If you’re planning to travel abroad, it’s always a smart idea to have a prepaid debit card in your wallet. Not only is it safer than carrying cash, but it also helps you stick to your budget. Prepaid debit cards are reloadable and widely accepted, making them a go-to choice for travelers.
What to Look for in a Prepaid Debit Card for Travel
Before choosing a prepaid debit card for travel, there are certain features to consider:
- Foreign transaction fees: Look for a card that doesn’t charge a fee for international transactions.
- ATM fees: Find a card that offers free ATM withdrawals or has low ATM fees.
- Exchange rates: Look for a card that offers competitive exchange rates.
- Reload options: Make sure the card offers convenient reload options, such as online or mobile banking.
- Acceptance: Choose a card that is widely accepted, such as Visa or Mastercard.
Top Prepaid Debit Cards for Travel
Here are the best prepaid debit cards for travel:
Card Name | Foreign Transaction Fee | ATM Fee | Exchange Rate | Reload Options |
---|---|---|---|---|
Capital One Venture | No fee | No fee | Competitive | Online, mobile, or in-branch |
Chase Sapphire | No fee | No fee | Competitive | Online or in-branch |
Travelex Money Card | No fee | No fee at Travelex ATMs | Competitive | Online or in-branch |
CurrencyFair | No fee | No fee | Market rate | Online or mobile |
N26 | No fee | No fee | Mastercard rate | Online or mobile |
Capital One Venture
The Capital One Venture card is a great choice for travel due to its lack of foreign transaction fees and ATM fees. It also offers competitive exchange rates and convenient reload options, including online, mobile, and in-branch. Plus, it comes with a sign-up bonus of 50,000 miles after spending $3,000 within the first three months of account opening.
Chase Sapphire
The Chase Sapphire card is another excellent option for travelers, offering no foreign transaction fees or ATM fees. It also features competitive exchange rates and easy reload options, both online and in-branch. Additionally, it comes with a sign-up bonus of 60,000 points after spending $4,000 within the first three months of opening an account.
Travelex Money Card
The Travelex Money Card is a reloadable credit card that offers no foreign transaction fees and no ATM fees at Travelex ATMs. It also provides competitive exchange rates and reload options that are both easy and convenient, such as online or in-branch. Plus, it comes with a complimentary backup card in case of loss or theft.
CurrencyFair
CurrencyFair is an online marketplace that offers competitive exchange rates without any fees. It also provides a prepaid debit card that allows you to access your funds while traveling. The card can be reloaded online or through the mobile app, making it a convenient option for those on the go.
N26
N26 is a mobile bank that offers a Mastercard debit card with no foreign transaction fees, no ATM fees, and competitive exchange rates. It also features a user-friendly mobile app that allows for easy monitoring of transactions and reloading of funds. Additionally, it offers free ATM withdrawals worldwide for certain account holders.
Conclusion
Choosing the right prepaid debit card for travel can make a big difference in your overall experience. Consider the features and benefits of each card, such as foreign transaction fees, ATM fees, exchange rates, and reload options, before making your decision. With the right card in your pocket, you can enjoy your travels with peace of mind.