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Simplify your spending abroad with a prepaid travel card, find a prepaid travel card, what is a prepaid travel card.

A  prepaid travel card , also known as a 'travel money card', is  a debit card that you preload with money  and take on holiday. It's a good way to stick to your holiday budget and avoid carrying a lot of cash. 

Prepaid travel cards  can be used at cashpoints, in shops and restaurants , or anywhere that accepts Mastercard or Visa debit or credit cards.

However, a prepaid travel card is  not the same as a  credit card  for two key reasons:

You can only spend the amount you have put on the card; the pre-loaded limit prevents you overspending and getting into debt 

You can choose which currency to preload your travel money card with depending on where you're going, which often means you can secure a better exchange rate

Pick a card with fees that suit how you plan to use it, e.g. choose one with no withdrawal fees if you'll be withdrawing cash often while travelling.”

What are the different types of prepaid travel cards?

Multi-currency prepaid cards.

These can be loaded with several different currencies , making them ideal for both frequent travellers and those taking trips to multiple destinations. For example, you holiday in Europe but often visit the US on business, you could use a prepaid travel card to cover your everyday spending wherever you are by topping it up with say £600 then exchanging £200 into euros and £200 into US dollars. The different currencies will then be stored in separate “wallets” , allowing you to switch currencies when you like.

Sterling prepaid cards

These can be used at home and abroad , making them even more flexible than the best travel cards offering multiple currencies. You don’t need to worry about setting up a wallet for the currency you want to use; the card provider simply converts your pounds to the required currency each time you make a purchase . However, this can make holiday budgeting harder and may increase your costs, depending on the charging structure.

Euro prepaid cards

As well as multi-currency cards, you can take out prepaid cards designed to hold a specific currency . This can work out excellently if you're trying to lock in a good rate now by loading your euro prepaid card, but if you then use the card to buy things in a country that isn't in the eurozone. That's because if you spend in a country that does not use the euro, it converts to the local currency each time you make a purchase, which can work out more expensive.

Prepaid US dollar cards

These keep your balance in dollars . If you spend in countries that use a different currency, the card will exchange your dollars to the local currency, and you might well be charged a fee. The currency exchange takes place as soon as you load your card . If the pound strengthens afterwards, you won’t be getting the best value for money, but it if weakens you'll do well.

How to get a prepaid travel card

Compare cards.

Use our table below to find prepaid travel card that offers the features you need with the lowest fees

Check your eligibility

Make sure you fit the eligibility criteria for your chosen travel money card and can provide the required proof of ID

Apply for the card

Click 'view deal' below and fill out the application form on the provider's website with your personal details

What are the eligibility requirements?

Anyone can get a prepaid travel card. There's no need to have a bank account, and  no credit checks are required . Some providers have a minimum age of 18, but many will let you have a prepaid card from the age of 13 with parental consent. 

Sometimes parents like to use travel money cards to give their children a set amount of  holiday money , and to help teach them about budgeting and financial responsibility. 

Pros and Cons

What exchange rate do you get.

Exchange rates vary over time depending on what is happening in the wider economy. That means the exchange rate you get on a US dollar travel card today, for example, might not be the same as you get tomorrow or next week.

What prepaid cards offer is the ability to lock in today's rate to use later on. That could see you better off if the pound weakens, but might also mean you get a poor deal if the pound strengthens.

That offers is certainty - you'll know exactly how many dollars, euros, lira or whichever currency you load onto the card you have to spend on holiday.

Today’s best exchange rates

At what point is the currency exchanged with prepaid travel cards.

Some prepaid travel cards hold the balance in pounds sterling. These convert the required amount to the local currency every time you spend on them .

The exchange rate isn’t fixed, so you’ll only know how many pounds you have on the card - not what it will buy you while overseas.

But the cards in our comparison table convert your money when you add it onto the card. This means you know the exchange rate used and your card's exact balance before you go away.

Compare the rates before you choose a prepaid card. Although rates can change several times a day, some travel cards will be more competitive than others.

Using a card with competitive exchange rates will mean you get more local currency for your pound.

You also need to watch out for fees as well as withdrawal limits when choosing a card, as these can vary between providers.

What are the alternatives to prepaid travel cards?

Travel credit card.

A travel credit card works just like a regular credit card, with which you can make purchases by borrowing money. The main difference is that travel credit cards don't charge foreign transaction fees for spending abroad. 

Travel money

For many people, cash is the most comfortable form of payment when travelling. It's hassle-free and universally accepted. But it’s riskier, as you'll lose out if it’s lost or stolen and you’ll need to budget carefully to ensure your foreign currency lasts the length of your trip. 

Travel debit card

These days, there are plenty of specialist banks and providers that offer bank accounts that don't charge foreign transaction fees when used abroad. This offers you a chance to take advantage of the best exchange rates. And if it's your main current account, you won't have to worry about topping up your account before you go.

What other costs or fees are there with prepaid travel cards?

As well as the exchange rate, you might have to pay several other charges on your prepaid travel card.

These could include:

A fee to buy the card

A monthly or annual fee for keeping the account open

Cash withdrawal fees

Transaction fees when you pay for anything on the card

Inactivity fees

Loading fees when you add money onto the card

Some cards also charge fees for withdrawing cash or making purchases inside the UK .

But some of the cards in this comparison do not charge fees in countries that use currencies loaded on the card - just make sure the right one is selected before spending on them.

Check carefully for fees before you pick one.

Read our full guide on how much it costs to use a travel prepaid card and how to choose one .

"With multi-currency cards, check you've selected the right currency before you arrive."

How long does it take to get a prepaid travel card?

You can apply online and get a decision immediately. However, it can take up to two weeks before your card arrives in the post.

Can I use any prepaid card abroad?

Yes, you can use prepaid Visa or Mastercard cards in most destinations worldwide.  Travel prepaid cards  are usually cheaper to use overseas than a standard credit or debit card. 

Can I withdraw cash abroad?

Yes, you can use a travel money card in a cash machine outside the UK. Some cards  charge fees  for this, so always check if you want to use your prepaid travel card to make cash withdrawals.

What currencies can my card hold?

All the travel money cards in our comparison can hold a balance in popular currencies such as euros or dollars, while some support more than 50 different currencies.

Can I make international payments?

Yes, some providers let you send or receive money from abroad by logging into your online account, which works in the same way as standard internet banking.

Who sets the exchange rate?

This depends on the company that processes the transactions. Typically, it’s down to  Visa or Mastercard , as well as your card provider, which may take an additional cut.

Can I use my prepaid card in the UK?

You can use prepaid cards to withdraw cash or buy things in the UK or online. However, you may pay fees or even an exchange rate if your card is loaded with a foreign currency.

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Best Prepaid Travel Cards

Explore the best prepaid travel money cards.

Matt Crabtree

Rebecca Goodman

Prepaid travel cards have various names, such as travel money cards or multi-currency prepaid cards, but they all work in the same way to make spending abroad easier.

Using your debit card or usual bank account on holiday can accrue fees, and spending more than you have may be tempting, like dipping into your overdraft or savings accounts.

With a prepaid card, you can stick to your budget and be aware of all the fees involved before spending.

In this article, I'll discuss everything you need to know about prepaid cards to use when you're abroad, and I've picked a list of the best prepaid travel cards on the market to help you decide.

What are multi-currency prepaid cards?

A prepaid card works much like a debit card in terms of how you use it to make purchases and withdraw cash from an ATM. The only difference is that a prepaid card isn't attached to a bank account; you must top it up to use it.

Anyone can sign up for a prepaid card and use it for travelling. There are no credit checks, so even if you’ve got a history of bad credit, you can still apply for a prepaid travel card.

A prepaid multi-currency card is like a gift card in the same way you top it up and use it. With multi-currency prepaid cards, you use them as an alternative to carrying cash or traveller's cheques when travelling . You top the card up in the currency of your choice and then use it as you need it.

You can top-up prepaid cards on the go, usually by an app, and you can use them in most places worldwide. You’ll have to check with your prepaid card provider to see what currencies you can use on the card and where you can use it.

The pros and cons

Like any financial product, there are benefits and drawbacks to using a prepaid card.

✔️ Budgeting: You can preload all of your spending money on the card, and as you can only spend what's there, it's much easier to stick with a budget and not overspend.

✔️ Safer than cash : If you lose your prepaid card, or if it's stolen, you can get a replacement card sent to you. A prepaid card isn’t attached to a bank account , so you don’t have to worry too much about anyone potentially accessing your everyday banking.

✔️ No foreign exchange fees: Most travel money cards are made for spending abroad, so there are usually no foreign exchange fees.

✔️ Accepted in most places: Most countries accept prepaid cards. Double-check with your prepaid card provider if your card is accepted before you fly out to your destination.

✔️ Different foreign currency: You can spend money in your chosen currency.

✔️ Top-up on the go: Most prepaid cards have an app that allows you to add money, exchange multiple currencies and view transaction history in one place.

✔️ Good credit not required: Anyone can apply and use a prepaid multi-currency card and there are no credit checks .

❌️ Fees to cash withdrawals: Some prepaid cards charge you for cash withdrawals.

❌️ Other fees: Fees will vary between prepaid card providers, but there may be administration fees, monthly charges or other additional fees.

❌️ Limits: Some travel prepaid cards limit how much money you can hold on your prepaid card, and some cards have a minimum amount to deposit to use the card.

Best prepaid travel cards

Here are the best prepaid travel money cards:

1. Wise: Digital and physical cards available

• Application fees: One-time fee of £7
• Conversion Fees: Fixed fee + 1.75% after free allowance
• Minimum loading amount: No limit
• Cash withdrawal fee: Fee-free cash withdrawals up to £200 monthly

With the Wise Travel Money Card, you can use it straight away as a digital card.

If you want a physical card, there is a £7 delivery fee, but you can use a digital card instantly with Google Pay or Apple Pay. You can create up to three free digital cards.

With the mid-market rate, you can top up your currency card from the Wise app . On the app, you can check your balance and transactions and receive spending notifications to see how much you spend to help you stay within your budget.

You can manage your Wise account from the mobile app or their website. You can exchange money for over 40 other currencies in real time. If you have leftover money from your holiday or your plans have changed, you can spend the money at home in the UK with a small conversion fee.

You can use your currency card to withdraw cash from over 3 million ATMs worldwide. You can use your currency card in more than 160 countries. The Wise prepaid travel money card is eco-friendly, biodegradable, reloadable, and has no subscription fee. There are no fees if you choose not to use the Wise travel card. 

2. Asda Money Travel Money Card: Apply online or in store

• Application fees: None
• Conversion Fees: 5.75%
• Minimum loading amount: £50
• Cash withdrawal fee: Fee-free

You can apply for an Asda Money Travel Money Card online or in-store.

You can load up to 15 currencies and use your card contactless worldwide. You don't have to worry about cash withdrawal fees when you use this prepaid currency card; you can manage it on the go with the app. You can exchange 16 currencies with a fixed conversion fee.

You can top up via the app, online, or over the phone. You can top up while abroad, so you don't have to worry about running short of money. There are no fees when you spend in a currency preloaded to your card.

There is a £2 inactivity fee per month after 12 months. With this card, you can withdraw £500 a day, but the maximum it can hold is £5,000. This card has no link to your bank account for fraud protection.

Asda Travel Money Card is issued by PrePay Technologies Limited pursuant to a licence by Mastercard International. The Financial Conduct Authority authorises PrePay Technologies Limited under the Electronic Money Regulations 2011 .

3. Caxton Currency Card: Up to £12,000 on a card

• Conversion Fees: Live exchange rates
• Minimum loading amount: £10
• Cash withdrawal fee: Fee-free abroad, £1.50 for domestic ATM withdrawals and transactions

The daily cash withdrawal limit for the Caxton Currency Card is £300, and you can hold up to £12,000 on the prepaid card.

When you use this currency card abroad, you can make purchases fee-free with no worries. You can convert your money into 15 currencies with live exchange rates and hold multiple simultaneously.

You can use your Caxton prepaid card anywhere that accepts Mastercard; watch for the Mastercard Acceptance Mark. You can manage your finances from the mobile app as it allows you to check your card balance, top up, and block the card if you misplace it.

Caxton offers customer service that is live 24/7 to help with any of your issues or concerns. Caxton also runs an international trading online platform.

4. Easy FX Currency Card: Fee-free international cash withdrawals

• Conversion Fees: Exchange rate plus 1.8% for up to £1,000
• Cash withdrawal fee: International cash withdrawals are free

There are zero international fees when you use the EasyFX Personal Currency Card.

There is a £1.50 withdrawal fee for using a cash machine in the UK. You can benefit from highly competitive exchange rates and store multiple currencies on one account.

There are conversion fees with this currency card. However, the more money you convert, the lower the cost. You'll pay 1.8% on top of the exchange rate for conversion up to £1,000. The conversion fee lowers to 1.2% for up to £4,000.

As well as a currency card, you'll gain access to risk management tools provided by VFX Financial. You can manage your balances in real time on any device using the smart app or EasyFx website. If you don't use your card for 12 months, you'll be charged £2 monthly for inactivity.

5. Travelex Money Card: Use in millions of locations

• Application fees: One-time fee of £15
• Minimum loading amount: £50 in person and £100 online
• Cash withdrawal fee: None

The Travelex Travel Money Card allows you to use your card across millions of locations that accept Mastercard Prepaid. Look for the Mastercard International Incorporated logo when you're travelling, and you can use the Travelex Travel Money Card at those locations.

With the Travelex Money Card, you'll get free WiFi worldwide without worrying about roaming fees. There are no charges for withdrawing cash from an ATM overseas. You can exchange GBP into 15 other currencies with fixed exchange rates.

There is a monthly £2 inactivity fee. There is currently a giveaway running with Mastercard that's open until 30 September, where all you need to do is load £220 or more onto a Travelex Money Card. You'll enter into a prize draw to win a dream holiday.

6. Post Office Travel Money Card: No fee for spending abroad

• Cash withdrawal fee: Fees vary between locations

Carry up to 22 currencies with the Post Office Travel Money Card. Wherever you see the Mastercard Acceptance Mark , you can use this travel money card, including millions of shops, restaurants, and bars in over 200 countries.

There are cross-border fees of 3% when you use your currency in other countries than what the Post Office offers. There is also a load commission fee of 1.5%.

Use the Post Office accessible Travel app to top up, manage your prepaid card, transfer funds between currencies and more. You can connect your prepaid card to Apple Pay and Google Pay. If you return from your holiday with money left on your card in another currency, you can use the wallet-to-wallet feature and transfer it to a new currency you choose.

7. Sainsbury's Bank Prepaid Travel Money Card: Lower exchange rate for Nectar cardholders

You may get better exchange rates than a non-card holder if you're a Nectar cardholder and want to apply for Sainsbury's Prepaid Travel Money Card. If you hold a Nectar card, you can earn 500 bonus Nectar points when you load at least £250 onto your travel money card.

You can load money onto your card in 15 currencies at once. You can use your prepaid travel card to make purchases worldwide and withdraw cash without worrying about ATM fees.

You can check out all your transactions and load money onto the card with the Sainsbury's Bank travel money card app. There is no direct link to the prepaid card to your bank account, so you don't have to worry about security.

There is a 2% fee for loads and reloading into GBP purses. Additionally, if you don't use your card for 18 months, you may be charged a £2 inactivity fee.

8. FairFX Prepaid Card: Earn cashback in select retailers

• Application fees: Free
• Conversion Fees: 1.12%
• Cash withdrawal fee: £2 flat rate + 3.75% of the transaction amount

The FairFX Prepaid Card holds 20 major currencies, including GBP, Euros, US dollar, Japanese yen, Australian dollar, and more.

You can use this free multi-currency card in over 190 countries worldwide. You can top up on the go, either before you travel or whilst you're travelling.

Travel smarter with FairFX; when you become a customer, you can access offers and deals from partners to help your money take you further, for example, discounts on lounge access and more. You can earn 3.5% cashback in-store or online at select UK retailers.

If your car expires with a leftover balance, there will be a monthly £2 charge. Card renewal is free so that you can avoid expiration. There are no subscription fees or monthly fees.

Tips for looking after your money as you travel

Money is a massive element of travelling; it pays for your trips, food, and all the fun activities you get up to. A prepaid currency card can make your journey much more accessible.

We've compiled a list of further tips to help manage your finances a little more easily while you travel:

• Check the expiry date on the card: For any cards you take with you on your travels, ensure they're within the expiry date. Otherwise, you may be stuck without access to money. If your cards are close to expiring, consider contacting your provider and getting a new one sent out before you fly out.
• Travel insurance: Always travel with travel insurance to protect yourself and your belongings. Travel insurance can cover your medical costs if you become ill or have an accident.
• Check exchange rate: If you choose a prepaid card provider that uses live exchange rates, keep an eye on the exchange rates at specific types of the day.
• Top up your card online: If you're running low on holiday money, choose a prepaid travel card that allows you to top up online to add money to the card quickly.
• Check foreign exchange fee: Most prepaid travel cards offer minimum foreign exchange fees, but always check with the card provider for potential fees before you travel.
• Have card provider details at hand: If any issues occur, you should have the contact number or support team access to contact prepaid providers. If your card is stolen or you find fraudulent transactions on it, contact your provider, and it's worth alerting local police, too.

The verdict

A prepaid card is the ideal companion if you're someone who travels regularly and wants to be on control of tour cash.

They allow you to stay within budget, control your account from an app on your phone, and spend abroad without worrying too much about fees. With one of the prepaid currency cards from our best list, you can spend abroad securely and confidently.

Related Guides:

• 7 Cheapest Ways to Spend Money Abroad
• Best Avios Credit Cards
• Best Air Miles Credit Cards
• What Is Holiday Let Insurance?

Is it Worth Getting a Prepaid Travel Card?

Using your debit card or usual bank account can accrue many travelling fees. With a prepaid card, you can stick to your budget with no credit options available and know all the fees involved before spending. You can spend without worrying about security, as your prepaid card has no direct link to your bank accounts. Prepaid cards are safer than cash and are accepted in most places. You can spend money in your chosen currency and top up on the go.

How Does a Prepaid Card Work?

You can top-up prepaid cards on the go, usually by an app, and you can use it in most places worldwide. It works similarly to a debit card, like how you use it to spend, but a prepaid card isn’t attached to a bank account, and anyone can use one.

What is the Best Travel Money Card?

The Wise Travel Money Card is at the top of our best travel money card list. There is no minimum loading fee; you make free monthly cash withdrawals of up to £200. While waiting for your card to be delivered, you can use your balance immediately as a digital card with Google Pay or Apple Pay. You can create up to three free digital cards. You can use your currency card to withdraw cash from over 3 million ATMs worldwide.

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Compare Best Prepaid Travel Money Card

Compare travel money card and travel like a pro.

• Travel Budgeting
• Security of your holiday cash abroad
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Who offers the best travel money card?

Compare Prepaid Euro Travel Money Cards

Compared Prepaid US Dollar Travel Money Cards

Compare Prepaid Travel Money Cards

Other popular currencies.

• Australian Dollar Card
• Canadian Dollar Card
• New Zealand Dollar Card
• South Africa Rand Card
• Swiss Franc Card

What is a travel money card?

For most people that go overseas, using your normal debit or credit card frequently on holiday comes as second nature. Perhaps you leisurely whip out the card to buy a round of drinks, buy lunch for the family or use your plastic at a favourite local restaurant. Unfortunately, you are more than likely being ripped off on a daily basis with the high costs associated with using your debit and credit card abroad!

Fortunately, your new best friend abroad maybe a specialist travel money card.

This type of plastic is a free to obtain prepaid currency card that is pre-loaded with foreign currency prior to your departure. Most offer free ATM cash withdrawals overseas and specialist travel money cards alleviate the need for any currency conversion to take place. It works in a very similar way to your standard UK Visa or Mastercard debit card. Without the hefty overseas card charges!

Effectively, the travel money card eliminates the totally unnecessary complex series of fees and charges you may encounter when taking cash out or paying for goods with your everyday debit or credit card.

In a nutshell, we have found the best prepaid currency cards as an excellent way to budget your trip, so you know exactly how much you have to spend abroad. The best card issuers listed on our travel money card comparison tables charge no overseas ATM withdrawal fees for using the card.

Budget like a pro

We all know that spending money abroad feels like play money.

One of the best benefits of a prepaid travel money cards is that they help you stick to a holiday budget. However, if you need cash fast when your abroad and running low on funds, be sure to carry some cash too. Otherwise, you will need to reload the currency card.

PrePaid cards are a secure and safe way of carrying cash abroad

One of the best advantages of prepaid currency cards versus foreign cash is that if you lose your card, you can have it replaced for a small fee. On the other hand, if you lose foreign cash in the back of a Spanish taxi, you can say 'Arivaderchi.'

How much cheaper is it to get a travel money card

Research shows the cheapest travel currency cards can save you up to 10% on buying holiday money at the airport & 5% on the cost of using UK debit and credit cards abroad.

The cheapest currency cards on the market will let you take advantage of better currency exchange rates than you would likely obtain from the high street or (heaven forbid!) airport bureaus. Airports are the world’s worst place to convert currency.

As previously mentioned, you also alleviate the complex set of fees and charges your bank will take for the convenience of using your everyday card abroad. If you use your normal credit card when taking cash out of the wall, you will have to pay interest immediately, which accentuates the costs. In most cases, when using a travel currency card there are no ATM fees for drawing money out the wall and are often the safest option when travelling.

In short, for the benefits listed below, we recommend using a pre-paid travel currency card when holidaying abroad or making a business trip.

What are the benefits of a pre paid travel money card?

Explain to me in simple terms: how travel money cards work.

• Check website for any additional in-destination fees (good housekeeping)
• Compare providers & apply for the card
• You need to make an initial first load on your new prepaid currency card
• Lock in exchange rates as soon as you load your card
• Travel money card can then be used anywhere you see a Mastercard OR Visa sign
• Use in shops or ATM’s abroad fee free to withdraw cash as you would your regular UK debit card.
• Check your balance either online, SMS or via telephone

Add more currency to your card via SMS, Online OR Telephone. Be aware of the cost of overseas calls if you top up over the phone

What prepaid travel money card is right for me?

Below, we compare travel money cards and highlight some top picks that include no spending or load fees.

It's important to remember that depending on the destination you are travelling to, you can take advantage of currency specific cards that will help you save on overseas charges.

For a more extensive comparison, check out our specialist comparison tables for: Euro Currency Cards , Dollar Currency Cards , Worldwide Currency Cards

Our Recommendation

Prepaid card comparison: best load rates or free cost of card.

You can dynamically compare rates using our prepaid travel card calculator here. We screen scrape the live exchange rates offered for all major euro and dollar currency card providers.

This is a question we are asked most often. The cheapest travel money card is not necessarily the provider who offers the currency card free of charge OR even the card that offers the best initial load rate. Consider both the purchase cost of the card together with the ‘in destination’ costs when comparing travel cards. Trying to compare prepaid currency cards on an ‘apples by apples’ basis can be difficult.

Loading your travel money card operates in a similar way to buying foreign cash online. The travel currency card exchange rates on both the Euro and Dollar specific cards will be determined on the initial load. Once you have loaded your card with foreign currency, try not to worry too much about whether the pound strengthens or weakens. Even the best traders are not able to forecast future currency fluctuations!

Who typically uses a prepaid currency card?

Holiday With Family or Friends

Whether your travelling to Spain, France or Australia you can save a fortune with superior exchange rates. Youll get more bang for your buck with a prepaid card versus using your standard UK debit or credit card abroad.

Business Travel

Business usage of currency cards is perfect to track both your and your team’s expenses abroad. You get all the benefits of your standard plastic without the unnecessary transaction costs of your standard Visa & Mastercard. This is a particular favourite of Finance Directors from small start-ups to large corporates who can manage controlled usage of spending money overseas. With most currency card programs, you don’t need to log expenses as these are detailed online in your usage reports.

Regular Travellers

The best currency cards are valid for three years so once you have applied, you can simply top up before you go abroad. This makes prepaid currency cards perfect for overseas property buyers, expats and worldwide travellers. With millions of Visa & Mastercard ATM’s worldwide, it alleviates the need to store cash every time you travel in your hotel or apartment.

Students & Backpackers

We’ve covered the budgeting benefits & boy do backpackers need to stick to a budget! This makes prepaid currency cards perfect for those 3, 6 or 12 month stints abroad. And what’s more, once your money has maxed out on the card, you can always call the bank of mum and dad to help out with a small top up to keep you going.

Pre Paid Travel Cards are issued by Visa and Mastercard

The prepaid currency card you end up choosing will either be a Visa travel money card or Mastercard issued. You can use your prepaid travel card to withdraw cash worldwide from any ATM that displays either Visa or Mastercard.

Are there more Visa or Mastercard ATM’s worldwide?

Mastercard have over one million ATM’s in over 210 countries. You can check on their website using the Mastercard Global ATM locator tool. Likewise, Visa offer a Visa Global ATM locator service for their 1.8 million ATM’s worldwide and it is recommended to use both to ensure you are never too far away from an ATM when using your prepaid visa card or prepaid mastercard abroad.

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WOWCOMPARE® – Travel Money Cards, what’s the best currency card for you

Travel money cards or foreign currency cards help you save money on holiday by providing better exchange rates and eliminating fees, including: individual transaction fees, individual currency conversion fees and ATM cash machine fees.

Why use a travel money card?

Compared to regular credit or debit bank cards, travel money cards provide a great way to buy and spend foreign currency when you’re travelling or on holiday. Travel money cards help you save money in two ways:

1. Most travel money cards offer better foreign exchange rates compared to using  standard debit or credit cards.

2. Travel money cards also prevent you incurring individual foreign transaction fees as they enable you to always pay in the local currency.

Travel money cards = Safer holiday money

Prepaid currency cards can be used worldwide in shops, bars, cafes, restaurants and for online purchases when abroad, they have become hugely popular and are considered a much safer option to changing up holiday money and having to carry large amounts of cash.

Most travel currency payment cards are compatible with Apple Pay & Google Pay, so you can store on your phone to enable cardless payments. Plus, having a saved version ‘backed-up’ on your phone is handy, just in case you loose the physical card.

4 Travel money card options

Travel money cards fall into four categories, this can be important when choosing the right travel money card for you:

Single-currency prepaid travel money cards

Are restricted to a single currency for example €EURO or $US. Currency can be topped up by bank transfer or using a credit or debit card. You can lock in an exchange rate when you top up, or when the exchange rates offer the better rates.

Cards are available from providers including: * Cashplus (eligibility requirement – you must have a Cashplus account in order to apply for a currency card).

Multi-currency prepaid travel money cards

Allow numerous currencies to be loaded on a single card, perfect if you plan to visit multiple destinations. A multi-currency card could have Pounds, Euros, Dollars and other world currencies all stored on a single card.

With a multi-currency card you can lock in rates by converting currencies when you load up. Alternatively you load up you card with your national currency and convert balances later via your app, when you choose e.g. when exchange rates are more favourable.

Multi-currency cards are available from providers including: Mastercard (Prepaid own brand card), WISE , Revolut , EasyFX, Travelex and others.

Bank account & card linked travel money cards

Bank account & card linked travel money cards are a new concept, they basically act as a payment bridge allowing you to pay with an existing bank account or payment card when abroad. The payments are made in the foreign currency with the currency exchange handled in the cloud, they eliminate foreign transaction fees and generally offer some of the best exchange rates (based on a spot rate at each transaction).

Examples of linked cards include Currensea card & Curve card .

NEW Crytpo and world currency cards

New crypto currency prepaid debit cards also allow you to load up and spend selected national ‘fiat’ currencies. They basically work in the same way as a Multi-currency card with smart technology and digital wallets to store and spend from separate currencies. Cards are available from providers including: Bitpanda, Wirex, Coinbase, Binance and others.

Check out some of UK’s most popular prepaid travel currency cards for ‘fee free’ spending.

Compare Travel Money Cards

Compare ‘prepaid’ travel money cards, ‘bank linked’ travel money cards & ‘card linked’ travel money cards. Choose a travel money card that works best for you.

✔  PRE-PAID multi-currency Mastercard or VISA (UK & EU) ✔ Supports 40+ currencies including: £GBP, $US, €EURO ✔ Top-up, electronic transfers & card management online or in app ✔ FREE loading via Bank Transfer ✔ Contactless payments Apple Pay / G Pay / Garmin Pay ✔ FCA & EEA Regulated 

• £7 CARD ISSUE FEE
• Standard card –  NO MONTHLY FEE
• Mid-market exchange rate
• NO instore /usage fees
• ATM withdrawals up to £200/$300 per month FOC, 1.75% fee on anything over

✔  PRE-PAID multi-currency Mastercard (UK & EU) ✔ Supports 9 currencies including: £GBP, $US, €EURO ✔ Top-up, electronic transfers & card management online or in app ✔ FREE loading via Bank Transfer ✔ Contactless payments Apple Pay / G Pay ✔ FCA & EEA Regulated 

• NO CARD ISSUE FREE (£5 delivery charge)
• FX exchange rate when loading / converting 
• ATM withdrawals FREE up to £200/$300 per month, 2% fee on anything above

REVOLUT CARD

✔  PRE-PAID multi-currency Mastercard (UK & EU) ✔ Supports 25+ currencies including: £GBP, $US, €EURO ✔ Top-up, electronic transfers & card management online or in app ✔ FREE loading via Bank Transfer ✔ Contactless payments Apple Pay / G Pay ✔ FCA & EEA Regulated 

• NO CARD ISSUE FREE (card delivery charge)
• Standard Card –  NO MONTHLY FEE Plus Card – £3.99 /mth  Premium Card – £7.99 /mth Metal Card – £14.99 /mth 
• FX exchange rate when loading/converting 
• ATM withdrawals FREE  £200/$300 per month, 2% fee on anything over 

✔  CARD LINKED multi-currency Mastercard (UK & EU) ✔ Supports 50+ currencies including: £GBP, $US, €EURO ✔ NO loading or top-ups required, link your Curve card to any or all of your debit/credit cards  ✔ Card management via app ✔ Contactless payments Apple Pay / G Pay ✔ FCA & EEA Regulated 

• £5 ISSUE FREE/ Card replacement fee
• Standard Card –  NO MONTHLY FEE Curve X – £5.99 /mth Curve Black – £9.99 /mth  
• FEE FREE FX exchange rate up to £250 / £500 per month 
• Exchange conversion at time of purchase
• ATM withdrawals FREE  £250 – £500 per month, 2% fee on anything over

CURRENSEA CARD

✔  BANK LINKED multi-currency Mastercard (UK & EU) ✔ Supports 160+ currencies including: £GBP, $US, €EURO ✔ NO loading or top-ups required, link your Currensea card to your bank account ✔ Card management via app ✔ Contactless payments Apple Pay / G Pay ✔ FCA & EEA Regulated 

• NO ISSUE FREE
• Standard card – NO MONTHLY FEE
• Interbank exchange rate / conversion at time of purchase
• ATM withdrawals FREE   up to £500 per month

TRAVELEX CARD

✔ PRE-PAID multi-currency Mastercard (UK & EU) ✔ Supports 22 currencies including: £GBP, $US, €EURO ✔ FREE Top-up electronic transfers & card management online or via app ✔ Card management via app ✔ Contactless payments Apple Pay / G Pay ✔ FCA & EEA Regulated 

• Travelex exchange rate
• ATM withdrawals FREE

(Source – WOWCOMPARE Travel money cards details updated April 2024)   Individual card details subject to change, see card provider t&c’s for full fees and prices.

Top Travel Money Tips

Avoid changing up cash at a bureaux de change.

Changing cash at bureaux de change, especially those located in airports and stations can result in charges anywhere from 2% – 15% in commission, rates and fees.

Don’t use regular bank cards unless they offer ‘fee free’ use abroad

Most bank debit & credit cards add foreign transaction fees, using regular bank cards could cost you anywhere between 1.5% and 4.25% per transaction.  Choose a card with low fees, or even better get a ‘fee free’ travel money card and save on fees.

Always remember to pay in the local currency

Never choose the option to pay in your own currency, especially if you are using a travel money card, you should always pay in the local currency.

Using ATMs to withdraw cash while on holiday can be expensive as most apply their own charges

It is important to bear in mind cash machines in many EU destinations apply a charge, even if your card provider offers ‘fee free’ cash withdrawals. In the EU ATM cash machines can apply charges anywhere from 1€ – 7€.

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Travel Money Cards FAQs

Pre-paid travel money cards are available from services including Post Office, FairFX & Travelx. New Fintech companies have launched travel money card alternatives, these include: Currensea, Revolut, Wirex & Wise.

Some new cryptocurrency accounts and payment cards also provide currency conversion and spending from foreign currency balances held in accounts.

Most cards can be applied for online and will be posted out to within a couple of days. Most providers issue free cards, although some card providers may charge a card issue fee &/or a delivery charge for new cards.

Pre-paid travel money cards are designed to hold at least one foreign currency, most cards have the ability to load and store multiple currencies this is handy if you do a lot of travelling and plan to visit countries with different national currencies.

New  bank linked and card linked cards do not store foreign currency, instead they provide a point of purchase currency conversion using a spot exchange rate for each purchase, they will then debit the corresponding amount in GBP from your linked card or bank account.

Exchange rates vary from card to card, most cards offer better rates of exchange than traditional bank cards and do not apply individual transaction fees when you use them.

Typically exchange rates will be either based on:

Loading rate of exchange – for most cards the rate of exchange is provided each time you go to load money onto your travel money card. You choose your desired foreign currency, how much you want to buy or the value of your home currency you want to convert. You get a quote providing the exchange rate, any charges applied and the amount of foreign currency you will receive on your card.

POP (point of purchase) conversion rate of exchange  – newer cards like Currensea & Curve work a little differently. These cards work like a bridge, Currensea card can be linked to a bank account of your choice, Curve card can be linked to some or all of your debit and credit cards. 

When you use Currensea or Curve cards they use POP currency conversion in real time, the equivalent in GBP pounds will be debited from your linked bank account if you have a Currensea card or your chosen debit or credit card if you have a Curve card. Either way you pay no conversion fees the Currensea or Curve card handles the exchange for you, allowing you to pay in your destination currency each time.

Currensea card & Curve card provide a relatively new way of spending abroad, many customers appear to like these new innovative services, giving them 4.8 & 4.3 Trustpilot ratings.

Travel money cards are either Visa or Mastercard and are accepted in millions of places around the world. Travel money cards allow you to pay like a local in the local currency.

Travel money cards allow you to pay for goods and services in the correct currency (e.g. Euro in Europe or Dollars in the USA). No conversion fees or usage fees should apply as you are able to pay in the correct local currency.

YES – Travel money cards allow cash withdrawals from most cash machines.  

It is worth checking t&cs for cards, some do charge a small fee for cash withdrawals, or limit the amounts you can withdraw free of charge.

Also some ATMs apply their own fees, if fees are being applied you should be notified before you commit or agree to make a withdrawal (fee’s should not be applied without your knowledge).

Prepaid Travel Money Cards

Prepaid cards are designed to be loaded up with foreign currency, they are basically work like a digital wallet. A prepaid travel money card allows you to buy foreign currencies (usually at competitive rates of exchange), to store and spend the currency just as you would using a regular debit card with zero transaction fees as you are able to pay in the currency of your destination.  Prepaid cards can be ‘topped up’ or ‘loaded’ in advance or as needed.

Bank/Card Linked Travel Money Cards

Bank and card linked travel money cards are a relatively new concept, they basically act as a currency exchange bridge and allow you to spend in a foreign currency with zero transaction fees. What they do is link to a designated bank account or card and debit from the linked account as you spend using your travel card.

Currensea  is a bank linked card, you can use Currensea card when abroad to pay in your locations currency. Currensea pays in the currency of your destination therefore eliminating individual foreign transaction fee’s, and the corresponding amount in £’s is debited from your linked bank account

Curve  works in a similar way and allows you to link chosen bank cards and credit cards to your Curve account & card. Once linked you can use your Curve card to spend from linked cards while abroad. Curve uses a wholesale currency exchange rate for each transaction, Curve pays in the currency of your destination therefore eliminating individual foreign transaction fee’s, and the corresponding amount in £’s is debited from any one of your chosen linked cards.

Travel money cards are a great choice for many people, however not all cards are the same and it is important to consider which are the best cards for your travel and foreign currency needs.

Key things to look out for when choosing a travel money card are:

Ongoing administration fees:  Does the card have an ongoing monthly/annual admin fee? Whilst most prepaid travel money cards have zero transaction fees. Other fees may apply, including annual or monthly subscription fees, this is often for premium cards which usually offer more incentives and better exchange rates. Some services also charge fees for low use or dormant cards (typically after 12 months of zero use).

Load Charges:  Loading foreign currency onto your card may incur a loading fee each time. Card providers often also make a small percentage on currency exchange (fees and exchange rates should be clearly stated when you load up your card so you know exactly how much foreign currency you are getting at the time of conversion/loading).

Transaction / card use fees:  Individual transaction fees in shops and restaurants should be zero as a travel money card allows you to pay in your destinations currency. Always remember to select to pay in the currency of your destination if you are offered more than one option (make sure you have a balance in the correct currency (i.e. pay in Euro in Europe or $US in USA).

Be aware exchange rates and card usage fees are subject to the individual T&Cs of each travel money card provider.  

Full details including terms, conditions & fees are provided on individual travel card provider websites. Please ensure you are aware of and happy with everything prior to signing up for a travel money card.

WIREX offers you more than just a currency card, check out our cryptocurrency trading guide to see how you can buy cryptocurrencies, sell cryptocurrencies & spend cryptocurrencies in shops and online with a Wirex account and currency card.

Plus earn Cryptoback™ in Wirex Token (WXT) each time you spend on your Wirex card.

Help friends and family save with a travel money card – share this page!

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Here Are the Four Best Travel Money Cards in 2024

François Briod

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

Jarrod Suda

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Cards (And More!) at a Glance

Best travel money cards.

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

Revolut: Best All-Rounder

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

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

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

Here's an overview of Revolut's plans:

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

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

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

N26: Good Bank For EU Travellers

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wise: Best For Multi-Currency Balances

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

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

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

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

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

Chase: Great UK Bank For Travel

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

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

Chime: Great Account For US Travelers

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

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

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

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

Best Travel Money Cards in 2024 Compared by Country

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

Last updated: 8 January 2024

What's The Best Prepaid Card to Use Abroad?

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

What is a Multi-Currency Card?

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

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

Wise Account

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

Read our full review for more details.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top Travel Money Tips

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

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

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

Best Travel Money Card Tips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tip 2: Always Choose To Pay In the Local Currency

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

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

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

What is a Dynamic Currency Conversion?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Need Foreign Cash Anyway?

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

1. Withraw at an ATM

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

2. Buy Banknotes (at a Reasonable Rate!)

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

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

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

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

FAQ About the Best Travel Money Cards

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The 6 Best Travel Money Cards for Travelling Overseas 2024

If you’re planning on travelling overseas, getting a travel money card can help you cut the costs usually involved in spending foreign currencies.

Travel money cards can include travel debit, prepaid and credit cards, which each work slightly differently, but which all come with features optimised for reducing the costs of spending and withdrawing cash overseas. This guide covers everything there is to know about the different travel card categories, plus we’ll introduce 6 of our top travel card picks so you can see if any suit you.

Wise - our pick for travel debit card when travelling overseas

Wise accounts 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 GBP and switch to the currency of your choice before you travel. All currency conversion uses the mid-market exchange rate, with low fees from 0.41%. Here are some of the pros and cons of the Wise travel money debit card, to help you decide if it’s right for you.

Hold and exchange 40+ currencies

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 fees and no interest to pay

7 GBP delivery fee

No option to earn points or rewards

Click here to read a full Wise review

What is a travel money card?

Travel money cards work much like any other credit or debit card you might have, but are designed to be easy to use when you’re overseas or spending in a foreign currency. You’ll be able to use a travel money card to spend and make ATM withdrawals while you’re travelling abroad, or when you shop online with foreign retailers. Most cards have contactless technology and can also be added to a wallet like Apple Pay for mobile spending, too.

The features you get with a travel money card can vary a lot, but you’ll often find you can hold a balance in multiple currencies, pay low or no foreign transaction fees, or earn cash back and rewards overseas.

What are different types of travel cards?

Travel cards can broadly be split into the following categories. We’ll walk through the features and benefits of each in a moment:

Travel debit cards

Travel prepaid cards

Travel credit cards

Quick summary: Best travel cards for travelling overseas

UK customers can pick from a good selection of different travel card types and providers. This guide includes an overview and in detail reviews of 2 of our favourites from each travel card category to help you choose. Here’s what we’ll be looking at:

Wise travel debit card : Hold 40+ currencies with no ongoing fees, and spend with the mid-market exchange rate with no foreign transaction fee and low conversion costs from 0.43%

Revolut travel debit card : Hold 25+ currencies in one of 4 different plan types, including some with no monthly fee, and some which come with ongoing costs but which unlock more benefits and no fee transactions

Post Office travel money card : Hold 22 currencies, with no fee to spend a currency you hold - 3% fee applies if you don’t have the currency required in your account

Monese travel money card : Hold a balance in GBP, then spend in foreign currencies with no fees, up to your plan’s limit. Different plans on offer, including Simple which has no ongoing fees to pay

Barclays Rewards Visa travel credit card: Spend with the Visa exchange rate, and earn 0.25% cash back, with no foreign transaction fee and no cash advance fee. Interest and penalties can apply

Halifax Clarity Mastercard travel credit card: No foreign transaction fee, no annual fee, and no cash advance fee if you withdraw money at an ATM. Variable interest and penalties can apply

Travel money cards for travelling overseas compared

Here’s a brief comparison of all the cards we’ve picked out - in a moment we’ll also look at each card in more detail.

The good news is that you’ve got lots of different travel cards available in the UK, from specialist providers, banks and card issuers. The right one for you will depend a lot on the way you like to manage your money - but by doing a bit of research you’ll be able to find a good match for your preferences, even travel cards with no foreign transaction fees .

Generally, travel debit cards can be cheap and flexible, but you’ll need to have your travel money saved in advance, so you can top up your account. Credit cards have the advantage that you can spend now and repay later - but are usually more expensive overall between interest and fees. This guide walks through some key points about each of these travel money card types, and proposes a couple of options you might want to check out and compare.

Travel Debit Cards for travelling overseas

Travel debit cards can be ordered online from specialist providers, and are usually linked to a digital multi-currency account. Add money to your account in GBP and then you can either convert to the currency you need in your destination if the card supports it, or just leave your money in pounds so the card’s autoconvert technology can do the conversion for you at the point of payment.

Travel debit cards are generally cheap, secure and reliable, but the exact range of supported currencies, and the way the card fee structure works, can vary a bit depending on the provider you select.

Travel debit card option 1: Wise

There’s no fee to open a personal Wise account , but you’ll pay a one time card order fee of 7 GBP. After that there’s no minimum balance and no monthly charge. Wise accounts can support 40+ currencies for holding and exchange, with low fees from 0.43% when you convert currencies, and transparent ATM fees when you exhaust the monthly free transactions available with your account. If the Wise card can’t support the currency you need to spend in your destination, you can just leave your money in pounds and the card will convert for you at the point of payment.

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

7 GBP one time fee to get your Wise card

2 withdrawals, to 200 GBP value per month for free, then 0.5 GBP + 1.75%

Hold 40+ currencies, convert between them with the mid-market rate

Get local account details to receive GBP, NZD, EUR, USD and a selection of other major currencies conveniently

Travel debit card option 2: Revolut

Revolut has a selection of different account tiers for personal customers in the UK, from Standard plans with no monthly fee, to the top end Ultra plan which has a 45 GBP/month fee and comes with loads of perks including a fancy platinum plated card. You can hold around 25 currencies, and convert currencies with the mid-market rate to your plan’s allowance. The higher account tiers also come with extras like various different forms of complimentary insurance, discounts, cash back opportunities and travel benefits. If the currency you need can’t be held as a balance in your Revolut account you can still use your card to pay - just let the card do the conversion for you with the live rate at the time you transact, plus any applicable fair usage fee.

No monthly fee for a Standard Revolut account, or upgrade to one of 4 different account plans which have monthly fees running from 3.99 GBP/month to 45 GBP/month

All accounts have some no fee weekday currency conversion with fair usage fees after that which are 1% for Standard plan holders

Standard plan holders can withdraw 200 GBP overseas per month for free

Hold around 25 currencies

Pros and cons of using debit travel cards when travelling overseas

How much does a travel debit card cost.

Travel debit cards are usually free or cheap to order, and often offer low or no cost currency conversion.

To give an example - Wise has a one time fee to get your card, but then no monthly charges or minimum balance requirements. Currency conversion uses the mid-market exchange rate with low fees from 0.43%. Revolut has 4 different account plans, including one with no ongoing charges, or several different account options with a monthly fee in exchange for extra perks and benefits. Each account has some no-fee currency exchange, but fair usage fees of 0.5% - 1% apply if you exceed your allowance.

How to choose the best travel debit card for travelling overseas?

There’s no single best travel debit card for travelling overseas, the right one for you will depend a lot on the way you prefer to transact and manage your money.

The key things to consider include whether you’re happy to pay a monthly fee for a card or would prefer to have an option with no ongoing fees for occasional use. You’ll also want to look at the transaction costs you’ll need to pay, and what exchange rate is applied when converting currencies.

If you’re struggling to decide whether a travel debit card suits you, the Wise card and the Standard Revolut card both offer no ongoing costs, so are a fairly low risk and low commitment way to test out your options.

Is there a spending limit with a travel debit card when travelling overseas?  

You’ll probably find there’s a spending limit for your travel debit card. However, this limit can vary quite significantly, depending on the provider you pick. You can also usually adjust your spending limits for security in the provider’s app which means you can set the limit you’re comfortable with.

For the providers mentioned above, Revolut UK travel debit card holders have some spending caps based on merchant and transaction type. This applies to things like sending money to others, buying travellers cheques or money orders, and betting. Wise caps monthly card spending at 30,000 GBP but you can also move your limit lower if you’d like to, for security reasons.

ATM withdrawals

ATM withdrawals with a travel debit card are also likely to be subject to limits. Revolut applies a 3,000 GBP limit based on any given 24 hour period. Wise ATM withdrawal limits are 4,000 GBP per month. Both providers allow you to make some no fee ATM withdrawals monthly, but the exact amount you can withdraw will depend on your account type.

Prepaid Travel Cards for travelling overseas

[Prepaid travel cards] ( https://exiap.co.uk/guides/best-prepaid-travel-cards ) work in a similar way to travel debit cards, but may have slightly different features and charging structures. The way prepaid travel cards work varies - for example, with the Post Office Travel Money Card, you can collect your card in person at a branch and add any of 22 currencies to it for spending and withdrawals.

The Monese Travel Money Card only lets you hold GBP, EUR and RON, but allows you to spend in foreign currencies with no fees up to a limit specified in your account plan. This range of different functionalities means you can pick the card that works best for your specific needs.

Prepaid travel card option 1: Post Office Travel Money Card

You can order a Post Office Travel Money Card online or pick one up in person at a branch as long as you have a valid ID on you. You’ll be able to top up and hold in 22 currencies, although bear in mind a fee applies if you add money in GBP. There’s no fee to add foreign currencies. The exchange rate used when you top up or convert may include a markup, but once you hold a currency balance in your account you can spend it with no further charges.

22 currencies are supported for holding and exchange

No fee to spend a currency you hold on your card

3% cross border fee if you spend in an unsupported currency

Small ATM withdrawal fee which varies by currency withdrawn, about the equivalent of 1.5 GBP per withdrawal

Manage your account and card from the Post Office travel money app

Prepaid travel card option 2: Monese Travel Money Card

Monese offers several different account plans which come with linked cards you can use while overseas. Depending on the plan you pick you’ll get some free international spending and some free ATM withdrawals. Simple account plans have no monthly fees, but are more limited in terms of no-fee transactions compared to the other account tiers.

Pick the account plan that suits your needs, including a Simple plan with no monthly costs and some plans which do have a fee to pay every month

Accounts offered in GBP, EUR and RON

Simple account plan holders can spend up to 2,000 GBP a month in foreign currencies with no fees - other account plans have unlimited overseas spending with no extra fees

All accounts have some fee free ATM withdrawals every month, with variable limits based on account plan

Virtual cards available

Pros and cons of using prepaid travel cards when travelling overseas

How much does a prepaid card cost.

A prepaid travel card could help you save money compared to using a bank debit or credit card when you travel abroad, but the chances are there will still be a few fees to pay. That could be ongoing monthly fees, currency conversion charges, or fees when you top up, particularly if you top up in cash. Weighing up a few different prepaid travel cards is the only way to decide which is the best value for your particular needs.

How to choose the best travel prepaid card for travelling overseas?

The best prepaid travel card for travelling overseas depends on your spending patterns. The Post Office Travel Money Card has the advantage that you can convert your money to the currency you need in your destination and see your budget instantly. However if you don’t do this, you might end up paying a 3% fee. Monese has different plan types, so has the flexibility to allow you to pick the one you want - but you can’t hold a foreign currency balance aside from RON and EUR.

Prepaid travel card spending limit

The Post Office travel card lets you top up to 5,000 GBP at a time, with the maximum balance at any given time set at 10,000 GBP, or 30,000 GBP annually. Monese accounts may have different limits based on the tier you pick - usually set at a maximum holding balance at any time of 40,000 GBP. You may be limited to spending up to 7,000 GBP a day, depending on your account type.

With the Post Office card, you can make up to the equivalent of 300 GBP maximum daily withdrawals and each withdrawal costs the equivalent of 1.5 GBP. Monese accounts may have a maximum ATM withdrawal of 300 GBP a day, depending on the specific account you pick, so it’s worth reading the fee schedule carefully to understand the details.

Travel Credit Cards for travelling overseas

Travel credit cards are like other credit cards in that you’ll be set a spending limit which you can not exceed on a monthly basis. At the end of the month you’ll have to pay back your bill in full to avoid interest and penalties. When you spend overseas your foreign currency transaction is converted back to GBP to add to your monthly charge - often with a foreign transaction fee added, which can be around 3%. Travel credit cards often waive this foreign transaction fee, which makes them better value for foreign currency spending compared to other credit cards. However, as with any other credit card, you might find you have fees to pay in the form of interest, particularly if you use your card in an ATM, making this a relatively expensive way of managing your money internationally.

Travel credit card option 1: Barclaycard Rewards Visa 

The Barclaycard Rewards Visa credit card is a good, straightforward option for UK customers looking for a credit card which does not have foreign transaction fees, and which doesn’t have an annual fee. As with any credit card, some costs can apply including interest fees if you don’t clear your bill monthly, but you’ll be able to earn 0.25% cash back on all your card spending at home and abroad.

No annual fee, with 0.25% cash back on card spending

Currency exchange uses the network rate and no foreign transaction fee

No ATM withdrawal fee - but interest can still apply

28.9% representative APR, with penalty fees for late payments

Secure spending with extra protection on some purchases

Travel credit card option 2: Halifax Clarity Mastercard

The Halifax Clarity Mastercard has a variable interest rate which is based on your creditworthiness, but doesn’t use different rates for different transaction types as some cards do. There’s no foreign transaction fee when you spend or withdraw in foreign currencies, but bear in mind that an ATM operator might charge a fee, and interest accrues instantly for cash advance transactions.

No foreign transaction fee when spending or making a cash withdrawal overseas

Interest applies instantly when making cash withdrawals

Same interest rate applies on all purchase categories

Variable APR based on your credit score - you’ll need to check your eligibility online to see the APR you’d be offered

Spending is covered by the Consumer Credit act which means extra protections for purchases from 100 GBP to 30,000 GBP in value

Pros and cons of using credit cards when travelling overseas

How much does a travel credit card cost.

Credit cards are convenient and secure - but they’ll also often be the most expensive way to pay for things. That’s because you may end up paying an annual fee, interest costs, foreign transaction fees, cash advance charges, and penalties if you’re late to repay. The cards we’ve picked out above have the advantage that they have no annual fee, no foreign transaction fee and no cash advance fee - but if you use your card in an ATM you’ll start to accrue interest instantly, which does mean paying more in the end.

How to choose the best travel credit card for travelling overseas?

The best travel credit card for travelling overseas depends on your preferences and situation. Because there’s an eligibility screening process with credit cards, you may find you can’t get approved for some cards if you don’t have an established and strong credit history. It’s generally worth looking for a card with no annual fee, and the lowest available interest rate, just in case you can’t always repay your bill monthly.

Travel credit card spending limit

Your travel credit card spending limit will be set by the card provider, and will depend on your credit score. You’ll be shown details of your spending limit when you’re approved for a travel credit card.

The cards we’ve looked at earlier don’t charge a cash advance fee, but this is a common cost when using a credit card at an ATM, so worth looking out for when you select any credit card. It’s also worth noting that it’s very common for ATM withdrawals to start accruing interest instantly, so you’ll end up needing to repay some charges whenever you use your credit card in an ATM.

How much money do I need when travelling overseas?

Naturally, the costs of your trip can vary wildly depending on where you’re going, how long for, and what you’ll be up to during your holiday. Costs to consider when budgeting include:

Any visa fees, or travel health costs such as vaccinations, if required

Travel or medical insurance

Flights or other travel costs - don’t forget to buy baggage allowance in advance if you need it

Travel to and from the airport, or parking if you drive yourself

Local SIM or roaming data

Accommodation, plus any local tourist taxes

Food and drinks while you’re away

Activities and entry costs to tourist sites

Travel within the country - taxis or bus rides for example

Kennels or any other requirements to look after pets back home

Conclusion: Which travel money card is best for travelling overseas?

Travelling overseas is exciting but does need a bit of planning. In particular, working out how you’ll manage your money while you’re away is essential if you don’t want to get ripped off by poor exchange rates, pay high fees, or end up having a stressful time with money changers on arrival.

Travel cards can help you avoid all these potential pitfalls, manage your travel budget flexibly, and pay less for your trip in the end. Consider a Wise travel debit card for convenient, low cost spending and withdrawals with ways to pay and get paid in foreign currencies. Or as an alternative, check out a Monese travel prepaid card for free currency conversion to your specific plan limit, or a travel credit card like the Barclays Rewards Visa for cash back opportunities and ways to spread your costs over several months if you need to. No matter what type of travel card suits you best, there’s going to be an option for you - use this guide to figure out which is your perfect match, and your travel money could take you further in the end.

FAQ - Best travel cards for travelling overseas

Can you withdraw cash with a credit card when travelling overseas.

Yes. You can use your credit card to make an ATM withdrawal at any ATM where your card network is accepted when travelling overseas. However, bear in mind you’ll pay interest instantly when you use a credit card in an ATM. Choosing to withdraw with a low cost travel debit card from Wise or Revolut may bring down your overall fees.

Can I use a debit card when travelling overseas?

It’s unusual to find you can’t use a card to pay in tourist areas in more developed countries, towns and cities. However, card usage varies widely and in many places, cash is still king. Because of that, having multiple ways to pay is essential and carrying both a prepaid or travel debit card and some foreign currency in cash is a smart plan.

Are prepaid cards safe?

Yes. Prepaid cards are not linked to your normal UK bank account which means that they’re safe to use. Even if you were unlucky and someone stole your card while you're travelling overseas, they would not be able to access your main account - and you could freeze your prepaid card in the app easily if you needed to.

What is the best way to pay when travelling overseas?

Paying for things with a specialist travel debit, prepaid or credit card when travelling overseas is most convenient. However, having a few options for payment is a good plan, just in case your preferred payment method can’t be used for some reason. Consider getting a travel card from a provider like Wise or Revolut, which has some no fee ATM withdrawals so you can also conveniently get cash as a back up, and for when card payments aren’t offered.

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• Travel Money

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

No charges when you spend abroad*

Make contactless, Apple Pay and Google Pay™ payments

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

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

Win £5000 with Post Office Travel Money Card

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

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

Why get a Travel Money Card?

Carry up to 22 currencies safely.

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

Accepted in over 36 million locations worldwide

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

Manage your card with our travel app

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

It’s simple to get started

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

Order your card

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

Activate it

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

It’s ready to use

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

Stay in control

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

New-look travel app out now

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

Order a Travel Money Card

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

Need it quick? Visit a branch

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

Need some help?

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

Lost or stolen card?

Please immediately call: 020 7937 0280

Available 24/7

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

Visit our Travel Money Card support page

Common questions

How can i order my card.

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

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

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

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

How do I use my card?

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

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

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

How can I manage my card?

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

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

Which currencies can I use?

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

Currencies available:

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

What are the charges and fees?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are there top-up limits?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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The 6 Best Travel Money Cards for the UK - 2024

If you’re visiting the UK, a specialised travel money card can make it cheaper and more convenient to access British pounds 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 UK

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 GBP , as well as a diverse range of other currencies.

Hold and exchange over 50 currencies alongside GBP

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?

Just like your normal 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 mean you get a better exchange rate, or fewer charges, in comparison to using your regular card abroad. Some travel cards - particularly travel credit cards- also offer opportunities to earn cashback and rewards for using your card internationally.

6 travel money cards for the UK 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 UK 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?

Broadly speaking, Canadian customers can pick a travel money card from either a traditional bank or a specialist provider, from a selection 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

Specialist providers typically offer travel debit cards, which are accompanied by digital accounts that allow you to top up, hold, and exchange currency balances. While these cards may have different features, they usually provide a user-friendly online platform and mobile app for effortless balance top-ups. With the convenience of viewing your balance and receiving transaction notifications on your phone, it’s easier to manage your finances no matter where you are in the world.

Travel debit card Option 1: Wise

Wise is our pick for travel debit card for the UK . 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 GBP  and 50+ other currencies, convert between them with the mid-market rate

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

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 GBP

No fee to spend currencies you hold in your account

Variable ATM fee, 1.7 GBP when in the the UK 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 UK

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 UK?

Choosing the best travel debit card for the UK depends on your personal preferences and financial management style. If you travel often - and not just to the UK - it's smart to consider an account that offers mid-market currency exchange rates and a wide selection of supported currencies, including GBP, like Wise.  Other providers like Canada Post also support GBP 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 UK?  

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 UK. 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 UK

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 UK?

There’s no single best travel prepaid card for the UK - 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 UK, the BMO prepaid card might suit you.

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

Prepaid travel cards usually 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 UK

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 UK?

Selecting the best travel credit card for the UK 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 UK 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 UK

You can usually make cash withdrawals with a credit card in the UK 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 UK, making these good options to look out for when you pick your travel debit card for the UK.

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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Helping you make the most out of your money

Searching Money Mentor . . .

The best travel debit and credit cards to use abroad, avoid hefty fees when you spend abroad with a top travel card.

Updated April 30, 2024

In this guide

If you’re heading overseas on holiday or on a business trip, getting a travel credit or debit card could be one of the cheapest ways to spend while abroad.

Often, a regular bank account debit card will charge you hefty fees and a poor exchange rate if you use it abroad for a transaction or cash withdrawal. However, there are lots of cards out there that do away with these fees.

In this article, we outline the best payment cards to use when you’re abroad plus whether it is better to use a credit card or debit card, plus the top prepaid travel money cards.

We explain:

• Best debit cards to use abroad

Best credit cards to use abroad

• Top prepaid travel cards to use abroad
• Should I use a credit or debit card abroad?
• Is it a good idea to withdraw cash on a credit card abroad?

Read more: Best rewards credit cards

The best travel debit cards

Here we list two banks which offer debit cards that might be worth considering if you’re travelling abroad.

Chase current account

Best debit card to use abroad

First Direct current account

A Times Money Mentor award-winning current account

Starling Bank current account

Another good travel debit card

Below we list a number of credit card providers that might be worth considering if you’re heading abroad.

Credit Card

NatWest’s credit card makes the list because of its incredibly low rate of interest. Even if you’re credit score isn’t good enough to receive the advertised 12.9% APR interest rate, NatWest will offer you a rate of 18.9% APR at most. NatWest’s mobile app offers a range of services too, such as being able to load your travel plans onto the app before setting off abroad. This will make transactions in these countries less likely to be flagged as suspicious or blocked. It’s also worth noting that Ulster Bank and the Royal Bank of Scotland, which can predominantly be found in Northern Ireland and Scotland respectively, offer the same card too. Representative Example: 12.9% APR variable. Based on assumed borrowing of £1,200. Rate of interest 12.9% p.a. (variable).

• Foreign Purchase Fee Within Europe: £0.00
• Foreign Purchase Fee Outside Europe: £0.00
• Account Fee: £0.00

Personal Credit Card

Metro Bank’s is best for those going abroad to Europe. This is because it attract no transaction fees, but in other countries you can expect a £2.99 fee for each purchase. It also might be a great option if you’re pressed for time. Metro Bank allows you to apply in store at any of its branches and, if your application is successful, it’ll print your card for you immediately. This means you don’t need to wait a couple of working days for it to arrive via post and you can start spending immediately. Representative Example: 18.9% APR variable. Based on assumed borrowing of £1,200. Rate of interest 18.9% p.a. (variable).

• Foreign Purchase Fee Outside Europe: £2.99

This option will only be available for a select few who qualify for private banking, but if you are eligible it does come with a host of benefits. This includes access to over 1,100 airport lounges across 300 major airports worldwide and a full concierge service. The latter can be a great for paying for your trip before you set foot abroad because its specialists could provide several handy discounts or hotel upgrades. Representative Example: 19.99% APR variable. Based on assumed borrowing of £1,200. Rate of interest 19.99% p.a. (variable).

• APR: 19.99%

Clarity Credit Card

One of the perks of this card is that Halifax doesn’t charge any fees on cash withdrawals. However, foreign ATMs may have their own charges so it won’t necessarily be free. Ensuring you have enough money in cash hand before you go abroad is always wise, so read our guide to the best travel money deals to look for offers best suited for you . But this card could be the least expensive option if you need to make an emergency withdrawal while abroad. Representative Example: 23.9% APR variable. Based on assumed borrowing of £1,200. Rate of interest 23.94% p.a. (variable).

Travel Credit Card (24.9%)

This is one of few travel credit card options which includes a 0% purchase and balance transfer period. Both offers are over a nine month period, making it a great option if you plan on making big purchases abroad and you’re intending on paying back your balance overtime.   Representative Example: 24.9% APR variable. Based on assumed borrowing of £1,200. Rate of interest 24.9% p.a. (variable).

Best prepaid travel cards

A prepaid travel card, also known as a currency card, lets you load money and exchange different currencies before you go away. You can then use this card to spend or withdraw cash while abroad.

You can’t spend more than you have loaded onto the card. It effectively works like a debit card that doesn’t have an overdraft.

Unlike a debit card from a FCA registered bank, prepaid travel cards don’t benefit from FSCS protection. So if your provider goes bust while you’re abroad, it might be difficult to reclaim your funds. However, out of goodwill, companies like Wise and Revolut have specific safeguarding practices in place to keep your money secure.

Below we explain why Wise may be worth considering if you’re heading abroad.

Another good option for people looking for a prepaid travel card

Is it better to use a credit card or debit card abroad?

As long as you find the best – and cheapest – credit card or debit card to use abroad, it’s often a matter of personal preference. It’s worth bearing in mind that using a credit card abroad does give you Section 75 protection, which can get you your money back when things go wrong.

However, you’ll need to go through a ‘hard’ credit check when you apply for any credit card, which could affect your credit worthiness.

Lots of current accounts, including Chase’s, only carry out a ‘soft’ check which does not affect your credit score. So if you have a poorer credit history, it could be worth opting for a debit card.

The costs when using a typical debit or credit card abroad, and not a specialist travel card, can add up. According to Moneyfacts, a data company:

• A debit card, can charge £1.38
• A credit card, can charge £1.50
• A debit card, £11.88
• A credit card, £14.95 (before interest is applied)

If your current account comes with a great debit card for use abroad, then you may want to use that.

• No fees for spending or withdrawing cash abroad
• A competitive exchange rate

However, if using your bank account looks like it would be quite expensive and you don’t fancy switching, it may be easier to apply for a specialist travel credit card than to open another account.

Read more: Best premium bank accounts

Book your next hotel with Times Travel

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What exchange rates are used?

When you pay on most debit and credit cards, the Visa or Mastercard exchange rate is used. This is very close to the market rate – so you should not be caught out inadvertently paying extra because you have been given a poor exchange rate . Read more: What’s the best way to transfer money internationally

Watch out for credit cards and ATMs

Unless you opt for a bank that offers fee-free current accounts that do not charge for using a debit card in Europe, which include Chase Bank and Starling Bank , you need to be wary when using an ATM with a debit card.

You can expect even bigger charges when withdrawing cash from a machine using a credit card and that is before interest is applied. Some will charge interest from the day the money leaves your account – even if they may boast of fee-free withdrawals.

Other cards, like Barclaycard Rewards, offer a grace period without charging interest, meaning that you shouldn’t pay any cash withdrawal fees or interest if you clear your balance in full each month. 

Safety abroad

Credit cards also tend to be safer to use abroad. If your debit card is hacked or stolen while away, then the money in your account is at risk. This is not the case with a credit card as only the money up to your credit limit is at risk.

There is also something called Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. If you have a problem with a purchase of between £100 and £30,000, at home or abroad, the credit provider is jointly liable with the retailer. So if your claim is approved, you should get your money back.

You may be able to use a scheme called chargeback if you paid with a debit card or a credit card for purchases of any amount, not just over £100. Here your bank can claw back the money from the retailer’s bank, although the retailer can dispute the claims.

Read more: Best travel insurance providers

You have fewer rights than under Section 75 because that is enshrined in law and chargeback is not. 

The advice if you are travelling is always to have a back-up card with you. A prepaid travel card could be a good option too. 

If you are planning a trip away, you might want to make sure you are covered. Find out what you can expect from a good travel insurance policy.

Exchange your money for foreign cash

Sometimes you’ll need cash for your trip abroad. Not all merchants accept card payments and cash can offer a degree of flexibility. That’s why you might want to consider exchanging some of your holiday budget into foreign currency.

Leaving this to the last minute is often a mistake, especially if you use the bureau de change in the airport. These providers typically hike their fees and charge a premium because your options are limited at this point, so give yourself time beforehand to research the best currency exchange offers around.

Read more: The best and cheapest travel money providers

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Cheap Holiday Money At Your Fingertips

The Top 10 Travel Cards in the UK

If you are an individual that travels quite frequently, it is wise to take into account the many award points programmes that are available. The reason for this is that there are so many options to capitalize on the travel that one does for business or pleasure. To this end, it is best to research which particular programmes are relevant to your upcoming travels. One very popular method to benefit from travel is to utilize travel credit cards that provide incentives for travelling excessively. When trying to decide which travel credit card reward programme is best for you to benefit from in the UK, it is wise to contemplate the list outlined below:

The Best UK Credit Cards to Utilise Whilst Travelling

It is wise to shop around for the best UK credit card to utilise for travel. Here are some of the ten best to utilise when trying to spend your GBP on your upcoming holiday:

• Halifax Clarity: The Halifax Clarity card is one of the best ranked credit cards in the UK for travel. The reason for this is that the card is issued by Mastercard, which is known for having some of the best currency conversion rates in comparison to American Express and Visa. The nice part about this card is that there are no ATM fees when withdrawing cash. The ideal rate to get on this card is 18.9% APR and if you are able to be approved for this rate, you will pay a minimal interest rate on every amount that you withdraw. For example, if you withdraw 100GBP in cash, you will only be charged 1,50GBP per month. There is a potential to receive 20GBP cash back when purchasing with a foreign currency, making this card quite appealing for international use.
• Aqua Reward Mastercard: For those that have lower credit scores, the Aqua Reward Mastercard has become one of the most competitive travel cards. On all currency spent abroad, there is a 0,5% cash back offer of up to 100GBP. For this card, the credit limits are quite low (between 250GBP to 1200GBP). This is precisely why this card is a good value for the money for the customer that is trying to travel and rebuild their credit at the same time.
• BarclayCard Platinum Travel Credit Card: BarclayCard Platinum Travel Credit Card currently has a promotion going on until August of 2022 that has no fees on spending or cash withdrawals. So long as you pay the card off in full each month, you will not be charged interest, which is a major perk compared to the interest rates of other cards in this industry that charge daily.
• Santander Zero: Santander Zero offers no bank fees to their clients. This is precisely why it is a great card to consider for travellers. In terms of APR and Cash Withdrawals, it is a flat rate of 18.9% interest for both transactions. Santander Zero is delightful to use in that it provides consistent and reliable rates to its customers.
• Creation Everyday: Creation Everyday is one of the best travel cards from the UK as well because it has the advantage of being a Mastercard for exchange rates and also charges no ATM fees for withdrawing cash. In terms of cash withdrawal interest rates, the rates are quite low because they are ranging between 12.9% to 21.9%, which is substantially lower than their competition for those who qualify.
• Saga Platinum: Saga Premium is another wonderful card that the UK offers. The card does have an ATM of 2GBP or 2%. That said, the card has no interest on cash withdrawals and an APR range of 11.9% to 19.6% percent, which is quite competitive in the market for travel credit cards.
• Lloyds Avios Rewards: Lloyds Avios Rewards is one of the higher interest rate cards on this list; however, their travel credit card has loyalty and respect from its citizens. In terms of interest rates, there is an 18.9% to 25.9% interest rate on cash withdrawals and a 23.7% including fee and 18.95% APR on spending. In terms of ATM fees, Lloyds Avios Rewards has a 3GBP or 3% charge on every withdrawal abroad.
• B Credit Card: B Credit Card is a Mastercard that has 27.9% interest rate on cash withdrawals and an astounding 9.9% APR rate. This card is ideal for individuals that do not have many cash withdrawals, yet want to pay off the balance incurred abroad over time.
• British Airways Premium Plus Card: British Airways Premium Plus Card is issued by American Express; however, it provides 18,000 miles if an individual spends more than 3,000GBP within the first three months. Additionally, customers can earn additional miles with purchases such as: 3 miles on British Airways purchases and 1.5 miles on purchases incurred elsewhere.
• Hilton HHonors Platinum Visa: This visa is issued by Barclaycard and offers regular promotional bonuses for joining. In addition to the lucrative promotional bonuses that are typically seasonal and include free hotel stays, there is also a benefit of earning 3 points on Hilton purchases and 2 points everywhere else. It is quite easy to be promoted to higher tiers such as Silver and Gold to benefit from more hotel promotions within the first year of membership.

Concluding Remarks on the Subject

What is remarkable is that there are many travel-friendly credit cards in the UK. These cards range between being effective to use at ATM’s abroad and low currency conversion/interest rates to having airline and hotel benefits. The key when shopping for the proper card is to ascertain what is the most important to your travel experience. Upon doing so, you will be able to find the right credit card in the UK that meets your travel ambitions and eligibility in terms of credit score. You can also try different kind of global credit cards, like the famous American credit card – American Express, or other Canadian travel credit cards with no fees . That said, it is essential to browse the various travel cards available and you will amazed at the wealth of options available to you in the UK.

Editorial note: We may not cover every product in this category. For more information, see our Editorial guidelines .

The 5 best travel money cards for the uk in 2024.

Given lots of Australians have links to the UK, it's not surprising it's one of the top 5 places Australians travel to each year. Aside from family, the UK offers great historic monuments, art galleries and lively festivals and sporting events to keep Australians returning every year.

In the UK, you are likely to pay for accommodation, food, transport, and entertainment, as well as withdraw cash from ATMs with your card. So which is the best option to take with you?

We have checked out the best currency cards to take for the UK for Australians in 2024 and have summarised their best points.

Best 5 Travel Money Cards for the UK in 2024:

• Wise for best exchange rates
• Revolut Card for low fees
• Travelex Money Card - Best all rounder
• HSBC Global Everyday Debit Card for use in Australia too
• Bankwest Breeze Platinum Credit Card for lowest interest rate
• ING One Low Rate Credit Card with no annual fee

Wise Travel Card - Great Exchange Rates

• 40+ currencies available
• Best exchange rates globally
• One of the lowest conversion fee on the market
• No international transaction fees
• No annual or monthly fees
• Extremely low costs to send money overseas

Wise Travel Card

• Cross currency conversion fees are between 0.24–3.69%. AUD to USD, EUR or GBP was 0.42%, which is one of the lowest on the market
• Free cash withdrawals up to $350 every 30 days. However after that, Wise charge a fixed fee of $1.50 per transaction + 1.75%
• Daily ATM withdrawal is $2,700
• Issue up to 3 virtual cards for temporary usage
• It takes between 7 to 14 business days to receive your card
• Can be used wherever MasterCard is accepted

The Wise Travel Card is ideal for Australians travelling to the UK, offering access to over 40 currencies at the inter-market exchange rate. This feature is especially beneficial when converting AUD to GBP, ensuring cost-effective transactions. Additionally, the card allows you to purchase goods from international online stores without incurring transaction fees. However, it's important to note that if you plan to withdraw cash frequently from ATMs in the UK, this may not be the most suitable option due to the associated fees. inally Wise Travel Card lets you transfer money to an overseas bank account with extremely low fees and the best exchange rate.

Our Wise Travel Card Review

Revolut - Low Fees

• 30+ currencies available
• One of the best exchange rates globally
• No annual or monthly fees for standard membership
• No initial card fee
• Instant access to a range of cryptocurrencies

Read our Revolut Card Review

Revolut Travel Card

• No fee ATM withdrawals up to A$350, or 5 ATM withdrawals, whichever comes first, per rolling 30 day period and 2% of withdrawal amount (minimum charge of A$1.50) after that
• Exchanging currency on the weekend can incur a 1% mark-up fee
• Fees on international money transfers were introduced in April 2021.
• Can be used wherever Visa is accepted

The Revolut Travel Card is a decent option for those who travel a lot as it offers over 30 currencies at a great exchange rate, which is the cheapest rate globally. However if you exchange currency on the weekend you can incur a one-percent mark-up fee. In addition they have introduced fees for international transfers. Finally if you use ATMs frequently this is not the card to use due to the fees.

Travelex Money Card - Best All Rounder

Best features.

• Unlimited free ATM withdrawals
• 24/7 Emergency Assistance
• Initial and replacement card are free
• Lock in up to 10 currencies

Read our Travelex Travel Card Review

Travelex Money Card

• Minimum load of $100 and maximum load of $100,000
• Can be used wherever Mastercard is accepted
• Fees include a $10 closure fee, $5 for an additional card and $4 inactivity monthly fee.
• While Travelex don't charge ATM fees, some ATM operators may charge their own fees.
• Currencies that can be loaded are AU$, US$, EU€, GB£, NZ$, TH฿, CA$, HK$, JP¥, SG$
• If your card is lost or stolen you can access cash in your account through Moneygram or Western Union agents, with no charge
• Boingo hotspots offer free wifi and you can look at their number of free hotspots per country on this map

The Travelex Money Card is a good all-rounder no matter if you are heading to the bustling streets of London, the historic charm of Edinburgh, or the picturesque countryside.

You can use it to take money out of the ATM, for merchant purchases like restaurants and even for online shopping in foreign currency. While the exchange rates aren't as good as the Wise or Revolut cards abroad , the support network if the card is lost or stolen is very good. This convenience can be remarkably useful while touring the historic and vibrant regions of the UK.

HSBC Everyday Global Travel Card - Best Travel Card by Bank

• Great exchange rate offered for British pounds (GBP)
• No ATM fees at HSBC tellers
• No initial card, closure, account keeping or monthly fees
• No cross currency conversion fees

HSBC Everyday Global Travel Card

• 10 Currencies can be loaded are GBP, AUD, USD, EUR, HKD, CAD, JPY, NZD, SGD and CNY (currency restrictions on CNY)
• No maximum balance for any currency
• Very competitive exchange rates on all currencies when you have currencies already loaded on your card
• ATMs within Australia need to be HSBC and overseas they need to display a VISA or VISA Plus logo, not be be charged fees
• Earn 2% cash back when you tap and pay with payWave, Apple Pay or Google Pay for purchases under $100.
• Daily maximum ATM withdrawal is $2,000
• Fraud protection covered by Visa Zero Liability

The HSBC Everyday Global Travel Card offers a great exchange rate for British pounds, HSBC owned ATMs within the UK, so you can withdraw cash without the hefty withdrawal fees.

In addition, it does not charge an ‘international transaction fee’ so you can spend in the United Kingdom and online in Australia and not pay an additional 3%.

Finally, on top of the excellent currency exchange rate, there is no maximum balance on currencies held and a 2% cash back incentive when you tap and pay under $100.

Bankwest Breeze Platinum Credit Card - Lowest Interest Rate

• Lowest interest rate at 9.90%
• No international transaction fees on purchases
• Up to 55 days interest free on purchases
• Low annual fee
• Complimentary international travel insurance

Bankwest Breeze Platinum Credit Card

• Free annual fee first year, then $69 annual fee
• Free international travel insurance that includes the basics but does not cover cancellation costs, pre existing conditions and travellers over 80
• $6,000 minimum credit card
• 0% p.a. on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months, then reverts to 9.90%
• 21.99% interest rate on purchases and cash advances
• Cash advance fee of the higher of $4 or 2% of cash advance

The Bankwest Breeze Platinum is a great no frills credit card that offers ‘no foreign transaction fees’ and the lowest interest rate on the market, at 9.90%. These two factors alone will save you hundreds of dollars when travelling throughout the UK.

In addition it has a low annual fee and complimentary international travel insurance. Finally for its price point it is a great value credit card that will be accepted most places in the United Kingdom.

ING One Low Rate Credit Card - No Annual Fee

• No annual fee
• Up to 45 days interest free on purchases
• Lowest cash advance interest rate of 11.99%
• Use instalment plans to pay off your purchases over time at a lower interest rate

ING One Low Rate Credit Card

• 11.99% interest rate on purchases
• Make payments from your mobile with pay with Apple Pay and Google Pay
• International ATM fee and Foreign currency conversion fee are waived when you deposit $1,000 into your Orange Everyday each month, and make 5+ card purchases that are settled. Otherwise they are the higher of 3% or at least $3
• Put repayments on auto payment each month to pay the minimum balance or full amount

The ING One Low Rate credit card is a great option to take to the United Kingdom as it charges no annual fee and offers a low interest rate for purchases and cash advances of 11.99%. The cash advance interest rate is very low and about 50% less than most of its competitors who charge around 22% on cash advances.

Furthermore the ING One Low Rate credit card has no international transaction fees, so you can save money on your travels and when you buy goods from overseas. It's a handy backup card to have in your wallet when travelling through the UK.

Learn more about the best credit, debit and prepaid cards for travel

Credit Card

Prepaid Card for Travel

Best Debit Card for International Travel

The best travel card for the UK is the Wise Multi Currency card for tap or swipe large transactions like accommodation and restaurants. Wise offers the best exchange rate for British pounds globally and charges no international transaction fees.

HSBC Global and Citibank Plus cards are the best for ATM withdrawals and great exchange rates for British pounds. Both these cards charge no international transaction fee and can be used within Australia without penalties.

The best credit cards for the UK are the BankWest Platinum Breeze and ING One Low Rate as they have the lowest interest rates on the market with and charge no international transaction fees.

Yes you should buy British pounds before you travel to the UK. Having pounds on hand when you arrive at the airport will make your life a lot easier. The airport is also the most expensive place to exchange currency, so you will save a lot of money as well. Even though the UK is card friendly, having cash on hand will always be handy for small purchases, tipping and paying for transport.

Yes you can if they are Mastercard or Visa and you will be charged with a lot of fees including the international transaction fee (3%), ATM withdrawal fee by the bank in the US ($5) and an ATM withdrawal fee by your own bank ($5).

Yes you can get prepaid cards for the UK and Wise , HSBC and Citibank offer the most competitive cards in the market. Other older style prepaid cards like Australia Post, Cash Passport, Travel Money Oz and Travelex have lots of charges like load, unload, inactivity, ATM withdrawals and initial card fees.

As a general rule, working out how much money to take to the UK depends on where you go and your type of travel. If you travel on a budget to the UK it can cost from £50 a day. If you travel in the middle range throughout the UK it can cost from £120 per day. Finally if you travel with luxury throughout the UK it can cost anywhere from £200 per day.

No you can not use Australian dollars or US dollars in the UK. The currency in the UK is the British pound or ‘sterling’. There are 5 bank notes with different colours, they are £5, £10, £20, £50, and £100. There are 8 British coins, they are 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2. The most frequently used are the £1 and £2 coins.

More Travel Card Guides

Learn more about the best travel money cards for your holiday destination.

ASIC regulated

Like all reputable money exchanges, we are registered with AUSTRAC and regulated by the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC).

S Money complies with the relevant laws pertaining to privacy, anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism finance. This means you are required to provide I.D. when you place an order. It also means the order must be paid for by the same person ordering the currency and you must show your identification again when receiving your order.

Money latest: EasyJet passengers hit out after getting texts saying their flights had been cancelled

EasyJet passengers were left scrambling to rebook flights after they were wrongly told their flights were cancelled "due to Israel". Read this and all the latest consumer and personal finance news below, plus leave a comment in the box.

Wednesday 1 May 2024 09:33, UK

• Cheapest dates, and days of week, to fly this summer
• Wait for interest rate cut leads to surprise dip in house price growth
• Key dates for Spotify customers, energy bills, free childcare and interest rates in May
• EasyJet passengers wrongly told flights cancelled 'due to Israel'

Essential reads

• Turns out supermarket boss was right about self-checkouts
• State pensions 'could be in doubt for future generations'
• One of UK's top chefs reveals best Cheap Eats in Norfolk - and cling film tip for amazing cabbage
• Money Problem : 'Builders won't repair dodgy work - what are my rights?'
• '£2,000 landed in my account' - The people who say they're manifesting riches

Ask a question or make a comment

As April rolls into May, let's take a look at the key money dates to add to your calendar this month. 

A small note before we jump in - May is a month with a couple of bank holidays, so if any of your benefits payments would normally fall on those days, you'll get the money on the previous working day instead.

1 May - Prescription price change

The cost of your NHS prescription increases by 25p today - from £9.65 to £9.90.

Repeat prescription customers can apply for a prepayment certificate (PPC) which charges a fixed amount for a set period of prescriptions.

However, the cost of a one-year PCC will also rise to £114.50 from £111.60 - a rise of almost £3.

9 May - Interest rate decision 

Next week, the Bank of England's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) will meet for its latest review of interest rates. 

The MPC has decided to freeze the base rate at 5.25% over recent months.

While nothing is guaranteed, the BoE is widely expected among economists to hold the rate once again - thought to be waiting for inflation to get closer to the Bank's 2% target. 

12 May - Free childcare applications open

From 12 May, eligible working parents of children from nine-months-old will be able to register for access to up to 15 free hours of government-funded childcare per week.

You won't be able to claim the hours until September. 

Check if you're eligible here . 

15 May - Subway loyalty points changes

Sandwich giant Subway has outlined a series of measures in its branches regarding its loyalty schemes. 

Customers have until 14 May to use the current scheme before it changes to a new app-only loyalty scheme. 

From 15 May, any points will expire and become unredeemable.

May 24 - Energy price cap announcement

Regulator Ofgem will announce the new energy price cap for the period 1 July to 30 September.

The current price cap (£1,690 a year) is expected by analysts at Cornwall Insights to fall by just over £100 to around £1,559 for the average household per year. 

Spotify hikes 

As we reported in the Money blog, Spotify will hike its prices by around £2 per month...

Depending on a customer's billing date, payment change to the higher rate will fall in either May or June. 

Spotify has said it will email existing customers with one-month's notice of the increase.

By James Sillars , business reporter

A piece of good news to bring you: a welcome fall in oil costs.

A barrel of Brent crude started the week close to $88.

It is trading at $85 today after three days of declines – the latest in Asian trading today.

The major move lower, however, came yesterday afternoon.

Analysts credited increasing hopes of a ceasefire agreement in the Middle East and on rising US crude inventories and production.

It's been another positive start to the day for the FTSE 100 - rising 0.1% to 8.157 points in early deals.

The index has started higher each session this week but, in truth, it has struggled to make big inroads since last week's record closing high.

Banks and miners are leading the way.

Next, however, was among the fallers despite posting a strong rise in full price sales.

The first quarter increase of 5.7% was above market expectations but the retailer, usually renowned for keeping expectations low and over-delivering, maintained its guidance for annual sales and profits.

Its shares were 1.2% lower.

Among the fallers in the wider market was Aston Martin Lagonda.

The luxury carmaker's stock was almost 9% down after posting bigger than expected quarterly losses.

EasyJet passengers were left scrambling to rebook flights after they were wrongly told their flights were cancelled "due to Israel". 

The airline sent emails and text messages to holidaymakers informing them their flights would not be taking off on 28 April as planned - before scrambling to let them know, an hour later, that there had been a mistake.

Amid the confusion, travellers shared their frustration on social media, with one asking: "Is this a scam? EasyJet App is not showing cancellation and has allowed me to check in."

The airline has since released a statement confirming their was a technical error.

"EasyJet can confirm that unfortunately, on 28 April, some customers received an incorrect notification stating that their flight on 30 April was cancelled," a spokesperson told Sky News.

"This was due to a technical error and all customers were quickly sent updated messages with a confirmation their flight is operating as normal. We would like to apologise for this and any inconvenience caused."

Shifting expectations for UK interest rate cuts have contributed to a dip in house price growth, according to a closely watched measure.

Nationwide reported a 0.4% fall in average property costs last month compared with March, taking the annual rate of growth to 0.6% from 1.6%.

Economists polled by the Reuters news agency had expected month-on-month growth of 0.2%.

The lender's report said the easing reflected "ongoing affordability pressures, with longer term interest rates rising in recent months, reversing the steep fall seen around the turn of the year".

Read the full story here ...

Every Wednesday we get Michelin chefs, top bloggers or critics to pick their favourite Cheap Eats where they live and at home. This week we speak to one of the most renowned chefs in the UK, Galton Blackiston of the Michelin-starred Morston Hall in Norfolk.

He's gone the extra mile in his Cheap Eats at home - uploading a how-to video to Instagram.

Hi  Galton, c an you tell us your favourite places in Norfolk where you can get a meal for two for less than £40?

Allium in Downham Market , a family run restaurant which involves mum, dad, Joe in kitchen and James front of house. Open Wednesday through to Sunday, it has a great vibe on a Saturday evening and great food.

Bure River Restaurant , a tiny restaurant on the broads in Horning cooking lovely fish dishes.

Final cheap place is the Parlour in Binham , where they have a great restaurant and you put money into an honesty box for their local cheese from the village and raw milk from their farm - a great place to visit in Norfolk.

What's your go-to cheap meal at home?

Toad in the hole with a baked potato and hispi cabbage and onion gravy.

A good tip I would say is to colour off the sausages in dripping then pour over the batter, which should be eight eggs, 250g plain flour, one pint of full fat milk, salt pepper and nutmeg. Whisk together and allow to sit for an hour til you use. 

And this is how you do the hispi cabbage with cling film over the pan...

Flight prices often rocket in the summer, but it turns out particular dates can prove cheaper. 

Research by Expedia has revealed the best dates to book your trips... 

The cheapest times to fly 

If you're flying domestic, the best dates for your wallet are 28 July, 19 August and 23 August. 

Expedia also recommends booking your domestic flights for a Wednesday to save roughly 20%. 

For those travelling internationally, the cheapest dates are 2 and 13 June, and 28 August. 

When it comes to booking, you can save about 15% if you book for a Thursday versus at the weekend. 

The quietest times to fly

If you care more about a quieter airport, the least busy dates for flying domestic are 10 June, and 11 and 19 July. 

For international flights, the best dates are 4 June, and 27 and 30 August. 

And the dates to avoid...

The most expensive domestic flights are on 30 June, and 8 and 16 July. 

International flights are pricier on 22, 23 and 29 July. 

Meanwhile, Expedia says 30 June and 24 July will be the busiest air travel days for domestic and international destinations. 

Domestic flights are busiest on 30 June, and 8 and 16 July. 

For international flights, 10, 21 and 24 June are the busiest. 

The advertising watchdog has banned a Premier Inn ad for misleading claims about room prices. 

A paid-for search ad for the hotel chain, seen on 4 November, had stated: "Premier Inn Edinburgh - rooms from only £35 per night."

It was referred to the advertising watchdog after a reader complained they couldn't find any rooms at the advertised price. 

Whitbread Group, trading as Premier Inn, provided the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) with data showing there were a total of 377 rooms on offer for £35 in Edinburgh within the 365-day booking window.

But the ASA said customers would understand the ad to mean a significant proportion of rooms available would be £35.

Read the full story, including Premier Inn's response, here ...

Taxpayers will be forced to cover £85bn of losses made by the Bank of England on its quantitative easing programme, estimates suggest. 

The £895bn bond-buying scheme was carried out between 2009 and 2021, and had aimed to support the UK during economic shocks - but it has been blamed by some for allowing inflation to take root. 

Recent chancellors have agreed to indemnify the Bank against any losses on the scheme - meaning the taxpayer will be paying for them.

Greene King is moving from its 200-year-old brewery in Bury St Edmunds. 

The pub chain will be opening a new £40m facility in a town that will produce more modern, fizzy craft beers alongside its traditional cask ales. 

The majority of Greene King's brewing will be moved to the new site, as part of a wider shift away from traditional cask beers. 

It will take about three years to complete. 

Butlin's has launched legal action against its insurance company Aviva over who foots a £60m bill.

The holiday park operator's Minehead resort was forced to close in September 2023 because of flooding caused by heavy rainfall.

It has said the incident cost the business £60m and has filed a claim at the High Court against Aviva for not covering the entire bill.

In legal documents seen by  The Telegraph , Butlins have questioned the definition of a "storm" and argued that a "named storm" had not been declared when the flooding happened.

Oil traders working for the US firm Exxon Mobil Corp in Brussels could lose their job if they refuse to move to London, according to reports.

Under the new proposal employees moving to the UK capital would be expected to be in the office five days a week.

But traders working for the oil giant said in an internal union-led survey they did not want to move to London due to "uncompetitive" pay and a "lack of flexibility", a union statement reads, according to  Bloomberg .

Up to 37 trading employees now face having their contracts terminated as a result of this.

ExxonMobil has said it "remains open to resolving the situation".

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