that they saved the free phone number for the country(-ies) they were travelling to in their mobile to check their Card balances, which is a quick and easy to use service (please note: calls from mobile phones are not free of charge). Cardholder feedback also suggests that some hotels may charge for calls made to free phone numbers, it is wise to check with your hotel beforehand.

PRE-AUTHORISATION It is not recommended that you use your State Bank Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card as a guarantee of payment (usually for hotels, car hire and cruise lines). These companies may estimate the bill, and if you use your Card as a guarantee for the estimated amount, the funds will be temporarily unavailable to access or spend. You can, of course, use your State Bank Foreign Travel Card to settle your final bill.

When purchasing fuel, make sure you pay the cashier instead of using the ‘pay at pump’ option, to avoid a set amount (greater than your purchase amount) being ‘held’ until the final transaction settles (this principle applies to all payment cards; it is just more noticeable when using a prepaid card).

State Bank Multi-currency Foreign Travel Card is issued by State Bank of India, pursuant to license by Mastercard Asia/Pacific Pte. Ltd. Mastercard is a registered trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated.

Best no annual fee travel credit cards of April 2024

Fortune Recommends™ has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Fortune Recommends™ and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.  

Terms apply to American Express benefits and offers. Enrollment may be required for select American Express benefits and offers. Visit americanexpress.com to learn more.  

Travel rewards cards are a lot like gyms. The best ones may come with tons of added benefits (saunas, yoga class, etc.) but they also cost a lot, usually with a big financial commitment upfront. 

As a result, whether you’re considering a Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card (with its $95 annual fee) or a CrossFit membership, you probably have the same question on your mind: will I really use it enough to justify paying for it? 

While there aren’t any free gyms we know of, there thankfully are plenty of no-annual-fee travel rewards cards that require essentially zero commitment. And just like an ab roller or a Richard Simmons DVD, you can simply use them a few times, forget about them, and put them in a drawer until beach season. Or, you can stick with it and make them part of your daily routine—whatever works for you.

You’re also far more likely to see “instant results” with these cards, too. From 100,000-point welcome bonuses to rewards for paying rent, free travel insurance to 3X on gas, these cards offer way more than you’d expect for a fee of $0 per year. 

The best no-annual-fee travel cards for April 2024

Best overall: bilt mastercard, best for hotel rewards: ihg one rewards traveler credit card, best for airline rewards: united gateway℠ card, best for travel earnings: wells fargo autograph℠ card, best for flat-rate earnings: capital one ventureone rewards credit card.

The Bilt Mastercard allows you to earn points from paying rent and transfer them 1:1 to well over a dozen different travel partners including United MileagePlus and Marriott Bonvoy. Toss in some surprisingly robust travel insurance and you have our unconventional—yet logical—choice for the best overall no-annual-fee travel card of 2024.

Bilt Mastercard®

See Rates and Fees

Special feature

Rewards rates.

• 1x Earn 1X points on rent up to 100K/year
• 1x Earn 3X points on dining
• 2x Earn 2X points on travel
• 1x Earn 1X points on other purchases
• Use the card 5 times each statement period to earn points
• Uniquely earns points on rent
• Rent Day bonus every first of the month offers double points (excluding rent)
• Robust travel transfer partners
• Cash redemption rate is poor
• No traditional welcome bonus
• Travel perks: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection, Trip Delay Reimbursement, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
• See this page for details
• Foreign Transaction Fee: None

Why we like this card: As mentioned, the Bilt Mastercard’s most compelling feature is that it allows you to pay rent with a credit card—even if your landlord doesn’t take plastic—and avoid the transaction fee paying rent by credit card would typically incur. Then, as long as you complete five transactions each month, you’ll trigger 1X rewards on your rent payments. 

Note that rewards on rent are capped at 100,000 points per year.

In terms of earning potential, if you pay the median ~$2,000 rent in the U.S., you could earn approximately 24,000 points per year which can be used to book travel in Bilt’s portal at a value of 1.25 cents per point or transferred to any of Bilt’s airline or hotel partners at a 1:1 ratio. In other words, you could likely earn a domestic flight with United or a weekend stay at Hyatt, all for simply paying rent on time.

The Bilt card also provides trip cancellation and interruption protection, trip delay reimbursement, and primary rental car insurance (terms apply)—perks you wouldn’t typically find on a no-annual-fee credit card.

If you’re looking for a hotel rewards card that offers the most free nights for no annual fee, wait until you read about the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card. With a six-figure welcome bonus, up to 17X on stays and other compelling rewards, it’s currently the gold standard for no-fee hotel rewards.

IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card

Intro bonus.

• 17x Earn up to 17X points when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts 
• 3x Earn 3X points on dining, utilities, internet, cable, and phone services, select streaming services, and at gas stations
• 2x Earn 2X points on all other purchases
• Generous welcome bonus not typically seen in a $0 annual fee card
• Travel protections that are unusual for a no-annual-fee card
• Fourth night free on award bookings
• Limited redemption options outside of IHG
• IHG points are worth less than some other rewards currencies
• Silver status granted with the card has limited benefit
• Additional perks: Trip cancelation/interruption insurance, auto rental collision damage waiver, purchase protection, ability to spend to Gold status
• Foreign transaction fee:None

Why we like this card: We like calling the IHG One Rewards Traveler card the “Liam Hemsworth” of travel rewards cards because it lives in the shadow of its big brother—the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card —but still delivers plenty of quality and substance in its own right (with no annual fee, to boot). 

For starters, you can get a welcome bonus of 80,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening, potentially worth around $500 to $700 in IHG redemption. 

Plus, enjoy up to 17X points when you stay at IHG Hotels & Resorts, instant Silver Elite status and a handy bonus where you redeem points for three consecutive nights and get the fourth night in your stay free. So, if you book a three-night stay using your welcome bonus, you’ll essentially be getting a complimentary four-night stay at a nice IHG property for no annual fee. The IHG One Rewards program could be very rewarding for the right traveler.

Check out our full review of the IHG One Rewards Traveler .

As a no-annual-fee airline card, the United Gateway℠ Card currently edges out its rival the Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card by offering a more generous welcome bonus and travel insurance that the Delta card does not provide. If you fly occasionally and would like to earn miles, but aren’t willing to make the commitment of $95 or more for a mid-tier airline card with more perks, the Gateway is a strong choice. 

United Gateway℠ Card

• 2x 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, including tickets, Economy Plus, in-flight food, beverages and Wi-Fi, baggage service charges and other United purchases.
• 2x 2 miles per $1 spent on local transit and commuting, including rideshare services, taxicabs, train tickets, tolls, and mass transit.
• 1x 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
• No annual fee or foreign transaction fee
• Reward bonus categories outside of United Airlines
• Robust travel protections for a no-annual-fee card
• No baggage or expanded award availability benefits like with other United cards
• Subject to Chase 5/24 rule.
• United perks: 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Gateway Card
• Other perks: Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Trip Cancellation/Interruption insurance, Purchase Protection, Extended Warranty
• Foreign transaction fee: None

Why we like this card: The United Gateway card offers 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting plus 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. Considering a United Mile is worth roughly around 1.2 cents these days, effectively earning 2.4 cents back on everyday purchases is a solid value proposition. 

You’ll also get a welcome bonus of 20,000 bonus miles after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open. And, you can save with a discount of 25% back on United in-flight and Club Premium drink purchases. 

New cardholders will enjoy a 0% Intro APR on Purchases for 12 months, after 21.99%–28.99% variable applies.

If the United Gateway card has a small lead on the Delta Skymiles Blue Amex at this point, it soars ahead (pun intended) when you look at the included travel and shopping protections. Both cards offer secondary rental car insurance, but only the Gateway includes trip cancellation and interruption insurance, purchase protection and extended warranty protection. 

So, if you’re seeking a no-annual-fee card you can use to rack up miles—and you either tend to fly United most of the time or you’re at minimum not devoted to a competing airline—the United Gateway is the card to beat.

Check out our full review of the United Gateway Card for more info.

To view rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles® Blue American Express Card, see this page  

With a generous welcome bonus in exchange for an attainable spend amount, 3X on travel, and a fancy name, you’d think the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card would command an annual fee of at least $95. But it doesn’t, making it a superb candidate for general travel use.

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Intro bonus.

• 3X 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans
• 1X 1X points on other purchases
• No annual fee
• 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months (that's a $200 cash redemption value)
• Points transfer to partners
• Car rental insurance is secondary
• No travel insurance
• Transfer partners are limited
• Additional perks: Cell Phone Protection: Provides up to $600 in cell phone protection when you pay your monthly cell bill with your Wells Fargo Autograph card. Coverage is subject to a $25 deductible and limited to two claims every 12-month period.
• Foreign transaction fee: N/A

Why we like this card: The Wells Fargo Autograph offers unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans and even your landline bill too if you have one, plus 1X points on other purchases—all without charging an annual fee. And, to make traveling a little cheaper/less stressful, you’ll also get $600 worth of cell phone protection (minus a $25 deductible) as long as you pay your phone bill with this card and secondary rental car insurance. 

Cardholders can transfer points at a 1:1 ratio to Wells Fargo’s first wave of transfer partners including Air France‑KLM Flying Blue, Avianca Lifemiles, British Airways Executive Club, AerClub, and Iberia Plus and 1:2 to Choice Privileges. 

But even if you aren’t a member of those loyalty programs, earning 3X on dining, travel, gas, and more is hard to pass up. You can redeem points at a value of 1 cent each to offset past purchases on your account, meaning you can wield the Autograph either as a no-annual-fee travel card or as a cash-back card effectively earning unlimited 3% back in a wide swath of useful categories. 

Check out our full review of the Wells Fargo Autograph .

Sometimes, you just want a card that offers a little more than 1X on every purchase—without having to worry about what this quarter’s rotating rewards are, or whether a specific merchant qualifies as “groceries” for the purposes of your card’s rewards. If you value simplicity and the lack of an annual fee in your travel card, you’ll probably be a fan of the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card and its straightforward rewards program.

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

Reward Rates

• 5x Earn 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 1.25x Earn 1.25x miles on every other purchase
• Flexible travel rewards
• No foreign transaction fee
• Maximizing Capital One Miles requires a learning curve
• Cash redemption value is limited
• The VentureOne offers travel accident insurance, rental car coverage, extended warranty protection, exclusive access to events through Capital One Dining and Capital One Entertainment

Why we like this card: The Capital One VentureOne Rewards offers 1.25X miles per dollar spent on everyday purchases and 5x miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. That’s pretty much all that you have to remember. You can also get a nice welcome bonus of 20,000 miles after spending $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, which is a solid payout for a very attainable spending target. 

Capital One Miles can be transferred to well over a dozen airline and hotel partners, most at a 1:1 rate. Partners include Air Canada’s Aeroplan, British Airways Executive Club, Choice Privileges, Virgin Red, and Wyndham Rewards, among others. Other ways to book travel include redeeming miles through Capital One’s portal or making the purchase directly, paying with your card like normal, then using miles for a statement credit to cover the transaction. 

The Venture One also offers a 0% intro APR on purchases for 15 months (after that, the variable APR will be 19.99%–29.99%). There’s an intro balance transfer fee of 3% of the amount of each transferred balance that posts to your account during the first 15 months that your account is open , then 4% per transfer for any promotional APR offered after. 

Come to think of it, provided you have the excellent credit needed to apply, the VentureOne could make a great travel companion for a grad student given its simplicity, lengthy intro APR period and low spending threshold required to trigger the welcome bonus.

Check out our full review of the Capital One VentureOne Rewards .

Frequently asked questions

Which card is best for international transactions without extra charges.

Zero foreign transaction fees is actually a common benefit among travel rewards cards, including many with no annual fee. For example, neither the Bilt Mastercard nor the United Gateway card charges a foreign currency conversion fee. 

What is the best travel credit card for a young person? 

If you’re still paying rent, the Bilt Mastercard is an excellent choice since it can generate points from rent payments which can then be transferred 1:1 to well over a dozen airline and hotel partners. If you’d prefer a card with a welcome bonus, which the Bilt card lacks, the IHG One Rewards Traveler card currently offers a massive welcome bonus for a no-annual-fee card—potentially worth hundreds of dollars toward a future IHG hotel stay. 

Is a travel card with an annual fee worth it?

Using a travel rewards card with an annual fee can be worth it as long as you’re extracting enough points and benefits to justify paying the fee each year. If you travel infrequently or just want one less fee to worry about, consider one of the no-annual-fee cards on our list above. But, the best perks and protections are typically available on cards with annual fees.

For example, the Capital One Venture X card offers a $300 annual travel credit for bookings made through Capital One Travel. If you use that every year, you’ve gone a long way toward offsetting the $395 annual fee. You also get 10,000 bonus miles, worth at least $100 toward travel, every year starting on your account anniversary.

Methodology

To bring you our top picks for the best travel rewards cards with no annual fee, the Fortune Recommends surveyed more than a dozen cards currently available from today’s top issuers. From there, we ranked each one based on the following core categories and weights:

• Welcome bonus (10%): Some cards—even those with no annual fee—offer welcome bonuses that you can earn once you make enough purchases within a certain time frame, such as spending $1,000 within three months of account opening.
• Travel earnings (25%): These are the point rewards you’d earn by making travel-related purchases (e.g. 3X on hotels, 2X on airfare).
• Car rental insurance (15%): Many, but not all travel-centric rewards cards include an auto rental collision damage waiver, which allows you to decline a portion of the rental company’s insurance and save potentially up to $30 per day. We gave extra consideration to if a card offers primary rental car insurance versus secondary, because primary kicks in immediately in a covered scenario—whereas secondary only applies after your own, personal insurance. 
• Travel insurance benefits (15%): Some travel rewards cards automatically apply trip cancellation/interruption insurance, lost/delayed luggage reimbursement and even travel accident insurance on travel bookings made using the card.
• Gas earning (5%): Since road trips remain a common form of travel, whether or not a card offers points rewards at the pump factored into our rankings.
• Dining earning (10%): If a no-annual-fee travel rewards card offered 2X or more on restaurant purchases it favored well in this category.

The remaining 20% was based on the card’s main focus: hotel, airline or general travel rewards. 

• For general travel—points transferrable to partners (20%): Points are literally worth more if you can transfer them to certain partners, so a card’s ability to transfer rewards to airline and hotel partners factored into our rankings.
• For hotel rewards—free award night with booking (20%): Some hotel rewards cards offer a BOGO-like perk where if you redeem a certain number of nights with points you get an extra tacked on for free.
• For airline rewards—ability to spend towards status (20%): Most airline rewards cards allow you to earn miles, but not all of them count those miles towards your next loyalty status. If a card treated them as “qualifying miles,” it fared better in this category.

Lastly, just keep in mind that virtually every aspect of a travel rewards card—from the rewards to the welcome bonus and fee structure—is subject to change, which could impact how many miles or points you earn. 

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions, and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefits guide for more details. Underwritten by Amex Assurance Company.  

Please note that card details are accurate as of the publish date, but are subject to change at any time at the discretion of the issuer. Please contact the card issuer to verify rates, fees, and benefits before applying.  

EDITORIAL DISCLOSURE : The advice, opinions, or rankings contained in this article are solely those of the Fortune Recommends ™ editorial team. This content has not been reviewed or endorsed by any of our affiliate partners or other third parties.

Guide to travel rewards credit cards

Best travel credit cards of april 2024, luxury travel for less: your guide to free airport lounge passes, 10 credit card tips to help you avoid disaster when traveling abroad, how credit card travel insurance works—and what it doesn’t cover, insure your adventures: the ultimate guide to credit cards offering travel insurance, how credit card rental car insurance saves money on every rental, chase lga lounge review: luxury at laguardia, chase beefs up new york profile with a new jfk sapphire lounge—here's what you need to know, biggest-ever amex centurion lounge opens in atlanta — with outdoor terraces and bars for both whiskey and smoothies, amex centurion lounge atlanta: what to expect now that it’s open, how to use your credit card to save on travel as airline costs soar, do you have travel rewards saved up these are the best ways to use them, 5 ways your credit card can help you save on spring break travel costs, capital one lounge: what you need to know, how i travel with my wife for less than a date night, best credit cards for cheap airport lounge access in april 2024.

Kinda Frugal

Smart Travel: 10 Advantages of Having Local Currency While Abroad

Posted: December 14, 2023 | Last updated: April 7, 2024

When traveling anywhere, you need to be prepared. Sometimes, we make a checklist of everything we need to ensure we don’t miss anything. Phone and laptop chargers, important documents, credit cards, towels, blankets, or anything at all that’s essential for our trip. Something else that’s important, especially when traveling internationally, is local currency. Some people overlook this, favoring credit cards over physical cash. But there are reasons why doing this isn’t very advisable.

In an online platform, a user asks about the relevance of bringing local cash when traveling, and here are some of the responses they got.

1. You Never Know

One user said they like to have a small amount of local cash with them because you never know when you might need it. According to them, you could encounter a cash-only place you want to buy from, or your credit card company will see an international transaction and lock the card. “Last time I traveled internationally, I brought some euros in cash with me,” they said. “I didn’t use a single of those euros, but I still don’t at all regret bringing them.”

2. Helps With Budget

A participant in the discussion said they carry local currency because it helps them budget for the trip. If it’s just a card swipe every time, they will spend more than they planned at an unknown exchange rate. “But if I know I used $500 and I have half left, and I’m only a quarter through my trip, I’m going to change my habits to stick to my budget.”

3. Banks Freaking Out

One user said they don’t take local cash when traveling internationally, which sometimes affects them. They usually get into the country late at night, and the banks are closed, so now they have to find some sketchy all-night ATM just to pay the driver. Also, your bank could freak out and restrict your account, thinking it’s a fraudulent transaction. They might still freak out and block the transaction even when you inform them that you’re traveling and tell them your destination. So, it’s best to have some extra local cash on hand, just in case.

4. Better Exchange Rates

According to one user, one reason to exchange cash before leaving is that there are often better exchange rates at home than abroad. Also, many credit cards have foreign transaction fees, so bringing cash rather than just cards is always a good deal.

5. ATM Problems

“Clearly, you’ve never had ATM problems in a foreign country,” one user said, responding to the poster. “Nor have you been in a country that has widespread ATM/banking issues. You also have no idea how easy it is for an American bank to get any foreign currency with little notice.”

6. Incidentals

It’s worth having a little bit of money for incidentals, a user said. Things like wanting to buy a coffee or snack upon arrival, tips for luggage assistance, and transportation when first arriving. You can do all these things with a bit of money before finding an ATM or exchange and getting a local phone SIM. Another user agreed, saying, “That’s about the same for me. $100- $150 will get me through at least day 1, a quick bite, and a train ticket out of the airport.”

7. Depends on the Country

For this user, it depends on the country you’re going to. Japan, for example, is a very cash-heavy country. Many places don’t do credit cards, and ATMs charge exorbitant foreign exchange fees. “When I went to spend some months there,” the user said, “I brought some Yen with me. It was cheaper and easier overall.”

This user said he always gets local currency before he travels because he can do it at his leisure in a place where he is comfortable. This ensures that when he lands, he can just worry about getting his luggage, finding ground transportation, and getting to his hotel. There is no need to try finding an ATM. “What happens if I go to the ATM and for some reason have trouble making a withdrawal? Or if I didn’t see an ATM and my credit card wasn’t being accepted?” he said.

A user said the unfortunate scenario happened to her husband once when they were in Mexico. ATM denied a transaction, so he had to find a local bank and stand in a long line for at least 20 minutes to get some money. Given it was almost the end of bank hours, he had to go to the closest bank, where the exchange rate and fees sucked.

10. No Atms

“Certain places we go, like parts of Mexico, have no ATMs,” said one user. “Some of the ATMs they have are not trustworthy (allegedly). When we went to Cozumel, almost no one took cards. We had to cut one of our excursions short because we ran out of local currency. So the idea of being screwed without local currency is strong.”

Source: Reddit .

Generational Shift: 18 Classic Cars Loved by Boomers, Snubbed by Millennials

In the world of automobiles, some cars are timeless, forever etched in the minds and hearts of those who drove them. But generational shifts in taste and values can lead to once-beloved vehicles being relegated to the shadows. Let’s revisit 18 classic cars adored by Baby Boomers but often overlooked by Millennials.

From Boom to Bust: 18 States on the Brink of Financial Ruin—What Went Wrong?

We’re embarking on a financial roller coaster ride through 18 states, and it isn’t the fun kind. We’re talking about states having to check under the mattress and behind the couch cushions for extra change. These states are trying to balance their budgets, but the numbers aren’t increasing. Why are they skimming through their wallets like they lost a 20-dollar bill? Let’s find out!

Avoid These 19 Pointless Expenses When Living Paycheck to Paycheck

Living from paycheck to paycheck puts one in a dangerous financial bind. It’s more prevalent than you can imagine. According to a survey by CNBC, more than half of all Americans (58%) live paycheck to paycheck. When money is tight, it’s crucial to pinpoint and cut out wasteful expenditures that eat away at your hard-earned savings.

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