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5 Best Travel Cards for South Africa

Getting an international travel card before you travel to South Africa can make it cheaper and more convenient when you spend in South African Rand. You'll be able to easily top up your card in USD before you leave the US, to convert seamlessly to ZAR for secure and flexible spending and withdrawals.

This guide walks through our picks of the best travel cards available for anyone from the US heading to South Africa, like Wise or Revolut. We'll walk through a head to head comparison, and a detailed look at their features, benefits and drawbacks.

5 best travel money cards for South Africa:

Let's kick off our roundup of the best travel cards for South Africa with a head to head comparison on important features. Here's an overview of the providers we've picked to look at, for customers looking for ways to spend conveniently overseas when travelling from the US:

Each of the international travel cards we’ve picked out have their own features and fees, which may mean they suit different customer needs. Keep reading to learn more about the features, advantages and disadvantages of each - plus a look at how to order the travel card of your choice before you head off to South Africa.

Revolut travel card

Choose a Revolut account, from the Standard plan which has no monthly fee, to higher tier options which have monthly charges but unlock extra features and benefits. All accounts come with a smart Revolut card you can use in South Africa, with some no fee ATM withdrawals and currency conversion monthly, depending on the plan you pick. Use your Revolut account to hold and exchange 25+ currencies, and get extras like account options for under 18s, budgeting tools and more.

Revolut features

Revolut travel card pros and cons.

• Pick the Revolut account plan that suits your spending needs
• Hold and exchange 25+ currencies, and spend in 150 countries
• Accounts come with different card types, depending on which you select
• All accounts have some no fee currency exchange and some no fee ATM withdrawals monthly
• Some account tiers have travel perks like complimentary or discounted lounge access
• You need to upgrade to an account with a monthly fee to get all account features
• Delivery fees may apply for your travel card
• Fair usage limits apply once you exhaust your currency conversion and ATM no fee allowances
• Out of hours currency conversion has additional fees

How to apply for a Revolut card

Set up your Revolut account before you leave the US and order your travel card. Here’s how:

Download and open the Revolut app

Register by adding your personal and contact information

Upload your ID document to complete the verification step

Follow the prompts to confirm your address and order your card

Pay any required delivery fee - costs depend on your account type

Wise travel card

Open a Wise account online or in the Wise app, to order a Wise travel card you can use for convenient spending and withdrawals in South Africa. Wise accounts can hold 40+ currencies, so you can top up in USD easily from your bank or using your card. Whenever you travel, to South Africa or beyond, you’ll have the option to convert to the currency you need in advance if it’s supported for holding a balance, or simply let the card do the conversion at the point of payment.

In either case you’ll get the mid-market exchange rate with low, transparent fees whenever you spend in ZAR, plus some free ATM withdrawals every month - perfect if you’re looking for easy ways to arrange your travel cash.

Wise features

Wise travel card pros and cons.

• Hold and exchange 40+ currencies with the mid-market rate
• Spend seamlessly in ZAR when you travel
• Some free ATM withdrawals every month, for those times only cash will do
• Ways to receive payments to your Wise account conveniently
• Manage your account and card from your phone
• 9 USD delivery fee for your first card
• ATM fees apply once you've exhausted your monthly free withdrawals
• Physical cards may take 14 - 21 days to arrive

How to apply for a Wise card

Here’s how to apply for a Wise account and order a Wise  travel card in the US:

Open the Wise app or desktop site

Select Register and confirm you want to open a personal account

Register with your email, Facebook, Apple or Google ID

Tap the Cards tab to order your card

Pay the one time 9 USD fee, confirm your mailing address, and your card will be on the way, and should arrive in 14 - 21 days

Chime travel card

Use your Chime account and card to spend in South Africa with no foreign transaction fee. You’ll just need to load a balance in USD and then the money is converted to ZAR instantly with the Visa rate whenever you spend or make a withdrawal. There’s a fee to make an ATM withdrawal out of network, which sits at 2.5 USD, but there are very few other costs to worry about. Plus you can get lots of extra services from Chime if you need them, such as ways to save.

Chime features

Chime travel card pros and cons.

• No Chime foreign transaction fees
• No ongoing charges for your account
• Lots of extra products and services if you need them
• Easy ways to manage your money online and in app
• Virtual cards available
• You'll need to inform Chime you're traveling to use your card abroad
• Low ATM limits
• Cards take 7 - 10 days to arrive by mail

How to apply for a Chime card

Here’s how to apply for a Chime account and order a travel card in the US:

Visit the Chime website or download the app

Click Get started and add your personal details

Add a balance

Your card will be delivered in the mail and you can use your virtual card instantly

Monzo travel card

Monzo cards can be ordered easily in the US and used for spending in South Africa and globally. Monzo accounts are designed for holding USD only - but you can spend in ZAR and pretty much any other currency easily, with no foreign transaction fee. Your funds are just converted using the network exchange rate whenever you pay or make a withdrawal.

Monzo doesn’t usually apply ATM fees, but it’s worth knowing that the operator of the specific ATM you pick may have their own costs you’ll need to check out.

Monzo features

Monzo travel card pros and cons.

• Good selection of services available
• No foreign transaction fee to pay
• No Monzo ATM fee to pay
• Manage your card from your phone conveniently
• Deposits are FDIC protected
• You can't hold a foreign currency balance
• ATM operators might apply their own fees

How to apply for a Monzo card

Here’s how to apply for a Monzo account and order a travel card in the US:

Visit the Monzo website or download the app

Click Get Sign up and add your personal details

Check and confirm your mailing address and your card will be delivered in the mail

Netspend travel card

Netspend has a selection of prepaid debit cards you can use for spending securely in South Africa. While these cards don’t usually let you hold a balance in ZAR, they’re popular with travelers as they’re not linked to your regular checking account. That increases security overseas - plus, Netspend offers virtual cards you can use to hide your physical card details from retailers if you want to.

The options with Netspend vary a lot depending on the card you pick. Usually you can top up digitally or in cash in USD and then spend overseas with a fixed foreign transaction fee applying every time you spend in a foreign currency. You’ll be able to view the terms and conditions of your specific card - including the fees - online, by entering the code you’ll find when your card is sent to you.

Netspend features

Netspend travel card pros and cons.

• Large selection of different card options depending on your needs
• Some cards have no overseas ATM fees
• Prepaid card which is secure to use overseas
• Manage your account in app
• Change from one card plan to another if you need to
• You may pay a monthly fee for your card
• Some cards have foreign transaction fees for all overseas use, which can be around 4%
• Selection of fees apply depending on the card you pick

How to apply for a Netspend card

Here’s how to apply for a Netspend account and order a travel card in the US:

Visit the Netspend website

Click Apply now

Complete the details, following the onscreen prompts

Get verified

Your card will arrive by mail - add a balance and activate it to get started

What is a travel money card?

A travel money card is a card you can use for secure and convenient payments and withdrawals overseas.

You can use a travel money card to tap and pay in stores and restaurants, with a wallet like Apple Pay, or to make ATM withdrawals so you'll always have a bit of cash in your pocket when you travel.

Although there are lots of different travel money cards on the market, all of which are unique, one similarity you'll spot is that the features and fees have always been optimised for international use. That might mean you get a better exchange rate compared to using your normal card overseas, or that you run into fewer fees for common international transactions like ATM withdrawals.

Travel money cards also offer distinct benefits when it comes to security. Your travel money card isn't linked to your United States Dollar everyday account, so even if you were unlucky and had your card stolen, your primary bank account remains secure.

Travel money vs prepaid card vs travel credit card

It's helpful to know that you'll be able to pick from several different types of travel cards, depending on your priorities and preferences. Travel cards commonly include:

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

They all have distinct benefits when you head off to South Africa or elsewhere in the world, but they do work a bit differently.

Travel debit and prepaid cards are usually linked to an online account, and may come from specialist digital providers - like the Wise card. These cards are usually flexible and cheap to use. You'll be able to manage your account and card through an app or on the web.

Travel credit cards are different and may suit different customer needs. As with any other credit card, you may need to pay an annual fee or interest and penalties depending on how you manage your account - but you could also earn extra rewards when spending in a foreign currency, or travel benefits like free insurance for example. Generally using a travel credit card can be more expensive compared to a debit or prepaid card - but it does let you spread out the costs of your travel across several months if you'd like to and don't mind paying interest to do so.

What is a prepaid travel money card best for?

Let's take a look at the advantages of using a prepaid travel money card for travellers going to South Africa. While each travel card is a little different, you'll usually find some or all of the following benefits:

• Hold and exchange foreign currencies - allowing you to lock in exchange rates and set a travel budget before you leave
• Convenient for spending in person and through mobile wallets like Apple Pay, as well as for cash withdrawals
• You may find you get a better exchange rate compared to your bank - and you'll usually be able to avoid any foreign transaction fee, too
• Travel cards are secure as they're not linked to your everyday USD account - and because you can make ATM withdrawals when you need to, you can also avoid carrying too much cash at once

Overall, travel cards offer flexible and low cost ways to avoid bank foreign transaction and international ATM fees, while accessing decent exchange rates.

How to choose the best travel card for South Africa

We've picked out 5 great travel cards available in the US - but there are also more options available, which can make choosing a daunting task. Some things to consider when picking a travel card for South Africa include:

• What exchange rates does the card use? Choosing one with the mid-market rate or as close as possible to it is usually a smart plan
• What fees are unavoidable? For example, ATM charges or top up fees for your preferred top up methods
• Does the card support a good range of currencies? Getting a card which allows you to hold and spend in ZAR can give you the most flexibility, but it's also a good idea to pick a card with lots of currency options, so you can use it again in future, too
• Are there any other charges? Check in particular for foreign transaction fees, local ATM withdrawal fees, inactivity fees and account close fees

Ultimately the right card for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

What makes a good travel card for South Africa

The best travel debit card for South Africa really depends on your personal preferences and how you like to manage your money.

Overall, it pays to look for a card which lets you minimise fees and access favourable exchange rates - ideally the mid-market rate. While currency exchange rates do change all the time, the mid-market rate is a good benchmark to use as it’s the one available to banks when trading on wholesale markets. Getting this rate, with transparent conversion fees, makes it easier to compare costs and see exactly what you’re paying when you spend in ZAR.

Other features and benefits to look out for include low ATM withdrawal fees, complimentary travel insurance, airport lounge access or emergency cash if your card is stolen. It’s also important to look into the security features of any travel card you might pick for South Africa. Look for a card which uses 2 factor authentication when accessing the account app, which allows you to set instant transaction notifications, and which has easy ways to freeze, unfreeze and cancel your card with your phone.

For South Africa in particular, choosing a card which offers contactless payments and which is compatible with mobile wallets like Apple Pay could be a good plan. Card payments are extremely popular in South Africa - so having a card which lets you tap and pay easily can speed things up and make it more convenient during your trip.

Ways to pay in South Africa

Cash and card payments - including contactless, mobile wallet, debit, credit and prepaid card payments - are the most popular ways to pay globally.

In South Africa card payments are common in most situations. You’ll be able to make Chip and PIN or contactless payments or use your favourite mobile wallet like Apple Pay to tap and pay on the go. It’s still worth having a little cash on you just in case - and for the odd situations where cash is more convenient, such as when tipping or buying a small item in a market.

Which countries use ZAR?

If you have ZAR, you should be able to use it in a few countries. You may decide to keep your travel card topped up with a balance for this trip to South Africa or for the next time you’re headed somewhere which uses ZAR.

What should you be aware of when travelling to South Africa

You’re sure to have a great time in South Africa - but whenever you’re travelling abroad it's worth putting in a little advance thought to make sure everything is organised and your trip goes smoothly. Here are a few things to think about:

1. Double check the latest entry requirements and visas - rules can change abruptly, so even if you’re been to South Africa before it’s worth looking up the most recent entry requirements so you don’t have any hassle on the border

2. Plan your currency exchange and payment methods - you can change USD to ZAR before you travel to South Africa if you’d like to, but as card payments are common, and ATMs widely available, you can actually leave it until you arrive to get everything sorted as long as you have a travel money card. Top up your travel money card in USD and either exchange to ZAR in advance or at the point of payment, and make ATM withdrawals whenever you need cash. Bear in mind that currency exchange at the airport will be expensive - so hold on until you reach South Africa to make an ATM withdrawal in ZAR if you can.

3. Get clued up on any health or safety concerns - get travel insurance before you leave the US so you have peace of mind. It’s also worth reading up on any common scams or issues experienced by tourists. These tend to change over time, but may include things like rip off taxis or tour agents which don’t offer fair prices or adequate services.

Conclusion - Best travel cards for South Africa

Ultimately the best travel card for your trip to South Africa will depend on how you like to manage your money. Use this guide to get some insights into the most popular options out there, and to decide which may suit your specific needs.

FAQ - best travel cards for South Africa

When you use a travel money card you may find there’s an ATM withdrawal fee from your card issuer, and there may also be a cost applied by the ATM operator. Some of our travel cards - like the Wise and Revolut card options - have some no fee ATM withdrawals every month, which can help keep down costs.

Travel money cards may be debit, prepaid or credit cards. Which is best for you will depend on your personal preferences. Debit and prepaid cards are usually pretty cheap and secure to spend with, while credit cards may have higher fees but often come with extra perks like free travel insurance and extra reward points.

There’s no single best prepaid card for international use. Look out for one which supports a large range of currencies, with good exchange rates and low fees. This guide can help you compare some popular options, including Wise, Revolut and Monzo.

Yes, you can use your local debit card when you’re overseas. However, it’s common to find extra fees apply when spending in foreign currencies with a regular debit card. These can include foreign transaction fees and international ATM charges.

Usually having a selection of ways to pay - including a travel card, your credit or debit card, and some cash - is the best bet. That means that no matter what happens, you have an alternative payment method you can use conveniently.

Yes. Most travel debit cards have options to make ATM withdrawals. Check the fees that apply as card charges do vary a lot. Some cards have local and international fees on all withdrawals, while others like Wise and Revolut, let you make some no fee withdrawals monthly before a fee kicks in.

Both Visa and Mastercard are globally accepted. Look out for the logo on ATMs and payment terminals in South Africa.

The cards you see on this page are ordered as follows:

For card providers that publish their exchange rates on their website, we used their USD / ZAR rate to calculate how much South African Rand you would receive when exchanging / spending $4,000 USD. The card provider offering the most ZAR is displayed at the top, the next highest below that, and so on.

The rates were collected at 15:54:21 GMT on 19 February 2024.

Below this we display card providers for which we could not verify their exchange rates. These are displayed in alphabetical order.

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South African Rand card

Travelling from the UK to South Africa? Spend effortlessly (ZAR) with a multi-currency card.

40+ million worldwide customers use Revolut

Revolut offers so much more than a travel card. Exchange currencies, send money abroad, and hold 36 local currencies in-app. These are just some reasons why our customers rely on us for their travel spending.

How does a South African Rand card work?

How to get your ZAR card

Get your South African Rand card in 3 steps

Get revolut.

Join 40+ million people worldwide saving when they spend abroad with Revolut.

Order your card

Order your free South African Rand card. Top up your balance in GBP or 36 other currencies.

Spend like a local

Start spending .

Currency exchange fees subject to fair-usage limits and weekend markups. Currency exchange shown is only an indicative example.

Why should I get a South African Rand card?

Where is the South African Rand card available?

Spend confidently with a South African Rand card

How to save money when spending

Tips for saving money in South Africa

Don't exchange at airports or at home.

No need to exchange cash before you travel — use your travel money card to spend or withdraw money from an ATM.

Choose ZAR as the local currency

Choose the local currency when spending with your card in shops and restaurants.

Save with a travel money card

Spend in South African Rand like a local with Revolut.

How to avoid unwanted ATM fees

Need to make ZAR withdrawals in South Africa?

Fee-free South African Rand ATM withdrawals

Fee-free atm withdrawals up to £200, fee-free atm withdrawals up to £400, fee-free atm withdrawals up to £800.

ATM withdrawals are subject to fair-usage fees depending on plan. Currency exchange fees may apply.

What are you waiting for?

Save when you travel with a ZAR travel card

Rating as of 29 Apr 2024

705K Reviews

2.8M Reviews

Need a little more help?

South African Rand currency card FAQs

Is it better to use a travel money card rather than cash in south africa.

There is no 'best' way to spend , but here are some tips to help you save money:

• Don’t exchange cash at the airport. It’s much cheaper to withdraw money from an ATM with your South African Rand card.
• Don't carry more cash than you need. When you return home to the UK, you’ll have to re-convert this cash back to GBP.
• Always choose ZAR as the local currency when spending with your card in shops and restaurants.
• Download the Revolut app, then sign up to get instant notifications on what you spend and manage your balance.

Are travel money cards safe and secure?

Where can i use my zar travel money card, how much can i pay using my south african rand card.

There is no limit to the amount that you can spend using your South African Rand card. Just top up in-app with however much you want and enjoy your travels.

How can I avoid unwanted ATM fees in South Africa?

There are tonnes of benefits to a South African Rand card. Let’s look at a few:

• Send and spend and 150+ other currencies.
• No need to exchange or carry cash. Pay with your South African Rand card, either contactless or with chip and PIN.
• No need to wait for your physical card to arrive. Instantly add your card to Google Pay or Apple Pay.
• Create single-use virtual cards for safe online shopping or travel bookings.
• Enjoy fee-free ATM withdrawals between £200 and £2,000 monthly, depending on your plan.
• Get instant payment notifications to keep track of how much you spend.
• Stay in control of your card’s security, with card freezing and spending limit controls.
• Easily manage your spending around the world with the free Revolut app.

How do I get a South African Rand travel money card?

To order your Revolut debit card and start spending , simply:

• Download the Revolut app on your Android or iPhone and sign up for free.
• Order your free South African Rand card. Top up your balance in GBP or 150+ other currencies.
• Get your card in the post or add it to Google Pay or Apple Pay to use it immediately.
• Start spending like a local .

• Join CHOICE

Travel money cards with the lowest fees

We look at seven travel money cards from the big banks and airlines..

Prepaid travel money cards are offered by major banks, airlines and foreign exchange retailers like Travelex. Before travelling overseas, you load money into the card account, which locks in the exchange rate for foreign currencies at that time. 

You can then use the card for purchases and cash withdrawals just like a debit or credit card, usually wherever Visa and Mastercard are accepted. 

You can reload money on-the-go via an app or website, and if the card is lost or stolen, it can be replaced (usually at no cost to you).

Prepaid travel money cards also give you assurance that you're not handing the details of your everyday banking account to merchants you're not familiar with, and they provide easy access to cash when you want some, says Peter Marshall, head of research at money comparison website Mozo .

CHOICE tip: Travel money cards are best for longer trips. They're usually not worth your while if you're only taking a short trip, as some have closure, cash out and inactivity fees.

Travel money card fees

A major difference between prepaid travel cards and debit or credit cards is their fees. Some costs aren't immediately apparent, such as hefty margins built into the exchange rates.

And although fees have come down since we looked at these cards two years ago, you still need to watch out for:

• fees to load the card – either a percentage of the total or a flat fee
• ATM withdrawal fees
• a cross currency fee or margin when you use the card in a currency you haven't preloaded
• further fees if you close the account or haven't used the card for a period of time.

Travel money card with the lowest fees and best exchange rate

Westpac worldwide wallet.

Westpac closed its Global Currency Card in July 2021 and offers its new card in partnership with Mastercard.  It's also available from Bank of Melbourne and BankSA.

Currencies: AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, ZAR.

Key features:

• No loading, reloading, closing or inactivity fees.
• Free to use it in network ATMs in Australia and partner ATMs overseas in a range of countries including the UK, US and New Zealand.
• A charge applies at non-Westpac and non-partner ATMs in Australia and overseas.
• Best exchange rates for the US dollar, the Euro and GBP in our comparison.*
• The only card that lets you preload the South African rand.

Other travel money cards

Next to the Westpac Worldwide Wallet, there are six other travel money cards available.

Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard

Available online or at post offices.

Currencies : AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, AED.

• Fee to reload the card via BPay, debit card or instore, but free via online bank transfer.
• Closure fee.
• Fees for ATM withdrawals in Australia and overseas.

Cash Passport Platinum Mastercard

It's issued by Heritage Bank and is available online and from a number of smaller banks and credit unions (like Bendigo Bank and Bank of Queensland) as well as travel agents. 

• Fee to reload with a debit card or instore, but free via BPay.

CommBank Travel Money Card

CommBank Travel Money Card (Visa)

As NAB and ANZ have closed their travel money cards, this is the only other travel money card available from a major bank. This card has the largest variety of currencies that can be preloaded.

Currencies : AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, AED, VND, CNY.

• Fee if you make a purchase with currencies not preloaded.
• Fee for withdrawals at overseas ATMs.

Qantas Travel Money Card

Qantas Travel Money Card (Mastercard)

The only travel money card offering from an airline. It can be added as a feature to your Qantas Frequent Flyer card, so you don't need a dedicated card, and you can earn points using it.

• Free to reload via bank transfer or BPay, but there's a reload fee if using debit card.

Travelex Money Card

Travelex Money Card (Mastercard)

Travelex is an international foreign exchange retailer. In Australia, it operates more than 140 stores at major airports and shopping centres, across CBDs and in the suburbs. It was the card with the best exchange rate for New Zealand dollars.*

Currencies : AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD.

Fees : 

• Load fee instore, but free via Travelex website or app.
• Reload fee instore or via BPay, but free via Travelex website or app.
• Closure fee and monthly inactivity fee (if not used for 12 months).

Travel Money Oz Currency Pass

Travel Money Oz Currency Pass (Mastercard)

The Travel Money Group is owned by Flight Centre and is a foreign exchange retailer. 

• Reloading the card via an online bank transfer or instore is free, but there's a fee if you reload via BPay, debit card or credit card. 
• Cash out (closure) fee. 

Travel money card tips

• Make sure the card allows the currencies you'll need, and also consider stopovers. For example, the South African rand is only supported by the Westpac card.
• Try to load your card with the right currencies and amounts on days with good exchange rates. 
• Make sure you know how to reload your card if you run out of funds while overseas.
• It may be more convenient to choose a card that has an app that can be linked to your bank account.
• Avoid loading more money than you'll need as there may be fees and exchange rate margins to get the unused money back.
• Remember to cancel the card once you're finished your trip, especially if it has inactivity fees.
• Be mindful that you still may need a credit card, as travel money cards may not be accepted as security for hotels and car rental agencies. 

Stock images:  Getty, unless otherwise stated.

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Best Travel Money Tips for South Africa

No matter if you're a relaxer, or an adventurer; as Australians, we  love  travelling to South Africa.

Whether you want a cheap getaway, or you want to escape to luxury - South Africa has you covered.

In our extensive guides we can help you work out how much everything is going to cost.

What Currency is Used in South Africa ?

The currency used throughout all of South Africa is the called the Rand. When looking for currency conversion its ISO code is ZAR, just as Australia's Dollar's ISO code is AUD.

Planning a thrilling adventure in South Africa?

Currency needs to be on your to do list.

Here is some general information about the South African Rand and some tips and tricks to get the best deal on your conversion from AUD to ZAR:

Travel cards

Travel debit cards are a good alternative to carrying cash whenever you go on a trip to South Africa. It may be a cheaper and safer alternative.

Depending on which card you choose, you might get a good deal on the exchange rate between AUD - ZAR as well. By choosing a debit card, you withdraw money from your bank account directly, which is a good option if you saved money for your trip in advance.

Learn more about your travel card options

This is a convenient way to buy currency but you need some time. You can choose where to pick the order up from, and in some instances can get home delivery. When you order with Travelex, you can choose to order cash, a prepaid Travelex Money Card or both!

Home or Office Delivery

• You can pay by Bpay or bank transfer
• It takes up to 7 days depending on your location
• Choose your cash denominations like small, medium, large or mixed

Money Changers

This is the best way to get currency quickly. You will find them in major shopping centres and towns. Our tip, is that the exchange rates are better in your CBD than what you'd find further out. So it can be worth going there if you're exchanging more than $2,000.

Find the best currency exchange in your states CBD  here .

Most banks do exchange currency. The issue is that they often have high fees, and don't offer very good rates. It's always better to compare rates elsewhere before deciding, but as a standard rule it's best to avoid your bank. Especially for a popular currency like ZAR.

Yes, you can buy currency at the airport. While it's convenient, it's also very expensive. If you have run out of time before your trip, it could be better to buy currency when you get to South Africa, or use your Aussie debit card instead.

The 3 Best Travel Cards For Aussies to Use in South Africa

It can be tricky working out which is the best travel card to use in South Africa.

The fact is, the best one for you will really depend on what you need from the card you're using.

We've listed what we think are three of the best prepaid travel cards you can use while you're in South Africa.

What are different types of travel cards?

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

• Travel Debit Cards

Prepaid Travel Cards

Travel credit cards.

Let's have a look at each one.

Debit Cards

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 is 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 a combination of a travel debit and travel credit card for safety, flexibility and convenience on your trip.

Best Travel Debit Card: Wise debit Mastercard®

Wise is our best value travel debit card..

With this card:

• It's very easy to set up and order
• You can receive foreign currency into a free 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

• 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, as 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  is our best value prepaid travel card.

• 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
• The exchange rates are unbeatable. They use the same rate you see on XE or Google with no hidden mark-up
• 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.

Best Travel Credit Card: 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard

28 degrees is our best value travel credit card..

The 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard is our best value travel credit card. With this card:

• 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

How to buy Rand in South Africa

General tips.

If you decide to buy your currency when you get to South Africa, you'd may need to make sure you have Australian dollars in cash. This way you can exchange it when you get there.

Similar to Australia, it could be best to avoid buying currency at the airport and the bank, and better to do it in one of the major city centres.

You can use this link to find  Travelex stores in South Africa.

Currency Exchange in South Africa

There are lots of banks within South Africa to help you exchange your Aussie dollars. The listed banks below have branches in  are located in Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Soweto, Pretoria, Port Elizabeth and Pietermaritzburg.

African Bank Nedbank Limited Standard Bank of South Africa

There are lots of money changers to exchange your Aussie dollars in South Africa. The list below have a strong presence in South Africa.

American Express Foreign Exchange Master Currency Forex World Global Foreign Exchange Tower Bureau de Change Travelex Africa Foreign Exchange

What do the notes and coins look like in South Africa?

The notes are structured in the same way Australian ones are. The notes themselves are designed differently, but they are the same type. South African Rand are made up of:

R10, R20, R50, R100, R200

Each Rand can be divided into 100 cents. In South Africa, the coins used are:

10c, 20c, 50c, R1, R2 and R5

The R1 and R2 look similar and R5 looks similar to 1EUR.

Is it cheaper to convert currency in Australia or South Africa?

Exchange rates change frequently, and every provider offers different rates. This makes it hard to say what the cheapest way and place to exchange currency is.

When you're travelling to a place like South Africa you can often get good exchange rates when you arrive because Australian travellers go there frequently. This means money exchangers in South Africa are happy to trade between AUD and ZAR.

Just steer clear of exchanging currency at the airport. On both ends, the rates will be much worse there than in the city centres.

To find the best way to buy ZAR, you can read our guide here.

How Much Things Cost in South Africa

South Africa is becoming an increasingly popular destination for Australians. And with the weather, food, activities and safaris - it's not surprising. Travelling somewhere new for the first time can make budgeting a bit difficult. But it becomes easier to plan your holiday once you know how much things cost in South Africa.

To give you a better idea of how much everything is going to cost, we've listed some essential things you might need on your holiday like accomodation, transport, food and more.

All the prices we've quoted in this article are in Australian dollars but you can visit our  currency converter  to find out what the exchange rate is between the AUD and ZAR.

Before you head to South Africa, learn about:

• Is it expensive to visit South Africa?
• How much you need to bring to South Africa?
• How much it costs to fly from Australia?
• The cost of food
• Buses and trains
• Tours in South Africa

Hiring a Car

Accomodation.

Is it Expensive to Visit South Africa?

When it comes to travelling in South Africa, there is a big difference between there and Australia. Let's have a look at the cost difference between some food and activities in South Africa and Australia:

Australia vs South Africa

In this table, we have a comparison of some things you might do in South Africa. The prices are approximate, and can change between different cities in South Africa.

How much money do I need to bring?

The answer to this question really depends on the type of holiday you're planning. Will you be backpacking and staying in hostels? Will you be living it up at a fancy hotel? If you want to do it on a budget, you easily can or you can splurge and go on a luxury holiday.

South Africa can be a slightly more moderate country to visit, compared with other destinations. Having said this, there are ways you can cut costs if you need to.

Here we have listed an estimate of what you'd need, per person, per day depending on your holiday.

Budget holiday:  $100AUD

Middle of the range holiday:   $100 - $250AUD

Luxury holiday:  At least $250AUD

How much does food cost in South Africa?

Food is a pretty important part of a holiday, and a great way to get to know a country. Especially somewhere like South Africa where there is delicious food to try on every corner. In South Africa, you can really decide how much you want to spend on food everyday. You could get by on as little as $30AUD or if you're fine dining you could spend a lot more! Below we've listed some general prices for eating and drinking out, and the cost of some other bits and bobs.

Eating out:

• Breakfast: $5 - $14 AUD
• Lunch: $10 - $20 AUD
• Dinner: $10 - $30AUD
• Water: $1.5AUD
• Coffee: $2.50AUD
• Beer: $2AUD+
• Bottle of Wine: $5AUD+

Some other examples:

• Big Mac meal: $6AUD
• Bottle of Wine: $7AUD+
• Bottled water: $1.5AUD
• Safari Day Tour: from $100AUD

How much does it cost to fly from Australia to South Africa?

Like flying anywhere in the world, flights between Australia and South Africa can change depending the time of year. Having said this, there are often sales that can get you there quite cheaply.

The flight prices also depend on where in Australia you're flying, there are lots of direct flights from Perth, and from other capital cities you can easily get flights.

Generally the average cost of a return flight to O.R.Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg from Melbourne or Sydney will cost you about $1,300 - $2,600AUD.

Getting Around

Despite the large distances, travelling around most of South Africa is fairly straightforward, with a reasonably organized network of public transport, a good range of car rental companies, the best road system in Africa, and the continent’s most comprehensive network of internal flights.

South Africa’s has many established intercity bus companies such as  Greyhound , Intercape   Baz Bus and Translux .  They reach most towns in the country and travel on these buses is safe, good value and comfortable. The vehicles are usually equipped with air conditioning and toilets.

If you have a limited time for your South African holiday, travelling by plane is an attractive option. South African airways offers the largest number of domestic flights. Budget airlines like Kulula , Velvet Sky and Mango , have more limited networks than the big airlines, but generally offer better deals on the major routes with several flights per day.

Shosholoza Meyl  is a long-distance passenger trains system that connects major cities on a regular basis Premier Classe  trains link Cape Town & Johannesburg weekly. It is luxury train for those on a budget The Blue Train  is a luxury train from Cape Town to Pretoria Rovos Rail is another luxury train servicing the major cities

Utilising tours is a great way to meet other travellers and learn about the area you're in. If you're looking to have a completely guided tour, you could consider looking into companies like  Intrepid , Bunniks or  Topdeck.  But even on a smaller scale, you can often find guided tours to different parts of the country which can usually be organised through your hotel or hostel. These may set you back a small fee to cover the cost.

Viator  is a great website to get information about tours you can do throughout South Africa!

You can hire a car in South Africa, in fact travelling by car is the only access to some national parks and coastal areas.

In order to drive there you will need to obtain an International Drivers Permit (IDP) which you can do in Australia. Remember that if you're hiring a car and you're under 25, it is usually more expensive than it is for older drivers. Road maps are a worthwhile investment and are readily available in South Africa.

Price of a Rental Car in South Africa, per Week:

• Budget : From $150AUD per week for a budget car that will comfortably fit two people and luggage
• Mid-range: From $250AUD for a mid-range car that will easily fit four people and luggage
• High-end:  From $400AUD for a high end car such as a large SUV or luxury vehicle

Rental Car Companies

You can somewhat be flexible about how much you spend on accomodation when you get to South Africa. If you're keeping it low key and don't want to spend much, there are hostels, or you could live it up! Below are some rough guides to how much you can expect to pay.

Accomodation on a budget, like hostels cost about $30 to $100AUD a night.

Mid-range accomodation like a double room in a 3 star hotel will probably cost between $100 and $350AUD a night.

A double luxury hotel room will cost from $350AUD up to as much as you're willing to spend per night.

Using the following sites will give you an even better idea of how much the accomodation you're after will cost you.

• Booking.com
• Rooms for Africa.com
• South African Holidays

As wages are low here, and tipping is expected.

• Restaurants & cafes -  Tip 10% to 15% of the total in restaurants and 10% in cafes.
• Hotels - A standard tip of R10 to R20 is welcomed.
• Car guards - Offer R2, or R5 for longer periods.
• Petrol stations  - Anything from R5 – more if the attendant washes the windscreen and checks the tyres etc.
• Taxis Tips not expected but rounding up the fare will be appreciated.

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Travel / Travel Money Card

Travel Money Card

Lock in exchange rates and load up to 13 currencies on one account to easily access your money while you’re travelling.

Features & benefits

$0 card issue fee.

Order a Travel Money Card for free in branch or online (search 'Travel Money Card' in the CommBank app or log into NetBank ).

Lock in exchange rates 

Load up to 13 currencies on one card before your trip, so you know how much you have to spend, no matter how the Australian Dollar moves.

Spend anywhere in the world 

Shop online, in-store, or over the phone wherever Visa is accepted, plus get access to Visa ® travel offers .

Easily manage your travel budget

Manage your holiday money and track your spending via the CommBank app or NetBank.

Your purchases, covered

Lost or stolen personal belongings? We may be able to cover the cost to repair or replace them up to 90 days after purchase. 2

Extra card security

Lost, misplaced or stolen card? Lock it and report it in the CommBank app or NetBank. 

• Currency converter

Exchange rates

Load up to 13 currencies on one account

Lock in exchange rates and load up to 13 currencies easily on one account – wherever you are in the world – through NetBank or the CommBank app:  

• United States Dollars (USD)
• Euros (EUR)
• Great British pounds (GBP)
• Australian Dollars (AUD)
• Japanese Yen (JPY)
• New Zealand Dollars (NZD)
• Hong Kong Dollars (HKD)
• Canadian Dollars (CAD)
• Singapore Dollars (SGD)
• Thai Baht (THB)
• Vietnamese Dong (VND)
• Chinese Renminbi (CNY)
• Emirati Dirham (AED)

No load or reload fees

You can load up to 13 currencies on your Travel Money Card with no load or reload fees. The exchange rate is the CommBank Retail Foreign Exchange Rate at the time of the conversion.

When you’re ready to pay for something, we will always try to complete the transaction for the country you are in. Make sure you have enough of the correct currency for the country you’re in on your card to avoid additional fees. If you don’t have enough of the local currency, we’ll use the next available currency instead, so long as there’s enough of it loaded on your card.

If you load multiple currencies on your Travel Money Card, you can  change the order  (the next available currency) anytime online. 

Rates & fees

See all fees and charges

Who can apply

To get your Travel Money Card, you’ll need to:

• Be at least 14 years old;
• Be registered to use NetBank, or register online New to CommBank? Sign up to NetBank at your nearest branch ;
• Provide a valid email address; and
• Have an Australian residential address

How to apply

Before your trip.

• Order a Travel Money Card in the CommBank app (search 'Travel Money Card'),  NetBank , or at your  nearest branch . 
• Load at least AUD 50 or the foreign currency equivalent to get started
• Once you’ve got your card,  activate and set your PIN online  in NetBank, or under Cards in the CommBank app
• Lock-in the exchange rate by  loading currency on your card in NetBank  or the CommBank app

How it works

During your trip.

• The  local currency will be automatically applied  when you pay for something, as long as it’s loaded on your card and you have sufficient funds
• Reload in real time , fee-free if your balance gets low
• Stick to daily transaction limits
• The maximum value of purchases per day is unlimited, however no more than your available balance
• The maximum amount you can withdraw from ATMs per day is AUD 2,500 or the foreign currency equivalent. Keep in mind most ATM operators have a limit on how much you can withdraw from an ATM per transaction
• The maximum amount for over-the-counter withdrawals per day is AUD 2,500 or the foreign currency equivalent.

When you’re home

• Got leftover currency? Exchange it for another currency or back into your CommBank account from  NetBank  or the CommBank app
• Top up  your Travel Money Card (it’s valid for 4 years) in preparation for your next trip
• Donate  your foreign (and local) currency to any CommBank or Bankwest branch and every cent will go to UNICEF
• How to manage your Travel Money Card

You’ve got your new card – here’s how to get the most out of it.

Find detailed info on getting started, loading and reloading currencies, setting a currency order, checking your balance and tracking your spend. Plus, info on Purchase Security Insurance Cover and access to Visa ® travel offers .

Manage your Travel Money Card

Need foreign cash? Have it ready before you travel

If you’re a CommBank customer, you can buy or sell up to 9 foreign currencies at selected CommBank branches in exchange for Australian Dollars.

You can also order foreign cash in over 30 currencies online – even if you’re not a CommBank customer.

Discover Foreign Cash

Planning an overseas trip?

Discover travel tips to help make the most of your European summer holiday.

See travel tips

Emergency support & tools

What to do if you’ve lost your card or it’s stolen.

If you’ve lost your Travel Money Card, or you think it might’ve been stolen, we can have an emergency replacement card sent to you anywhere in the world.

You may also be eligible for an Emergency Cash Advance, giving you access to cash within 24-48 hours (often on the same day).

Call us in an emergency on:

• 1300 660 700  within Australia
• +61 2 9999 3283 from overseas (reverse charges accepted). 

When calling from overseas using your mobile, standard roaming charges may apply. To avoid roaming charges, call the international operator in the country you’re in from a landline and give them our reverse charges number +61 2 9999 3283.

Tools & calculators

• Saving calculator
• Budget planner
• Managing multiple currencies on your Travel Money Card
• Travelling overseas: 10-step money checklist  
• Beginners guide to exchange rates
• Online banking while overseas  
• Planning an overseas holiday

We can help

Your questions answered

Get in touch

Visit your nearest branch

Things you should know

1 The cash withdrawal fee will not apply to cash withdrawals made in Australia.

2  For more information relating to the complimentary Purchase Security Insurance refer to  Travel Money Card Complimentary Insurance Information Booklet (PDF) .

As this advice has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs, you should before acting on this advice, consider its appropriateness to your circumstances.  The Product Disclosure Statement and Conditions of Use (PDF)  issued by Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 48 123 123 124 for Travel Money Card should be considered before making any decision about this product.  View our Financial Services Guide (PDF) .

To raise a dispute related to your Travel Money Card please complete  this form for transactions (PDF)  or  this form for ATM disputes (PDF) .

Any withdrawal or balance enquiry fee will come from the currency for which you are using your card. If this currency is not loaded on your card, the fee will be taken from the first (or sole) currency loaded on your card. Any SMS balance alert fee will come from the first (or sole) currency loaded on your card.

The target market for this product will be found within the product’s Target Market Determination,  available here .

Best Place to Buy South African Rand in the USA Without Huge Fees

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.

Preparing for your travels to South Africa? You may be wondering whether you should prepare some South African Rand in cash prior to your departure, or if its cheaper to simple use your cards in South Africa after arrival.

In this guide, we will explore the best overall place to get South African Rand online in the USA, which is with a travel money card like Revolut or Wise . If you'd like to simply withdraw South African Rand in cash from an ATM in South Africa, we will explain how to do so without incurring unnecessary fees.

We'll cover the costs, and the pros and cons, involved for each method. By understanding your options and their fees up front, you can enjoy the peace of mind that you're getting the best deal for your situation.

We highly recommend Revolut 's travel debit card to buy South African Rand in the USA cheaply. Revolut is a multi-currency account that allows you to hold and exchange US Dollars, South African Rand, and over 30 other foreign currencies at industry-low, transparent fees and exchange rates. Best of all, you can easily do this online or straight from the app!

The Best Places to Buy South African Rand in the USA

• 01. South African Rand travel money card scroll down
• 02. ATMs abroad via travel debit card scroll down
• 03. Online foreign currency exchange scroll down
• 04. Traditional banks scroll down
• 05. Money changer kiosks scroll down
• 06. Airport kiosks scroll down
• 07. Summary: Where to buy South African Rand in the USA scroll down

1. South African Rand Travel Money Card

Travel money cards are prepaid debit cards that let you hold the local currency of your destination (ZAR) so that ATMs and point-of-sale devices treat you like a local card holder. Simply top up your card balance in US Dollars and convert those balances to South African Rand. Then use your card to pay with peace of mind like a local.

User-friendly fintech apps like Revolut and Wise far and away offer superior rates when compared to banks and bureau de change kiosks. Since you can download the apps and use their virtual cards directly onto your smartphone, we also consider them to be more convenient. Compare the in more detail with our in-depth prepaid travel card guide .

Revolut Account

Revolut charges no foreign transaction fees on the first $1,000 spent per month and no ATM fees on the first $1,000 per month, although fair use limits and weekend surcharges may apply. This ATM policy is far more generous than other competitors such as  Wise ,  Monzo , and  Monese . If you're in a rush, you'll still be able to access  Revolut's instant virtual card  from the app and add it Apple Pay, Google Pay, and other third-party digital wallets.

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

Wise Multi-Currency Account

Unlike banks, credit unions, airport kiosks, and  foreign ATMs , Wise is transparent about never charging a hidden exchange rate margin when you convert your dollars into euros (and 51 other currencies) with them. The live rate you see on Google or XE.com is the one you get with  Wise . Instead, they charge an industry-low commission fee, which ranges from 0.35% to 2.85%.

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

2. ATMs Abroad Using a Debit Card With No Foreign Transaction Fees

We recommend getting South African Rand in cash from ATMs with debit cards because credit cards with charge you cash advance fees and high APR on ATM withdrawals. Plus, debit cards will use exchange rates set by your card network (like Visa and Mastercard ), which are near the mid-market rate.

Foreign transaction fees are fixed percentage fees (usually around 2.5%) that card issuers will tack on to the purchase price. These fees pile up when you travel and spend internationally, which is why you should always travel with a card that waives foreign transaction fees .

Travel Tip: Read more about the 5 best debit cards that waives international transaction fees .

Always Pay in the Local Currency

• When the point-of-sale machine or ATM in South Africa ask you to "Pay in ZAR" or "Pay in USD", always opt to pay in the local currency: Pay in ZAR.

Learn more about dynamic currency conversions .

3. Online Foreign Currency Exchange

Online foreign currency exchange services are convenient and can be reasonably priced if you order a few weeks in advance. Take note to not pay with a credit card because your card provider will treat it like a cash advance, which will incur fixed fees and APR costs. When you order South African Rand in cash online, 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.

In-Person Cash Pick-Up

Most services allow you to visit a local branch in your neighborhood to pick up your cash. This is usually a no-cost service.

Home Delivery

For added convenience, you can pay a delivery fee to have the money sent to your designated address on a set date and time.

4. Traditional Banks

Despite commonly heard advice, banks and credit unions are outdated currency exchange providers. Many banks offer foreign exchange services online, but you may need to be a client of the bank. You can pay by cash, card, or with your existing account balances.

For illustration, we found that Bank of America was converting €1,000 EUR into $1010.60 USD even though the  mid-market exchange rate  was at €1,000 EUR = $1,063.60 USD*. That's a markup worth $53.

*Exchange rates recorded on 22 September 2023 12:55 CEST.

We generally recommend against getting South African Rand from your traditional bank or credit union.

5. Money Changer Kiosks

Money changers generally charge high exchange rate margins, like banks and online foreign exchange services. We tend to treat these providers in the same category as airport bureau de change. Even if they advertise "no commission," you will still incur the hidden cost of the exchange rate margin.

While these kiosks may be conveniently located in cities and tourist attractions, we recommend going to bank ATM instead, using a prepaid travel card or a debit card that waives foreign transaction fees .

6. Airport Bureau de Change Kiosks

While bureaux de change at airports in the USA may be convenient for last-second exchanges, they charge huge exchange rate margins and hefty commission fees. They should be avoided at all costs.

If you need cash for your trip to South Africa, we recommend that you withdraw cash from an ATM abroad, using a prepaid travel card or a debit card that waives foreign transaction fees .

Summary: Best Place to Buy South African Rand in the USA

Each method to get South African Rand in the USA will have its conveniences and drawbacks depending on your situation.

Here is a summary of the best places to buy ZAR with USD:

• Prepaid Travel Money Card: Compare the best travel money cards .
• ATM with Debit Card: The top 5 that waive foreign transaction fees .
• Online Foreign Currency Exchange Service: Learn about travel money .
• Traditional Banks: Explore bank currency exchange .
• Money Changer Kiosks: Find the best way to spend money abroad .
• Airport Bureau de Change: Use ATMs abroad as better alternatives .

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Get South African Rand in the USA

We generally only recommend getting South African Rand in the USA if you open a free multi-currency account from Revolut or Wise . If you want South African Rand while in South Africa, then it is best to simply get cash from an ATM there.

You can use any of the 6 methods included in this article. We recommend travel money card, which let you hold ZAR via a multi-currency account and spend them with a card.

Yes, you can exchange for South African Rand at a bank in the USA. However, it is generally expensive because they may charge commission fees and very high exchange rate margins.

• Open an account with Revolut or Wise ;
• Access your account online by desktop or by smartphone;
• Top up USD onto the multi-currency account;
• Convert the USD to ZAR using their industry-low rates.

It depends on your method. If you want to get South African Rand in the USA, then we recommend you open an account with a multi-currency account like Revolut or Wise . If you want South African Rand while in South Africa, then its best to get cash from an ATM.

Currency exchange rates are constantly in flux due to market fluctuations. This is why we recommend multi-currency account like Revolut or Wise . They have features that let you lock in a desired exchange rate, which will trigger a conversion if met by the mid-market rate.

Learn More About Where to Best Buy Foreign Currency in the USA

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A smart and safe way to pay in foreign currencies

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• Travel and shop worry-free Lock in your budget by converting your loaded AUD ahead of time and feel safe and secure from fraudulent transactions with Mastercard Zero Liability protection.¹  
• Lounge access if your flight is delayed You and a companion can get access to over 1,000 lounges² if your flight is delayed for 120 minutes or more. Visit the Mastercard Flight Delay Pass website to pre-register your flight. T&Cs apply.
• Convenient options for you Pick up cards from any branch and activate them online, or order online from home and receive your cards in 5-8 business days.
• Access unforgettable experiences and rewards Your Mastercard gives you access to Priceless ®  Cities with unforgettable experiences in the cities where you live and travel.³ You can also get cashback when you shop overseas with your Worldwide Wallet, thanks to Mastercard Travel Rewards .⁴

How it works

Before you leave.

• Order a Worldwide Wallet online or pick one up in branch
• Activate your cards in Online Banking
• Transfer AUD to your card and convert into your choice of up to 10 currencies to lock in your rates.

While you’re away

Pay for things using the local currency loaded on your card

Avoid ATM fees at Global ATM Alliance partners 5

Reload your card as you go using the Westpac App, with no load or reload fees.

When you get home

• Convert leftover currency back to AUD or another available currency, with no unload fees
• Remember , you can avoid foreign transaction fees while shopping online by paying with your Worldwide Wallet.

Save on fees

• Avoid ATM withdrawal fees Through our Global ATM Alliance and overseas partner ATMs which you can easily find using the ATM locator in the Westpac App   
• No foreign transaction fees Avoid a 3% foreign transaction fee whenever you use your Worldwide Wallet to shop online or in person.  
• No load or unload fees Reload your account on the go, whenever you need.  
• No account keeping fees You won’t pay any inactivity or account keeping fees, so any funds left in your account will be there ready for your next trip or purchase.  

Other fees may apply. Read the Product Disclosure Statement (PDF 307KB)  for full list of fees. 

Like to shop online?

Use your Worldwide Wallet for online purchases in foreign currencies and avoid a 3% foreign transaction fee.

You can also shop worry-free from fraudulent transactions with Mastercard Zero Liability protection. 1

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All in one view

See your account balance and transactions in the Westpac App or in Online Banking.

Move money easily

Transfer money to and from your Worldwide Wallet and convert AUD into foreign currencies while you’re on the go in the Westpac App.

More ways to pay

Add your Worldwide Wallet to Google Pay™ or Samsung Pay™, or use your card to tap and go.

A spare card for peace of mind

Both cards give you access to the same funds and can be locked and unlocked instantly at your convenience via Online Banking or the Westpac App. 6

Add up to 11 currencies

Lock in your rate head of time by converting currency in advance.

You'll still be able to spend in currencies not listed here and avoid Westpac's 3% foreign transaction fee.

To view our latest rates, see our  currency converter .

Order online or pick up in branch

Order online.

You can open your travel money card account online and we’ll mail your cards to your address in 5-8 business days.

Pick up in branch

If you need your cards within 8 business days its best to pick them up in branch and activate them online.

Already have your cards? Activate now

A Westpac Worldwide Wallet is a prepaid travel money card that can help you save on foreign transaction fees and give you control over your spending. With the Westpac Worldwide Wallet, there are no load, reload or unload fees, or ATM withdrawal fees at Westpac Group or select Westpac Group partner ATMs in Australia and Global ATM Alliance partners. 5

Before you shop or travel, you can also choose to convert your loaded AUD into any of the following currencies: USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, JPY, THB, ZAR, SGD, NZD and HKD. By locking in your exchange rate in advance and knowing exactly how much of a foreign currency is loaded on your card, the Westpac Worldwide Wallet can make it easy for you to stay on top of your spending. When you sign up to a Westpac Worldwide Wallet, you’ll also get access to exciting Mastercard travel and shopping perks -  Flight Delay Pass , Mastercard Travel Rewards and Priceless Cities.

With the Westpac Worldwide Wallet, you can avoid a 3% foreign transaction fee when you shop online in available currencies.

You can shop safely by loading only what you need into any of the following currencies: USD, EUR, GBP, CAD, JPY, THB, ZAR, SGD, NZD and HKD. By knowing exactly how much of a foreign currency is loaded on your card, you can stay on top of your spending.

You’ll also benefit from Mastercard Zero Liability protection, 1 so you can shop worry-free from fraudulent transactions.

To apply for a Westpac Worldwide Wallet, you must be aged 14 years or older and be an existing Westpac customer who is registered for Online Banking. If you haven’t registered for Online Banking, see this  helpful guide  to learn how to get started. If you’re new to Westpac and would like to apply for a Worldwide Wallet, you’ll need to become a customer first by opening a Westpac savings or transaction account and meeting our identification requirements. You can visit  westpac.com.au/aml  for more information on how we identify you. 

If you have insufficient funds to complete a transaction in a currency loaded on your account, or the transaction is in a currency not loaded on your account, the transaction will be automatically processed by drawing down from another currency in your account (provided that there are sufficient funds available in one or more other currencies to complete the transaction). Funds will be withdrawn according to the drawdown sequence, and the applicable exchange rate will apply. See the Product Disclosure Statement (PDF 307KB) for the drawdown sequence.

Yes, you can withdraw money or check your balance at overseas ATMs using your Worldwide Wallet. The balance displayed will be in the currency of the country you are visiting. You won’t pay an ATM withdrawal fee when using a Global ATM Alliance ATM. 5  However, fees may apply if you use an ATM outside of the Global ATM Alliance network.

If you have insufficient funds to complete a transaction in a currency loaded on your account, or the transaction is in a currency not loaded on your account, the transaction will be automatically processed by drawing down from another currency in your account (provided that there are sufficient funds available in one or more other currencies to complete the transaction). Funds will be withdrawn according to the drawdown sequence, and the applicable exchange rate will apply. See the Product Disclosure Statement (PDF 307KB) for the drawdown sequence.  

We recommend you download our app as we may send you important notifications about your Worldwide Wallet while you are travelling. Using the Westpac App makes it easy for you to get these notifications while you’re on the go. You can also use the app to:

• Instantly transfer AUD between your savings and transaction Westpac account/s and your travel money card
• Convert between your loaded AUD and up to 10 different foreign currencies at any time to lock in your exchange rate
• View your currency balances and transactions
• Access your Worldwide Wallet account’s BSB and account number as well as your eStatements
• Block your card/s if they have been lost or stolen

If you’re new to the Westpac App, learn more about how to get started .

See all FAQs

Get started

Order online and have your cards delivered to you

Worldwide Wallet 24/7 support in Australia

1300 797 470

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Things you should know

Westpac Retail and Business Banking Financial Services Guide and Credit Guide (PDF 238KB)

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• Travel Money

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

No charges when you spend abroad*

Make contactless, Apple Pay and Google Pay™ payments

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

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

Win £5000 with Post Office Travel Money Card

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

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

Why get a Travel Money Card?

Carry up to 22 currencies safely.

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

Accepted in over 36 million locations worldwide

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

Manage your card with our travel app

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

It’s simple to get started

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

Order your card

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

Activate it

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

It’s ready to use

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

Stay in control

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

New-look travel app out now

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

Order a Travel Money Card

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

Need it quick? Visit a branch

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

Need some help?

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

Lost or stolen card?

Please immediately call: 020 7937 0280

Available 24/7

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

Visit our Travel Money Card support page

Common questions

How can i order my card.

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

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

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

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

How do I use my card?

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

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

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

How can I manage my card?

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

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

Which currencies can I use?

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

Currencies available:

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

What are the charges and fees?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Are there top-up limits?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

We'll Be Right Back!

The Passport Book vs Card: Which Is Universally Accepted?

T he U.S. Department of State issues two types of government documentation for international travel. These documents allow travelers to have some flexibility in how they are identified while they travel internationally or domestically. Which type of identification is used can be up to personal preference depending on the type of traveling happening. 

The passport book and passport card have some similarities and differences that are important to keep in mind before choosing between the two . The main differences between these two are where they are accepted, who can use them and what information they provide.  

About the Passport Book

The traditional passport book is a common object that is often used for photo ops while traveling abroad, but it also serves a much more important purpose. While many go their whole lives never having a passport, it is impossible to travel internationally without one. A passport is a form of identification for international travel that verifies a person’s citizenship and over the years, is a type of travel diary. The cost of a passport application for first-timers over the age of 16 is $165 (the application cost is $130 and acceptance fee is $35), while those under the age of 16 are charged $135 (the application fee is $100 and acceptance fee is $35). 

Where Are Passport Books Accepted as Identification?

Passport books serve a universal purpose and are accepted for all forms of international travel throughout the world. A passport is a precious document, so if it is lost during travel or while abroad the traveler is required to recover or replace it before returning to the United States. The U.S. Embassy or consulate will be able to assist in this process. 

Who Uses Passport Books?

The passport book is available to U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals. It is used for international travel by means of air, sea or land. People of all ages can have a passport, in fact, many people have passports before they can even read due to their frequent flier family. If you are old enough (at least 16 years of age or older), the passport book will be valid for 10 years. 

What Information Is Inside the Passport Book? 

Passport books include a photo of the traveler and a unique number to identify the particular book. Personal information within the first few pages of the book includes the traveler’s full name, date of birth, nationality, sex, birth place and the book’s issue and expiration date. 

Although the standard passport book is 28 pages, the majority of the passport book is actually empty. The reason the rest of the pages of the passport book are empty is so that travelers can fill them with passport stamps, which has become a fun collectors activity for frequent travelers. Those that anticipate frequent international travel can request a 52 page passport book. 

More on Passport Cards

Passport Cards are a type of identification used for land crossings and sea ports into the United States. These types of passports are easily transportable due to their small size and condensed information. The cost for first time passport card applications is $65 for adults and $50 for children (under the age of 16). 

Passport Cards Are Valid in Limited Locations

The passport card is only acceptable as an identification document for travelers going to Mexico, Canada, Caribbean countries or Bermuda by sea or land from the United States. The card cannot be used for international air travel but can be used as identification for domestic flights. 

Who Can Utilize a Passport Card?

The card version of the passport was made for the ease of travelers that frequently pass through U.S. bordering countries. All U.S. citizens and non-citizen nationals are eligible for a U.S. passport card. 

What Information Does the Passport Card Contain?

A passport card contains nearly identical information to the passport book. Details like the traveler’s full name, nationality, date and place of birth, sex, and issue and expiration date are all on the card. The only difference is that the identification card gets a unique passport card number.

The passport card is about the size of a driver’s license, so it easily fits in a wallet but does not include much other than personal identification information.

• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Delta
• Racial and Ethnic Diversity
• LGBTQ+ Diversity
• People with Disabilities
• Veterans and the Military
• Sustainability
• Awards & Recognition
• Global Partners

It’s back by popular demand — Delta and American Express unveiled the next iteration of the limited-edition Boeing 747 Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card on the heels of the overwhelming response from Card Members when first launched in 2022 .  

The new limited-edition cards are cloud-white in color and made from two Delta Boeing 747 aircraft 1 that were retired after more than 27 years of service and feature each plane’s history, including their first and last flights, tail number and number of miles flown.   

The card is available exclusively for new and existing Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business Card Members from April 25 through June 5, 2024, while supplies last. The new design comes after recent enhancements made to the Delta SkyMiles American Express Cards to improve the travel experience and deliver everyday value to Members, both in the air and on the ground. 

“At Delta, innovation and experience are at the core of everything we do,” said Prashant Sharma, V.P. of Loyalty at Delta Air Lines. “Each card carries the legacy of countless journeys and embodies the spirit of exploration that drives our customers and all of us at Delta. When combined with the recently upgraded benefits, these cards provide a nod to our storied past and symbolize the elevated experiences our customers can expect in their future travels.” 

In 2022, Delta and American Express launched the first iteration of the limited-edition Boeing Delta 747 Card design, one of the most iconic airplanes in aviation history. The new design is made with 33% metal from a retired Delta Boeing 747 plane and has a white glossy finish, which is inspired by clouds.  

“We’re bringing back one of our most popular Card designs ever with a new look honoring the ‘Queen of the Skies,’” said Jon Gantman, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Cobrand Product Management at American Express. “Given the strong response from customers with our first Card design, we wanted to find another exciting opportunity for aviation enthusiasts and Card Members to have a piece of aviation history in their wallets.” 

The Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business American Express Cards offer premium travel benefits for Delta loyalists, including an enhanced Companion Certificate each year after renewal 2 , an MQD Headstart that helps you get closer to Status, miles accelerators, access to exclusive reservations through Global Dining Access by Resy 3 , and more. 

For more information about the Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Reserve Business Cards, visit go.amex/747card . 

1 The new limited-edition Boeing 747 Card design is made with 33% metal from retired Delta Boeing 747 aircraft.

2 The Companion Ticket requires payment of the government-imposed taxes and fees of no more than $80 for roundtrip domestic flights and no more than $250 for roundtrip international flights (both for itineraries with up to four flight segments). Baggage charges and other restrictions apply. See terms and conditions for details.

3 Card Members must add their Delta Skymiles Reserve or Reserve Business American Express Card to their Resy profile to access Global Dining Access by Resy.

• American Express
• Delta Reserve Business AMEX Credit Card

Not finding what you need?

Airlines must cough up cancellation cash and can no longer hide fees under new federal rule

A federal rule announced Wednesday will require airlines to quickly give cash refunds — without lengthy arguments — to passengers whose flights have been canceled or seriously delayed, the Biden administration said.

“Passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them — without headaches or haggling,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement.

The rule from the Transportation Department says passengers who decline other reimbursement like travel credits are to get cash refunds.

It applies when a flight is canceled or has a “significant change,” the administration said.A “significant change” includes when departure or arrival times are three or more hours different from the scheduled times for domestic flights or six hours for international flights, and when the airport is changed or connections are added, it said.

Passengers are also to get refunds when their baggage is 12 hours late in delivery for domestic flights.

The new rule comes after promises to hold airlines accountable after major disruptions that made travel hell for passengers, including the 2022 Southwest Airlines meltdown , which resulted in almost 17,000 significantly delayed or canceled flights and a missing baggage nightmare.

The Transportation Department said that the new rule means refunds are automatic and that "airlines must automatically issue refunds without passengers having to explicitly request them or jump through hoops."

Also announced Wednesday was a rule requiring airlines to more clearly disclose so-called junk fees upfront, such as surprise baggage or other fees, the department said.

It said that rule is expected to save fliers around $500 million a year.

The surprise fees are used so tickets look cheaper than they really are, and then fliers get the unwelcome surprise of fees on checked bags, carry-on bags or reservation changes — or even discounts that are advertised but apply to only part of the ticket price, officials said.

Airlines will also have to tell fliers clearly that their seats are guaranteed and that they don't have to pay extra to ensure they have seats for flights, according to the Transportation Department.

Airlines for America, an industry trade group, said that its member airlines “offer transparency and vast choice to consumers from first search to touchdown” and that they do offer cash refunds.

The 11 largest U.S. airlines returned $10.9 billion in cash refunds last year, an increase over $7.5 billion in 2019 but slightly down from $11.2 billion in 2022, the group said.

“U.S. airlines are providing more options and better services while ticket prices, including ancillary revenues, are at historic lows,” Airlines for America said.

Left out of the federal changes announced Wednesday are those involving "family seating fees," but the Transportation Department said in a statement that "DOT is planning to propose a separate rule that bans airlines from charging these junk fees."

Travelers have complained to the Transportation Department that children weren’t seated next to accompanying adults, including in some cases young children, department officials said last year.

Fees on bags specifically have made up an increasing amount of airline revenues, the Transportation Department said Wednesday in announcing the new rules.

A Transportation Department analysis found that airline revenue from baggage fees increased 30% from 2018 to 2022, while operating revenue — which is from the flights themselves — increased by only half that amount, the department said.

Jay Blackman is an NBC News producer covering such areas as transportation, space, medical and consumer issues.

Phil Helsel is a reporter for NBC News.