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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 our best travel credit cards - Avoid fees overseas

Compare travel credit cards

Find a credit card that's free to use abroad, compare our best travel credit cards.

Santander All in One Credit Card

• 0.5% cashback (up to £10 a month) on all your purchases.
• £3 monthly fee
• 0% for 15 months on balance transfers
• 0% for 15 months on purchases
• be a permanent UK resident
• be 18 or older
• minimum income of £10,500
• have a good credit rating
• must not be an existing Santander balance transfer credit card customer
• additional criteria for acceptance from the lender may apply

Virgin Money Travel Credit Card (29.9%)

• Virgin Money Cashback offers cardholders the ability to earn cashback on their credit card spend at participating retailers when they are enrolled in the programme via the mobile app'.
• 9 months 0% on balance transfers ( 2% transfer fee)
• 9 months 0% on money transfers ( 4% transfer fee)
• 9 months 0% on purchases
• be a UK resident
• have a good credit history
• no balance transfers from Clydesdale Bank PLC

Virgin Money Travel Credit Card (27.9%)

• 9 months 0% on balance transfers (2% transfer fee)
• 9 months 0% on money transfers (4% transfer fee)
• have good credit history

Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card

• 0.25% cashback on all your spend
• No fees on purchases abroad as long as you pay in the local currency then you won’t pay fees on non-sterling purchases
• Register for Barclaycard Cashback Rewards and you can earn up to 15% cashback when you spend at a range of participating retailers. This is on top of the 0.25% cashback you’d get on everyday spend with the Barclaycard Rewards card. T&Cs apply.
• be 21 years or over
• not have had any Individual Voluntary arrangements, County Court Judgements and must not have been declared bankrupt
• not already hold a Barclaycard credit card
• best suited to customers with an income of £20,000

Virgin Money Travel Credit Card (24.9%)

• 9 months 0% balance transfer ( 2% transfer fee)
• 9 months on money transfers ( 4% transfer fee)
• Accepted worldwide in all Mastercard locations

What is a travel credit card?

Travel credit cards are designed for people who want the security of using a credit card when paying for goods and services abroad, but don't want to pay extra for it.

Credit cards offer extra purchase protection when you spend, at home or overseas, but most standard cards charge more when they are used abroad.

The best travel credit cards not only waive these transaction fees but offer an excellent exchange rate too.

You can also get rewards for spending - at home or abroad - with the best travel credit cards offering airline or other loyalty points as well as being free to use overseas.

Travel credit cards are one of the best ways to avoid non-sterling transaction fees when on holiday.”

What are the benefits of a travel card?

Preferable exchange rates.

If you're spending with travel credit cards you get the Visa or Mastercard exchange rate for your purchases, depending on your card provider, which is about the best you'll find anywhere.

Protected purchases

You have extra legal protection on purchases if you use a credit card, thanks to Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. It means you're covered if you buy something at home or abroad costing over £100 and up to £30,000 if goods are faulty or aren’t delivered. You’re also protected if a supplier you use goes bust such as a tour operator or airline.

Taking a large wad of cash with you on holiday can be risky. Cash is more likely to be stolen and make you a victim of crime. Taking a small amount of cash is generally a good idea but you can use a credit card for travel for the majority of your spending.

What is the best travel credit card to use abroad?

The best credit card for travel will depend on what features you want most.

Credit cards for travel are likely to offer you the best deals and value for money outside the UK. Look for travel credit cards with no foreign transaction fees.

Using your standard UK credit card or debit card when you're on a foreign holiday can be expensive. You'll usually have to pay around 3% on cash withdrawals and every time you buy something abroad.

Shop around using credit card comparison sites to compare the best travel credit card deals.

Just be aware that to get the best credit cards for travel you'll need a good credit score.

You can check which cards you qualify for using a card finder tool, like ours below, to see how likely you are to be accepted before you apply.

Find a travel credit card

Things to consider before applying for a travel credit card, how often you travel abroad.

Travel credit cards can save you money when you spend abroad.

If you don’t travel that much, paying a card fee or even taking on an extra credit account for only occasional use may not be a good idea.

Holiday checklist

Only use abroad

Travel credit cards offer about the cheapest way to spend overseas. But they probably won’t give you the best deal when you use them in the UK.

For spending at home you'll likely be far better off with a different type of credit card.

See your credit card options

Make sure you can pay in full each month

Travel credit cards won’t offer the best interest rate or the cheapest deal for long-term debt.

It’s a good idea to pay off what you owe in full when you return from holiday. Otherwise, you will have to pay high interest charges and undo the savings you’ve made while you were away.

Don't forget travel insurance for your trip

Other cards with no foreign transaction fees

Most credit and debit cards will charge you a fee for buying things or withdrawing cash outside the UK. This fee can be 3% or more every time you use the card. That is £6 for every £200 you spend. These fees can soon add up.

The best travel credit cards won’t charge you for taking out cash and making purchases overseas - but they're not the only way to do this

Here are two other options:

Travel debit cards

Certain current accounts will offer cheap - or potentially even free - use overseas. Virgin Money and Starling currently offer this, for example.

These have one clear advantage and one disadvantage over travel credit cards. The major advantage is on overseas cash withdrawals. 

With a travel credit card you'll be charged interest from the moment you take money out of a cash machine, and possibly face a transaction charge too. Travel debit cards don't charge you for this.

However, spending on travel debit cards offers less purchase protection than spending on a travel credit card.

Travel money cards

A  travel money card , or a prepaid travel card is not a credit card. You pre-load currency onto your card before you travel, allowing you to spend or withdraw cash once you’re away.

It’s safer than carrying cash if you want to avoid taking your existing credit card abroad.

Be aware of the fees that exist on some travel money cards. They can include:

Application fees 

Cash withdrawal fees

Top-up charges

Fees for getting a replacement card

You don't have to pass a credit check when you apply for a prepaid currency card, like you would when applying for a travel credit card or current account.

Top tip when using your credit card abroad

Don’t pay in pounds when you use your credit card abroad. When you’re spending overseas, you’ll often be asked whether you want to pay in pounds or the local currency. 

To get the best exchange rate, always choose to pay in local currency.

Paying in local currency means your bank will do the foreign exchange conversion for you. Paying this way with a travel credit card will give you the best possible exchange rate.

Where you pay in pounds the merchant will use its own bank to do the conversion. This will probably end up costing you a lot more.

Can I withdraw cash on my travel credit card when abroad?

Yes, you can use your credit card to take out money from an ATM overseas, but it’s best not to because you usually have to pay interest on that money even if you clear your bill in full each month.

That's because credit cards don’t offer an interest-free period for cash withdrawals, meaning interest starts racking up straightaway.

You might also have to pay a "cash transaction fee" for using an ATM, even if you don't have to pay a foreign transaction fee.

What is dynamic currency conversion?

Dynamic currency conversion is when a shop or ATM converts your purchase into your own currency (pounds sterling) rather than keeping it in the local currency. 

This sounds convenient, as you can see how much you're paying in pounds, but the exchange rate you get is unlikely to be as competitive as the one used by your own card.

Mastercard's and Visa's exchange rates are about the best you'll find anywhere, so if you’re given the choice, always stick to the local currency. 

How Uswitch compares credit cards

What does ‘most popular’ and ‘popularity’ mean.

When we use the term ‘most popular or ‘popularity’ on Uswitch in reference to credit cards, these cards are ranked by the number of clicks they have received on the site in the past 30 days.

The most clicked on cards are at the top, with the least at the bottom. This reflects how popular they are with visitors to  Uswitch.com . Consequently, this is a good table to look at if you’re interested in seeing which cards most people think are worth getting.

Does Uswitch compare all the credit cards on the market?

We compare over 100 credit cards from all of the major banks and credit card providers.

However, we do not compare all the credit cards that are available in the UK.

This is because some credit card providers have offers that are only available exclusively through their own website or branch, or through other comparison websites - in the same way some credit cards are exclusively available through Uswitch.

There are also many credit cards that are only available to people in member organisations and clubs.

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Finding the best prepaid travel card for you

By Matt Fernell , Editor-in-Chief at Finance.co.uk.

Prepaid travel cards can make travelling abroad a lot easier. Here’s how to choose the perfect travel card for your spending abroad.

How to find the right prepaid travel card

Prepaid travel cards are a safe and convenient way to spend abroad without having to carry lots of foreign cash around with you. You can also avoid any potential fees and charges from using your debit or credit card while travelling.

To find the card that works best for you, consider the different types of cards available, and what fees they charge. 

Choose the right type of prepaid travel card

There are different types of prepaid cards you can choose from, and which is right for you will depend on where you’re travelling to, and how you plan to spend. 

Prepaid euro cards : This type of card is designed to be used when travelling in Europe, specifically in countries that use the euro. It sets the exchange rate when you load your travel money onto the card.

Prepaid US dollar cards : This is the same as a euro card, but your balance will be held in dollars. It is ideal if you are planning a trip to the US, but could be expensive to use anywhere else.

Prepaid multi-currency cards : This type of card lets you hold your balance in different currencies, like sterling, dollars, and euros. This is convenient if you’re travelling around countries and want to use the same card.

For all of these cards, the exchange rate will be fixed at the time you load money on to the card. If you do use them to spend in a currency not included on the card, then you may be charged a fee, or face a more expensive exchange rate. 

You could also use a sterling prepaid card , where you load your card with pounds and can then use it at home and abroad. 

When you spend or withdraw money, the sterling is converted into the relevant currency at the time of the transaction. This can be more flexible but makes it harder to budget as you won’t know what the exchange rate will be when you use the card.

Compare travel card charges

A prepaid currency card will have more charges and fees than most credit cards , so it’s important to be aware of these before getting one.

We show the following fees that each prepaid travel card above charges, so you can work out which will be the cheapest for you:

Setup fees : This is a one-off fee when you first purchase the card, and range between £1 and £15. Some providers will waive this fee if you agree to load a certain amount when you first get your card.

Overseas ATMs : This is charged every time you use your prepaid card to withdraw from a cash machine abroad. This is charged as a percentage of the amount withdrawn, e.g. 1%, or a flat rate, e.g. £1 per withdrawal.

Monthly fee : This is a fee you pay every month that you have the card until you cancel it. The amount charged varies, but it can range from between £5 and £15 a month.

Foreign fees : This is a fee charged for every transaction you make while abroad. Ideally look for a prepaid travel card that doesn’t charge foreign fees, as it could make spending abroad expensive.

It can be tempting to choose a card with the lowest fees, but make sure it offers everything you need first. Some cards also have extra benefits like cashback or discounts when you top up to a certain amount. 

What are the pros and cons of travel money cards?

There are plenty of advantages to using a travel money card. It offers security and simplicity when spending abroad, but it might not be the best travel money option. Here are some of the pros and cons of prepaid travel money cards.

Pros of prepaid travel cards

No need for cash : One of the main advantages is that a prepaid travel card removes the need to take a lot of physical cash with you that could be lost or stolen.

Budgeting : Prepaid cards are great if you want to stick to a fixed budget when travelling because you can’t exceed the amount you’ve pre-loaded without topping it up. 

No foreign exchange fees : You won't have to pay foreign exchange fees, as long as the currency on your card matches that of the country you’re using it in.

Multi-currency : Some prepaid travel cards will allow you to load several different currencies onto your card, stored in different ‘wallets’ - perfect if you’re travelling to several countries in one trip.

Cons of prepaid travel cards

Not always accepted : Despite being designed to work in any place that accepts Mastercard or Visa, frustratingly for travellers, some retailers, don’t accept these types of cards, including car rental companies.

Not every currency available : Most will have the 30 main currencies, but you may have to shop around to find one that offers the currency you need if it’s outside of this.

Withdrawal limits : Many cards will have a withdrawal limit per day, which can be small and frustrating if you’re not aware of them. If you plan to withdraw a lot of cash when abroad, avoid cards with a £100 daily limit.

Exchange rate : Because your exchange rate is set when you take out your travel card, you could lose out if the pound strengthens before you leave. However, the opposite is also true - if the pound weakens, you will have got a better deal.

Are there any alternatives to prepaid travel cards?

There are several alternatives to consider when trying to work out the best way to spend money abroad .

Specialist travel credit or debit cards could be a good alternative because they offer a near-perfect exchange rate (the interbank rate) when you spend or withdraw.

They’re also a bit less of a hassle because you don’t have to worry about pre-loading the card before you set off.

If you use a travel credit card, you’ll get Section 75 protection on purchases that cost between £100-£30,000.

Section 75 protection is where a card provider must protect your purchases, meaning that you are entitled to refunds if items are faulty, didn’t arrive, or if there are other problems with them.

You don’t get this protection with prepaid travel cards.

The information provided does not constitute financial advice, it’s always important to do your own research to ensure a financial product is right for your circumstances. If you’re unsure you should contact an independent financial advisor.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can withdraw cash from prepaid travel cards. You may have to pay a fee for this, either as a percentage of the amount you’re withdrawing, like 0.5% or 1%, or a fixed fee per transaction - usually around £1-£2.50.

There may be a withdrawal limit on the card, so check this if you plan to take a lot of cash out while abroad. Some limits are as low as £100 a day, so look for cards with higher limits, or even no withdrawal limit at all.

Prepaid travel cards are a really safe way to spend while you’re overseas. They’re safer than carrying cash that you may have to leave at your accommodation. You can also cancel these cards easily if they’re lost or stolen, making them even safer.

You can get a prepaid travel card by ordering one online from the provider of your choice. If your provider has a branch, you can pick them up from there to get your card instantly.

It should also be possible to get a prepaid travel card at the airport, depending on where you’re flying from. Many providers will have kiosks set up, but do note that the rates and charges could be more expensive when bought at the airport.

When ordering a prepaid travel card online, it will be posted directly to your door and should usually arrive within 3 days.

Yes, if you’re visiting multiple countries that use the same currency, then you can use your card with no additional fees.

This is why getting a prepaid euro card is a good option for travellers in Europe because it allows you to use one card in multiple locations. If you’re visiting multiple destinations in the continent, it’s wise to search for the best prepaid travel card for Europe.

Yes, prepaid travel cards can be used within the UK. However, you may be subjected to fees when using these cards outside of the country where the loaded currency is used. This fee is usually 2.5-2.75% for every transaction and is called a cross-border fee.

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Travel Cards: What are the best options in the UK? 2024

If you’re expecting to spend overseas - on holiday, when shopping online with international retailers, or even because you’re relocating to sunnier climes - you’ll want to find the cheapest and most convenient way to manage your money.

One option is to pick an international debit card - but are they really worth it? This guide covers all you need to know about:

How international debit cards can help cut bank fees and get a better exchange rate

What advantages there are to having an international debit card compared to a regular bank card

How international debit cards work

Which are the best travel and international debit cards available in the UK

Let’s dive right in.

Our Top 4 Travel Debit Cards in the UK:

Wise Travel Card

Post Office Travel Card

ASDA Travel Card

Sainsbury's Travel Card

Travel debit cards: the best options in the UK

How do travel cards work.

Travel debit cards allow you to spend and make withdrawals in a foreign currency easily - and often, for a lower fee compared to using a regular bank debit or credit card.

That means you can use your travel debit card when you travel internationally, to pay for your accommodation, food, shopping - and whatever else you plan to do. You can use your card to make cash withdrawals overseas to make sure you always have a ready supply of foreign currency for when cards aren’t accepted. And finally, you can use your travel card when you shop online with international retailers, to cut the costs of foreign transaction fees.

Types of travel card

You’ll find that there are 3 main types of travel cards that traditional banks offer : prepaid cards, debit cards, and credit cards. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages - make sure you research carefully to find the cheapest option for your spending. Here’s a rundown of some common travel card options for UK customers.

1. Prepaid travel card

Prepaid travel cards - also often known as travel money cards - are offered by a wide range of providers. You’ll top up your card in pounds before you travel, and then you can use your card to spend or make withdrawals when you’re away. Some cards also allow you to add funds online, so you can top up your card after you leave too.

Different prepaid travel cards have their own fee structures, with some charging for top ups, or having ongoing maintenance fees. Check out all the details, including the exchange rates available before you pick one.

2. International card with traditional banks

Most UK based banks which offer a linked debit card will allow you to spend and make withdrawals around the world. However, it’s extremely common to find that there are some extra fees to spend in a foreign currency - often including an exchange rate markup or foreign transaction fee of around 3%.

In the UK you can find the occasional bank or building society which offers a linked debit card with no foreign transaction fee - like the Virgin Money M Plus account, or the Cumberland Building Society Plus Account. However, these specialist accounts do often have other restrictive terms such as minimum balance requirements, or high transaction fees for other services.

You can also choose to spend internationally with your bank issued credit card - but this does risk higher overall fees once you take into account credit costs and any cash advance fees you run into, on top of foreign transaction charges.

3. Travel card with neobanks

You’ll often find that a travel card from a modern online provider - often called a neobank - is the cheapest and most convenient option. Accounts are usually simple to set up, and it’s easy to order your card online or in the provider app. Once you’re up and running you’ll often find you get a better exchange rate than the rate offered by your normal bank - or even the mid-market exchange rate with no markup at all.

Because neobanks are often specialists which operate online and don’t have the same overheads as traditional banks, you can often net a better deal, including no minimum balance requirements, ongoing charges or maintenance costs.

Best travel debit cards: a comparison

Shopping around is the best way to get the right travel card for your needs. There are several travel card providers in the UK which can offer a better deal compared to traditional banks, including online specialist services like Wise. Here’s a more detailed look at some of our top picks.

The Wise card allows you to make payments in more than 200 countries and in more than 150 currencies. Your card is linked to a handy Wise multi-currency account, which lets you hold, convert, send and spend in dozens of currencies, and manage your money on the go from your smartphone.

Pros of the Wise card

No minimum balance or ongoing charges

Hold and exchange 50+ currencies in your Wise account

Auto convert feature will make sure you always get the best possible deal on currency conversion

Manage your card in the Wise app, to freeze and unfreeze the card and get instant transaction notifications

Physical and virtual cards available

Cons of the Wise card

5 GBP fee for your first card

ATM fees apply if you make frequent withdrawals

Spending limits apply

No option to top up account in cash

Post office travel card

Apply for a Post Office travel card online, or by visiting your local Post Office branch with a government issued ID document. You’ll be able to hold 23 currencies in your account, and it’s free to spend any supported currency. Contactless and mobile payments are supported - but there are some fees you’ll need to watch out for, including ATM withdrawal charges.

Pros of the Post Office travel money card

Apply online or in person

Hold and exchange 23 currencies

No fee to spend currencies you hold in the account

Cons of the Post Office travel money card

3% foreign transaction fee if you spend in an unsupported currency

Cash withdrawal fees apply which vary by currency

Monthly maintenance fees apply from 12 months after your card applies

Read our full Post Office travel card review .

ASDA Money Travel Card

You can order an ASDA Money Travel Card online or by visiting a store which has an ASDA Money bureau. Your travel card can hold 16 currencies, and it’s free to spend in any of these currencies, including making ATM withdrawals. It’s worth noting that topping up your account in pounds comes with a fee, and there’s a steep charge for spending in a currency not supported by the card, so you’ll want to double check the currencies you require are all covered.

Pros of the ASDA travel card

24/7 global assistance

Hold up to 16 currencies

Contactless payments supported

No fee for ATM withdrawals

Cons of the ASDA travel card

2% fee to top up in pounds

High fees of 5.75% if you spend in a currency not supported by the card

Inactivity fees of 2 GBP/month apply after 12 months

Sainsbury Bank travel money card

It’s free to get the Sainsbury’s travel card, and it’s free and easy to make contactless payments in any of the 10 supported foreign currencies. You can also make ATM withdrawals in supported currencies without being charged a fee by Sainsbury’s. There are a few costs to watch out for though, including a GBP reload fee, and a high foreign transaction fee if you’re spending in any currency other than the 10 supported currencies.

Pros of the Sainsbury Bank travel money card

Hold up to 10 foreign currencies

Free to spend any currency you hold

Card will deduct funds from the correct balance when you spend in a supported currency, to avoid unnecessary fees

Cons of the Sainsbury Bank travel money card

Inactivity fees of 2 GBP/month apply after 18 months

Advantages of the travel debit cards

Getting an international debit card can be a good alternative to using traditional bank cards to spend money abroad. Advantages include:

Top up your account or card in advance to set a travel budget

Know the exchange rates in advance so there are no surprises

No need to tell your bank you’re travelling

Manage your money online or in an app for convenience

Overall costs are often far lower compared to using a bank

Are there any limitations on travel debit cards?

Travel debit cards aren’t right for everyone - here are a few drawbacks to consider:

Spending currencies not supported by the card can incur fees

You can’t always use your travel card for car rental as it’s not likely to have a credit facility

Some transactions - like paying at the pump for petrol - may result in a hold on funds within your account

Adding funds to your account may not be instant

How does a travel card work?

A travel debit card works similarly to a normal bank debit card in some ways:

Pay with your card directly with merchants - often with contactless functionality

Withdraw cash when you need it from ATMs

Check your balance online, in an app, or via an ATM easily to keep an eye on your money

Funds are deducted from your balance so there’s no worry about running up credit charges

However, travel debit cards have a few distinct advantages compared to regular bank cards:

Cards can often be ordered easily online or by phone

Top up your account whenever you like, to create a separate travel budget

Convert your pounds to foreign currencies in advance so you know the exchange rate before you spend

You’ll often get a better exchange rate compared to a bank, with lower transaction fees

There’s no need to tell the card issuer that you plan to travel

How can I use a travel debit card abroad?

Once you have your travel debit card, you’ll be able to start spending. You’ll need to double check that the merchant or ATM accepts the card network your card uses - Visa and Mastercard are most common, and are widely accepted internationally. You’ll also need to read through the card terms and conditions to make sure you’re aware of any fees that the card issuer applies when you spend or make withdrawals

One other important point when using an international travel card is to watch out for dynamic currency conversion (DCC). That’s when you’re asked by a merchant, or at an ATM terminal, if you’d rather pay in pounds or the local currency wherever you are. If you choose to pay in pounds you’ll usually be hit by high fees and a poor exchange rate - well worth avoiding if you want to make the most of your travel money. Always choose to pay in the local currency to get the best possible deal when spending or withdrawing with your travel card.

How to request a travel debit card

If you’re looking for a specialist travel debit card which lets you spend conveniently while cutting your costs, you may find the best available deal from an online provider such as Wise or Revolut . Signing up for an account is pretty painless, and can be done entirely online or through an app - and you’ll usually find the fees are lower compared to a traditional bank, too.

To show how easy it is, let’s take a look at how to sign up for a Wise card - we’ll cover Wise and a few other top UK travel debit card options in more detail, later:

Download the Wise app or head to the Wise desktop site

Sign up for a Wise account with just an email address, Google, Facebook or Apple ID

Get verified by uploading a photo of your ID documents

Order your card online or in the Wise app for a one time 5 GBP fee

Your physical card will arrive within a few days - or you can access your card details in the Wise app right away for mobile payments

What are the transaction fees which apply to a travel card?

Travel debit cards can offer a better deal when you spend in foreign currencies - but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re entirely free. Here are a couple of the key costs to consider.

Exchange fee

Some travel debit cards will convert your money from pounds to the currency you need with an exchange rate that includes a fee. This may be described as a foreign transaction fee, or a currency conversion charge, for example. For traditional banks this can often be in the region of 3% of the transaction value, although modern online providers do often offer a better deal, and may even skip this fee entirely.

Withdrawal fee

If you plan on making cash withdrawals you’ll also need to check the costs applied by your own bank, and keep an eye on the ATM to make sure the ATM operator won’t also levy a fee. ATM withdrawal fees do vary pretty widely. Some banks offer low, or fee free withdrawals at selected ATMs, but out of network charges can be steep. Again, online travel debit cards may have a more flexible approach to withdrawal fees which can save you money.

Conclusion: is the travel debit card worth it?

Picking the right travel debit card can mean cutting the costs of spending in a foreign currency, with lower transaction fees and a better exchange rate. However, different travel debit cards have their own advantages and disadvantages, with varying fee structures and a range of supported currencies. Compare a few cards, including travel debit cards from online specialist providers like Wise , to find the right one for you.

An international debit card lets you spend and make cash withdrawals in a range of foreign currencies - often with lower fees than using your normal bank card.

Many online and specialist providers allow you to apply for a card easily through a desktop site, app or call centre.

Use your travel debit card just like you would your regular card, to spend and make cash withdrawals around the world.

Travel debit card fees do vary based on the provider, and can include a foreign transaction fee when spending in an unsupported currency, top up charges and inactivity fees. Compare a few providers to get the best available deal for your needs.

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 15, 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 great current account, plus a £175 switching bonus

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

If you’re planning your next staycation make sure to use Times Travel to find the perfect trip. Not only can you read hundreds of hotel reviews by experienced journalists for free, but you can also use their handy search tool to help whittle down your options.

Visit Times Travel

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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Some of the products promoted are from our affiliate partners from whom we receive compensation. While we aim to feature some of the best products available, we cannot review every product on the market.

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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.

Why You Can Trust Monito

Our recommendations are built on rock-solid experience.

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

Other Monito Guides and Reviews on Top Multi Currency Cards

Why Trust Monito?

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

Monito is trusted by 15+ million users across the globe.

Monito's experts spend hours researching and testing services so that you don't have to.

Our recommendations are always unbiased and independent.

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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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The 3 Best Travel Cards For Aussies to Use in the UK

Wise is our pick for travel debit card for the uk.

With this card:

• Convert Aussie dollars to pound sterling at the mid-market exchange rate
• It's very easy to set up and order
• You can receive foreign currency into a multi-currency account linked to the card
• You can transfer money to a bank account overseas

It's not all good news though

• There is a 2% ATM withdrawal fee when you withdraw over $350 during a month
• It takes 7-14 days for delivery

Click here to see the full list of cards and how Wise compares

Read the full review

What are different types of travel cards?

One of the least exciting parts of going overseas, is working out how you're going to access your cash. Using card is an option if you don't want to carry cash, so we've put together the best travel cards to use in the UK.

With lots of different cards you'll need to find the one that best suits your needs. To help narrow your options, here is a list of the best Travel Cards and the key benefits and pitfalls of each one.

They can be either prepaid, debit or credit cards designed specially for overseas use. You can use travel cards to make purchases online, in stores and to withdraw money at ATMs. There are 3 popular types:

Prepaid Travel Cards

Travel debit cards, travel credit cards.

Let's have a look at each one.

Debit Cards offer the convenience of a credit card, but work differently. They draw money directly from your bank account when you make a purchase. It's designed for everyday money transactions and means that you're not accumulating debt.

A debit card could make you stick to your travel budget, because you can't overdraw money from your account. And for daily purchases, we think a debit card can help you stick to your travel budget, because you can't overdraw money from your account.

Generally, we recommend having the combination of a travel debit and travel credit card for safety, flexibility and convenience on your trip.

Wise travel debit card for the UK

• No annual fee, hidden transaction fees, exchange rate markups
• No minimum balance requirements
• Allows you to make payments and withdrawals wherever you are in the world in over 40 currencies
• Local bank account details in Australia (AUD), the UK (GBP), the USA (USD), Europe (EUR) and New Zealand (NZD)
• It takes 7-14 business days to receive the card
• Can't always access local technical support depending on where you are
• Free cash withdrawals limited to under $350 every 30 days
• Only currently available in the US, UK, Europe, Australia and New Zealand

For prepaid cards, you're able to load the card with a set amount of money in the currencies you need. Ideally you do this before your trip, but often you can reload them as well.

Most prepaid travel cards allow for multiple currencies to be loaded onto the card. So it's important to know what currency you'll be using on your travels. Airlines also offer prepaid cards so the money you spend can earn you reward points.

With prepaid travel cards you need to be careful. They can have numerous fees and charges, which can make it more expensive than other options. But if you're organised and travelling to multiple cities a prepaid travel card is a good option.

Revolut - prepaid travel card for the UK

• No purchase fee, load fee, reload fee, exchange rate margin or minimum balance requirements
• Unlike other Travel Cards, its free and easy to use the balance of your currency or convert it back to AUD
• Mid-market exchange rate, they add a mark-up for currency conversion during weekends
• For the free Standard account, there is a 2% ATM withdrawal fee when you withdraw over $350 during a month
• The premium account costs $10.99 a month, which can really add up if you are not using it often

Click here to see the full list of cards and how Revolut compares

• Very easy to use app
• Free to set up
• No hidden fees or exchange rate mark-ups (except on weekends)
• You can use it to transfer money to a bank account overseas
• Additional fees for using the card on a weekend
• 2% ATM fee once you withdraw more than $350 in any 30 day period
• 3-4 business days before you receive your card
• Ongoing subscription fee for Premium and Metal cards

Credit cards have obviously been around for a long time. But now there are specialised travel credit cards. Generally, these cards give you longer to pay back what you've spent but the interest rates after this time can be quite high.

The main advantage with credit cards are the reward points you get in return for your customer loyalty when you spend. But it only works if you pay off the balance in full each month.

Credit cards are great to use for car hire, restaurants and accommodation - larger expenses that are easier for you to pay back over time. Some services only take credit cards to hold purchases so they can definitely be handy while you're travelling.

28 Degrees - travel credit card for the UK

• There are no annual fees
• No overseas purchase fee or currency conversion fee
• You get 55 days interest free on purchases
• Access to free 24/7 concierge service
• Emergency card replacement worldwide

The 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard has additional benefits including shoppers and repayments benefits cover.

• Can have 9 additional cardholders
• No overseas purchase fee, or currency conversion fee
• No foreign transaction fee
• Free Replacement Card
• High interest rates after the initial 55 days
• Minimum credit limit is $6,000
• No introductory offers or rewards

Need to know more about travelling to the UK?

Passports, Visas and Vaccinations

How Much Things Cost in the UK

Currency in the UK

Banks, ATMs & Currency Exchange

The Best Cards to Use in the UK

7 Common Travel Money Traps to Avoid in the UK

AUD to GBP Exchange Rate Calculator

Today's rate

• Credit Cards
• Best No Annual Fee Travel Credit Cards

Best No-Annual-Fee Cards For Travel Of April 2024

Fact Checked

Updated: Apr 24, 2024, 3:32pm

Using a travel rewards credit card has long been celebrated as an easy strategy to travel the world for less. Consumers can apply for rewards credit cards and earn points and miles on everyday spending, then redeem rewards for airfare, hotel stays, rental cars and more.

The annual fees travel cards often charge can be worth it if you use the benefits you receive, but not everyone wants to pay a fee to hold a card. Fortunately, many travel credit cards offer benefits for no annual fee.

Why you can trust Forbes Advisor

Our editors are committed to bringing you unbiased ratings and information. Our editorial content is not influenced by advertisers. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and companies, so all are measured equally. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the credit card methodology for the ratings below.

• 113 countries visited
• 5500 hotel nights spent
• 93,000,000 miles and points redeemed
• 29 loyalty programs covered

Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

• Chase Freedom Flex℠ * : Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Card With Rotating Categories
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® : Best Flat-Rate No-Annual Fee Travel Card
• Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card : Best No-Annual-Fee Flat-Rate Cash-Rewards Card for Travel
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for Everyday Spending
• Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card * : Best No-Annual-Fee Credit Union Card for Travel
• Discover it® Cash Back : Best No-Annual-Fee Card To Earn Cash Back on Travel
• Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express : Best No Annual Fee Amex Card for Travel
• Bilt World Elite Mastercard® : Best No-Annual-Fee Card To Earn Rewards on Rent
• U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card * : Best No-Annual-Fee Card for Dining
• Hilton Honors American Express Card : Best No-Annual-Fee Card for Hilton
• Amex EveryDay® Credit Card * : Best for Earning Membership Rewards Points
• United Gateway℠ Card : Best No-Annual-Fee Airline Card
• Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card * : Best No-Annual-Fee Hotel Card
• Best Credit Cards Of 2024
• Credit Cards With Travel Insurance
• Best Travel Credit Cards
• Best Hotel Credit Cards
• Best Credit Card For Lounge Access
• Best Airline Credit Cards

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

Up to 3X Reward Rate

Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up – like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming Read More

Welcome Bonus

20,000 bonus points

Regular APR

20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

Credit Score

Good, Excellent (700 - 749)

• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s a $200 cash redemption value.
• Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up – like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
• $0 annual fee.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards of 2024

Best no-annual-fee travel card with rotating categories, chase freedom flex℠ *.

Up to 5% Reward Rate

Earn 5% cash back in categories that rotate quarterly on up to $1,500 when enrolled, 5% on travel purchased through Read More

$200 bonus + 5% on Gas and Grocery (excluding Target and Walmart)

20.49% - 29.24% Variable

Excellent, Good (700 - 749)

This card has the brawn to handle just about all of your credit card spending needs without an over-inflated price tag. The card has an annual fee of $0, yet comes with a pumped-up earnings structure that covers a wide swath of expenses including travel, drugstores and dining plus rotating quarterly bonus categories in areas many households are likely to find appealing.

• No annual fee
• Rotating quarterly categories earn 5% rewards when activated, up to a combined quarterly $1,500 maximum
• Travel rewards rate rivals some of the best premium travel cards
• Generous rewards rate in several other categories
• Travel bookings must be made through Chase Travel℠ to earn 5% cash back
• Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 5% cash back on combined gas station and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year
• 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in categories that rotate quarterly (requires activation), 5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% on dining and drugstores and 1% on all other purchases

Best Flat-Rate No-Annual Fee Travel Card

Chase freedom unlimited®.

Up to 6.5X Reward Rate

Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on up to $20,000 spent in the first year, after that 5% cash back Read More

Up to $300 cash back

A good overall spending card that allows you to hold a balance on new purchases with a low introductory APR, pay no annual fee, and still earn at least 1.5% cashback on all purchases

• Generous welcome offer for a no annual fee card
• Unlimited 1.5% minimum earn rate for cash-back rewards
• No minimum redemption amount
• Foreign transaction fee
• Ongoing balance transfer fee is high
• Requires a companion card to transfer points to travel partners
• INTRO OFFER: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) – worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% – 29.24%.
• No annual fee – You won’t have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.
• Member FDIC

Best No-Annual-Fee Flat-Rate Cash-Rewards Card for Travel

Wells fargo active cash® card.

Unlimited 2% Rewards Rate

Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases

$200 Cash Rewards

The Wells Fargo Active Cash offers an unlimited 2% cash rewards rate on purchases and charges no annual fee. This puts it in competition with the best flat-rate cash back cards on the market.

• Unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases
• $0 annual fee
• Cellphone protection benefit
• There’s a balance transfer fee
• There’s a foreign transaction fee
• No travel transfer partners
• Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
• Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
• No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.

Best for Everyday Spending

Earning 3 points per dollar spent on a wide range of spending—including restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit and popular streaming services—for no annual fee, the Wells Fargo Autograph is a powerhouse.

• No foreign transaction fee
• Introductory APR period
• Plentiful reward points categories
• Protections include cell phone insurance
• Balance transfer fee
• No introductory balance transfer APR

Best No-Annual-Fee Credit Union Card for Travel

Alliant cashback visa® signature credit card *.

Up to 2.5% Reward Rate

Those eligible for Tier 1 Rewards earn 2.5% cashback on the first $10,000 of qualifying eligible purchases per billing cycle Read More

17.24% - 27.24% variable

Excellent (750 - 850)

If you regularly rack up your monthly balance, the 2.5% return on the Alliant card is hard to beat. The downsides are that excellent credit is recommended before you apply for the card and the lack of a welcome bonus.

• 2.5% cash back rate on up to $10,000 in monthly purchases for eligible accounts (then 1.5%)
• No foreign transaction fees
• Generous credit line
• No intro APR offer
• No welcome bonus
• Requires a companion checking account with balance, direct deposit and e-statement requirements
• Earn up to 2.5% cash back with no categories to track on up to $10,000 in purchases each billing cycle with qualifying accounts. All other purchases earn 1.5%
• You can choose to receive cash back from your Alliant credit card via a credit card statement credit (appearing within one billing cycle) or as a deposit into your Alliant checking or savings
• Up to $5,000 of Personal Identity Theft Protection for covered expenses to restore your identity

Best No-Annual-Fee Card To Earn Cash Back on Travel

Discover it® cash back.

Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, Read More

Cashback Match™

17.24% - 28.24% Variable APR

Excellent/Good

For moderate spenders who are willing to activate the 5% rotating categories and track the quarterly spending cap, this no-annual-fee card can deliver tidy rewards outside of its ongoing 1% earning rate.

• 5% cash back on quarterly rotating spending categories throughout the year (activation required)
• Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year
• No minimum cashback redemption
• 5% bonus cashback rate is limited to $1,500 per quarter in spending
• Bonus categories must be activated quarterly
• Low 1% base reward rate on everything else
• INTRO OFFER: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.
• Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases—automatically.
• Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
• Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
• Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 17.24% to 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
• No annual fee.
• Terms and conditions apply.

Best No Annual Fee Amex Card for Travel

Blue cash everyday® card from american express.

Up to 3% Reward Rate

Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and online retail purchases in the U.S. on up to Read More

19.24%-29.99% Variable

Excellent/Good (700 - 749)

For no annual fee, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express offers excellent value in the right hands. Spending a lot at U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations brings plump rewards, while the introductory APR rate on purchases helps keep your interest expenses down. Look elsewhere for foreign transactions.

• Introductory APR offer on purchases and balance transfers
• Above-average earnings at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations and online retail purchases in the U.S.
• Elevated earnings at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and online retail purchases in the U.S. are capped at $6,000 in annual spending per category
• Rewards earning outside of the bonus categories is just 1% cash back
• Earn a $200 statement credit after you spend $2,000 in purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.
• No Annual Fee.
• Balance Transfer is back! Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months from the date of account opening. After that, 19.24% to 29.99% variable APR.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back on U.S. online retail purchases, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations, on up to $6,000 per year, then 1%.
• Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit or at Amazon.com checkout.
• Thinking about getting the Disney Bundle which can include Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+? Your decision made easy with $7/month back in the form of a statement credit after you spend $9.99 or more each month on an eligible subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your Blue Cash Everyday® Card. Enrollment required.
• Enjoy up to $15 back per month when you purchase a Home Chef meal kit subscription (subject to auto renewal) with your enrolled Blue Cash Everyday® Card.
• Terms Apply.

Best No-Annual-Fee Card To Earn Rewards on Rent

Bilt world elite mastercard®.

Up to 3x Reward Rate

1x on rent payments with no transaction fee (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year). 2x points on travel Read More

Good/Excellent (700 - 749)

Pay rent, earn rewards and use your earnings for travel. Sounds like a great way to maximize your rent money to us.

• Earn rewards on rent
• Primary car rental and cell phone insurance
• Points can be transferred to partners
• Requires five card transactions per statement period to earn rewards
• High regular APR range
• Rewards outside of rent spend are relatively low compared to other cards
• Earn points when you make 5 transactions that post each statement period
• 1x points on rent payments with no transaction fee (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year)
• 2x points on travel (when booked directly with an airline, hotel, car rental or cruise company)
• 3x points on dining
• Plus 1x points on other purchases
• Cell Phone Insurance
• Purchase security (theft and damage protection)
• Mastercard® World Elite Concierge
• Lyft Credits
• No foreign currency conversion fee
• Rewards & benefits terms

Best No-Annual-Fee Card for Dining

U.s. bank altitude® go visa signature® card *.

Up to 4X Reward Rate

Earn 4 points per dollar on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery and 2 points per dollar at grocery stores, grocery Read More

18.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

Excellent Credit (750 - 850)

With no foreign transaction fee and industry-leading earnings on dining, the Altitude Go could get you up into the air quickly.

• No penalty APR
• Generous rewards for a no annual fee card
• Annual credit toward eligible streaming services
• No bonus reward tier for entertainment spending
• Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. That’s a $200 value redeemable towards merchandise, gift cards, cash back, travel and more
• 4 points per dollar spent on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery
• 2 points per dollar spent on streaming services and a $15 credit for annual streaming purchases
• 2 points per dollar spent at grocery stores, gas stations, and EV charging stations (excluding discount stores, supercenters and wholesale clubs effective September 9, 2024)
• 1 point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases
• Points never expire

Best No-Annual-Fee Card for Hilton

Hilton honors american express card.

Up to 7X Reward Rate

Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels and resorts within the Read More

Earn 80,000 points

20.99%-29.99% Variable

Good,Excellent (700 - 749)

A good intro into the Hilton world without paying an annual fee, the Hilton Honors Card from American Express brings you a few nice perks. But if you’re a serious Hilton traveler, you’ll want to look at one of the higher end cobranded Hilton cards offered by American Express.

• High point earning rates
• Generous welcome bonus
• Automatic Silver status includes fifth night free on award stays
• No annual fee or foreign transaction fee
• No blackout dates
• Low point redemption value
• Silver status comes with limited benefits
• Poor transfer rate to airline partners
• Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors Bonus Points after you spend $2,000 in purchases on the Card in the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 7X Hilton Honors Bonus Points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged on your Card directly with hotels and resorts within the Hilton portfolio.
• Earn 5X Points per dollar on purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations.
• Earn 3X Points for all other eligible purchases on your Card.
• Enjoy complimentary Hilton Honors™ Silver status with your Card. Plus, spend $20,000 on eligible purchases on your Card in a calendar year and you can earn an upgrade to Hilton Honors™ Gold status through the end of the next calendar year.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees. Enjoy international travel without additional fees on purchases made abroad.

Best for Earning Membership Rewards Points

Amex everyday® credit card *.

Up to 2x Reward Rate

Earn 2X points at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year (then 1X); Earn 2X points at American Express Read More

Earn 10,000 points

18.24% - 29.24% variable

If you are looking for a solid intro APR offer and frequently spend at US supermarkets, this is the card for you.

• Possible to earn 20% bonus on all points earned
• 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar on up to $6,000 spent annually at U.S. supermarkets (then 1 point per dollar)
• 2.7% foreign transaction fee
• Spending cap on bonus points at grocery stores
• Requires 20 purchases per month to earn 20% bonus
• Earn 10,000 membership rewards points after spending $2,000 in qualifying purchases in the first 6 months of card membership
• Earn 2 points per dollar spent on qualifying purchases at US supermarkets up to $6,000 per year (then 1 point)
• Earn 2 points for every dollar when you use your card to book your trip through American Express Travel
• Earn 1 point for every eligible dollar you spend on everything else
• You can use membership rewards points towards eligible charges you make on your card, such as retail, dining, entertainment and more
• Use your card 20 or more times on purchases in a billing period and earn 20% extra points on those purchases

Best No-Annual-Fee Airline Card

United gateway℠ card.

Up to 2x Rewards Rate

2X miles per $1 spent on United purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting. 1 mile per Read More

• Earn 20,000 bonus miles

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

With its simple and respectable rewards rates, plus Visa Signature benefits, casual fliers who are loyal to United will find value in United’s only card with no annual fee.

• Earn 2 miles on purchases with United, at gas stations and on local transportation
• Enjoy expanded United award travel availability
• Earns only 1 mile per dollar spent on non-bonused purchases
• No free checked bag or enhanced boarding benefits
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United® purchases
• Earn 2 miles per $1 spent at gas stations, on local transit and commuting
• Earn 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases
• 25% back as a statement credit on purchases of food, beverages and Wi-Fi on board United-operated flights and on Club premium drinks when you pay with your Gateway Card

Best No-Annual-Fee Hotel Card

Marriott bonvoy bold® credit card *.

3 points per dollar spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program, 2 points per dollar on other Read More

Earn 30,000 bonus points

21.49% - 28.49% variable

One of several Marriott credit cards, the Marriott Bonvoy Bold card is the only one without an annual fee. It’s a smart entry-level card for travelers who want to earn points in the Marriott Bonvoy rewards program and enjoy Silver Elite status.

• The first Bonvoy Rewards card with no annual fee
• 15 Elite Night credits per year + Silver Elite status
• Rewards bonus categories are somewhat limited
• 5% fee for balance transfers
• Earn 30,000 bonus points after you spend $1,000 on your first 3 months of account opening.
• Earn 3X points per dollar spent at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®
• Plus, earn up to 10X points from Marriott for being a Marriott Bonvoy member
• 15 elite night credits annually, enough for Silver Elite status, terms apply

Here’s a Summary of the Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

More about the best no-annual-fee travel credit cards.

Navigating the world of credit cards means finding the combination of pros and cons that offer the best value for your needs. A card rewarding your unique spending habits and goals will outperform one that is seemingly best for the average consumer, so make sure to evaluate each card for your specific uses.

Be aware that cards with no annual fee often charge other types of fees. In addition to interest charges incurred when a balance is carried, cardholders may also face penalty charges, including over-limit fees and late payment fees, as well as fees for foreign transactions, cash advances and balance transfers.

If you’re looking for a cash-back credit card and want the option to redeem points for travel, the Chase Freedom Flex℠ * may be exactly what you need. This card lets you earn a strong base rate of rewards for each dollar you spend, and you can redeem points for cash back, statement credits, gift cards, merchandise or travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards® portal.

Welcome bonus: Earn a $200 bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 5% cash back on combined gas station and grocery store purchases (excluding Target and Walmart) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in categories that rotate quarterly (requires activation), 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on dining and drugstores and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Chase Freedom Flex℠ * may be marketed as a cash-back credit card, but you can redeem rewards for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal. Since you can also redeem your rewards for statement credits at a rate of 1 cent per point, you can cover travel purchases charged to your card as well.

This card paired with a premium Chase card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , Chase Sapphire Reserve® or Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card can provide extra leverage as points are worth 1.25 to 1.5 cents each when redeemed through the Chase travel portal depending on which premium card you have. Carrying both the Flex card and a premium Chase card also gives you the opportunity for 1:1 transfers to Chase’s airline and hotel partners like United and Hyatt.

The Chase Freedom Flex℠ * offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24% applies. Balance transfer fee of up to 5% (min. $5) of the amount of each transfer applies. This makes the card a solid option if you want to charge a big purchase and pay down your balance over time without worrying about interest for the duration of the 0% introductory APR period.

The card’s benefits also include purchase protection against damage and theft and extended warranties for eligible items.

Those looking to get into the Chase ecosystem with a no-annual-fee card might want to consider the flat-rate Chase Freedom Unlimited® .

Welcome bonus: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on up to $20,000 spent in the first year, worth up to $300 cash back.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on eligible dining and drugstores and 1.5% on all other purchases, plus an additional 1.5% cash back on the first $20,000 in purchases the first year.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Chase Freedom Unlimited® may not be the best choice for those who like to travel abroad because it charges a foreign transaction fee. On the plus side, it offers an introductory APR: 0% introductory APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24% applies. An intro transfer fee of either $5 or 3% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater, applies in the first 60 days of account opening. After that, a fee of either $5 or 5% of the amount of each transfer applies.

If you’re looking for a card to boost your travel funds but prefer a cash rewards card, the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card may be the way to go.

Welcome bonus: Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.

Rewards: Earn 2% cash rewards on purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card offers up to $600 per claim in cellphone protection (subject to a $25 deductible) when you pay a monthly cellphone bill with the card, terms apply.

It also offers a 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers, then a 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR applies. Balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a fee of up to 5%, with a minimum of $5 applies.

The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card is excellent for everyday spending with bonus categories that most people will have no problem using.

Welcome bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months.

Rewards: Earn 3 points per dollar at restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus, earn 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card also offers an introductory 0% APR: 0% introductory APR on purchases for 12 months from account opening. A variable APR of 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% applies for purchases after the intro period ends and for balance transfers. The card has a balance transfer fee of up to 5%, minimum $5. Cardholders can also benefit from cellphone protection, roadside dispatch and an auto rental collision damage waiver.

The Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card * offers the potential for a high rate of cashback, although this rate is limited to the first $10,000 in purchases each month. However, this will likely be sufficient for most people’s monthly spending.

Welcome bonus: This card does not offer a welcome bonus.

Rewards: Earn up to 2.5% cash back with no categories to track on up to $10,000 in purchases each billing cycle with qualifying accounts. All other purchases earn 1.5%.

Other benefits and drawbacks: You’ll have to join Alliant Credit Union to be eligible to apply for this card and to achieve the highest rate of cashback, you’ll have to have an average daily balance of at least $1,000 in your Alliant High-Rate Checking account for each preceding calendar month. The Alliant Cashback card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

The Discover it® Cash Back isn’t specifically marketed as a travel card, but cashback can be used for anything—including travel, so we’ve included it here. This card offers solid rewards as long as you can remember to activate the quarterly categories. It also offers a non-traditional but impressive welcome bonus for those who spend plentifully on the card.

Welcome bonus: Discover will automatically match all the cash back earned at the end of the first year as a cardmember. There's no minimum spending or maximum rewards.

Rewards: Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places each quarter up to a quarterly maximum of $1,500 in spending when activated. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – automatically.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Discover it® Cash Back offers a 0% introductory APR for 15 months on purchases and eligible balance transfers. Then, a standard rate of 17.24% - 28.24% variable applies. A balance transfer fee of up to 5% of the amount transferred applies. It also offers online privacy protection tools and free social security number alerts.

The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express (Terms apply, see rates & fees ) is a solid option for those looking to earn cash back from American Express.

Welcome bonus: Earn $200 statement credit after spending $2,000 on purchases within the first 6 months.

Rewards: Earn 3% cash back at U.S. supermarkets, U.S. gas stations, and online retail purchases in the U.S. (on up to $6,000 in each category per year in purchases, then 1%), and 1% cash back on other purchases. Cash back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be easily redeemed for statement credits or at Amazon.com checkout.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express offers an introductory APR: 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and on balance transfers requested within 60 days of account opening, followed by a variable APR of 19.24%-29.99%. A balance transfer fee of $5 or 3%, whichever is greater, applies. Cardholders can also benefit from access to Amex Offers, up to $84 in credit ($7 monthly) for a Disney Bundle subscription and a $180 Home Chef credit. Additional benefits include purchase protection ¹ and car rental loss and damage insurance ² .

The Bilt World Elite Mastercard®  ( rates & fees ) lays the claim as the first card that offers the ability to pay rent and earn points on those purchases. For those who pay rent, it’s a great way to earn a bunch of additional points each year.

Rewards: Earn 1 point per dollar on rent payments without the transaction fee (on up to 100,000 points each calendar year), 3 points per dollar on dining, 2 points per dollar on travel (when booked through the Bilt Travel Portal or directly with an airline, hotel, car rental or cruise company), and 1 point per dollar on other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Bilt points can be transferred at a 1:1 rate to various transfer partners, including American Airlines and Hyatt. The card also offers cellphone protection, various travel benefits and the ability to earn bonus points (and sometimes other benefits) once per month on Rent Day, though you must use the card five times each statement period to earn points ( rewards & benefits ).

The U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card * earns points that you can redeem for merchandise, gift cards, cash back or travel, all at a value of 1 cent per point. It offers reasonable earn rates for a no-annual-fee card.

Welcome bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 4 points per dollar on dining, takeout, and restaurant delivery, 2 points per dollar at grocery stores, grocery delivery, gas stations, streaming services and on EV charging stations (excluding discount stores, supercenters and wholesale clubs effective September 9, 2024) and 1 point per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Cardholders can also benefit from a 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 12 billing cycles, followed by a regular variable APR of 18.24% - 29.24%. A balance transfer fee of 3% applies ($5 minimum). The card also offers a $15 annual streaming bonus for services like Netflix, Apple TV+, Spotify and others.

The Hilton Honors American Express Card (Terms apply, see rates & fees ) offers the ability to earn Hilton Honors points for each dollar you spend and automatically qualify for elite perks.

Welcome bonus: Earn 80,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after spending $2,000 in purchases on the card in the first six months of card membership.

Rewards: Earn 7 Hilton Honors points for each dollar of eligible purchases charged directly with hotels or resorts within the Hilton portfolio, 5 points for each dollar of eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants, at U.S. supermarkets, and at U.S. gas stations and 3 points per dollar on all other eligible purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Hilton Honors American Express Card offers robust earning categories that let you earn bonus points in many common areas of spending.

Cardholder benefits include automatic Silver status, but you can move up to Hilton Honors™ Gold status if you spend at least $20,000 on your credit card within a calendar year. If you expect to spend this much on your card each year, it may make sense to get a card that automatically provides a higher level of Hilton status and place the spending on a card that will net you more rewards overall.

Those looking for an Amex Card but with a preference to earn Membership Rewards instead of cash back should consider the Amex EveryDay® Credit Card * .

Welcome bonus: Earn 10,000 points after spending $2,000 in qualifying purchases in the first 6 months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar at US supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1X), 2 points per dollar when using the card to book trips through American Express Travel and 1 point for every eligible dollar on everything else. Plus, use the card 20 or more times on purchases in a billing period and earn 20% extra points on those purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: When you use your Amex EveryDay® Credit Card * 20 or more times per billing cycle, you’ll earn a 20% bonus on all points earned during that billing cycle. This card also offers access to Amex Offers, car rental loss and damage insurance and purchase protection.

United isn’t the only airline with a no-annual-fee card, but it’s the best no-annual-fee airline offering. The United Gateway℠ Card provides a few valuable benefits when a cardholder flies United.

Welcome bonus: Earn 20,000 bonus miles after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 2 miles per dollar on United® purchases, at gas stations and on local transit and commuting and 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: Holders of the United Gateway℠ Card receive 25% off United in-flight purchases made on the card. It also offers an auto rental collision damage waiver, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, purchase protection, extended warranty coverage and doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

Those looking for more United benefits, including a free checked bag when flying with the airline, should consider the United℠ Explorer Card that has a $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

Read more: United Airlines MileagePlus: The Ultimate Guide

The Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card * is a decent option for those wanting to earn Marriott points without paying an annual fee. If you’re really looking for a Marriott-specific card, you should also ask yourself: Which Marriott Card is right for me ?

Welcome bonus: Earn 30,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.

Rewards: Earn 3 points per dollar at over 7,000 hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy program, 2 points per dollar on other travel purchases (from airfare to taxis and trains) and 1 point per dollar on all other purchases.

Other benefits and drawbacks: The Marriott Bonovy Bold offers complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Silver status and 15 Elite Night credits each year that may help you qualify for higher levels of elite status. The card also offers various travel and purchase coverage like baggage delay insurance and purchase protection, and it doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.

Methodology

Forbes Advisor compared dozens of travel credit cards from all major issuers to find the best options with no annual fee. Factors we looked at include:

• Earning rates
• Welcome offers
• Introductory APR
• Consumer protections
• Automatic elite status
• Multiple redemption options

Read more: How Forbes Advisor Rates Credit Cards

What Does No Annual Fee Mean?

No annual fee means the credit card company does not charge you to maintain the credit card. No annual fee does not mean you should expect no fees at all—you might still pay interest, over-limit fees, late payment fees or a foreign transaction fee. Carefully consult your cardholder agreement and the Schumer box therein.

Why Do Credit Cards Have Annual Fees?

When a credit card charges an annual fee, it means the issuer is charging the cardholder directly to maintain the account. Once a credit card is activated, this type of flat fee isn’t impacted by how the card is used or by any other factors within the cardholder’s control—it simply recurs for as long as the account stays open. Most commonly, an annual fee is billed on the anniversary month of the credit card account’s opening. The cost of these fees can vary dramatically.

Annual fees are, unsurprisingly, not popular, so why do credit card issuers commonly charge them? Traditionally, cards with higher annual fees offer significantly better perks. It’s still common for no-annual-fee cards to fall on the less-generous end of the benefits spectrum. Credit cards designed for individuals with low credit scores and poor application prospects may also charge a high annual fee and a higher APR to offset the theoretically heightened risk assumed by the issuer.

Credit card issuers expect to profit from each offering, and each card represents a calculated compromise between advantages popular among consumers and guarantees or benefits for the issuer. Your choice should focus on the combination of pros and cons providing you the best value.

How Do Travel Credit Cards With No Annual Fee Work?

No annual fee means the issuer does not charge consumers to carry the credit card. At least in theory, annual fees are levied by issuers to compensate for other aspects of a card considered especially favorable to the cardholder, such as rewards. Though it’s common for these fees to be waived for a year or altogether to attract customers, the most benefit-heavy cards often charge annual fees. Apart from this tradeoff, no-annual-fee credit cards function much like cards with annual fees.

Benefits of No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards

Each card offers its own suite of benefits. These vary depending on the issuer, but most credit cards offer at least some of the following:

• Fraud protection (all consumer cards are required to offer a certain degree of protection)
• Introductory APRs
• Rewards earning (in the form of cashback from purchases or points and miles redeemable for airline tickets, hotel stays or other travel)
• Discounts on in-flight food and beverage purchases

No-annual-fee cards may offer fewer of these benefits compared to their counterparts that charge an annual fee.

Who Should Get a No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Card?

Many people can benefit from a no-annual-fee travel credit card. Whether you travel occasionally or all the time, these cards offer benefits targeted toward travelers without charging you anything to hold the card.

• If you’re an occasional traveler: Look for a travel credit card that offers the most benefits for the lowest fee—You can probably find a no-annual-fee card that will fit your needs.
• If you’re a frequent traveler: While you may be able to find a no-annual-fee travel card that works for you, there’s a good chance you would benefit more from one of the best travel cards , many of which do charge an annual fee.

How To Choose the Right Travel Credit Card With No Annual Fee

All the travel credit cards in our ranking allow consumers to earn travel rewards points or cash back without having to pay a fee each year. But there’s more to picking a travel credit card than just finding an option without a fee. The following tips can help shoppers find a card that suits their needs:

• Compare rewards programs: Make sure you’re earning rewards you can actually use. If you plan to pick up a hotel credit card or airline credit card specifically, you’ll want to explore the loyalty program to ensure you understand how it works and whether it makes sense for you. If you never fly, for example, there’s no sense in earning airline miles.
• Consider flexible travel options: Decide whether a  flexible travel credit card might work better. While some cards only let you redeem points within a specific loyalty program, others allow you to cash in points for any travel purchase you want or for additional redemption options like gift cards or merchandise.
• Look at 0% APR offers: Many cards on our list also offer an introductory 0% APR for a limited time. Some of these offers apply only to purchases, but a few apply to balance transfers, as well.
• Look for other cardholder perks: Finally, consider which cards offer the benefits you want most, whether those include no foreign transaction fees, elite status with a loyalty program or travel insurance benefits. Ideally, you’ll find a card with rewards you can use and cardholder perks that make sense for the way you travel.

Find the Best Travel Credit Cards for 2024

Find the best travel credit card for your travel needs.

How To Apply for a No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Card

It is often easiest to compare and apply for credit cards through the card issuer’s website. Though you can often apply over the phone or by mail, these methods may take longer and be less convenient.

Applicants should know their credit scores and credit histories before shopping for cards. No-annual-fee travel credit cards may require good to excellent credit for an application to be successful. The better your score and credit history, the better your chances for approval.

Any applicant can take steps to increase creditworthiness and chances of approval for new cards. These steps include clearing up any outstanding debts carried elsewhere and decreasing your credit utilization ratio , representing how much of your overall available credit is used. Applicants should also become familiar with the card’s terms and conditions and check for any important details in the fine print before applying.

Is a Credit Card With No Annual Fee Worth It?

A credit card with no annual fee, as long as it offers you benefits and rewards that you can use, is worth it. The real question is this: Is there another card that’s better? There may be another no-annual-fee card that offers rewards more in line with your spending habits or benefits that are more valuable to you. There could be a credit card with an annual fee that offers even better rewards and benefits—enough to offset the annual fee—that makes even more sense. It’s worthwhile to take some time to compare the available options so you can find the card that’s best for you.

Bottom Line

Many excellent travel cards offer lucrative rewards and benefits without charging an annual fee. Though no annual fee does not mean the absence of fees altogether, paying an annual fee is only worthwhile if a cardholder can extract at least as much value from that card beyond what the best no-annual-fee card can offer. Carefully do your research before applying for any card, and recognize that just because a card doesn’t charge an annual fee doesn’t mean it won’t stick you with interest and other fees if you don’t manage the account responsibly.

To view rates and fees for Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express please visit this page . To view rates and fees for Bilt World Elite Mastercard® please visit this page . To view rates and fees for Hilton Honors American Express Card please visit this page . ¹Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. ¹Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply. Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details. Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company. Car Rental Loss or Damage Coverage is offered through American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the best credit card with no annual fee and cashback.

There is not one no-annual-fee cash-back card that tops all others, as everyone has a unique credit profile and set of needs. Our list is designed to give you a starting point for your search. If you are looking for a card with no annual fee and category bonuses, consider the Chase Freedom Flex℠ * . If you are looking for no annual fee and simple cash rewards, consider the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card.

What benefits are common for no-annual-fee cards?

Each card offers its own suite of benefits. These vary depending on the vendor, but most credit cards offer fraud protection (all consumer cards are required to offer a certain degree of protection), and many offer some sort of rewards or intro APR.

What is the best credit card for airline miles with no annual fee?

We consider the United Gateway℠ Card and the JetBlue Card * to be among the best no-annual-fee airline cards, but the card best for you depends on your spending habits, airline preference and more. Other airlines also offer no-annual-fee options, but all airline cards without an annual fee are light on the benefits compared to annual-fee card peers. If you regularly fly with a specific airline or if you occasionally fly but usually check a bag, consider an airline card with an annual fee. While you may pay an annual fee, the savings from a free checked bag and other benefits could save you money in the long run.

Which no-annual-fee travel cards offer the best welcome bonus?

Welcome bonuses vary not only by the card but by the day. Banks frequently publish new promotions, so welcome bonuses may change without much notice. A couple of cards consistently offering solid welcome bonuses are the Chase Freedom Flex℠ * and the United Gateway℠ Card .

What credit score do I need to get a no-annual-fee travel card?

Generally, rewards cards—including travel credit cards—typically require good to excellent credit even when the card doesn’t have an annual fee. A score in the good range of 670 to 739 may be sufficient for a basic rewards card, but for the strongest rewards, you can expect to need a score of 740 or higher to qualify.

What is the best travel rewards credit card with no annual fee?

The best travel rewards card for you may not be the best travel rewards card for the next consumer. While we believe the Chase Freedom Flex℠ * may be an excellent overall choice for many, we urge you to carefully research whether the card’s reward structure matches your spending habits and if this card’s set of travel benefits and protections will serve you better than another card.

When should I look for a no-annual-fee credit card?

Though many cards in the list of no-annual-fee credit cards above require a more robust credit history than most when initially looking for a credit card , no-annual-fee credit cards make great first credit cards. Many no-annual-fee cards also offer low or 0% introductory APRs on purchases or balance transfers when you need to make a large purchase or complete a balance transfer, but applying for any credit card should only be done when you’re ready for the responsibility associated with a credit card account.

Can you get a no-annual-fee travel card with bad credit?

It may be difficult to qualify for a no-annual-fee travel card with bad credit. You should first consider the best cards for bad credit and focus on improving your credit score to gain access to better credit card products in the future.

Is it hard to qualify for a no-annual-fee travel credit card?

It’s not necessarily hard to qualify for a no-annual-fee travel credit card, but your credit profile will be evaluated when you apply.

Next Up In Credit Cards

• Best Credit Cards 2024
• Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card
• Capital One Venture X Credit Card
• Best Rewards Credit Cards
• Can I Add My Child To My Credit Card?
• How Many Credit Cards Should I Have?

*The information for the following card(s) has been collected independently by Forbes Advisor: Chase Freedom Flex℠, Alliant Cashback Visa® Signature Credit Card, U.S. Bank Altitude® Go Visa Signature® Card, Amex EveryDay® Credit Card, Marriott Bonvoy Bold® Credit Card, JetBlue Card . The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Jerod Morales is a deputy editor at Forbes Advisor and a travel rewards expert. He took a deep dive into points and miles in 2016, searching for a way to make travel both possible and affordable for his growing family. Now, as a dad to four sons, he and his wife enjoy introducing their kids to cultures and cities across the globe as often as they can.

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eSIM Research

The Best eSIM Card for UK Travel in 2024

Top esim card for uk travel, the best esim card for uk.

What is an eSIM Card?

Benefits of using an esim card.

• Flexibility : I’m not tied down to a single provider. I can switch between plans or carriers easily to suit my travel needs.
• Convenience : No more hunting for physical SIM cards. I can manage everything right from my device.
• Space-saving : Since it’s all digital, there’s no need for multiple SIM cards, which is great for my device’s SIM tray lifespan.

How to Activate an eSIM Card

• First, I ensure my device is eSIM compatible and unlocked.
• Then, I choose my preferred eSIM provider and plan.
• I follow the provider’s activation process, usually scanning a QR code or downloading a profile.
• Finally, I set up the eSIM on my device, and voilà, I’m connected.

Considerations Before Choosing an eSIM Card

Coverage and network compatibility, data plans and pricing options, customer support and reviews, frequently asked questions, what is the most important factor when choosing an esim card for travel in the uk, how does network compatibility affect my esim choice, why should i compare data plans and pricing when selecting an esim, how important are customer support and reviews when choosing an esim, can the right esim enhance my travel experience in the uk, leave a comment cancel reply.

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