A travel card is a type of payment card that is specifically designed for use while travelling. It can be used to make purchases and withdraw cash at locations around the world, and often offers additional benefits such as rewards programmes, currency exchange, and travel insurance.
Overall, a travel card can be a convenient and secure way to manage your finances while travelling, but it’s important to compare different options and carefully consider the fees and benefits before choosing a card.
Last updated: Oct 2026
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What is a travel card?
Travel Card Features
Exchange rate
Some use the ‘interbank rate’ and others use Mastercard’s or Visa’s exchange rates. Sometimes, a provider may pick one of the rates and then apply a percentage on top, usually between 1% and 3%.
ATM withdrawal abroad
The ATM withdrawal will likely incur a cash advance fee if you use a card with no foreign transaction fees. However, most providers do not charge withdrawal fees for amounts between £200 and £500.
Foreign transactions
Foreign transaction fees are charges that appear on your card bill when you make a purchase that either crosses a foreign country or is done in a foreign currency. There are some providers that charge no fees for foreign transactions.
Multi-currency account
If you want to visit multiple destinations, you can load several currencies onto a single card. You can have different amounts of money stored on the same card. You can lock in rates by converting when you load the cash or keep some money in pounds.
Security
When you use your card at the ATM or in a shop, you’ll get the same level of protection as if you used your bank’s card.
Global use
Usually, Mastercard and Visa cards can be used in millions of places around the world and online. You can use your card at most ATMs in other countries, as well as with most shops that accept card payments.