Travel cards are a smart and secure way to manage your money overseas. This guide explains how they work, compares the top options, and helps you avoid costly exchange rate and ATM fees while travelling.
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Understanding the Table:
The comparison table above helps you see the total cost of your currency transaction by showing the exchange rates offered by different providers. It also makes it easy to spot potential savings from market-leading FX services compared to bank rates.
To see a full list of available providers, simply enter your transaction type, details and click ‘GET RATES’.
When traveling internationally, managing your money efficiently can mean the difference between a stress-free trip and racking up unexpected fees. Multi-currency travel cards are a modern solution that lets you hold, spend, and convert multiple currencies with ease—often at better exchange rates than your bank or credit card.
In this guide, we’ll explain how they work, their benefits, and what to watch out for before you pick one.
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A multi-currency travel card is a prepaid card (usually Visa or Mastercard) that allows you to:
• Hold balances in multiple currencies (e.g., USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, JPY)
• Spend like a local in different countries
• Avoid high foreign exchange fees
• Top up easily via an app
These cards are often issued by fintech providers like Wise, Revolut, Travelex, or bank-backed travel cards.
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1. Better Exchange Rates
Many travel cards use the mid-market exchange rate or close to it—unlike banks or credit cards that add 3–6% in hidden FX markups.
2. Spend in Multiple Currencies
You can load and hold dozens of currencies in advance. Some cards auto-convert at the best rate if you don’t have the local currency loaded.
3. Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees
Unlike traditional credit cards that charge 2–3% per transaction abroad, travel cards usually don’t charge FX fees when you pay in a loaded currency.
4. App Control & Budgeting
You can:
• Freeze/unfreeze your card instantly
• Track spending in real time
• Top up from your home bank account in seconds
5. Safer Than Carrying Cash
Lost your wallet? No problem. Most cards offer emergency replacements or backups. Your balance is also protected and separate from your main account.
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While travel cards are powerful tools, not all are created equal. Watch for:
1. Hidden Fees
Check the fine print. Some cards charge:
• ATM withdrawal fees
• Reload or inactivity fees
• Currency conversion fees if spending in a currency not held
2. ATM Withdrawal Limits
Most providers allow a few free ATM withdrawals per month, then apply fees or caps. Plan ahead and combine with cash.
3. Exchange Rate Rules
Some cards lock in rates when you convert, while others convert automatically at the point of sale. Know which your provider uses.
4. Card Acceptance
Although widely accepted, some merchants or regions may prefer cash or refuse prepaid cards. Always have a backup.
5. App Reliability & Support
Choose a provider with a stable app, 24/7 customer support, and good user reviews.
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| Provider | FX Margin | ATM Fees | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | Mid-market | Free up to limit | Great for real-time rates, supports 40+ currencies |
| Revolut | Mid-market (weekdays) | Free up to limit | Strong budgeting tools, weekend surcharge |
| Travelex | Includes margin | Free at Travelex ATMs | Can be topped up in-store or online |
| Bank Travel Cards | Varies | Varies | Backed by major banks, but often less competitive on FX |
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• Always choose to pay in local currency when given the option abroad (to avoid DCC fees)
• Carry a backup card or small amount of foreign cash just in case
• Set spending limits via the app for added control
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Multi-currency travel cards are one of the smartest ways to manage money while travelling:
• 🏷️ Save on FX fees
• 📱 Manage funds easily
• 💡 Spend like a local in 50+ currencies
They’re especially valuable for frequent travellers, digital nomads, exchange students, and anyone who wants to avoid bank rip-offs.
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Want to compare cards? Check out:
👉 Wise vs Revolut vs Travelex – Full Review