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Here Are the Four Best Travel Money Cards in 2024

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.

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.

Why You Can Trust Monito

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

Why Trust Monito?

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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Our recommendations are always unbiased and independent.

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In this guide

Your reviews

Ask a question, aaa visa travelmoney card review.

This travel expert can get you access to local currency from Visa ATMs around the world.

Rely on AAA for roadside assistance and travel plans — plus, foreign currency exchange. Its Visa TravelMoney card simplifies currency conversions and foreign exchange rates. And the good news is you can get it without membership.

The chip and PIN-protected AAA Visa TravelMoney card comes with the security of traveler’s checks and the simplicity of a Visa-branded credit card. Accepted all over the world, the Visa TravelMoney card will convert your USD to the local currency almost anywhere. And you’ll enjoy Visa’s zero-liability policy protecting you from fraud and unauthorized purchases.

• Accepted worldwide
• Travel assistance
• Additional card
• High balance maximum

What is the AAA Visa TravelMoney card?

The AAA Visa TravelMoney card works like a debit card — use your card at merchants and ATM to access money when traveling abroad. But, this card isn’t attached to your bank account. Instead load the card with the money you plan to take on your trip, and use it to pay for dinner, souvenirs, excursions or anything else.

What’s more, if you buy your plane tickets with the AAA Visa TravelMoney card, your purchase is protected in case of a canceled or delayed flight. You’ll also have access to emergency cash replacement and 24-hour customer service.

Load this card with as little as $100, and as much as $5,000 at a time, with a maximum balance of $9,999. Manage your balance at your local AAA store, by phone or online.

How much will the AAA Visa TravelMoney card cost?

How much will i pay on the exchange rate.

Because your funds aren’t immediately converted into a foreign currency, you don’t have the benefit of locking in an exchange rate. Instead, Visa charges its conversion rate — typically close to the midmarket rate.

How much are the fees?

The biggest disadvantage of this card are the fees that come along with it. Each time you use the card, the AAA Visa TravelMoney card charges a 3% transaction fee and a $3 international ATM fee — typical for most credit cards. The benefit of the TravelMoney card is that because it’s your money, you won’t pay interest on your purchases.

The initial purchase price is determined by whether you’re an AAA member or not. It’s $5.95 for AAA members and $9.95 for non-members. And deactivate the card once you’re done with the card, or you’ll be charged $1.25 each month you don’t use it.

The greatest benefit to this card its its security. It’s protected by chip technology and a PIN, and because it’s not connected to any accounts, your personal information is protected. Other benefits include:

• Accepted worldwide. Access to over one million ATMs.
• Travel assistance. Enjoy emergency services and lost luggage reimbursement when you pay for your flight with your TravelMoney Card.
• Additional card. Request an additional card for a travel companion or in case of an emergency.
• High balance maximum. Load up to $9,999 — that’s more than its competitors.

Drawbacks and limits

• Limited transactions. You’re limited to three ATM transactions and $1,000 per day.
• Fees. You’ll pay fees for purchases, conversion and ATM withdrawals.
• Not reliable for deposits. Use credit cards to put a temporary hold on your card, like hotels, car rentals and gas stations with automated pumps.
• Card restrictions. Before you leave, be sure to check the AAA Visa TravelMoney website to see what countries have card restrictions — usually related to US travel and financial warnings.

Consider using the Travelex Money Card instead of the AAA Visa TravelMoney card.

A note about tipping with your card

When you use prepaid cards to pay for restaurant and bar tabs — or anywhere a gratuity is expected — budget a “tip tolerance” of 10% to 20% on top of your bill’s base amount.

When swiping your card, many establishments reserve what they expect you’ll add as a tip. If you don’t have enough money on your prepaid card to cover up to 20% on top of the base amount, consider using another card to avoid an uncomfortable card denial.

How to get a AAA Visa TravelMoney card

To be eligible for a AAA Visa TravelMoney card, you must:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Provide personal information like name and address and a government-issued ID.

Cards can be purchased and reloaded at one of the many AAA retail offices throughout the country. The benefit of AAA membership is that you have the flexibility of reloading online at www.aaa.com or calling 866-674-9622 . Non-members needs to reload at the same location they bought the card.

I got the card. Now what?

If you’re loading funds onto your card, be aware that they might not immediately post. It could take a day or two depending on weekends or holidays.

• Spend wisely. Keep track of your spending and balances by registering your card on the AAA Prepaid website, AAA Prepaid app or calling 866-674-9622 .
• Factor in fees. Each time you use your card, you’ll pay a fee. Be sure to factor in those amounts when calculating your balance.
• Security. If you have any questions or your card is lost or stolen, call 866-674-9621 to get a replacement.
• Closing your card. To avoid inactivity fees, close your card when you’re done traveling by calling card services 877-856-2471 .

If your card has been lost or stolen, customer service can arrange for a replacement card to be sent to you for a fee of $5.95.To avoid waiting for a replacement card, it’s wise to initially purchase an additional card for only $1.50.

Bottom line

AAA Visa TravelMoney card is not currently available on Finder

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Kyle Finder

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May 20, 2019

How long does an AAA Travel Card go before you consider it inactive?

Jhez Finder

Thank you for your comment.

It will take 6months to a year for the card to become inactive. There’s an inactivity fee charged after 12 consecutive months of inactivity which is for $1.25/month.

Regards, Jhezelyn

October 22, 2018

PLS LET ME KNOW HOW MUCH AMOUNT OF EUROS I CAN USE AT THE SAME DAY (ONE DAY)TO PAY FOR PURCHASING GOODS IN GREECE

Charisse Finder

October 25, 2018

Hi Theofanies,

Thanks for reaching out to finder.

AAA Visa travel money card’s daily spending limit is $9,999 (or amount equivalent in Euros). This spend limit refers to the maximum cumulative point-of-sale signature or point-of-sale PIN transactions you can make per 24 hours. The maximum card balance that you can have at any time is also $9,999.

You can use the AAA Visa travel money card everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted as well as for online and telephone purchases.

I hope this helps.

Cheers, Charisse

September 10, 2018

Is it possible to load more money onto my AAA Visa Travel Money Card? If so, how do I do it? Thanks.

Jhezelyn Finder

September 11, 2018

Hello Daryl,

Yes, it is possible to load money on the AAA Visa TravelMoney card. You can reload your card at any participating AAA office, call their toll-free or through their website. Please note that the maximum balance on the card is $9,999.

Should you wish to have real-time answers to your questions, try our chat box on the lower right corner of our page.

April 25, 2018

Can you obtain a AAA visa travel money card and load balances onto it from an American Express gift card?

Joshua Finder

Thanks for getting in touch with finder.

Unfortunately, you can’t use your American Express gift card. According to our page, cards can be purchased and reloaded at one of the many AAA retail offices throughout the country. The benefit of being a AAA member is that you have the flexibility of reloading online http://www.aaa.com or calling 866-674-9622. Nonmembers needs to reload at the same location they bought the card.

I hope this helps. Should you have further questions, please don’t hesitate to reach us out again.

Have a wonderful day!

Cheers, Joshua

January 24, 2018

How do I load my AAA visa debit card from outside USA?

Rench Finder

January 31, 2018

Thanks for your inquiry

If you are referring to AAA Visa travel money card, funds may be added to the card at the location where the card was purchased. However, some participating clubs allow AAA members to reload by calling them.

The AAA Visa Travel money card allows for unlimited total reloads, up to a maximum of $5,000 per twenty four (24) hours.

Hope this helps.

Best regards, Rench

Kyle Morgan

Kyle Morgan is SEO manager at Forbes Advisor and a former editor and content strategist at Finder. He has written for the USA Today network and Relix magazine, among other publications. He holds a BA in journalism and media from Rutgers University. See full profile

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The 6 Best Travel Cards for the US 2024

If you live in the US but travel often abroad, a travel money card can make spending in foreign currencies cheaper and more convenient. Travel money cards also have the bonus that they can be cheaper when you shop online with foreign retailers, as there’s often no foreign transaction fee to pay.

Different types of travel money cards, including travel debit cards, prepaid travel cards and travel credit cards, are available to support different customer needs. The right one for you will depend on your personal preference and how you like to manage your money. 

Read on for all you need to know, including a closer look at travel money card types, some great options to consider, and the sorts of fees you need to think about when you choose. 

Wise – good value debit card for the US

Before we get into details about different travel money card options, let’s start with the Wise card as a good all-round option that allows you to hold and spend US dollars, as well as a diverse range of other world currencies.

Wise account can hold and exchange 40+ currencies, and you can get a linked Wise card for a one time delivery fee. Top up your account in USD and you can spend locally and overseas conveniently. If you plan to travel, you can switch to the currency you need before you travel, so you know your travel money budget in advance - or if you’d prefer, you can simply allow the card to automatically switch currencies as and when you need it. All currency conversion uses the mid-market exchange rate, with low fees from 0.43%.

Plus you can get USD bank account details - as well as local account details for up to 8 other currencies - to get paid conveniently to your Wise account . If you’re receiving money in USD to Wise, it’s free to get paid by ACH, and there’s a low 4.14 USD fee to receive a wire. There’s no fee to receive any of the other 9 currencies which come with local bank details.

Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using the Wise travel money debit card, to help you decide if it's suitable for you.

What is a travel money card?

A travel money card can be used for payments online and in stores, and for cash withdrawals , just like your regular bank card can be. You can use your travel money card in the US just as conveniently as you can when you travel or shop online with overseas retailers. However, with a travel money card you’ll find the features and fees have been optimized for international use . That might mean you get a better exchange rate compared to using your normal card overseas, or that you run into fewer fees. Some travel cards also have options to earn cashback and rewards when you use your card internationally. 

6 travel money cards for the US compared

We’ll look at each of these card options in a little more detail in just a moment, but let’s start with an overview of how 6 top travel money cards for the US line up side by side:

As you can see, the features of different travel money cards can vary pretty widely. In general travel debit cards can be convenient and often fairly cheap to use, while travel credit cards can offer some nice perks like cashback or rewards - but do mean you might run into interest and late payment charges, depending on how you choose to pay.

Travel debit cards often let you top up a linked account online or through an app, so you can set your budget and can’t spend more than you intend. Travel credit cards on the other hand let you spend to your card limit, and then repay the amount over a few months if you’d prefer to. Which is best for you will come down to how you like to manage your money - we’ll dive into a few more details about each card type, next.

What are different types of travel cards?

Broadly speaking, US customers are able to select a travel money card from either a regular bank or a specialist provider, which may be a travel debit card, travel prepaid card or a travel credit card. We’ll walk through what each travel money card type is, and pick out a couple of good card options, so you can compare and choose.

• Travel debit cards
• Travel prepaid cards
• Travel credit cards

1. Travel Debit Cards for the US

Travel debit cards are usually offered by specialist providers, with linked digital accounts you can use to hold and convert a currency balance. That makes them equally convenient to use in the US when spending in dollars, when shopping online with retailers overseas, and when you travel. While different cards have their own features, travel debit cards can usually be topped up easily online and through an app, with the option to see your balance and get transaction notifications through your phone too. That makes it easier to keep on top of your money, no matter where in the world you are.

Travel debit card Option 1: Wise

Wise is a good value travel money debit card for the US. There’s no fee to open a Wise account, and just a small delivery fee for your Wise card, with no minimum balance and no monthly charge. You just pay low Wise fees from 0.43% when you convert currencies, and transparent ATM fees when you exhaust the monthly free transactions available with your account.

• No fee to open a Wise account , no minimum balance requirement
• 9 USD one time fee to get your Wise card
• 2 withdrawals, to 100 USD value per month for free, then 1.5 USD + 2%
• Hold 40+ currencies, convert between them with the mid-market rate
• Get local account details to receive USD and 9 other currencies conveniently

Travel debit card Option 2: Revolut

Revolut has a selection of different account tiers, so you can simply pick the account you prefer - from Standard plans with no monthly fee to the 16.99 USD/month Metal plan. All Revolut accounts have linked cards, although exactly what type of card you get depends on your account tier. You can hold around 25 currencies, and convert currencies with the mid-market rate to your plan’s allowance. 

• No monthly fee if you open a Standard Revolut account, or upgrade for up to 16.99 USD/month 
• Card delivery fees may apply depending on your account tier
• All accounts have some fee free weekday currency conversion with 0.5% fair usage fees after that. Out of hours and exotic currency fees may apply in some cases
• Standard plan holders can withdraw 400 USD overseas per month without paying fees
• Hold USD and around 25 other currencies

Pros and cons of using debit travel cards in the US

How to choose the best travel debit card for the us.

The best travel debit card for USA really depends on your personal preferences and how you like to manage your money. If you’ll be traveling widely it makes sense to look for an account with mid-market currency exchange and a large selection of supported currencies, like Wise . Other providers like Revolut can also be a good pick, particularly if you’ll use your account very frequently and would prefer to pay a monthly fee to unlock lots of no fee transactions and extra perks.

Is there a spending limit with a travel debit card in the US?

Different providers set their own limits for card use. Limits may apply daily, weekly or monthly, and can apply to different types of transactions. You might find you have a limit to the amount of ATM withdrawals you can make per day, for example, or the value of contactless payments - these limits are set for security and can sometimes be managed and changed in the provider’s app.

2. Prepaid Travel Cards for the US

With a prepaid travel card you’ll need to order a card and add funds, to pay merchants and make cash withdrawals. While prepaid travel cards are usually issued on large global networks - and can therefore be used pretty widely - not all cards are accepted globally, so you’ll need to check network coverage in your destination country.

Prepaid travel card option 1: Bluebird American Express prepaid debit card

You can order a Bluebird prepaid debit card for free online. You’ll then be able to top up in cash or from a bank account. You can also add checks or have funds deposited by others - fees apply for some top up methods. While this card doesn’t allow you to hold foreign currencies, you won’t pay a foreign transaction fee to spend your USD balance abroad, which makes it a good choice when you’re away from home.

• Get a card for free by ordering online
• Top up in a range of ways in USD
• No foreign transaction fee when spending overseas
• ATM withdrawal fees of 2.5 USD or the equivalent when overseas
• American Express cards are not always accepted internationally - check coverage before you travel
• No interest to pay 

Prepaid travel card option 2: Discover it Secured

Discover it Secured is a credit card, but we’ve included it in our roundup of prepaid cards because it’s a secured card, which means you’ll need to pay an upfront deposit, and can then spend to that deposit level every month. Clear off your bill in full to avoid interest, and you could build a credit score, earn cashback and get no foreign transaction fees when you spend overseas, too.

• No annual card fee, although interest charges and late payment fees do apply
• No foreign transaction fees for spending overseas
• ATM withdrawal fees may apply including a 10 USD cash advance fee
• Earn cashback on spending and build credit as you do so
• Discover network is not always internationally supported - check your destination before you travel

Pros and cons of using prepaid travel cards in the US

How to choose the best travel prepaid card for the us.

There’s no single best travel prepaid card for the US - it’ll come down to your personal preferenc e. If you’re looking specifically for a prepaid debit card you can use abroad with no foreign transaction fee, try the Bluebird card option. However, if a credit card suits you, the Discover it Secured can be a strong pick thanks to the cash back options available.  

Is there a spending limit with a prepaid card in the US?

Different prepaid travel cards set their own limits for spending and withdrawals, which can  vary between currencies. You’ll need to check your card’s terms and conditions carefully to make sure you pick a provider which suits your needs.

3. Travel Credit Cards for the US

Travel credit cards typically offer some extra international features compared to regular credit cards, such as low or no foreign transaction fees or extra option to earn rewards when you’re abroad. In general, travel credit cards are safe and convenient but can be more expensive compared to using a debit card option. Before you select the right card for you it’s important to check the fees, rates, eligibility rules and interest rates which apply, so you can make sure it’s a good fit for you.

Travel credit card option 1: Capital One Venture Rewards

The Capital One Venture Rewards card can be used in the US conveniently - and has no foreign transaction fees when you spend overseas. There’s also a comparatively low cash advance fee when you use an ATM, at 3 USD or 3% whichever is higher. You’ll need to repay your bill in full every month to avoid fees and interest, but can earn travel rewards and miles on your day to day spending.

• No foreign transaction fee
• Earn travel rewards on spending 
• Get extras like lounge access and free travel insurance
• International spending uses the network exchange rate 
• Variable interest rates which apply if you don’t pay off your bill in full

Travel credit card option 2: Chase Sapphire Preferred

The Chase Sapphire Preferred card has a variable interest rate with no foreign transaction fee to pay. However, you’ll need to pay a 95 USD annual card charge to get your card in the first place. Currency conversion uses the network exchange rate - plus there are benefits and rewards available for cardholders.

• Variable interest rates and a 95 USD annual fee
• Check your eligibility and order a card online easily
• Network exchange rates apply

Pros and cons of using credit cards in the US

How to choose the best travel credit card for the us.

The best travel credit card for the US will depend on your personal preferences. If you’re interested in earning rewards and cash back, a travel rewards card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred could be a good bet as it has no foreign transaction fee and offers rewards on all spending. Whichever card you’re considering you’ll want to weigh up the potential fees you’ll need to pay against the rewards you can earn to make sure it’s worthwhile.

Which cards are accepted in the US?

It’s important to know that you may find that different card networks are more popular in one country than they may be in another. For example, while Visa and Mastercard are pretty widely accepted globally, other popular US card networks, like American Express and Discover cards are less likely to be accepted in some countries and regions. Both networks have some support in the US, but coverage isn’t universal.

If you’re looking for a card specifically to take with you when you travel, it may be worth checking coverage in destinations you visit frequently to help you choose the right network for your needs.

In most cases it’s best to carry more than one means of payment when you travel - for example a credit card and a specialist travel money card which has been issued on a different network - so that you always have a plan B if your preferred payment method isn’t available.

Conclusion: Which travel money card is best for the US?

If you’re living in the US but travel often - or if you shop online with retailers based overseas, you might want to pick a travel money card for foreign currency spending. Travel money cards have different features, and can be picked up via regular banks or online specialists.

You could opt for a low cost travel debit card which comes with a linked account to hold a selection of currencies - like the Wise debit card . Or you might prefer a prepaid travel money card like the Bluebird American Express debit card which can be linked to a fee free account. Finally, another option is to get a travel credit card either to earn cashback and rewards, or to avoid foreign transaction fees. 

Use this guide to start your research and pick the right option for your specific needs.

Go to Wise Go to Revolut

FAQs - Best travel cards for the US 2024

1. Which travel card is best to use in the US and abroad?

There’s no single best travel card to use in the US and when you’re headed abroad. Which is right for you will depend on your preferences and the features you want to access. Having a multi-currency account from a provider like Wise or Revolut can be a good bet if you travel widely as you’ll be able to hold and exchange dozens of major currencies for convenience.

2. What is the best way to pay when traveling outside the US?

Spending with your card is convenient when traveling, but you’ll be best off having several different payment methods just in case your first choice isn’t supported. For example, you could choose 2 different debit or credit cards, issued on different networks, and you could also get foreign currency cash in advance so you have some  on you for those times when cards aren’t available.

3. Can you withdraw cash with a credit card in the US and overseas?

You can usually make cash withdrawals with a credit card in the US and overseas, at any ATM that supports your card network. You’ll often find that a fee applies, and you may start to accumulate interest on the withdrawn amount immediately. Travel money debit cards from providers like Wise and Revolut can be a lower cost option for cash withdrawals locally and abroad.

4. Can I use a US card abroad?

You can use your US card anywhere you see the card network’s logo displayed. Visa and Mastercard networks are very well supported globally, including in the US, making these good options to look out for when you pick your travel debit card for use overseas as well as in the US.

5. Are prepaid cards safe?

Prepaid cards from reputable providers are safe to use at home and abroad. They aren’t linked to your main bank account which can offer extra peace of mind, and may also make it easier to manage your travel budget. However, you’ll need to check the card features and fees carefully to make sure you're getting the best match for your needs.

6. What are the main fees for travel cards when traveling?

The fees applied for travel cards can vary widely depending on the provider and the card type. With debit cards you may find ATM fees, and costs for converting currencies, although specialist providers like Wise and Revolut have linked multi-currency accounts which can bring down the costs of currency conversion. Credit card fees include cash advance charges, foreign transaction fees and interest.

Compare rates and fees for your money transfers.

Read our range of money transfer and banking guides.

Reviews and comparisons of the best money transfer providers, banks, and apps.

Helpful tools to ensure you get the best rates on money transfers.

A Guide to Travel Money Cards

Often deemed the cheapest way to spend money abroad , travel money cards are deemed a failsafe option for many travellers. Given the rapid growth of the financial services sector, we want to find out if travel money cards are still as cutting edge as they once were, by comparing them to the new alternatives. Our job is to identify the best international money transfer services and payment providers in the industry: will travel money cards make the cut?

What are travel money cards?

Travel money cards are a popular payment method for individuals headed abroad. Customers will load funds onto the card, using the money as foreign currency when overseas, much like a debit card is used at home. Also known as travel money prepaid cards or currency cards, they facilitate free foreign transactions and overseas ATM withdrawals.

We recommend finding a travel money card which lets you lock-in a favourable exchange rate and supports multiple currencies on one card, to make sure you are securing a flexible and cost-effective deal.

How do you use a travel money card?

Using a travel money card should be straightforward and stress-free. Simply load funds onto the card before you leave, and once abroad, you will be able to reload funds and change currencies using the website or associated money transfer app . The card can be used to make withdrawals, in-store purchases and book travel arrangements.

Where can I get a travel money card?

Travel money cards are available from different retailers and can be purchased and preloaded online, over the phone or in-store, depending on the brand. In the UK, popular brands include Travelex and the Post Office.

Where can I use a travel money card?

Again, this depends on the brand and where you get your money travel card from. Available currencies vary from card to card but commonly used currencies include US Dollars, UK Pound sterling, Euros, Japanese Yen and New Zealand Dollars. Make sure you check with the provider before ordering a travel money card.

How secure are travel money cards?

Generally, travel money cards are considered a lot safer than handling multiple currencies in cash, or travellers cheques, as your provider will be able to cancel it if need be. Furthermore, some of the best travel money cards employ an equivalent level of security to traditional debit cards, including a PIN code, touch ID and face recognition.

Many consider it safer to use a travel money card abroad than a debit card, as they are not associated with your bank account and therefore cannot be linked if lost or stolen.

Travel money cards vs. Credit cards: What is the difference?

One of the biggest advantages of using a travel money card is that your chosen currency is preloaded before you arrive in the foreign country and you won’t be charged conversion fees. This means you are able to benefit from the most favourable exchange rates, locking it in ahead of time and using the funds at a later date.

Most people who use their credit card abroad do it because it is more convenient. The cost of this convenience, however, can sometimes amount to 3 - 5% per use, depending on the transaction and financial institution. Making a foreign ATM withdrawal with your credit card can incur flat-fees of $5 and up, each time.

This being said, there are some excellent traveller credit cards on the market, so we would recommend users compare exchange rates and transfer fees offered by each provider before making a decision on which card is more beneficial.

If you're planning on using your credit card, we suggest you take a look at our credit card wire transfer guide.

What are the alternatives to travel money cards?

Multi-currency accounts.

International money transfer companies are often tailoring their products and services to meet the needs of their customers. Wise , offers a multi-currency account designed with “international people" in mind. This savvy travel credit card is aimed at frequent flyers who want to spend in various currencies in over 200 countries. Wise is a reliable company to trust with your overseas spending habits.

Challenger banks

More and more alternative service providers are popping up around the world, many of them offering reputable banking features for the modern traveller. In a bid to distinguish themselves from traditional banks, challenger banks are scrapping fees on foreign exchange and international spending. Monzo customers, for example, can benefit from free international ATM withdrawals as well as fee-free spending overseas.

We hope this guide to travel money cards has enlightened you and helped you make a decision about whether this is a suitable payment method for your next trip overseas. We appreciate the value of your hard-earned cash and want all our customers to benefit from the best possible rates when dealing with international payments. Use our comparison tool today to make sure you are offered the most desirable exchange rate for your currency.

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April Summers

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The 6 Best Travel Money Cards for the US - 2024

If you’re visiting the US, a specialised travel money card can make it cheaper and more convenient to access US dollars for spending and withdrawals. There are various options available, such as travel debit cards, prepaid travel cards, and travel credit cards, which cater to different types of customers. The right one for you will depend on your personal preference and how you like to manage your money.

Read on for all you need to know, including a closer look at travel money card types, some great options to consider, and the sorts of fees you need to think about when you choose.

Wise - our pick for travel debit card for the US

Before we get into details about different travel money card options, let's begin with the Wise card as a versatile travel money debit card that can hold and spend USD, as well as a diverse range of other currencies.

Hold and exchange over 50 currencies alongside USD

No fee to spend any currency you hold, low conversion fees from 0.41%

Mid market exchange rate on all currency conversion

Some fee free ATM withdrawals every month

No ongoing costs and no interest to pay

ATM fees apply once you exceed your plan limits

No option to earn points or rewards

Click here to read a full Wise review

What is a travel money card?

Similar to your standard bank card, a travel money card can be used for online and in-store purchases, as well as for cash withdrawals. However, with a travel money card, the features and fees are tailored for global usage. This may result in a better exchange rate, or fewer charges, in comparison to using your regular card abroad. Certain travel cards even offer opportunities to earn cashback and rewards for using your card internationally.

6 travel money cards for the US compared

Before we get into each card option in more depth, here’s a summary of how six of the best travel money cards for the US compare to each other.

The features of various travel money cards can differ significantly. Generally, travel debit cards can be convenient and relatively inexpensive to use, while travel credit cards may offer extra benefits such as cashback or rewards. However, they also come with the risk of incurring interest and late payment fees, if you don’t pay off your bill in full every time.

Travel debit cards usually allow you to easily add funds online or via a mobile app, which helps you stick to your budget and avoid overspending. Conversely, travel credit cards enable you to spend up to your credit limit, and you can pay off the balance over several months. Which is best for you will come down to how you like to manage your money - we’ll dive into a few more details about each card type, next.

What are different types of travel cards?

Generally, Canadian customers are able to select a travel money card from either a regular bank or a specialist provider, with card types available including travel debit cards, travel prepaid cards or travel credit cards. We’ll walk through what each travel money card type is, and pick out a couple of good card options, so you can compare and choose.

1. Travel debit cards

2. Travel prepaid cards

3. Travel credit cards

1. Travel Debit Cards

Travel debit cards are usually offered by specialist providers, with linked digital accounts you can use to hold and exchange a currency balance. Although these cards may have varying features, they generally provide an easy-to-use online platform and mobile app for topping up your balance. Additionally, you can view your balance and receive transaction notifications on your phone, making it easier to manage your finances no matter where you are in the world.

Travel debit card Option 1: Wise

Wise is our pick for a travel debit card for the US. There’s no fee to open a Wise account, and no delivery fee for your Wise card, with no minimum balance and no monthly charge. You just pay low Wise fees from 0.41% when you convert currencies, and transparent ATM fees when you exhaust the monthly free transactions available with your account.

No fee to open a Wise account , no minimum balance requirement

No fee to get your Wise card, free to spend any currency you hold

2 withdrawals, to 350 CAD value per month for free, then 1.5 CAD + 1.75%

Hold USD and 50+ other currencies, convert between them with the mid-market rate

Get local account details to receive CAD, USD and 7 other currencies for free

Click here to read a full review on the Wise card

Travel debit card Option 2: Canada Post Cash Passport

You can pick up a Canada Post Cash Passport in your local Post Office, and top up your account in CAD. You can then switch your balance to any of the 7 supported major currencies - or you can just allow the card to convert to the currency you need, although there is a foreign exchange fee of 3.25% for doing so. You can use your Canada Post Cash Passport card in ATMs and wherever the network is supported. ATM fees apply which vary by currency.

Supports 7 major currencies, including USD

No fee to spend currencies you hold in your account

Variable ATM fee, 2.5 USD when in the the US for example

1.5% fee for using your card in Canada - plus any applicable fee to convert funds back to CAD if you hold a foreign currency

Pros and cons of using debit travel cards in the US

Avoid interest costs and late payment fees

Hold and exchange currencies in advance or at the time of spending

Accounts can be topped up, viewed and managed using just your phone

Safe to use, as accounts aren’t linked to your main Canadian bank account

Travel debit cards are issued on popular global payment networks

Transaction and currency conversion fees may apply

Cash back and rewards may not be available

How to choose the best travel debit card for the US?

Choosing the best travel debit card for the US depends on your personal preferences and financial management style. If you travel often - and not just to the US - it's smart to consider an account that offers mid-market currency exchange rates and a wide selection of supported currencies, including USD, like Wise.  Other providers like Canada Post also support USD alongside a handful of other major world currencies, and the Cash Passport can be conveniently collected in your local Post Office.

Is there a spending limit with a travel debit card in the US?  

Card use limits are determined by individual providers and can vary depending on the transaction type. Limits may apply on a daily, weekly or monthly basis. For instance, there may be a cap on the number or value of ATM withdrawals allowed per day or a limit on the value of contactless payments you can make. These limits are set for security reasons and can often be adjusted using the provider's app.

2. Prepaid Travel Cards

With a prepaid travel card you’ll usually need to first order a card and then add funds in CAD from your bank account or card. Once you have a balance you can then pay merchants and make cash withdrawals at home and abroad. While prepaid travel cards are usually issued on large global networks - and can therefore be used pretty widely - you may find you pay a foreign transaction fee when overseas, depending on the specific card you select.

Prepaid travel card option 1: BMO Reloadable Mastercard

The BMO Reloadable Mastercard can be topped up in CAD and used when you travel in the US. You’ll pay a 2.5% foreign transaction fee when overseas, but you’ll still have the advantage that - as with other prepaid and travel cards - this card is not linked to your primary bank account, so it can increase security when spending abroad. There’s a 6.95 CAD annual fee, but as this is a purchase card rather than a credit card, there’s no interest to worry about. You just top up and you can spend up to your account balance freely.

6.95 CAD annual fee, 2.5% foreign transaction fee

5 CAD ATM fee

No interest to worry about

Manage your card online or using your phone, to top up and view balance

Add funds from BMO or other Canadian banks directly

Prepaid travel card option 2: Koho Premium Mastercard

You can get up to 2% cash back with the Koho Premium Mastercard, and there’s no foreign transaction fee to worry about. Instead, you pay a monthly card fee of 9 CAD. The basic card is free to get, or you can upgrade to a Koho metal card for 159 CAD if you want a fancier way to pay when you’re at home and abroad.

9 CAD/month premium fee

No foreign transaction fee

Earn cash back on your spending

Pros and cons of using prepaid travel cards in the US

Manage your account, add more money or convert funds online or with an app

Accounts with no monthly fees are available

Issued on globally popular networks for good coverage

ATM withdrawals supported globally

Some accounts have extras like options to earn cash back or reward points

Typically only CAD supported - watch out for foreign transaction charges

Transaction fees apply to most accounts

How to choose the best travel prepaid card for the US?

There’s no single best travel prepaid card for the US - it’ll come down to your personal preference. If you don’t mind paying a monthly fee you might like the Koho Premium card which waives foreign transaction fees, and other charges like ATM withdrawal fees. Otherwise, if you just want a simple prepaid card and don’t mind the foreign transaction fee when you’re in the US, the BMO prepaid card might suit you.

Is there a spending limit with a prepaid card in the US?

Various prepaid travel cards have different spending and withdrawal limits that can vary depending on the currency. To find the right card for you, you’ll want to carefully review the terms and conditions of each card provider you’re considering. This way, you’ll be confident you’ve picked a provider that meets your specific needs and requirements.

3. Travel Credit Cards

Travel credit cards often come with additional benefits not found in regular credit cards. These benefits can include lower or no fees for foreign transactions and the chance to earn extra rewards when using the card abroad. While travel credit cards offer safety and convenience, it's worth noting that they may be more expensive than using a debit card.

Before choosing a travel credit card, it's essential to consider factors such as fees, rates, eligibility criteria, and interest rates. Take the time to compare different options and select the one that suits you best.

Travel credit card option 1: HSBC World Elite Mastercard

The HSBC World Elite Mastercard has been optimised for overseas use, with extra rewards on international spending and travel, plus no foreign transaction fees to pay. There are lots of ways to earn rewards, including variable new customer bonus offers - the downside is that there’s an annual fee of 149 CAD, so you’ll need to check if the benefits outweigh the costs. As with any other credit card, you’ll also need to pay off your bill in full every month to avoid interest charges.

149 CAD annual fee, 5 CAD ATM withdrawal fee

Variable interest rate

Options to earn rewards, including enhanced benefits for travel spending

Travel credit card option 2: Home Trust Preferred Visa Card

The Home Trust Preferred Visa Card is a credit card with a variable interest rate, no foreign exchange fees and 1% cash back on all eligible purchases. There’s no annual fee to pay, although the ATM withdrawal fees can run pretty high - 1% or 1.5% depending on the ATM type, and the maximum cap is 15 CAD for some withdrawals.

No annual fee, no foreign transaction fee

1% cash back on all eligible purchases

ATM fees apply, which are set as a percentage, and can run pretty high

Pros and cons of using credit cards in the US

Enjoy peace of mind with zero liability policies offered by some cards

Spread the cost of your travel expenses over several months

Some cards have no foreign transaction fees, saving you money on international purchases

Exchange rates typically offered by card networks are usually fair

Earn cash back and rewards on your spending with select cards, making your travel even more rewarding.

Interest charged if you don’t repay in full every month

Eligibility rules apply

How to choose the best travel credit card for the US?

Selecting the best travel credit card for the US largely depends on individual preferences. If you aim to earn rewards and cashback on your foreign transactions, the Home Trust Preferred Visa may be a suitable option as it does not have a foreign transaction fee and provides cash back on all purchases. Whichever card you’re considering you’ll want to weigh up the potential fees you’ll need to pay against the rewards you can earn to make sure it’s worthwhile.

If you regularly travel to the US or further afield, getting a travel money card which supports the currencies you need frequently can help you save money. Travel money cards have different features, and can be picked up via regular banks, online specialists and even the Post Office.

You could opt for a low cost travel debit card which comes with a linked account to hold a selection of currencies - like the Wise account. Or you might prefer a prepaid travel money card like the Koho Premium Mastercard which has monthly fees in exchange for features like no foreign transaction charges - handy if you use it abroad often. Finally, another option is to get a travel credit card either to earn cashback and rewards, or to avoid foreign transaction fees.

The good news is that the Canadian market is well served for all types of travel money cards - use this guide to start your research and pick the right option for your specific needs.

FAQ - Best travel cards for the US

You can usually make cash withdrawals with a credit card in the US at any ATM that supports your card network. You’ll often find that a fee applies, and you may start to accumulate interest on the withdrawn amount immediately. Travel money debit cards from providers like Wise and Canada Post can be a lower cost option for cash withdrawals overseas.

You can use your debit card anywhere you see the card network’s logo displayed. Visa and Mastercard networks are very well supported globally, including in the US, making these good options to look out for when you pick your travel debit card for the US.

Prepaid cards from reputable providers are safe to use at home and abroad. They aren’t linked to your main bank account which can offer extra peace of mind, and may also make it easier to manage your travel budget. However, you’ll need to check the card features and fees carefully to make sure you're getting the best match for your needs.

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Can I buy a travel money card at LA international airport. - Los Angeles Forum

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Can I buy a travel money card at LA international airport.

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I am in Australia and will visit US next month. I have some US dollars in cash with me, but cannot reload into my Australian travel money card as they do not accept foreign currency. I will lose some money if I transfer this amount to AUD. Any chance that I can purchase a travel card at LA International Airport then reload the card by this amount? Thank you so much for your kindly help.

I don't understand your problem? IF you have USA dollars and are coming to the USA to visit then just bring the cash. Why would you need to transfer it to a card??

Yes why not just use the US cash as cash?

Thank for your advice. This is for safety reason. Having a card would be better. You know, I planned to travel interstates and stay in some dormitory rooms. I do not feel comfortable with carrying cash around. So anyone knows that it is possible to buy a travel card which is fine for cash loading?

The only reason I could think of is if it were a lot of cash and the OP didn't want to walk around with it (maybe she won't have a safe where she's staying).

I can offer this option which may or may not work for you: You can purchase "gift cards" for Mastercard or Visa. They come in pre-set amounts (like $100). I bought one recently and the fee was something like $5.29. So, in exchange for $105.29, I got a Visa Debit Card that had a limit of $100. I don't know how high these cards go as far as limits and there might be some where you can pick your own amount (not sure about that).

I found cards in several denominations at the local Rite-Aid (drug store). In addition to 'gift cards' for Visa or Mastercard, they also had dozens of gift cards for specific shops but I'm not sure that would be helpful unless, of course, you planned to shop at one of those.

We can't tell from your question whether you're leaving the airport or just transiting through. If the latter, I don't think you'll find gift cards at the airport but, I could be wrong.

I like HSJ's gift debit card idea. If you can wait till you leave the airport, you can buy these at most convenient stores, grocery stores, Target etc. Many will let you load whatever amount you want. And the service fees noted sounds about right. I have gotten these for gifts as well as received them as rebates or door prizes at party. You do have to read the fine prints as the fees changes with timeframe.

How much money are we talking about here? A few thousands.

I think you can set a pin to these gift cards but I am not certain.

For example, see the terms of this $200 Visa Card sold at Walmart. Have definitely seen these at Target and even Safeway and 7-Eleven.

https://www.walmart.com/ip/Visa-200-Gift-Card/20625678

Ok according to the Visa gift card website, they are sold at the 7-Eleven at the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) at which I assume you will be arriving. It is in tbe pre security area.

https://www.westfieldairports.com/lax/retailers/7-eleven/

nhuthaosct, the reason nobody is directly answering your question is because Americans don't use travel cards, so we don't know much about them. I'd be very surprised if there was a place at LAX where you could add money to a travel card.

Whether you can top-up your travel card depends on the bank/company that issued it. What bank card is this? Have you checked with them to see what you can use to add funds to it?

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Is the Amex Business Platinum card worth it?

Amex business platinum card rewards, amex business platinum card benefits, amex business platinum card fees, rates & limit, how the amex business platinum card compares, is the amex business platinum card right for me, how do i apply for the amex business platinum card, faq: amex business platinum card.

Amex Business Platinum Card Review 2024: Is It Worth It?

• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express offers a chance to earn 5x points on travel and rack up points on everyday business spending too.
• Card members can benefit from more than $1,000 in statement credits every year.
• This card does come with an annual fee of $695 ( see rates and fees ).
• You can carry a balance for some charges with the Pay Over Time feature, but not for all.

At first glance, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express comes with a high admission price — its annual fee is almost $700. However, when you dig into the benefits, you find out that it also comes with more than $1,000 in statement credits annually and ample opportunity for earning valuable points. That’s especially true if you book travel for yourself or your employees regularly.

Find out more about this card to decide if it’s right for you in our Amex Business Platinum card review.

We’ll take a look at:

• How you can maximize rewards with this card
• What types of statement credits you can get
• Whether this is a charge card or credit card
• How to apply for the Amex Business Platinum card
• Excellent welcome offer
• Easy to earn points
• Great travel benefits
• No intro APR offer
• Hefty $695 annual fee
• High spending requirement for welcome offer

The Business Platinum Card® from American Express may be worth it for business owners who travel frequently and can take advantage of its premium travel benefits, such as Amex lounge access worldwide. It also comes with high point earnings on select purchases, which makes it a great option for businesses that spend on more than just travel.

However, this American Express card does come with a substantial annual fee of $695. This makes it less appealing for small businesses that don’t usually spend much on travel. In these cases, you may prefer another business credit card better suited to your organization.

Amex Business Platinum pros and cons

• A generous welcome offer
• 5x points on prepaid flights and hotels booked through American Express Travel
• Comprehensive travel benefits including access to Amex lounges worldwide
• Up to $1,400 in credits, including for airline fees, Dell purchases and more
• A high annual fee of $695
• A more complex rewards system that requires careful management and an understanding of your options
• Requires good to excellent credit

Learn more about the Amex Business Platinum card

Terms apply / Rates & fees

As the flagship business rewards card , the Amex Business Platinum offers an excellent rewards structure, especially if you book regular travel for yourself or your staff. 

Welcome offer

You can earn 120,000 Membership Rewards Points when you spend $15,000 in the first three months of holding this card. 

The value of rewards points depends on how and when you redeem them, but the average is around 1 cent per point. That means this welcome offer has a potential value of around $1,200.

Earn Amex Business Platinum rewards

You can earn valuable rewards points outside of the welcome offer too, including:

• 5x points when you book prepaid flights and hotel stays through American Express Travel
• 1.5x points on certain business expenses, such as electronic goods, construction and hardware expenses, software subscriptions and expenses and shipping
• 1.5x points on any purchase of $5,000 or more
• 1x points on all other purchases

Redeem Amex Business Platinum reward points

You can redeem Amex Platinum Business card rewards in a variety of ways, providing flexibility on how you use these perks. 

Some options include:

• Booking travel.  When you use your rewards to book through American Express Travel, you typically get the most value per point.
• Transferring points. Amex lets you transfer points to hotel and airline rewards programs, including Delta, Marriott Bonvoy and Virgin Atlantic. You need at least 500 points to transfer and must transfer in increments of 250 points.
• Shopping.  You can use your points to purchase gift cards and merchandise.
• Receiving a statement credit. Request a conversion to cash back and get a statement credit using your points.
• Donating to charity. In some cases, you can redeem points for charity donations—a benefit that could help with goodwill for your business. 

In addition to a pretty strong rewards structure, the American Express Business Platinum card offers some great benefits for business card members . 

Travel benefits

Amex is known for its travel cards , and the Amex Business Platinum is no exception.

Some travel benefits you can get with this card include:

• American Express Global Lounge Collection.  Platinum cardholders get access to Amex lounges across the globe, making business travel more enjoyable. 
• Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status. You can leverage our card membership status to upgrade to Elite status with this hotel rewards program without meeting stay requirements. That can help you earn free nights and other perks faster. 
• Hilton Honors Gold status.  Not a Marriott Bonvoy member? That’s okay because you get a similar benefit with Hilton’s hotel rewards program. 
• Fine Hotels & Resorts program.  When booking luxury and other hotel stays through American Express Travel, you can get hundreds of dollars in perks and upgrades, making any stay more enjoyable. 
• Travel insurance. By paying for travel expenses with your Amex Platinum Business card, you get automatic Amex travel coverage that helps mitigate losses due to delayed or canceled trips, interruptions during travel, damage to rental cards or lost or delayed baggage.

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

Statement credits

The Amex Business Platinum card comes with a bevy of statement perks every year to help your business save money. 

Options include:

• Indeed statement credit. You can get up to $90 back each quarter on purchases you make with Indeed as you work to round out your staff. This credit opportunity is through December 2024.
• Dell statement credit.  Through December 2024, you can earn up to $400 on purchases with Dell in the United States. You can earn up to $200 semi-annually.
• Adobe statement credit.  If you use your Amex Platinum Business card to pay for an auto-renewing Adobe subscription, you can get up to $150 back in statement credits per year.
• Wireless services statement credit. You can get up to $120 back per year when you use your Business Platinum card to pay for services with a U.S.-based wireless phone carrier. 
• Airline fee credit.  You can get up to $200 in credits on airline fees, including baggage fees. You’ll need to choose one airline and spend with that airline to get these perks.
• CLEAR plus credit.  Earn up to $189 back on CLEAR Plus membership annually when you pay with this card.
• Global Entry or TSA PreCheck credit.  Get up to $100 in statement credit every 4.5 years to help cover the cost of either Global Entry or TSA Precheck .

Shopping protections

Using your Amex Business Platinum to make purchases for your company ensures you’re backed by numerous shopping protections.

These protections include:

• Extended warranty. When you use this card to purchase items that have a manufacturer’s warranty of five years or less, you get extended coverage for up to one year. That means if your business laptop, printer, copy machine, or other covered item breaks right after the manufacturer’s warranty is up — as often happens — you’re still covered. 
• Purchase protection. Use your Amex card to purchase items and get peace of mind knowing you can get reimbursed for losses if the item is damaged in an accident or stolen. This coverage is good for up to $10,000 per incident and a total benefit of $50,000 per year.
• Return protection.  If you can’t return your item to a vendor, you may be able to return it directly to Amex and get a refund. 
• Cell phone protection.  Amex coverage will reimburse you for replacement or repair of a damaged cell phone up to $800 total minus a $50 deductible. You can use this benefit up to two times annually as long as you are paying your cell phone bill with your Amex card.

So far, the Amex Business Platinum is stacking up to sound like a great option. But you need to understand the fee structure to know if all those rewards and statement credit opportunities actually end up profiting your business. 

Business Platinum Card from American Express fees

With Amex, huge perks and rewards usually come at a price, and that’s true with this card. The annual fee is $695. However, you can add up to 99 employee cards at no additional fee, and spending on those cards also earns rewards ( see rates and fees ).

Other fees you may pay with this credit card include:

• $39 or 2.99% of any past due balance when you make a late payment, whichever is greater
• $39 if your payment is ever returned

You won’t pay foreign transaction fees if you make purchases outside of the United States.

Business Platinum Card from American Express interest rates

With this card, Amex offers a Pay Over Time feature that lets you carry a balance over time at an APR of 19.49% to 27.49% variable, depending on your creditworthiness. This feature is only available on certain purchases and is limited by a Pay Over Time Limit, which works similarly to a credit limit. 

If you make late payments, you may be assessed a penalty APR of 29.99% variable for 12 billing cycles. The penalty APR applies if you make two or more late payments within 12 months, you have a returned payment or you fail to make a minimum payment at all within an entire statement cycle. 

Business Platinum Card from American Express credit limit

This card doesn’t come with a preset spending limit. The amount you can spend at any one time depends on your credit history and your management of American Express credit card accounts, including this one. As you demonstrate responsible account management, you can typically increase your credit limit . 

Note that the Pay Over Time benefit does come with a limit. This limit might also change as you demonstrate a responsible payment history. You can call Amex to discuss your limits and how much you would like to be able to spend.

While it’s one of the most costly when it comes to an annual fee, the Amex Business Platinum is among the top business rewards cards on the market. It offers plenty of statement credits, rewards opportunities and card member perks, and you may find that you get more benefits from this card than others.

The Business Platinum Card from American Express vs. American Express® Business Gold Card

For businesses that can’t maximize Platinum card perks, an American Express Business Gold Card might be a better option. The annual fee for this card is only $375 ( see rates and fees ), and you earn 4x points on two spending categories you select, 3x points on flights and hotels booked through American Express Travel and 1x points on other purchases. You can also get a welcome offer of 70,000 bonus points when you spend $10,000 in the first three months.

It’s worth noting that you can only earn 4x points in your selected categories on a total of $150,000 in spending annually. After that, spending in those categories earns 1x points. 

While the Business Gold card doesn’t offer quite the same level of perks and statement credits that the Platinum card does, you can still earn $155 in Walmart+ credit and $20 monthly credits for eligible business expenses. 

The Business Gold card also utilizes Pay Over Time features, and the rates and fee structures on this card are the same as they are for the Platinum card. 

Read our full Amex Business Gold card review

The Amex Business Platinum card holds a lot of enticing benefits, but it’s best for businesses that have higher spending budgets. If you’re only spending a few thousand each month, you probably won’t maximize the rewards and perks on this card, making that $695 annual fee a financial albatross.

Explore these alternatives if you’re not convinced the Amex Business Platinum card if the right fit for you.

• Capital One Spark business cards
• Chase business cards

You can learn more about the Amex Business Platinum card and apply online. The application typically only takes a few minutes and requires information such as your full name, Social Security or tax ID number, business name, address and contact information, and some basic information about your business revenue or finances. In some cases, Amex might ask for more information, and you may need to provide documents like tax paperwork or checking account statements.

This card requires good or excellent credit . People with credit scores of 700 or higher have the best chance of being approved for this card, but other factors, such as income and overall credit history, are factors in approval.

What credit score do you need for an American Express Business Platinum Card?

You need good or excellent credit to get approved for this card, and a higher score improves your chances. Look to apply for this card if you have a score of 700 or higher. If your score is lower, you may want to consider other options.

How much does the American Express Business Platinum Card cost each year?

The annual fee on this card is $695. However, if you maximize statement credit and rewards opportunities, you can balance out that cost and end up earning with this card.

Can you carry a balance on Amex Business Platinum?

Yes, you can carry some balances forward using the Pay Over Time feature. You must pay other balances off every statement cycle.

How do you redeem American Express Platinum points?

You can redeem American Express points earned with the Platinum card on travel, as statement credits or for various other purchases, including gift cards. Redeem points for travel via American Express Travel or by transferring the points to a hotel or airline loyalty rewards program that participates with Amex.

What type of business do I need to get an American Express Business Platinum Card?

Amex accepts applications from all types of business owners. You can apply as a sole proprietor even if you are the only employee of your business, for example. Whether you are approved has less to do with your business type and more to do with your credit history, business income and ability to make your statement payments.

What airport lounges do I have access to with my American Express Business Platinum Card?

Card members can access more than 1,400 airport lounges across the globe. That includes Aspire, Escape, Plaza Premium, Delta Sky Club and Priority Pass lounges. Some lounges require you to enroll in a program or be flying a certain airline that day.

Sarah Stasik is well versed in personal finance thanks to her previous role as a Revenue Cycle Manager for a Fortune 500 healthcare company. Using her inside knowledge and expertise, Sarah often covers topics ranging from insurance and the economics of private healthcare to personal finance and small business management.

Over the past 12 years, Sarah has contributed to numerous publications in the personal and small business finance sector, including content on budgeting, bankruptcy, small business accounting, and financial tech. Her writing focuses on making complex or seemingly daunting financial topics more accessible and providing helpful, relevant resources for readers.

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How a Travel Credit Card Can Be Your Ticket to Big Savings

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Next time you're planning a vacation, a travel credit card could defray some or all of the costs if it packs the right incentives. Typically, cards with higher annual fees provide the most value with perks like ongoing rewards, free checked bags, airport lounge access or other benefits. But even cards with low or no annual fees make it possible to earn some value toward travel, if you can qualify.

These cards generally require good credit (scores of 690 or higher), and even if you're eligible, it's not worth pursuing one if you can't pay off the credit card bill in full every month to avoid steep interest charges. And if you're working toward paying down existing debt, it might not be worth chasing points and miles until you've made progress on that front.

But as long as travel credit cards align with your financial goals, their potential savings merit consideration — even if you travel just once or twice per year. Explore the flexibility of a general-purpose travel credit card to book travel anywhere, or a branded credit card to book travel with a favorite hotel or airline. Either option may offer money-saving benefits toward your next trip.

Valuable features can lower costs

Offers will vary among general-purpose travel credit cards and airline- or hotel-branded credit cards, but some savings opportunities may include:

If a credit card offers a lengthy list of perks, the value can quickly add up. Here are some features to look out for:

A sign-up offer: Travel credit cards generally come with lucrative sign-up offers that let new cardholders earn a pile of points or miles by meeting a minimum spending requirement. It’s easier to snag if you can strategically time a credit card application around planned purchases during a heavy-spend month or season.

Free checked bags: Some airline credit cards offer free checked bags , which can add up to real savings when applied per person on a round trip. This is one way that Doug Figueroa, a content creator at the YouTube channel Zorito y Doug, makes up the cost of the $150 annual fee on an airline credit card. “The savings are $70 round trip per passenger listed in the same reservation,” he says. 

TSA or Global Entry credit : Some travel cards issue a credit (up to $100) when you use them to pay for a TSA or Global Entry application fee. These expedited airport security screening programs can save time while traveling.

Travel credits: Depending on the card’s terms, travel credits may be used to save money on a variety of travel expenses like rideshare services, airfare or accommodations. 

Airport lounge access: You can skip the pricey airport food with some travel credit cards that offer complimentary airport lounge access . Austin Maxwell, a South Carolina-based content creator at the blog The Maxwells Travel, uses a travel credit card to avoid those costs. “I’m saving $20 to $30 every time I go to the airport because I don’t have to buy food or drinks during a layover or preflight,” he says.

A companion ticket: Some airline credit cards cover the cost of a ticket for a friend or family member. Depending on the card's terms, you may have to pay taxes and fees on the fare, the companion ticket may have an expiration date and/or a spending requirement may apply.

Automatic elite status: You may earn elite status without much effort on some hotel-branded credit cards. Elite status can add up to valuable savings if the program offers free food, bonus points or suite upgrades.  

Free nights: If your favorite hotel has a branded credit card that offers annual free night awards, it can stretch your vacation budget. 

Protections and other benefits

A travel credit card that offers trip delay or cancellation insurance, lost baggage insurance, rental car coverage or other protections may also be of value to you. To qualify for these benefits you typically need to pay for the trip or covered purchase with the eligible credit card. Read the terms carefully to understand the extent of your coverage.

Figueroa says he saved $90 over three days with his card’s primary rental car coverage on a trip to Miami.

“Once you make the online reservation, you must decline all insurance offered by the rental company and pay for everything with your [card],” he says.

High-value reward redemptions

Points or miles on some travel credit cards might lose value if they are used for non-travel redemptions like cash back, gift cards or other options. Travel redemptions typically offer the best value, and you might squeeze out even more value with a general-purpose travel card that allows points to transfer to airline or hotel partners. It’s a strategy that Maxwell uses often to his advantage.

“It’s even better if there’s a transfer bonus associated with that," he says. "Credit card companies offer transfer bonuses — 15%, 20%, 30% bonus — if you are to transfer points to a specific airline.”

He says he has also transferred points to hotel partners to book hotel rooms with them. “It would be the equivalent of getting a hotel room at $120 that’s actually valued at $500,” he adds.

To determine whether to redeem rewards for travel or transfer them to a partner, compare costs by checking the credit card’s booking platform and the partner’s website. Also factor in whether rewards transfer on at least a 1:1 ratio, meaning that you'll get the equivalent value in points or miles transferred.

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How much money do i need to travel to los angeles.

Planning a party in the USA? Chances are, if you're flying from Australia, you'll end up landing in Los Angeles. Home to celebrities, Hollywood, epic beaches and incredible cuisine, LA is worthy of your attention; whether it’s a quick stopover on the way to your next destination, or a holiday in itself. 

LA is home to the rich and famous (and the wannabe rich and famous), so it's no surprise that it isn't the cheapest of holiday destinations. This doesn't mean you can't travel on a budget, though, with plenty of options for every traveller. 

Navigating your holiday budget can be hard, so the team at Travel Money Oz have put together a nifty travel budget calculator that does all the hard work for you. The budget planner combines Numbeo data with the latest exchange rates to give you the most up to date idea of how much USD cash you'll be splashing in LA. 

Before we dive into the calculator though, let's have a squiz at what you should be including in your daily travel budget. 

What goes into a budget for Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is spread out, so you can't rely on your boots to get you around the whole city. Instead, consider the following transport options:

Car hire : One of the most accessible modes of transport so you can explore at your own pace without the restrictions of timetables and tours. Rental cars are pretty cheap in LA, allowing you to pick up a car for around 40 AUD per day. It is worth noting that parking can be a hassle, as parks can be tricky to find and expensive. There are a few apps like BestParking or ParkMe that can assist with finding parking spots downtown. If you are opting to hire a car, consider budgeting around 5AUD per hour for parking to be on the safe side. Also, LA traffic is notoriously busy, so batten down the hatches and try to avoid road rage in busy streets - you're on holiday after all! Ride-sharing: Apps like Uber and Lyft are very popular as they are often much cheaper than taxis. Consider using the shared/pool option to save even more cash if you aren't in a rush. Taxis: Another option if you're in a rush, however, taxis can be difficult to flag down, and the costs can add up when stuck in traffic. Public transport : This is by far the cheapest option, with tickets costing 1.75 USD each way. The metro includes buses and trains that service the majority of the city, however, if you're going further afar your route may not be serviced (or you could be spending a few hours trying to get there). If you're frequenting public transport, consider loading a TAP card that can be used on all buses and trains. A day pass is 7USD, and a 7-day pass is 25USD.There is an 8USD bus that goes from LAX airport to downtown LA and Hollywood as well. Bike Hire : The perfect option for exploring smaller areas and suburbs. You can hire a bike for 7USD per day, which covers unlimited trips under 30minutes. 

Accommodation

Los Angeles is notorious for having expensive accommodation. Throughout the city, you'll find the usual suspects: hotels, motels, hostels and Airbnb. If you are on a budget, Airbnb is a fantastic option, and it will often allow you to stay in nicer neighbourhoods for a fraction of the cost. It's also worth noting that all accommodation options, including hostels, will inflate significantly during peak seasons.

Depending on your travel style, the following are reasonable estimates when it comes to budgeting your nightly accommodation costs:

Hostel bunk - between 50 and 60 AUD per night Budget hotel - between 150 and 250 AUD per night Apartments - between 200 and 300 AUD per night Luxury hotels - 350+ AUD per night

When booking accommodation, make sure you consider where you want to visit in LA. It's enormous, so you can save on transport costs by booking a room close to the attractions you wish to visit. Better yet, aim for somewhere close to public transport. 

LA is blessed with cuisine from all over the world. Whether you're after a classic American burger or fried chicken, fresh tacos, slurp-worthy ramen, vegan delights or the latest food-craze, you'll find it in LA. 

There are food options for all travel styles. Budget travellers can shop at any of the supermarkets, frequent classic American fast-food restaurants like In-N-Out or indulge in some epic street food and food trucks. It is not hard to fill your stomach and satisfy your cravings for under 15 AUD. 

If you're after the finer things in life, there is no shortage of restaurants to tantalise your tastebuds. Dining out can be expensive, so expect to pay anywhere between 15 and 300 AUD for a meal depending on what you order and where you're eating. 

Regardless of your budget, we highly recommend trying some Mexican food, indulging in a burger or two and visiting both the Grand Central Market in Downtown LA and the Santa Monica Farmers market to get an authentic glimpse into how the locals live. 

While there are plenty of tourist attractions to fill up your time spent in LA, there are plenty of local hangouts and events that are much cheaper and allow you to gain an insight into the life of a local. 

Organised tours, attractions and theme parks will vary in cost; however, they can eat into your travel funds, so be sure to plan accordingly to avoid getting caught out last minute. With this in mind, here are our top activity recommendations when visiting LA:

• Go to the beach, whether it be the famous Venice Beach, gorgeous Santa Monica, iconic Point Dume or popular surf spot, Malibu. 
• Visit any of the museums, many of which are free
• Stargaze at the Griffith Observatory (bonus points if you do it before sunset)
• Stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and get a picture with your favourite celebrity's star.
• Spend some time at the Huntington Library, which is beautifully designed and home to Chinese and Japanese gardens, as well as priceless literature.
• If you're most at home when surrounded by books, take a step further and visit The Last Bookstore, where all books are $1.
• Shop til you drop! There are plenty of shopping options for all budgets and styles, you just have to know where to look.
• Chase some adrenaline highs at Universal Studios, Disneyland, Six Flags, Knotts Berry Farm or any of the theme parks within a few hours of the city.
• People watch at a restaurant or bar overlooking the bustling streets
• Go celebrity spotting, either in known hot-spots or on a tour.
• Take a hike up Runyon Canyon for epic views of the city and a classic picture with the Hollywood sign
• If hiking is your idea of a good time, it's also worth checking out the Eaton Canyon Falls and Silver Lake Stairs.
• Live out your NASA dreams at the California Science Centre where the Endeavour space shuttle is permanently housed.
• Bike or walk along Santa Monica Boulevard and the Venice canals. 

LA is known for having good weather all year round, so be sure to step out and soak up the sunshine. 

Pre-travel expenses

Aussie's are required to get an ESTA (American Visa) when visiting the USA. It's 14USD and lasts two years. ESTA requirements have recently become stricter, so it's worth double-checking you are eligible before booking flights and giving yourself plenty of time for the visa to be approved. 

If you are concerned about your health or any vaccinations, it's also worth consulting with a healthcare professional before you leave. 

Finally, we recommend all travellers invest in a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Insurance for the USA is generally more expensive due to the high cost of healthcare in the States; however, the cost of insurance is worth it for the peace of mind, and potential savings you may have should anything unexpected happen overseas. 

How much does a trip to Los Angeles cost?

Enter your destination (Los Angeles) Let us know how long you'll be away Choose your currency. In this case, it will either be AUD or USD. Grab your dreams and a cardigan! You've officially started your holiday budget and are off to a party in the USA.

Are you planning on eating out for every meal or grabbing a few snacks and ingredients to cook from the supermarket? Here you need to estimate how much you plan to spend on food. Remember to put yourself in a holiday mindset - you're probably gonna opt for an In-N-Out burger over some mixed nuts from the supermarket. 

In this section, estimate how much you plan on shopping while in LA. Are you going to spend your days amongst the rich and famous on Rodeo Drive, bargain hunting on Venice drive or are you keen to spend your money elsewhere? While things are generally cheaper in the US, don't forget to take the AUD/USD exchange rate into account!

This is for all of your transport outside of flights. Depending on where you're staying and your travel style, it's likely to be public transport, taxis, car hire or rideshares like Uber or Lyft. 

The hard work is done! Here you'll find a simple layout of your planned expenses in both Australian and US dollars. From here you can either go back and edit, or start saving for your holiday!

It's important to note here that this only accounts for your most basic expenses. You'll need to add in travel insurance and other daily expenses. It's also worth having a bit of wiggle room in the kitty for unexpected costs, like getting a bit too tap-happy on Rodeo drive or last-minute tickets to an awards show. 

LA Budget Examples

Here are some examples of what the bones of your travel budget would look like. Please note all of these examples are based on seven nights of accommodation and are quoted in Aussie dollars. Prices will, of course, vary with seasonality and availability. 

Couples trip

This couple plan on spending a week living like the rich and famous. No expense is spared when it comes to shopping, cuisine and accommodation. 

Family getaway

Mum, Dad and the two kids are attempting to squeeze everything LA has to offer into one week! The kids have their eyes on a theme park or two - I hope the parents are ready!

Solo traveller

This lucky vagabond is keen to see how much they can do in LA on a budget. Shopping isn’t on their mind, instead, they are focused on eating some incredible food and taking in the sights and sounds the LA has to offer.  

Last-minute tips

• LA is very spread out and doesn't really have a 'centre'. As a result, it can take a while to get from one side of the city to the other, especially in traffic. Give yourself plenty of time to get around.
• Hollywood, especially the walk of fame, isn't all glitz and glamour. It is often crowded and is a hotspot for tourists and tourist scams. That person dressed as Optimus Prime will definitely charge you for taking a picture with them.
• If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, grab a Go Los Angeles Card for discounts to top museums, tours and attractions.
• On a budget? Join a free walking tour.
• LA is pretty card friendly, so you won't have issues using your Travel Money Oz Currency Pass when paying for things. Just make sure you have some notes on hand for street vendors and tips.
• Speaking of tips, 15-20% of the bill is pretty standard.
• If you hang out in spots like Beverly Hills and Hollywood, you are likely to see more celebrities; however, you're also likely to spend a lot more money.
• If paying by card, make sure you choose to pay in the local currency (USD) to avoid paying extra fees.
• Research your 'per day' budget and include the things you want to do. Once you know the costs, you have a savings goal to work towards.
• Take advantage of Travel Money Ozs Best Price Guarantee . If you find a better price from a competitor, we will beat it*.
• Hostels are a great way to save cash and meet like-minded travellers.
• Check out reviews if you think something is too good to be true. Chances are it might be.
• Don't forget to factor in pre-travel costs like travel insurance, immunisations and visas.
• Sign up for Rate Alerts . We'll let you know when the AUD is doing well against the USD, so you can purchase and maximise your travel money.

TMG_CBA_New-Banner_Travel-Money-Club_v4A.jpg

Flight costs are based on a search from www.flightcentre .com.au and are indicative costs only for travel dates 4 - 11 August 2020. Prices were sourced on March 12 2020^. Accommodation costs are based on an average per night price for budget, moderate or luxury hotels, as indicated in the table. ~Food based on the average cost of 1 coffee, 1 fast food meal and 1restaurant meal per person, per day. COST COMPARISON TABLE: All costs are based on estimated approximate costs from major metropolitan cities. "From" costs indicate costs that start from the indicated price and may be higher than shown. Average prices indicate a typical estimated cost you would pay for the indicated item. Prices may vary from time to time, and in parts of LA. This blog is provided for information only and does not take into consideration your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether the information and suggestions contained in any blog entry are appropriate for you, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs. While we take reasonable care in providing the blog, we give no warranties or representations that it is complete or accurate, or is appropriate for you. We are not liable for any loss caused, whether due to negligence or otherwise, arising from use of, or reliance on, the information and/or suggestions contained in this blog.

Abbie Taylor

Abbie has three loves: travel, the tiny bread rolls on planes and corgis. She has visited 23 countries and collected an embarrassing tan line in each. When she isn't travelling, carb-loading or corgi spotting, you can find her writing about everything and anything (so she can afford to travel more). @abbieisabelle13

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Best 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.  

Travel credit cards make it possible for you to earn free and discounted travel with your everyday spending. What's more, some of the best travel credit cards also offer valuable perks that elevate your trip experience.

At the same time, each card has its own set of rewards rates, intro bonuses, annual fees and other terms, so take your time picking one that aligns well with your travel and spending habits.

The best travel credit cards of April 2024

• Best premium card: Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

Best flat-rate rewards card: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

• Best mid-range card: Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card
• Best for lounge access: The Platinum Card® from American Express
• Best for airline loyalists: United Explorer Card
• Best for hotel loyalists: IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card
• Best $0 annual fee travel card: Bilt Mastercard

Best 0% intro APR card: Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

• Best for earnings: U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card

Best for fair credit: Credit One Wander

• Best for credit building: Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card

Best premium card: Capital One Venture X Card

The Venture X packs a lot of travel rewards into a card that costs hundreds of dollars less than its competitors.

Why we like it: The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers rich rewards and travel perks, and unlike many other premium travel credit cards, the Venture X doesn't make you jump through many hoops to earn back the cost of its steep annual fee. In addition to a Capital One Travel credit and bonus miles each year, you'll also get complimentary access to a number of airport lounge networks with more than 1,300 locations around the world. 

The card also offers ultimate flexibility when it comes to redeeming your rewards for travel. You can book with miles through Capital One Travel, or if you want more options, you can use your card to pay for travel-related expenses and request a statement credit. If you're feeling ambitious, you can even transfer your rewards to various frequent flyer and hotel rewards programs and potentially get more value from your miles.

The Venture Card puts the power into your hands by earning miles that you can either use against your travel purchases or transfer to travel partners.

Travel rewards can get complicated, which is why the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card feels like a breath of fresh air. The card offers a high, flat rewards rate on your everyday spending, so you don't need to keep track of different bonus rewards categories. It also offers extra miles on select travel booked through the Capital One Travel platform.

You can redeem your miles by booking travel through Capital One Travel or by using your card to pay for travel on your own and requesting a statement credit. Alternatively, you can transfer your miles to airline and hotel rewards program partners for more dynamic redemptions. The card also comes with complimentary Hertz Five Star status, which lets you skip the rental counter and get access to a wider selection of vehicles. When you use it to pay the application fee for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, Capital One will reimburse you.

Best mid-level card: Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred offers both robust earnings on travel and a useful suite of travel protections. Plus, Chase's dozen-plus transfer partners offer flexibility in travel redemptions.

Why we like it: If you're looking for a way to maximize your travel rewards without paying a steep annual fee, look no further than the Chase Sapphire Preferred ® Card . The card offers an impressive welcome bonus and several opportunities to earn bonus points on your everyday spending. Annual perks include a $50 credit toward hotel stays booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards, a 10% points bonus on your spending throughout the year and benefits with partners like Lyft, DoorDash, Instacart, and Peloton.

The card offers flexible redemption options, including cash back, but you'll get 25% more value if you use your points to book travel through Chase. Alternatively, you can transfer your rewards to one of the card issuer's airline or hotel rewards program partners and potentially squeeze more value out of your points. 

Best for lounge access: The Platinum Card® from American Express 

Why we like this card.

The Platinum Card® from American Express charges an annual fee that some will find hard to stomach. But if you're a frequent flyer, it may well become your favorite travel companion. The card offers access to more airport lounge networks than any other credit card. At larger airports, you may even have your pick among several lounge options. 

The card also comes packed with more than $1,500 in annual travel and lifestyle credits, elite status with select hotel and car rental rewards programs and many other perks that touch just about every aspect of your travel experience. That said, many of the credits are doled out in increments and are for specific vendors, making them harder to redeem.

Pro tip: Credits only have value if you use them in your daily life. If a credit or benefit is causing you to make purchases you don't usually make, you might want to reconsider whether it is worth it for you.

Best for airline loyalists: United SM Explorer Card

The United Explorer card makes sense if you are one of the over 140 million passengers that flew United last year.

Why we like it: If you like the idea of enjoying rewards and perks with an airline rather than general travel rewards and benefits, you can't go wrong with the United Explorer Card . The card offers a sizable welcome bonus and a few different bonus rewards categories, and with a strong domestic and international presence, you'll have plenty of options when it comes to redeeming your miles for award flights.

You'll get some standard airline card benefits, such as a free checked bag for you and a companion, priority boarding, and a discount on select inflight purchases. But you'll also get some perks that most mid-tier airline cards don't offer, including expanded access to Saver award tickets, premier upgrade eligibility on award tickets, two one-time passes to the United Club lounge each year, and an application fee credit toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

Best for hotel loyalists: IHG One Rewards Premier Card

The IHG One Rewards Card offers a free night upon card renewal along with a slew of other benefits, making it well worth the modest annual fee

Why we like it: If you want to focus your efforts on earning free hotel stays, the IHG One Rewards Premier Credit Card offers an impressive array of benefits. The card makes it easy to earn points quickly, though it also requires a lot of points to get free stays with IHG. 

Where it really shines, though, is in its perks, which offer value that far outweighs the card's modest annual fee. You'll get a free night reward each year worth up to 40,000 points, plus a $100 statement credit and 10,000 bonus points if you spend $20,000 in a calendar year. When you stay at IHG hotels, you'll enjoy Platinum Elite status, which includes perks like the fourth night free on award bookings, reward night discounts, complimentary upgrades, and a welcome amenity. You'll also get an application fee credit toward Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS.

Best $0 annual fee card: Bilt Mastercard

The Bilt Mastercard not only has no annual fee, it has a robust set of travel transfer partners. Even better, it lets you earn rewards for paying rent.

Why we like it: While it technically isn't billed as a travel credit card, the Bilt Mastercard®—the only credit card that offers rewards on rent payments—offers travel benefits that are hard to ignore. Most importantly, the card allows you to transfer your points to several airline and hotel loyalty programs, a rare feature for a travel card with no annual fee. You'll also pay no foreign transaction fees and get a few trip protections, including trip cancellation and interruption reimbursement, trip delay protection and auto rental collision damage waiver.

If your vacation plans stretch farther than your budget, the VentureOne has an extended 0% APR period on purchases so you can enjoy the sun without getting burned with interest.

Most travel credit cards don't offer introductory 0% APR promotions, but if that feature is a top priority and you don't want a cash-back card, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card may be worth a look. 

The card offers an introductory 0% APR promotion on both purchases and balance transfers, giving you plenty of time to pay off a large chunk or all of a significant purchase or high-interest debt from another card. 

The card's rewards rate isn't very exciting, but it does offer flexible travel redemption options, including access to transfer partners.

Best for earning on travel: U.S. Bank Altitude Connect

If cash back is your preference, the U.S. Bank Altitude Connect has a robust rewards rate on travel purchases plus a selection of perks unusual for a sub-$100 annual fee card.

Interestingly enough, many travel credit cards don't offer great rewards on travel spending unless you're booking through the card issuer's travel portal. If you want a card that offers best-in-class rewards on all of your travel spending, the U.S. Bank Altitude® Connect Visa Signature® Card is your best bet. 

The card also offers great rewards on other everyday spending categories, along with four free visits to Priority Pass lounges each year, an application fee credit toward Global Entry or TSA PreCheck, and an annual bonus when you use your card to pay for an eligible streaming service.

The Credit One Wander card flies under the radar but is worth a look for its strong earnings on travel, dining and gas in addition to its more lenient credit score requirements.

Why we like it: You typically need good or excellent credit to qualify for one of the best travel credit cards, but if you're not quite there yet, the Credit One Bank Wander® Card should be on your radar. The card offers great rewards on select travel purchases and other everyday spending. 

Points can be redeemed in a variety of ways, but to get a consistent redemption rate, statement credits are your best option.

Best for credit building: Capital One Quicksilver Secured Card

You aren't out of options if you need to build your credit score before getting a standard travel card. The Capital One Quicksilver Secured Card is a rewarding option while you get on track.

Why we like it : If you're looking to build or rebuild, you'll be hard-pressed to get approved for a true travel credit card. However, the Capital One Quicksilver Secured Cash Rewards Credit Card can be a solid alternative until you have the chance to establish a good credit score.

The card doesn't charge foreign transaction fees, making it a good choice for international travel, and you'll earn a solid rewards rate on every purchase you make. While you need to make a security deposit equal to your desired credit limit when you get started, you don't have to wait to close your account to get your money back. With responsible use, you can start earning unsecured credit line increases after six months, and you can also qualify for an upgrade to an unsecured Quicksilver card down the road, at which point you'll get a deposit refund.

Our methodology

The Fortune Recommends TM team analyzed more than 50 travel credit cards across various issuers to come up with the top picks.

Here are the key elements we ranked each card by:

• Annual fee: Some card issuers require cardholders to pay an annual fee for cards with rewards and extra features or benefits. For most of our rankings, we rated cards with lower or zero-dollar annual fees higher.  
• Rewards: Travel cards typically provide rewards in the form of points or miles. For some rankings, we rated cards with better rewards rates higher on our list. 
• Insurance and protections: When you use your card to make purchases, you may be eligible for different types of protections on those purchases. Some cards offer insurance on travel-related expenses, like trip cancellation insurance, baggage delay insurance, trip delay reimbursement, and more. Some cards also provide non-travel-related reimbursements like cell phone protection. For some rankings, we rated cards higher based on the number of protections they offered.
• Welcome bonus: When you sign up for a new credit card, you may be eligible for a one-time welcome bonus in the form of points or miles. You’ll need to spend a certain amount within a few months of card opening to earn the bonus. We ranked cards with higher bonuses and lower spending requirements higher on our list. 
• Perks: Travel credit cards may offer a variety of perks—like statement credits for TSA PreCheck, airport lounge access, a free checked bag, and more. We rated cards with more perks higher for some of our rankings. 
• Foreign transaction fees: Some cards charge a flat rate on purchases when you use your card abroad. We rated cards with no foreign transaction fees higher.  

How do travel credit cards work?

Unlike cash-back rewards, which tend to work the same regardless of the card issuer, travel rewards can get complicated quickly. Ultimately, your redemption options and the value of your points and miles will vary depending on the rewards program.

Flexible travel rewards

Flexible travel rewards credit cards offer points or miles through the card issuer's proprietary rewards program. Some examples include Chase Ultimate Rewards, American Express Membership Rewards, Citi ThankYou Rewards, and Capital One Miles. 

With flexible travel rewards, you'll typically get several redemption options, and your rewards are worth a set amount — usually between 0.5 cents and 1.5 cents apiece — depending on how you redeem them. Travel redemptions typically get more value, but that can vary by program.

Many of these programs also allow you to transfer your points to airline and hotel loyalty programs, giving you access to more dynamic redemptions. If you're savvy enough, you could get more value with a transfer partner than if you were to redeem through the card issuer's rewards program.

Airline rewards

Airline miles , or points in some cases, are designed primarily to help you earn award flights with your favorite airline, such as United, Delta , or Southwest. But unlike general points or miles, airline rewards typically don't have a set value. 

In some cases, the number of points or miles required for a flight may be linked to the cash value of the ticket, but they may be unrelated. As a result, the value of your rewards will vary based on your flight dates, itinerary, cabin choice, and other factors. 

In some cases, you may be able to redeem your airline rewards in other ways, but you typically won't get as much value that way.

Hotel rewards

Hotel points allow you to book free hotel stays with a single hotel chain, such as IHG, Hilton, or Marriott. Like airline rewards, hotel points have dynamic value, so your redemption rate will vary based on your destination, the property, your stay dates, and other variables.

Hotel loyalty programs may also allow you to redeem your rewards in other ways, but it's generally best to stick to free nights.

Should you pick a travel credit card?

If you frequently travel or you're looking for opportunities to travel more in the future, a travel credit card can make it easier to earn free or discounted flights, hotel stays, rental cars, and more. 

What's more, some of the top travel credit cards also offer perks that can save you more money or give you a better overall experience at the airport, in flight, or throughout your trip. 

That said, most travel credit cards don't offer as much redemption flexibility as cash-back credit cards. If you're not sure you want to go all in on travel rewards, a cash-back credit card may be a better choice. 

Also, most of the top travel credit cards charge an annual fee. While many of them make it easy to offset that cost with rewards and perks, the fee is still an out-of-pocket cost. If you're on a tight budget or you're generally fee-averse, think carefully about whether you can afford that yearly cost and make sure you can get enough value from a card to make its annual fee worthwhile.

How to choose the best travel credit card

With so many different options available, there's no single travel credit card that's best suited for all travelers. To determine which one is best for you, you'll want to think about your travel habits, spending profile, and general preferences.

Travel habits

Consumers who travel frequently may benefit more from a premium travel card that offers a broad range of perks, while more casual travelers may be better off with a mid-tier or no-annual-fee travel card. 

If you're loyal to a specific airline or hotel chain, it could make sense to get an airline or hotel credit card, but if you don't want to be tied down to a single brand, a general travel card might be the right move.

You'll also want to think about how you travel and which travel card benefits would give you the best experience. For example, if your home airport has one or more airport lounges, it can make sense to get a card that offers lounge access. 

Spending profile

Most travel credit cards offer tiered rewards, meaning you'll earn bonus rewards on certain spending categories. If you spend a lot in certain areas of your budget, try to find a card that will reward you more for those purchases. 

However, if you don't spend a lot in any single category or you don't want to earn a low rewards rate on most of your spending, consider a card that offers a high, flat rewards rate on everything.

General preferences

Consider other features you're looking for in a travel credit card. Options may include transfer partners, straightforward benefits, redemption options, 0% APR promotions, and more. 

As you research and compare travel credit cards, familiarize yourself with all of their benefits to determine which one feels like the best fit based on your needs and preferences.

Frequently asked questions

Which card is better for international travel.

Generally speaking, you'll want a credit card that doesn't charge a foreign transaction fee. With cards that do charge this fee, you'll typically pay an extra 3% on all of your purchases made abroad.

Additionally, Visa and Mastercard credit cards tend to be better for international travel because they're more widely accepted than American Express and Discover credit cards. If you have an Amex or Discover card, consider bringing a Visa or Mastercard as a backup.

Is Visa or Mastercard better for travel?

Mastercard boasts acceptance in more than 210 countries, while Visa says it operates in more than 200 countries. So, if you're traveling to a country that's off the beaten path, so to speak, Mastercard may be a better choice. But for most major international destinations, you're likely fine with either Visa or Mastercard.

What is the best credit card to accumulate travel miles?

Miles have historically been associated with airline frequent flyer programs, but some card issuers, including Capital One and Discover, use the miles nomenclature for their rewards currency. 

With that said, the best miles credit card for you depends on your travel habits and preferences. If you want to earn miles with a particular airline, check out that airline's co-branded credit cards to see which one offers the best fit. If you want more general rewards, consider a card that offers miles or points with more flexible redemption options.

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.

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.

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

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com

Travel money card

Spend like a local with a travel debit card for exploring the globe. Whether it's a virtual or a physical card, we've got all your travel money needs covered.

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Exchange currencies, send money abroad, and hold 36 local currencies in-app. These are just some of the reasons why our customers love their travel debit cards.

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No need to wait for your physical card to arrive — spend instantly with a virtual card.

Get fee-free ATM withdrawals, up to £2,000 per rolling month, depending on your plan type.*

Manage everything for your holiday money card in the Revolut app, from top-ups to transfers.

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*No ATM withdrawals fees within plan limits on a rolling monthly basis. Third-party providers may charge a withdrawal fee and ATM fair-usage fees. Weekend markups will apply.

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Don’t exchange cash before you travel — use your travel money card to spend or withdraw money from an ATM (just watch out for ATM fees).

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For life, not just for holidays

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Rating as of 8 Apr 2024

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Spend your holiday money in 150+ currencies

Need a little more help?

Holiday money card FAQs

What is a travel money card, what currencies can i spend with a travel money card, what are the limits for spending with a travel card, how can i manage my travel money card, is a travel money card safe and secure, how can i order a travel money card.

• Download the Revolut app : find it in Apple or Google Play Store
• Sign up to Revolut : apply for an account and verify your identity
• Add a debit card : go to Cards and follow the instructions to start your order
• Set your PIN : choose a PIN that you'll remember
• Arrange delivery : enter your delivery address, and select your delivery method before proceeding to checkout (Delivery fees may apply)

Is a travel money card better than travel money?

• Don’t exchange cash at the airport: it’s much cheaper to withdraw money from an ATM with your travel money card
• Don't carry more cash than you need: when you return home from your trip, you’ll need to re-convert this cash back to GBP, which can take time and cost you in fees
• Always choose the local currency when spending with your card in shops and restaurants
• Sign up to Revolut so you can manage your balance and get instant notifications on what you spend

What is the best bank to use when travelling abroad?

• Exchanging currency before you go, or while you're there
• Withdrawing money from ATMs
• Using your card in shops, restaurants, and more

What's the difference between using prepaid travel cards or travel debit card for spending abroad?

Will you earn more with the Robinhood Gold Card vs 2% flat-rate rewards credit cards?

Other rewards rates and perks to consider.

• What about the Robinhood Gold Card’s travel rewards?

Redeeming rewards is also more challenging

How robinhood gold stacks up to the competition, should you sign up for the robinhood gold card, bad news for wells fargo active cash new robinhood gold card earns 3% cash back on everything.

Even without a welcome bonus, Robinhood’s flat-rate rewards card has a competitive edge.

Courtney Johnston

Senior Editor

Courtney Johnston is a senior editor leading the CNET Money team. Passionate about financial literacy and inclusion, she has a decade of experience as a freelance journalist covering policy, financial news, real estate and investing. A New Jersey native, she graduated with an M.A. in English Literature and Professional Writing from the University of Indianapolis, where she also worked as a graduate writing instructor.

The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.

When it comes to managing your money or earning rewards , I’m a big fan of eliminating unnecessary complications. So I love the simple structure of a competitive flat-rate rewards credit card, like the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card . But the gold standard in credit cards is facing new competition.

The Robinhood Gold Card * was recently announced and offers 3% back on every purchase -- and a competitive 5% back on travel booked in the new Robinhood travel portal. That’s a higher rewards rate than the Active Cash, which recently won a CNET Editors’ Choice award for its competitive rewards and ease of use.

The catch? You’ll need to be a Robinhood Gold member to apply, which costs $5 a month. That brings the annual cost up to $60 a year, but if you pay annually, it will only cost you $50, saving you an extra $10. That’s not a steep fee, but is it worth the cost when most 2% flat-rate cards don’t charge an annual fee?

Let’s find out.

Robinhood Gold Card

If we focus just on flat-rate rewards , the Robinhood Gold card can earn more in rewards after you hit a certain spending threshold.

Let’s say you spend $1,000 a month regularly with a 2% flat-rate card like the Active Cash. Assuming you pay your bill in full and don’t accrue interest or penalties, you could earn $240 in a given year.

If you spend the same amount with the Robinhood card and earn a flat 3% rewards rate, you’d earn $360. When you subtract the Robinhood Gold membership’s annual cost ($50), that brings your earnings to $310 -- $70 higher than you would earn with a 2% flat-rate card.

But if you spend less than $400 a month, you’ll earn more with the Active Cash (assuming you pay $50 for the annual Robinhood Gold membership).

How much you can earn in rewards each year, after annual fees :

Aside from the flat rewards rates, you’ll also want to weigh other benefits each card offers. While the Robinhood Gold could net you a bigger return, the Active Cash offers an easy-to-earn welcome bonus that can earn you an extra $200 in cash rewards after spending $500 in purchases within the first three months of account opening. When you take this bonus into consideration, the tables turn slightly.

How much you can earn in rewards the first year, after annual fees, including welcome bonuses :

With the additional $200 welcome bonus, the Active Cash becomes the clear winner -- but only for the first year. After that, the Robinhood Gold would eventually start to pull ahead.

What about the Robinhood Gold Card’s travel rewards?

If you plan on booking travel with your card, then the Robinhood Gold can earn 5% rewards through its travel portal. While that sounds great -- and it may be -- the card isn’t live yet. You’ll need to add your name to the card’s waitlist. So we don’t know enough about how the travel portal works to determine if it’s worthwhile. 

It’s worth keeping a eye on, but if you already earn a 5% rewards rate with a travel card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card* or the new Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Visa® *, I wouldn’t jump ship just yet.

How you like to redeem your rewards will help you decide which flat-rate card is best for you. You might earn more with Robinhood’s card and you can technically redeem your rewards as cash-back, but it’s not always that simple. You’ll need to transfer your rewards to your Robinhood brokerage account and then transfer them to a linked bank account. 

The Active Cash makes it easier to redeem rewards for cash back, cutting out this two-transfer step. But if you’re looking to invest your rewards or earn the same 1% redemption rate when using them at checkout, Robinhood’s card has the edge. 

Here’s a more comprehensive look at how the Robinhood Gold card compares to similar flat-rate cards, like the Wells Fargo Active Cash and the Citi Double Cash® Card .

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Citi Double Cash® Card

If you’re already a Robinhood Gold member, signing up for this card is a no-brainer -- unless there’s another rewards card you like more. If you’re not a member, you’ll want to look at how much you spend each month and consider how you like to redeem your rewards. 

Recommended Articles

Robinhood’s new gold card goes head-to-head with apple and paypal, the chase sapphire preferred could lose its crown to this wells fargo travel card, credit card rewards shake-up: visa and mastercard agree to lower swipe fees.

*All information about the Capital One Venture Card, Robinhood Gold Card and the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.

CNET editors independently choose every product and service we cover. Though we can’t review every available financial company or offer, we strive to make comprehensive, rigorous comparisons in order to highlight the best of them. For many of these products and services, we earn a commission. The compensation we receive may impact how products and links appear on our site.

Travel Money

• Clubcard Prices Clubcard Prices

Clubcard Prices are available for all currencies, just enter your Clubcard number on the next page. Full T&Cs below.

• Click & Collect Click & Collect

Collect for free from more than 350 Tesco stores with a Bureau de change.

• Home Delivery Home Delivery

Free delivery on orders worth £500 or more.

Exchange rates may vary during the day and will vary whether buying in store, online or via phone.

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Find a Store to get your Travel Money

With Click & Collect you can order your travel money online and pick it up from selected Tesco stores near you, or you can buy instantly from an in-store travel money bureau.

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3 easy ways to purchase Travel Money

Click & collect.

• Order online and choose to collect from over 500 Tesco store locations Order online and choose to collect from over 500 Tesco store locations
• Pick a collection day that works for you Pick a collection day that works for you
• Order euro or US Dollars Order Euros or US Dollars before 2pm and you can pick-up from most stores the next day

About Click & Collect

Home delivery

• Order online by 2pm Mon-Thurs for next day delivery (excludes bank and public holidays), to most parts of the UK Order online by 2pm Mon-Thurs for next day delivery (excludes bank and public holidays), to most parts of the UK
• Free delivery for orders of £500 or more Free delivery for orders of £500 or more
• Secure delivery via Royal Mail Special Delivery Secure delivery via Royal Mail Special Delivery

About Home Delivery

Buy in-store

• Buy your foreign currency instantly in our travel money bureaux in selected Tesco stores across the UK Buy your foreign currency instantly in our travel money bureaux in selected Tesco stores across the UK
• Turn unspent travel money back into Pounds with our Buy Back service Turn unspent travel money back into Pounds with our Buy Back service

About Buy Back

Best Travel Money Provider 2023/24

Now in it’s 26th year and voted for by the public, the Personal Finance Awards celebrate the best business and products in the UK personal finance market. We’re delighted that you voted us as Best Travel Money Provider 2023/24.

Additional Information

Ordering and collection.

You can pick a collection date when you're ordering your money. Order before 2pm and you can pick up Euros and US Dollars from most Tesco Travel Money bureaux the next day. Other currencies can take up to five days. Alternatively, you can order any currency for next weekday delivery to most of the selected customer service desks.

Please make sure you collect your money within four days of your chosen date. If you don't, your order will be returned and your purchase will be refunded, minus a £10 administration charge.

Will I be charged if I cancel my order?

Collection fees

Click and collect from stores with a Bureaux de change:

• Free for all orders Free for all orders

For non-bureaux stores with a click and collect function:

• £2.50 for orders of £100.00 - £499.99 £2.50 for orders of £100.00 - £499.99
• Free for orders of £500 or more Free for orders of £500 or more

What to bring

For security, travel money will need to be picked up by the person who placed the order.

• a valid photo ID – either a passport, EU ID card, or full UK driving license (we do not accept provisional driving licenses)
• your order reference number
• the card you used to place the order (you’ll also need to know the card’s PIN)

Home Delivery

We can send your travel money directly to you via secure Royal Mail Special Delivery. You can even pick the delivery date that suits you best.

We also offer next-day home delivery on all currencies to most parts of the UK if ordered before 2pm Monday-Thursday.

Check the Royal Mail site to find out if your postcode is eligible for next day delivery

Delivery costs

£4.99 for orders of £100 - £499.99 Free for orders of £500 or more

• You’ll need to make sure there’s someone at home to sign for your delivery.
• Bank holidays and public holidays will affect delivery times.
• We are unable to cancel or amend home delivery orders after they have been placed.

Clubcard Prices

Clubcard Prices are available on the sell rate only for currencies in stock online, on your date of purchase. The Clubcard Price will be better than the standard rate advertised online on the date of purchase. When purchasing online you must enter a valid Clubcard number to obtain the Clubcard Price rate. Exchange rates may vary whether buying in store, online or by phone.

Clubcard Prices apply to foreign currency notes in stock on your date of online purchase. Due to constant market and currency fluctuations, rates on the date of purchase cannot be compared to another day’s rates. The actual rate you receive may vary depending on market fluctuations. Clubcard data is captured by Travelex on behalf of Tesco Bank.

Check out the Tesco Bank privacy policy to find out more.

Buying foreign currency using a credit or debit card

No matter how you purchase your travel money, whether it be in store, online or over the phone, you will not be charged any card handling fee by us. However, regardless of your card type, your card provider may apply fees, e.g. cash advance fees or other fees, so please check with them before you purchase your travel money.

Click & Collect cancellations

You can cancel a Click & Collect order any time prior to collection. We'll refund you with the full Sterling amount that you paid for your order, unless you cancel less than 24 hours before your collection date, in which case we'll charge a £10 late cancellation fee.

We are unable to refund any fees charged by your card issuer, so please contact them if you have any further queries.

When you get home, we'll buy your travel money back

Let us turn your unspent holiday money into Pounds. It couldn't be simpler.

Just pop into one of our in-store Travel Money Bureaux when you get home. We buy back all the currencies we sell in most banknote values and also the Multi-currency Cash Passport™. Buy back rates may vary during the day.

It doesn't matter where you bought your travel money, even if it wasn't from a Tesco Travel Money Bureau, we'll still buy it back.

More about currency buy back

How our Price Match works

If you find a better exchange rate advertised by another provider within three miles of your chosen Tesco Travel Money Bureau, on the same day, we'll match it.

Price Match only applies in store on a like-for-like basis on sell transactions and does not apply to any exchange rate advertised online or by phone. This is not available in conjunction with any other offer. We reserve the right to verify the rate you have found and the three mile distance (using an appropriate route planning tool).

See full terms and conditions below.

Tesco Travel Money is provided by Travelex

Tesco Travel Money ordered in store is provided by Travelex Agency Services Limited. Registered No. 04621879. Tesco Travel Money ordered online or by telephone is provided by Travelex Currency Services Limited. Registered No. 03797356. Registered Office for both companies: Worldwide House, Thorpewood, Peterborough, PE3 6SB.

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.

How much travel money will I need?

Whether it’s a burger in Brisbane or a taxi in Toronto, get a feel for how far your travel money might go with our foreign currency guides. We’ll help you manage your travel budget like a pro.

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How much money do i need to travel to los angeles.

Planning a party in the USA? Chances are, if you're flying from New Zealand, you'll end up landing in Los Angeles. Home to celebrities, Hollywood, epic beaches and incredible cuisine, LA is worthy of your attention; whether it’s a quick stopover on the way to your next destination, or a holiday in itself. 

LA is home to the rich and famous (and the wannabe rich and famous), so it's no surprise that it isn't the cheapest of holiday destinations. This doesn't mean you can't travel on a budget, though, with plenty of options for every traveller. 

Navigating your holiday budget can be hard, so the team at Travel Money NZ have put together a nifty travel budget calculator that does all the hard work for you. The budget planner combines Numbeo data with the latest exchange rates to give you the most up to date idea of how much USD cash you'll be splashing in LA. 

Before we dive into the calculator though, let's have a squiz at what you should be including in your daily travel budget. 

What goes into a budget for Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is spread out, so you can't rely on your boots to get you around the whole city. Instead, consider the following transport options:

Car hire: One of the most accessible modes of transport so you can explore at your own pace without the restrictions of timetables and tours. Rental cars are pretty cheap in LA, allowing you to pick up a car for around 40 NZD per day. It is worth noting that parking can be a hassle, as parks can be tricky to find and expensive. There are a few apps like BestParking or ParkMe that can assist with finding parking spots downtown. If you are opting to hire a car, consider budgeting around 5NZD per hour for parking to be on the safe side. Also, LA traffic is notoriously busy, so batten down the hatches and try to avoid road rage in busy streets - you're on holiday after all! Ride-sharing: Apps like Uber and Lyft are very popular as they are often much cheaper than taxis. Consider using the shared/pool option to save even more cash if you aren't in a rush. Taxis: Another option if you're in a rush, however, taxis can be difficult to flag down, and the costs can add up when stuck in traffic. Public transport: This is by far the cheapest option, with tickets costing 1.75 USD each way. The metro includes buses and trains that service the majority of the city, however, if you're going further afar your route may not be serviced (or you could be spending a few hours trying to get there). If you're frequenting public transport, consider loading a TAP card that can be used on all buses and trains. A day pass is 7USD, and a 7-day pass is 25USD.There is an 8USD bus that goes from LAX airport to downtown LA and Hollywood as well. Bike Hire: The perfect option for exploring smaller areas and suburbs. You can hire a bike for 7USD per day, which covers unlimited trips under 30minutes. 

Accommodation

Los Angeles is notorious for having expensive accommodation. Throughout the city, you'll find the usual suspects: hotels, motels, hostels and Airbnb. If you are on a budget, Airbnb is a fantastic option, and it will often allow you to stay in nicer neighbourhoods for a fraction of the cost. It's also worth noting that all accommodation options, including hostels, will inflate significantly during peak seasons.

Depending on your travel style, the following are reasonable estimates when it comes to budgeting your nightly accommodation costs:

Hostel bunk - between 50 and 60 NZD per night Budget hotel - between 150 and 250 NZD per night Apartments - between 200 and 300 NZD per night Luxury hotels - 350+ NZD per night

When booking accommodation, make sure you consider where you want to visit in LA. It's enormous, so you can save on transport costs by booking a room close to the attractions you wish to visit. Better yet, aim for somewhere close to public transport. 

LA is blessed with cuisine from all over the world. Whether you're after a classic American burger or fried chicken, fresh tacos, slurp-worthy ramen, vegan delights or the latest food-craze, you'll find it in LA. 

There are food options for all travel styles. Budget travellers can shop at any of the supermarkets, frequent classic American fast-food restaurants like In-N-Out or indulge in some epic street food and food trucks. It is not hard to fill your stomach and satisfy your cravings for under 15 NZD. 

If you're after the finer things in life, there is no shortage of restaurants to tantalise your tastebuds. Dining out can be expensive, so expect to pay anywhere between 20 and 300 NZD for a meal depending on what you order and where you're eating. 

Regardless of your budget, we highly recommend trying some Mexican food, indulging in a burger or two and visiting both the Grand Central Market in Downtown LA and the Santa Monica Farmers market to get an authentic glimpse into how the locals live. 

While there are plenty of tourist attractions to fill up your time spent in LA, there are plenty of local hangouts and events that are much cheaper and allow you to gain an insight into the life of a local. 

Organised tours, attractions and theme parks will vary in cost; however, they can eat into your travel funds, so be sure to plan accordingly to avoid getting caught out last minute. With this in mind, here are our top activity recommendations when visiting LA:

• Go to the beach, whether it be the famous Venice Beach, gorgeous Santa Monica, iconic Point Dume or popular surf spot, Malibu. 
• Visit any of the museums, many of which are free
• Stargaze at the Griffith Observatory (bonus points if you do it before sunset)
• Stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and get a picture with your favourite celebrity's star.
• Spend some time at the Huntington Library, which is beautifully designed and home to Chinese and Japanese gardens, as well as priceless literature.
• If you're most at home when surrounded by books, take a step further and visit The Last Bookstore, where all books are $1.
• Shop til you drop! There are plenty of shopping options for all budgets and styles, you just have to know where to look.
• Chase some adrenaline highs at Universal Studios, Disneyland, Six Flags, Knotts Berry Farm or any of the theme parks within a few hours of the city.
• People watch at a restaurant or bar overlooking the bustling streets
• Go celebrity spotting, either in known hot-spots or on a tour.
• Take a hike up Runyon Canyon for epic views of the city and a classic picture with the Hollywood sign
• If hiking is your idea of a good time, it's also worth checking out the Eaton Canyon Falls and Silver Lake Stairs.
• Live out your NASA dreams at the California Science Centre where the Endeavour space shuttle is permanently housed.
• Bike or walk along Santa Monica Boulevard and the Venice canals.

LA is known for having good weather all year round, so be sure to step out and soak up the sunshine. 

Pre-travel expenses

Kiwi's are required to get an ESTA (American Visa) when visiting the USA. It's 14USD and lasts two years. ESTA requirements have recently become stricter, so it's worth double-checking you are eligible before booking flights and giving yourself plenty of time for the visa to be approved. 

If you are concerned about your health or any vaccinations, it's also worth consulting with a healthcare professional before you leave. 

Finally, we recommend all travellers invest in a comprehensive travel insurance policy. Insurance for the USA is generally more expensive due to the high cost of healthcare in the States; however, the cost of insurance is worth it for the peace of mind, and potential savings you may have should anything unexpected happen overseas. 

How much does a trip to Los Angeles cost?

Enter your destination (Los Angeles) Let us know how long you'll be away Choose your currency. In this case, it will either be NZD or USD. Grab your dreams and a cardigan! You've officially started your holiday budget and are off to a party in the USA.

Are you planning on eating out for every meal or grabbing a few snacks and ingredients to cook from the supermarket? Here you need to estimate how much you plan to spend on food. Remember to put yourself in a holiday mindset - you're probably gonna opt for an In-N-Out burger over some mixed nuts from the supermarket. 

In this section, estimate how much you plan on shopping while in LA. Are you going to spend your days amongst the rich and famous on Rodeo Drive, bargain hunting on Venice drive or are you keen to spend your money elsewhere? While things are generally cheaper in the US, don't forget to take the NZD/USD exchange rate into account!

This is for all of your transport outside of flights. Depending on where you're staying and your travel style, it's likely to be public transport, taxis, car hire or rideshares like Uber or Lyft. 

The hard work is done! Here you'll find a simple layout of your planned expenses in both New Zealand and US dollars. From here you can either go back and edit, or start saving for your holiday!

It's important to note here that this only accounts for your most basic expenses. You'll need to add in travel insurance and other daily expenses. It's also worth having a bit of wiggle room in the kitty for unexpected costs, like getting a bit too tap-happy on Rodeo drive or last-minute tickets to an awards show. 

LA Budget Examples

Here are some examples of what the bones of your travel budget would look like. Please note all of these examples are based on seven nights of accommodation and are quoted in Kiwi dollars. Prices will, of course, vary with seasonality and availability. 

Couples trip

This couple plan on spending a week living like the rich and famous. No expense is spared when it comes to shopping, cuisine and accommodation. 

Family getaway

Mum, Dad and the two kids are attempting to squeeze everything LA has to offer into one week! The kids have their eyes on a theme park or two - I hope the parents are ready!

Solo traveller

This lucky vagabond is keen to see how much they can do in LA on a budget. Shopping isn’t on their mind, instead, they are focused on eating some incredible food and taking in the sights and sounds the LA has to offer.  

Last-minute tips

• LA is very spread out and doesn't really have a 'centre'. As a result, it can take a while to get from one side of the city to the other, especially in traffic. Give yourself plenty of time to get around.
• Hollywood, especially the walk of fame, isn't all glitz and glamour. It is often crowded and is a hotspot for tourists and tourist scams. That person dressed as Optimus Prime will definitely charge you for taking a picture with them.
• If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, grab a Go Los Angeles Card for discounts to top museums, tours and attractions.
• On a budget? Join a free walking tour.
• LA is pretty card friendly, so you won't have issues using your Cash Passport when paying for things. Just make sure you have some notes on hand for street vendors and tips.
• Speaking of tips, 15-20% of the bill is pretty standard.
• If you hang out in spots like Beverly Hills and Hollywood, you are likely to see more celebrities; however, you're also likely to spend a lot more money.
• If paying by card, make sure you choose to pay in the local currency (USD) to avoid paying extra fees.
• Research your 'per day' budget and include the things you want to do. Once you know the costs, you have a savings goal to work towards.
• Take advantage of Travel Money NZ’s Best Price Guarantee . If you find a better price from a competitor, we will beat it*.
• Hostels are a great way to save cash and meet like-minded travellers.
• Check out reviews if you think something is too good to be true. Chances are it might be.
• Don't forget to factor in pre-travel costs like travel insurance, immunisations and visas.
• Sign up for Rate Alerts . We'll let you know when the NZD is doing well against the USD, so you can purchase and maximise your travel money.

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Flight costs are based on a search from www.flightcentre .co.nz and are indicative costs only for travel dates 4 - 11 August 2020. Prices were sourced on March 21 2020^. Accommodation costs are based on an average per night price for budget, moderate or luxury hotels, as indicated in the table. ~Food based on the average cost of 1 coffee, 1 fast food meal and 1restaurant meal per person, per day. COST COMPARISON TABLE: All costs are based on estimated approximate costs from major metropolitan cities. "From" costs indicate costs that start from the indicated price and may be higher than shown. Average prices indicate a typical estimated cost you would pay for the indicated item. Prices may vary from time to time, and in parts of LA. This blog is provided for information only and does not take into consideration your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether the information and suggestions contained in any blog entry are appropriate for you, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs. While we take reasonable care in providing the blog, we give no warranties or representations that it is complete or accurate, or is appropriate for you. We are not liable for any loss caused, whether due to negligence or otherwise, arising from use of, or reliance on, the information and/or suggestions contained in this blog.

Abbie Taylor

Abbie has 3 loves: travel, the tiny bread rolls on planes and corgis. She has visited 23 countries and collected an embrassing tan line in each. When she isn't travelling, carb loading or corgi spotting, you can find her writing about everything and anything (so she can afford to travel more). @abbieisabelle13

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