Euro travel card in USA | Travel Money Card for Europe (2024)

FAQs

What is the best travel money card to use in Europe? ›

Best 5 Travel Money Cards for Europe:

Wise Multi Currency Card for best exchange rates. Revolut for low fees. Travelex Money Card - Best all rounder. Bankwest Breeze Platinum Credit Card for lowest interest rate.

Travel cards offer several advantages that a credit card can't compete with, including the ability to load multiple foreign currencies, secure PIN protection, locked-in exchange rates, no foreign transaction fees, online account management, and the option for emergency assistance.

Revolut offers an excellent debit card to use abroad because it allows you to hold over 30 currencies and spend money in over 150 currencies. Revolut charges no foreign transaction fees when you spend abroad. If you want to add the local currency to your card, then you can make the conversion in your app.

Don't Expect to Get Too Far Without Cash

There's a lot that you can buy with a credit card in Europe, so bring at least one. But don't expect to get very far without a little cash, too—especially if you're a tourist. Transportation services, such as taxis and buses, often require local currency.

Cash & ATMs

ATMs are the best way to access money abroad and are increasingly available. Your bank or credit card company may charge fees for withdrawals overseas and may have a limit on the amount you can withdraw daily, so be sure to consult with your bank about this.

But a prepaid currency card can provide convenience and security, as well as competitive exchange rates. While you may like to take a debit or credit card as a backup, paying with them may incur foreign transaction fees you may not have to pay using a multi-currency card instead.

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.

Ideally, if you're in a non-euro country for more than a few hours, head to the ATM and use local currency instead. Use your credit card to get cash only in emergencies.

No fee for paying with your card, whether at retailers or online. Some retailers may charge their own fee. No fee for withdrawing cash at a cash machine. Some operators may charge their own fee.

Which bank is best for travel cards? ›

Prepaid travel cards offer a level of security that cash simply can't match. If you lose your card or it's stolen, you can block it, safeguarding the funds. Many card companies also offer quick card replacement services or can provide emergency cash, which can be a lifesaver when you're in a foreign country.

Visa is widely accepted across Europe, including at most hotels, restaurants, shops and ATMs. It's the most universally accepted card network. That said, you'll likely have little problems using AmEx in large European cities or tourist areas, or at major retailers.

How can I withdraw money in Europe without fees? Make sure to choose a bank account that doesn't charge fees to withdraw money in Europe. Withdrawing money from a bank-owned machine can also help you avoid added surcharges and you can save money by making fewer, larger cash withdrawals.

The specific requirements may vary depending on the card issuer, but typically anyone over the age of 18 can apply for a prepaid euro card, although some card providers may also offer options for individuals aged 16 or 17.

Despite some differences between European and US cards, there's little to worry about. US-issued Visa and Mastercard credit cards, along with familiar payment apps, typically work fine in Europe.

Travel credit cards

One of the cheapest ways of spending money abroad is a travel credit card. Like with debit cards, you can't just take any old credit card with you. Some will have non-Sterling transaction fees, as well as a hefty charge for taking cash out at an overseas ATM.

According to a 2021 survey of European consumers, digital wallets are among the most preferred online payment methods (44%). Cards closely follow (42%). However, adopting a one-size-fits-all approach to payments across Europe would be unwise.