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Best travel money cards in 2024.

Travel money cards are essential when travelling overseas.

They allow you to easily make payments whilst travelling overseas. They make paying easier for shops, restaurants, hotels and ATMs.Travel money cards work in a similar way to ATM cards. They use a pin when you purchase goods or services overseas.

In this guide, we have compared travel money cards to help you make the best selection for your next trip.

travel money card

Best Travel Money Cards:

  • Wise Travel Card Best Exchange Rates
  • Revolut Best for Low Fees
  • Travelex Money Card Best All Rounder
  • Bankwest Breeze Platinum Best Travel Credit Card
  • Pelikin Student Traveller Card Best Student Card
  • HSBC Everyday Global Travel Card Best Travel Card by Bank
  • Qantas Travel Money Card Best Reward Benefits

Wise Travel Card - Great Exchange Rates

  • 40+ currencies available
  • Best exchange rates globally
  • One of the lowest conversion fee on the market
  • No international transaction fees
  • No annual or monthly fees
  • Extremely low costs to send money overseas

Wise Travel CArd

Wise Travel Card

  • Cross currency conversion fees are between 0.24–3.69%. AUD to USD, EUR or GBP was 0.42%, which is one of the lowest on the market
  • Free cash withdrawals up to $350 every 30 days. However after that, Wise charge a fixed fee of $1.50 per transaction + 1.75%
  • Daily ATM withdrawal is $2,700
  • Issue up to 3 virtual cards for temporary usage
  • It takes between 7 to 14 business days to receive your card
  • Can be used wherever MasterCard is accepted

The Wise Travel Card is great for frequent travellers as it offers over 40 currencies at the inter-market exchange rate, which is the cheapest rate globally. In addition you can buy goods online from overseas with no transaction fee plus get the best exchange rate. However if you use ATMs frequently this is not the card to use due to the fees. Finally Wise Travel Card lets you transfer money to an overseas bank account with extremely low fees and the best exchange rate.

Our Wise Travel Card Review

Revolut - Low Fees

  • 30+ currencies available
  • One of the best exchange rates globally
  • No annual or monthly fees for standard membership
  • No initial card fee
  • Instant access to a range of cryptocurrencies

Revolut Australia Travel Card

Read our Revolut Card Review

Revolut Travel Card

  • No fee ATM withdrawals up to A$350, or 5 ATM withdrawals, whichever comes first, per rolling 30 day period and 2% of withdrawal amount (minimum charge of A$1.50) after that
  • Exchanging currency on the weekend can incur a 1% mark-up fee
  • Fees on international money transfers were introduced in April 2021.
  • Can be used wherever Visa is accepted

The Revolut Travel Card is a decent option for those who travel a lot as it offers over 30 currencies at a great exchange rate, which is the cheapest rate globally. However if you exchange currency on the weekend you can incur a one-percent mark-up fee. In addition they have introduced fees for international transfers. Finally if you use ATMs frequently this is not the card to use due to the fees.

Travelex Money Card - Best All Rounder

Best features.

  • Unlimited free ATM withdrawals
  • 24/7 Emergency Assistance
  • Initial and replacement card are free
  • Lock in up to 10 currencies

Travelex Australia Travel Card

Read our Travelex Travel Card Review

Travelex Money Card

  • Minimum load of $100 and maximum load of $100,000
  • Can be used wherever Mastercard is accepted
  • Fees include a $10 closure fee, $5 for an additional card and $4 inactivity monthly fee.
  • While Travelex don't charge ATM fees, some ATM operators may charge their own fees.
  • Currencies that can be loaded are AU$, US$, EU€, GB£, NZ$, TH฿, CA$, HK$, JP¥, SG$
  • If your card is lost or stolen you can access cash in your account through Moneygram or Western Union agents, with no charge
  • Boingo hotspots offer free wifi and you can look at their number of free hotspots per country on this map

The Travelex Card is a good all rounder.

You can use it to take money out of the ATM, for merchant purchases like restaurants and even for online shopping in foreign currency. While the exchange rates aren't as good as the Wise or Revolut Card abroad , the support network if the card is lost or stolen is very good.

Bankwest Breeze Platinum Credit Card - Lowest Interest Rate

  • Lowest interest rate at 9.90%
  • No international transaction fees on purchases
  • 0% p.a. on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months
  • Up to 55 days interest free on purchases
  • Low annual fee
  • Complimentary international travel insurance

Bankwest Breeze Platinum Card - one of the 5 best credit cards for Travel in 2022

Bankwest Breeze Platinum Credit Card

  • Free annual fee first year, then $69 annual fee
  • 55 interest free days
  • Free international travel insurance that includes the basics but does not cover cancellation costs, pre existing conditions and travellers over 80
  • $6,000 minimum credit card
  • 0% p.a. on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months, then reverts to 9.90%
  • 21.99% interest rate on purchases and cash advances
  • Cash advance fee of the higher of $4 or 2% of cash advance

The Bankwest Breeze Platinum is a great no frills credit card that offers ‘no foreign transaction fees’ and the lowest interest rate on the market, at 9.90%. These two factors alone will save you hundreds of dollars when travelling overseas.

In addition it has a low annual fee and complimentary international travel insurance. Finally for its price point it is a great value credit card that will be accepted most places around the world.

HSBC Everyday Global Debit Card

  • No initial card or closure fees
  • No monthly or account fees
  • No international ATM fees
  • No cross currency conversion fees
  • Lock in very competitive exchange rates before travel
  • No maximum balance
  • Earn 2% cashback

The currency used in Europe is the Euro, €.

  • 10 Currencies can be loaded are AUD, USD, GBP, EUR, HKD, CAD, JPY, NZD, SGD, CNY (currency restrictions apply to CNY)
  • Awarded 5 gold stars by CANSTAR in 2021 for Outstanding Value
  • Very competitive exchange rates on all currencies when you have currencies already loaded on your card
  • ATMs within Australia need to be HSBC and overseas they need to display a VISA or VISA Plus logo, not be be charged fees
  • Earn 2% cash back when you tap and pay with Visa pay wave, Apple Pay or Google Pay for purchases under $100. With a maximum of $50 cash back per month. In addition you need to deposit $2,000 or more into your Everyday Global Account each calendar month.
  • Daily maximum ATM withdrawal is $2,000
  • Fraud protection covered by Visa Zero Liability

The HSBC Everyday Global Debit Card is a good option to take travelling and to spend money in Australia with no international transaction fees, international ATM fees and monthly fees. In addition there is no maximum balance on currencies held and a 2% cash back incentive when you tap and pay under $100.

Finally it is one of the only travel cards that offers Chinese Yuan. To avoid ATM fees you need to find HSBC branches in Australia and only use ATMs overseas with a VISA or VISA Plus logo.

Best Student Card

Pelikin student traveller card.

  • Use promo code SMONEY10 for a $10 discount
  • Up to 15% off international flights
  • A globally accepted virtual student ID card
  • 2% cash back on food & drinks, transport and accommodation
  • Over 150,000 discounts worldwide

Pelikin Student Youth Travel Card

  • $30 for 12 months
  • 20+ currencies available
  • Split bills, pay and get paid instantly

Pelikin is one of the only travel cards in Australia specifically for students. While it has a small annual fee, the range of discounts and offers more than make up for it.

The app is relatively easy to use and card arrives in under a week.

Best Rewards Card

Qantas travel money card.

  • No monthly fees, purchase fees and currency conversion fees
  • No load fees if you pay by bank transfer or BPay
  • Locked in exchange rates: 4%+ margin on exchange rates
  • Earn 1.5 Qantas points for every AU$1 spent in foreign currency

The currency used in Europe is the Euro, €.

  • 10 currencies offered USD, GBP, EUR, THB, NZD, SGD, HKD, CAD, JPY, AED
  • Free Australia ATM withdrawals
  • 0.5% fee debit card reload fee
  • ATM fees overseas (USD 1.95; GBP 1.25; EUR 1.50; THB 70; NZD 2.50; SGD 2.50; HKD 15.00; CAD 2.00; JPY 160; AED 6.50)
  • Minload of $50 and max of $20,000
  • Available to 16 year olds, has a lower age restriction than most credit cards (18 year olds)

Qantas Travel card is a great option to spend foreign currency overseas if you are already a loyal Qantas customer and use your frequent flyer points regularly on flights, accommodation or gifts. The fees are low, the exchange rate is average however the ATM fees are expensive and will easily add up.

Other popular travel money cards

Aside of the Top 5 travel money cards, there are many more options to consider. These include well known brands such as the Commonwealth Bank and Travelex and less known services like Up Bank and Revolut.

Here is a rundown of their best features, fees and available currencies:

  • 13 currencies available, including Vietnamese Dong and Chinese Yuan
  • No issue fee, load fees, closure and card replacement fees
  • Additional card offered
  • Can be accessed through Commonwealth Bank app

Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card

  • $3.50 fee at ATMs overseas
  • 13 currencies offered USD, GBP, EUR, THB , NZD, SGD, HKD, CAD, JPY, AED, AUD, VND & CNY
  • Minload of $1 and max of $100,000
  • Available to 14 year olds, has a lower age restriction than most credit cards (18 year olds)
  • When you use your card for a purchase or withdrawal in a currency that is not loaded, or when they automatically transfer funds between the currencies on your card to enable the completion of the transaction at the Visa retail exchange rate plus 4%
  • To transfer money between currencies or a transaction account, it will be at the bank rate which is normally 4% above the market value

The Commonwealth Bank travel money card is great if you are already a Commonwealth bank customer who banks online and knows exactly how much money in each country you want to spend. However if you need to transfer between currencies or make a purchase in a currency you don't have funds loaded, then you can get an additional expensive charge. Watch how many withdrawals at ATMs you make as well to keep the costs down.

  • Exchange rates most competitive for USD, GBP and THB
  • No fee on initial card or load (not BPay)
  • No fee on reloads via bank transfers
  • No monthly or inactivity fees
  • Card is valid for 5 years

Travel Money Oz Currency Pass

  • 1.1% reloading fee via Travel Money Oz Login or with debit or credit card
  • 1% reloading fee for BPay
  • $10 closure fee and replacement card fee
  • 2.95% on withdrawals from Australian ATMs is expensive
  • Roughly $3.50 on withdrawals from overseas ATMs is expensive.
  • $3.99 + 5.95% fee on cross currency transactions
  • 10 Currencies can be loaded are USD, EUR, GBP, NZD, CAD, HKD, JPY, SGD, THB & AUD
  • Exchange rates for SGD and CAD are the least competitive
  • Minload of $20 and max of $10,000
  • Only 1 card per account
  • According to the website they won't take online orders if you are departing within 14 days as the card can take up to 2 weeks for delivery.

The Travel Money Oz travel money card seems to be an outdated version of the Travelex or Australia Post travel card as it does not offer Global Emergency Assistance or Boingo hotspots. However exchange rates and fees are similar to Travelex, so if you are travelling to the US, UK or Thailand, this is a great card to pay for accommodation and things in shops. We would avoid using it at any ATM, to save costs.

  • No ATM fees in Australia or internationally
  • No minimum monthly deposit
  • No account keeping fees
  • Can be used in Australia as an EFTPOS card
  • Available to 14 year olds and older

Macquarie Travel Card

  • $2,000 daily limit for ATM withdrawals
  • Simple and easy to work out costs for account
  • Exchange rates are MasterCard exchange rates, which are normally 4%+ market rate.
  • 90-day theft and damage protection on eligible purchases and stolen wallet protection up to $500
  • Can be used in Australia to buy goods overseas and not pay international transaction fees
  • Get discounts of up to 10% on eGift cards to use at over 50 leading retailers

The Macquarie Travel Card is a very good option to take overseas for ATM withdrawals as they are all free. In addition in Australia you can buy goods online and not pay an international transaction fee. Furthermore you can use the card like a normal debit card in Australia with no hefty fees or monthly minimum deposits. However the exchange rate is the MasterCard rate which is normally 4%+ above the market rate. Finally we would recommend this card for cash withdrawals at ATMs internationally but not paying for accommodation due to the added margin on the MasterCard exchange rate.

  • Cheapest way to send money overseas through a bank
  • UI and UX better than traditional banks making it super easy to use
  • Competitive savings interest rate

Up Bank Travel Card

  • Backed by Bendigo Bank and Adelaide Bank and partnered with Wise so it has financial backing and access to the cheapest exchange rates to send money overseas
  • Nifty online tools to help you track spending, budget and save. These include a detailed transaction history often including a company logo, when you paid down to the minute and the suburb where the transaction was made. In addition it has a ‘Regulars feature that detects regular billers and estimate of upcoming bills so you get a heads-up before they are due
  • Good savings account interest rates of 1.85% (0.10% base rate plus 1.75% bonus). Bonus interest is easily unlocked after making five successful card or digital wallet purchases each month

The Up Bank Travel Card is aimed at younger markets who are looking to save on bank costs and receive online tools to help them budget and save for their goals. It is also able to be used overseas at any ATM without fees, no international fees and is the cheapest way to send money overseas through a bank due to their partnership with Wise (the largest money transfer company in the world). In addition the exchange rates are Mastercard rates which are normally 4% above interest rates. Finally, while this card is very useful domestically and for ATMs overseas we would not recommend it for big ticket items overseas as it is an expensive card to use.

  • No foreign transaction fees
  • No fee on initial card, load, unload or inactivity fees
  • No cross currency transactions fees
  • Lock in exchange rates before you leave
  • Exchange rates most competitive for USD, GBP, EUR and CAD and JPY
  • No ATM fee at 50,000 Global Alliance ATMs worldwide
  • Free additional card
  • Flight delay pass

Westpac Travel Money Card

  • 11 Currencies can be loaded are USD, EUR, GBP, NZD, CAD, HKD, JPY, SGD, THB, AUD & ZAR
  • $2,000 maximum limit on ATM withdrawals overseas within 24 hours
  • $50,000 maximum limit on currencies loaded on to travel card
  • $3 roughly for ATMs that are not within the Non Westpac Global Alliance
  • If you run out of one currency on the card, you can pay with other currencies without the expensive cross currency transaction fee
  • No foreign transaction fees, initial card, load, unload or inactivity fees
  • According to the Westpac it can take upto 8 business days to receive the travel card
  • Secure from fraudulent transactions with Mastercard Zero Liability protection
  • 2 cards per account for free

The Westpac Travel Card is a no frills handy travel card with very low fees, no foreign transaction fees, access to some free ATMs worldwide and competitive exchange rates, especially on USD, EUR, GBP, CAD and JPY. In addition it has the South African Rand (ZAR) which is not common in prepaid travel cards. Finally it has access to a flight delay pass in case your flights are delayed and you need to access airport lounges.

  • Linked to ANZ Rewards program
  • 7 types of insurance for free
  • 55 days interest free
  • Good security on card purchases

ANZ Travel Adventure Card

  • 20.24% interest on purchases and cash advances
  • $120 annual fee
  • No international transaction fees in person or online
  • Offer 7 types of insurance for free
  • ANZ Reward points can be used to buy gift cards, swap for Virgin or Singapore airline points or cash into your account.
  • Earn 1.5 Reward points per $1 spent on eligible purchases up to $2,000 per statement period
  • ATM fees at non ANZ ATMs
  • Minimum credit of $6,000

If you utilize rewards points then the ANZ Travel Adventure Card might be suitable for you. Reward points can be used to buy a wide range of gift cards, swap for Virgin or Singapore airline points or cash into your account. In addition no international transaction fees are charged for purchases online or whilst you travel overseas. Finally this card is not recommended for cash withdrawals as the interest rate of 20.24% will eat up any savings.

  • No ATM fees
  • Can be used in Australia with no additional costs
  • No fees for paying via bank transfer or Bpay
  • Transfer limits can be set by user

ING Orange Everyday Account Debit Card

  • As long as you you deposit at least $1000 and make at least 5 payments each month ING will waive international transaction fees and refund overseas ATM withdrawal fees
  • Can be used in all countries
  • Works with Apple Pay and Google Pay
  • Visa currency conversion rates apply, which are normally 4% above market

The ING Orange Everyday Account Debit Card is a good card for most Australians travelling overseas for ATM access, with no fees. It also allows you to to buy goods online without an international transaction fee.

Furthermore you can use it in Australia for free and there are no fees to get your initial card, for account keeping or to top up your card. A word of caution however, if you travel overseas for longer than 1 month, you still need to deposit at least $1,000 and make at least 5 payments each month to get the rebates.

  • Initial card and replacement cards are free
  • Increased protection with Mastercard Zero Liability
  • Access to cash from your account through the Global Emergency Assistance, if your card is lost or stolen

Australia Post Travel Money Card - Platinum Mastercard

  • 1.1% Admin fee for instore loads, including initial load
  • $5 fee for reloads via debit bank card
  • $10 closure fee
  • $3.50 on withdrawals from overseas ATM is expensive
  • Currencies that can be loaded are USD, EUR, GBP, NZD, THB, CAD, HKD, JPY, SGD , AED and AUD
  • Minload of $100 and max of $100,000
  • If your card is lost or stolen you can access cash that is in your account through Moneygram or Western Union agents, with no charge
  • Boingo hotspots offer the free wifi and you can look at their number of free hotspots per country on this map

The Australia Post travel money card is a popular option for Australian travellers due to the convenience of stores. However we would recommend the Australia Post travel money card for paying in shops or accommodation as it is costly to withdraw cash from ATMS. As the Australia Post travel money card is fee heavy we recommend not making withdrawals at ATMs or making cross currency transactions to keep additional fees down.

  • Up to 11 currencies available
  • Manage your account and card online
  • 24/7 global assistance
  • Access to emergency cash
  • Free additional card when ordered at time of purchase
  • Can be used at millions of locations worldwide – wherever Mastercard purchase symbol is displayed

Greater Bank Cash Passport Platinum Mastercard

  • $5 fee for reloads via debit bank card, FREE reloads via BPAY
  • Admin fee of up to the greater of 1.1% of the load/reload amount or $15 for in-store purchases
  • Debit card load fee 0.5% of the amount loaded, per Debit Card Load transaction
  • Domestic ATM fee 2.95% of value Withdrawn
  • International ATM fee USD 2.50, EUR2.50, GBP 2.00,NZD 3.50, THB80.00, CAD 3.50,HKD 18.00, JPY260.00, SGD3.50, AED 10.00, AUD 3.50
  • Minimum load of AUD100 and a Maximum of AUD100,000

The Cash Passport is one of the most popular travel cards in the Australian market. With Greater Bank, you can purchase it online and at one of their branches, then download the app or use the website to manage your card. While the card may be useful for international purchases, be mindful when using an ATM both locally or overseas as the fees can add up if you are withdrawing money often.

Learn more about the Cash Passport Platinum Mastercard through Greater Bank .

The best travel card in Australia depends on its use, for ATM withdrawals it is ING Orange , for best exchange rates it is Wise Travel Card, the best credit card is Bankwest Breeze Platinum , for overall best card by a bank its HSBC Global  and the best rewards card is the Qantas Travel card .

A travel money card is safer than cash overseas and if you select a Wise travel card , it is the best exchange rate as well. Most places around the world accept MasterCard or Visa, so you should be able to pay for all your purchases by card.

Yes you can use all travel cards in Australia but you might choose not to due to the fees. ING , Macquarie , Up , Citibank are all good examples of travel money cards that do not charge for ATM withdrawals in Australia. However examples of travel money cards that charge $3.50 per Australian ATM withdrawal include Travelex , Australia Post and Travel Money Oz .

Both if you buy your cash from S Money and pay with a Wise card overseas, as they both use the exchange rate you see online and charge very low fees. However if you buy your foriegn currency at the airport, you are paying top prices so using a card is cheaper.

There are many travel money cards that no longer exist but appear in search engine page results. Travel money cards that no longer exist include 7-11 Just Go, NAB Travel Money Card, Travelex Cash Passport, Australia Post Cash Passport, ANZ Travel Card, Westpac Global Currency Card and the Virgin Velocity Global Wallet program.

Learn more about the best debit, credit and prepaid cards for travel

best travel money card for australia

Best Prepaid Cards

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Credit Card

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More Travel Card Guides

Learn more about the best travel money cards for your holiday destination.

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ASIC regulated

Like all reputable money exchanges, we are registered with AUSTRAC and regulated by the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC).

ASIC regulated

S Money complies with the relevant laws pertaining to privacy, anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism finance. This means you are required to provide I.D. when you place an order. It also means the order must be paid for by the same person ordering the currency and you must show your identification again when receiving your order.

best travel money card for australia

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Travel money cards with the lowest fees

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

travel money card next to model plane

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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The best travel money cards for Australian travellers

Compare prepaid travel cards, debit cards and credit cards to find the best option for your next overseas trip..

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In this guide

Using your debit card overseas

Debit cards with no international transaction fees, best prepaid travel cards to load foreign currency, find a better travel money card, australian travel statistics, 1. new zealand, 2. indonesia.

  • 4. The UK, Canary Islands & the Isle of Man

6. Thailand

8. singapore, 10. vietnam.

Travel Money Cards

What you need to know

  • The most important features to compare are the foreign transaction fees, exchange rates and usability.
  • If you want to withdraw cash, a prepaid travel card or debit card will likely be cheaper than a credit card.
  • It is a good idea to have several travel money options in case of loss, damage or theft.

Debit cards allow you to spend the money you have in your bank account, instead of having to pre-load it like a prepaid travel card. There are some debit cards that don't charge any international transaction fees and even some that allow you to hold multiple currencies - like the HSBC Everyday Global Account .

We update our data regularly, but information can change between updates. Confirm details with the provider you're interested in before making a decision.

Learn how we maintain accuracy on our site.

Instead of a debit card, a prepaid card lets you load up on the currency you need before you get there. There are several options for this, but the right one for you will largely depend on the currency you're going to be using.

We've looked at the top 10 most popular travel destinations for Aussies based on the Australian Bureau of Statistics overseas departure and arrivals data and rounded up the most relevant travel cards you could use in each location. From the rolling hills of New Zealand to the bustling streets of China, read on for the travel card tips you'll need for your next holiday.

Australia is a nation of travellers. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, there were 8,337,080 resident returns from overseas for the year 2022 - 2023. The most popular reason we travel is for a holiday, and the median trip duration is 15 days.

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The land of towering snow-capped mountains, crystal blue lakes and hobbits and elves often tops Australia's list of favourite travel destinations. Conveniently, most Australian prepaid travel cards support New Zealand dollars.

See our New Zealand travel money guide for more tips to help you prep for your trip over the Tasman.

Aussies love the tropical climate, beaches and poolsides of Indonesia. Despite our close proximity to Indonesia and Australia's reputation for frequenting tourist destinations such as Bali, no Australian travel cards currently support Indonesian rupiah.

However, as Visa and Mastercard are accepted in Indonesia, you can still use an Australian travel card when you're there. You can find travel cards that don't charge a currency conversion fee when you spend in an unsupported currency.

Browse our Indonesia travel money guide for more travel money options.

The land of stars and stripes also has a soft spot in the heart of Australian travellers. So, it's probably no surprise that most Australian prepaid cards support US dollars.

See our US guide for the best travel money options for your next trip to the states.

4. The UK, Canary Islands & the Isle of Man

If you're making a Eurotrip to the UK, you'll be glad to know that most Australian prepaid travel cards support the pound sterling.

Use our UK travel guide for everything you need to plan your next trip to the UK.

The Indian rupee isn't supported by any Australian travel cards. So, if you're travelling to the hustle and bustle of India, you might want to look for travel cards that don't charge any currency conversion fees when spending in an unsupported currency.

Thailand is a popular holiday destination for many Aussies seeking sunshine and rich culture, so it's lucky that quite a few Australian travel cards support the Thai baht.

Use our Thailand travel money guide to research more travel money options for your trip.

While the white sands and crystal blue waters of Fiji are a favourite for Aussie travellers, no prepaid travel cards currently support the Fijian dollar. However, as Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted in Fiji, there are still a few options available for holidaymakers drawn to this island oasis.

See our Fiji guide for more travel money tips and tricks.

If you're taking a trip to the Garden City, there are a few travel card options to choose from.

You can find more travel money options for your trip to Singapore with this guide .

Whether you want to bask in the beauty of cherry blossom season or tear up the snowy slopes, there are plenty of travel card options if you're planning a trip to Japan.

See our Japan guide for more travel money tips for your next holiday.

A land of beautiful beaches, Buddhist pagodas and bustling cities, Vietnam makes the list of Australia's most popular travel destination. If you're planning a trip and want to spend in Vietnamese dong, there are travel card options to choose from.

You can find more travel money options for your trip to Vietnam with this guide .

While there's no single best travel money card out there, it's easier to narrow down your search when you know which cards support the local currency you'll be spending in on your trip. Once you've done this, look for any issue fees, ATM withdrawal fees and loading costs to help compare your travel money options and pick the right travel card companion for you.

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Sally McMullen

Sally McMullen was a creative content producer at Finder. Sally wrote about credit cards for almost 5 years, authoring almost 900 articles on Finder alone. She has also been published in Yahoo Finance, Dynamic Business, Financy and Mamamia, as well as Music Feeds and Rolling Stone. Sally has a Bachelor of Communication and Media Studies majoring in Journalism (Hons) from the University of Wollongong.

More guides on Finder

The Wise Travel Money Card supports over 40 currencies, with free loading by bank transfer and an instant, virtual card. Here’s how its other features compare.

Revolut offers virtual and physical Visa cards, support for over 30 currencies and other travel perks – plus 3-month Premium trial with this offer.

Use finder's interactive world map to learn about variations in beer prices globally. Find out where in the world you'd pay a whopping $15.10 for a pint.

Discover the travel money options available for young people and how to prepare for a trip overseas.

Want to avoid fees and charges when using your card overseas? This guide explains the most common pitfalls when using travel cards.

This guide explains how you can get back any leftover funds from your travel money card after your trip.

Use this guide to understand foreign currency exchange and discover how to get the best deal.

Spend in up to 13 major currencies, lock in exchange rates and manage your account with the CommBank app when you use the Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card.

Spend in 11 currencies wherever Mastercard is accepted and save on currency conversion fees with the Cash Passport Platinum Mastercard.

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I am going on a cruise with stops in India, Singapore, Dubai and Sri Lanka. Apart from getting cash what is the best way to take money there? I will only be in Sri Lanka for one day.

Hello there Ian,

Thank you for your inquiry.

Like the page you’re on, you have travel card alternatives for Singapore and India. However, India does not support Australian travel cards, but rather you can look at your travel card choices that don’t charge currency conversion fees.

In Dubai, you may begin looking at your travel card .

In Sri Lanka, Their Government has tight control over the national money and there are strict points of confinement on the measure of rupees you can get in and out of the nation. Aside from cash, you may look at your prepaid travel cards, debit or credit card choices on our page for Travel guide in Sri Lanka.

You may likewise jump at the chance to consider a Debit Card or Credit Card with low or no currency conversion fees.

I hope this information helped.

Cheers, Asia

Travelling to Mexico and Cuba and don’t know whether there is any card better than a Westpac Global Currency Card all things considered.

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Thank you for visiting Finder.

For options in getting the most suitable travel money card for you, you may want to visit our travel money option for Mexico as well as our travel money guide for Cuba . From there you may compare cards and select which one would suit your needs. Once you have chosen a particular card, you may then click on the “Go to site” button and you will be redirected to the bank’s website where you can proceed with your application or get in touch with their representatives for further assistance.

Please ensure you review the relevant Product Disclosure Statements/Terms and Conditions before applying.

Cheers, Joanne

What about Peruvian Soles? Or Chilean Pesos? Do I have to put in USD first?

Thanks for your question.

Currently, prepaid travel money cards do not support the currencies of South American countries. You would have to load them with Australian dollars and withdraw the local currencies such as nuevo sol and peso. However, this will attract overseas ATM fees and currency conversion fees.

If you wish to avoid these fees you can use debit or credit cards. Moreover, you can consider a travel card with no currency conversion fees. Check out our Travel Money Guide to Peru to compare your options. You may also check your travel money options for South America .

Before applying, please ensure that you read through the relevant Product Disclosure Statements/Terms and Conditions when comparing your options before making a decision on whether it is right for you. You can also contact the provider if you have specific questions.

Cheers, Liezl

Travelling to Bali with a Qantas Cash card. I understand I can’t load it with rupiah, however can use it where Mastercard accepted. I’m not clear though on what the currency conversion fee is. Above it says that you can “avoid currency conversion fees when spending Indonesian rupiah with this card.” However you can’t load Rupiah in the card. Can you explain further please?

Hello Jacqui,

The currency conversion fee is when you load Australian dollars on your card and then convert them to Rupiah while you’re traveling in Indonesia. In this case, you are simply converting the currency on a “as per needed basis”, Qantas daily rate for the currency you’re spending in will apply. You can use their currency conversion tool on the website to check the exchange rate daily.

If in case you are interested, please explore different travel money options in Indonesia .

Please take time to download the Product Disclosure Statement of this product to know more about the terminologies and fees associated with use.

Hope this clarifies.

Cheers, Jonathan

What about. Europe comparison for travel cards?

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Hi Suzanna,

Thanks for your inquiry.

Here is the page where you can compare Travel Cards for Europe – https://www.finder.com.au/travel-money/europe . It also has a comparison for Travel Credit Cards and Travel Debit Cards.

Hope this information helped.

Cheers, Rench

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Hi Suzanne,

You may be interested to check the available option/s for travel cards in Europe on our website. Check that page and you will also find more details about how you use travel money cards in Europe.

I hope this information has helped.

cheers, Harold

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The 6 Best Travel Money Cards for Australia 2024

Claire Millard

Heading to Australia to kick back on the world famous beaches, soak in the city atmosphere, or explore the open road? Or maybe you’re off for a working holiday, or as a longer term move to live, work, retire or study. In any case, picking up a travel debit, prepaid or credit card can help you manage your money across currencies, and cut the overall costs.

Different travel money cards have their own benefits and drawbacks. Join us as we look through your key travel money card options, and introduce a couple of our favourites from each category so you can see if any suit your preferences and needs.

Wise - our pick for travel debit card for Australia

Wise accounts can hold and exchange 40+ currencies, and you can get a linked Wise card for a one time delivery fee. Top up your account in GBP and switch to AUD before you travel. All currency conversion uses the mid-market exchange rate, with low fees from 0.41%. Here are some of the pros and cons of the Wise travel money debit card, to help you decide if it’s right for you.

best travel money card for australia

Hold and exchange 40+ currencies , including GBP-AUD

No fee to spend any currency you hold, low conversion fees from 0.41%

Mid market exchange rate on all currency conversion

Some fee free ATM withdrawals every month

No ongoing fees and no interest to pay

7 GBP delivery fee

No option to earn points or rewards

Click here to read a full Wise review

What is a travel money card?

A travel money card can help you cut costs whenever you spend in foreign currencies. Travel money cards can be debit or credit cards, but they all offer some international features and benefits such as options to hold a balance in multiple currencies, low or no foreign transaction fees, or cash back or rewards for spending and withdrawals overseas.

Once you’ve picked the travel money card that suits your needs you’ll be able to use it as easily as any other payment card, for in person and online shopping and cash withdrawals. Some cards also offer virtual card options for mobile payments.

What are different types of travel cards?

Travel cards can fall under the following categories. We’ll walk through the features and benefits of each in a moment, so you can see which might work best for your specific needs:

Travel debit cards

Travel prepaid cards

Travel credit cards

Quick summary: Best travel cards for Australia

The right travel card for you might depend on how long you’re spending in Australia and what you’ll be up to while you’re there. To help you weigh up some different options, we’ve included reviews of 2 of our favourite travel money cards from each category to help you choose. Here’s what we’ll be looking at:

Wise travel debit card : Hold 40+ currencies including AUD, with no ongoing fees, and spend with the mid-market exchange rate with no foreign transaction fee and low conversion costs from 0.43%

Revolut travel debit card : Hold 25+ currencies including AUD, in one of 4 different plan types, including some with no monthly fee, and some which comes with ongoing costs but which unlock more benefits and no fee transactions

Post Office travel money card : Hold AUD and 21 other currencies, with no fee to spend a currency you hold - 3% fee applies if you don’t have the currency required in your account

Monese travel money card : Hold a balance in GBP, then spend in AUD with no fees, up to your plan’s limit. Different plans on offer, including Simple which has no ongoing fees to pay

Barclays Rewards Visa travel credit card: Spend with the Visa exchange rate, and earn 0.25% cash back, with no foreign transaction fee and no cash advance fee. Interest and penalties can apply

Halifax Clarity Mastercard travel credit card: No foreign transaction fee, no annual fee, and no cash advance fee if you withdraw money at an ATM. Variable interest and penalties can apply

Travel money cards for Australia compared

Here’s a brief comparison of all the cards we’ve picked out - in a moment we’ll also look at each card in more detail.

When you’re figuring out which travel card suits you it’s worth thinking a bit about how you’ll use your card and account in Australia. If you’re there for work or need to send and receive AUD payments, a card with options to hold and receive Australian dollars - like the Wise card - can be handy.

If you’re looking for a card you can use on this trip and then in future for other holiday destinations make sure you pick one with no ongoing costs so you don’t run up a bill even when you’re not using your card. Finally, travel credit cards might suit you if you need to spread your costs over a few months - but bear in mind that fees and interest can apply in this case, pushing up the price in the end.

Travel Debit Cards for Australia

Travel debit cards can be ordered online from specialist providers, and will usually be linked to a digital multi-currency account. Different card accounts have their own features, but you can usually add money in GBP and then convert to AUD in the provider’s app, or just let the card manage the conversion for you at the point of payment. It’s worth knowing that some travel debit cards come with accounts with a broad suite of AUD functionality, including getting local bank details to get paid in AUD by local transfer. This can be a handy feature if you’re working in Australia, or visiting family and friends who may need to send you money in dollars.

Travel debit card option 1: Wise

There’s no fee to open a personal Wise account , but you’ll pay a one time card order fee of 7 GBP. After that there’s no minimum balance and no monthly charge. Wise accounts can support 40+ currencies for holding and exchange, with low fees from 0.43% when you convert currencies, and transparent ATM fees when you exhaust the monthly free transactions available with your account. Accounts come with local bank details for AUD so you can get paid easily.

No fee to open a personal Wise account, no minimum balance requirement

7 GBP one time fee to get your Wise card

2 withdrawals, to 200 GBP value per month for free, then 0.5 GBP + 1.75%

Hold 40+ currencies, convert between them with the mid-market rate

Get local account details to receive GBP, NZD, EUR, USD and a selection of other major currencies conveniently

Multi-currency account and card Wise

Travel debit card option 2: Revolut

Revolut has a selection of different account tiers for personal customers in the UK, including Standard plans with no monthly fee, to the top end Ultra plan which has a 45 GBP/month fee and comes with loads of perks including a fancy platinum plated card. You can hold around 25 currencies, and convert currencies with the mid-market rate to your plan’s allowance. The higher account tiers also come with extras like various different forms of complimentary insurance, discounts, cash back opportunities and travel benefits.

No monthly fee for a Standard Revolut account, or upgrade to one of 4 different account plans which have monthly fees running from 3.99 GBP/month to 45 GBP/month

All accounts have some no fee weekday currency conversion with fair usage fees after that which are 1% for Standard plan holders

Standard plan holders can withdraw 200 GBP overseas per month for free

Hold around 25 currencies

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Pros and cons of using debit travel cards in Australia

How much does a travel debit card cost.

Different travel debit card services set their own fees, which can include transaction fees, and monthly costs, depending on the card you pick. Generally, though, because travel debit cards are flexible and allow you to hold a foreign currency balance, you can avoid foreign transaction fees which keeps the overall costs of spending internationally down.

The good news is that you can select the provider and card that works best for you easily. Wise has a one time fee to get your card, but then no monthly charges or minimum balance requirements. Revolut customers in the UK can choose from different account plans, including one with no ongoing charges, or several different account options with a monthly fee in exchange for extra perks and benefits.

How to choose the best travel debit card for Australia?

There’s no single best travel debit card for Australia. Ultimately the decision will come down to personal preferences and spending habits, so you’ll need to compare a few to see which suits your spending and withdrawal needs best.

If you’re only in Australia for a short time and you’re unsure about travel debit cards you could always order a card with no ongoing costs like the Wise card or the Standard Revolut card, to try out whether or not a travel debit card suits you.

Is there a spending limit with a travel debit card in Australia?  

You’ll probably find there’s a spending limit for your travel debit card. However, this limit can vary quite significantly, depending on the provider you pick. You can also usually adjust your spending limits for security in the provider’s app which means you can set the limit you’re comfortable with.

For the providers mentioned above, Revolut UK travel debit card holders have some spending caps based on merchant and transaction type. This applies to things like sending money to others, buying travellers cheques or money orders, and betting. Wise caps monthly card spending at 30,000 GBP but you can also move your limit lower if you’d like to, for security reasons.

ATM withdrawals

ATM withdrawals with a travel debit card are also likely to be subject to limits. Revolut applies a 3,000 GBP limit based on any given 24 hour period. Wise ATM withdrawal limits are 4,000 GBP per month. Both providers allow you to make some no fee ATM withdrawals monthly, but the exact amount you can withdraw will depend on your account type.

Prepaid Travel Cards for Australia

Prepaid travel cards are somewhat similar to travel debit cards but may not have quite the same functionality. You’ll usually still get your prepaid travel card from a non-bank provider like the Post Office or Monese and you can still usually manage your application and account remotely with just your phone if you want to. Prepaid cards can also offer multi-currency balance options, but one key difference is that the range of currencies covered may not be as broad as the range offered by travel debit cards. Let’s look at these options in more detail.

Prepaid travel card option 1: Post Office Travel Money Card

You can order a Post Office Travel Money Card online or pick one up in person at a branch as long as you have a valid ID on you. You’ll be able to top up and hold in 22 currencies, although bear in mind a fee applies if you add money in GBP. There’s no fee to add foreign currencies. The exchange rate used when you top up or convert may include a markup, but once you hold a currency balance in your account you can spend it with no further charges.

AUD and 21 other currencies are supported for holding and exchange

No fee to spend a currency you hold on your card

3% cross border fee if you spend in an unsupported currency

80 THB ATM withdrawal fee

Manage your account and card from the Post Office travel money app

Prepaid travel card option 2: Monese Travel Money Card

Monese offers several different account plans which come with linked cards you can use while overseas. Depending on the plan you pick you’ll get some free international spending and some free ATM withdrawals. Simple account plans have no monthly fees, but are more limited in terms of no-fee transactions compared to the other account tiers. While Monese does offer foreign currency account plans, these are not available in AUD.

  • Pick the account plan that suits your needs, including a Simple plan with no monthly costs and some plans which do have a fee to pay every month
  • Accounts offered in GBP, EUR and RON
  • Simple account plan holders can spend up to 2,000 GBP a month in foreign currencies with no fees - other account plans have unlimited overseas spending with no extra fees
  • All accounts have some fee free ATM withdrawals every month, with variable limits based on account plan
  • Virtual cards available

Pros and cons of using prepaid travel cards in Australia

How much does a prepaid card cost.

Prepaid travel cards can have some fees, even if it’s free to get your card in the first place - which makes it essential to read the account terms and conditions carefully before you sign up. Among other things, look out for monthly maintenance fees, currency conversion charges, top up costs, and any account dormant fees that may apply. Weighing up a few different prepaid travel cards is the only way to decide which is the best value for your particular needs.

How to choose the best travel prepaid card for Australia?

The best prepaid travel card for Australia depends on your spending patterns. The Post Office Travel Money Card has the advantage that you can convert your money to AUD and see your budget instantly. However if you don’t do this, you might end up paying a 3% fee. Monese has different plan types, so has the flexibility to allow you to pick the one you want - but you can’t hold an AUD balance.

Prepaid travel card spending limit

The Post Office travel card lets you top up to 5,000 GBP at a time, with the maximum balance at any given time set at 10,000 GBP, or 30,000 GBP annually. Monese accounts may have different limits based on the tier you pick - usually set at a maximum holding balance at any time of 40,000 GBP. You may be limited to spending up to 7,000 GBP a day, depending on your account type.

With the Post Office card, you can make up to 17,000 THB maximum daily withdrawals and each withdrawal costs 80 THB. Monese accounts may have a maximum ATM withdrawal of 300 GBP a day, depending on the specific account you pick, so it’s worth reading the fee schedule carefully to understand the details.

Travel credit cards for Australia

If you’re going to be spending with a credit card in Australia anyway it could be worthwhile applying for a specific travel credit card before you go. These cards have been optimised for travel and can offer perks like no foreign transaction fee or more rewards and cash back for overseas spending.

If you pick a card with no annual fee, that can mean that using a travel credit card instead of your regular credit card when you’re away costs you less as you’ll dodge foreign transaction fees while still benefiting from network exchange rates. Bear in mind though that while credit cards can be safe and convenient, interest and penalty costs mean that they’re often more expensive than a debit or prepaid card.

Travel credit card option 1: Barclaycard Rewards Visa 

The Barclaycard Rewards Visa credit card is a good, straightforward option for UK customers looking for a credit card which does not have foreign transaction fees, and which doesn’t have an annual fee. As with any credit card, some costs can apply including interest fees if you don’t clear your bill monthly, but you’ll be able to earn 0.25% cash back on all your card spending at home and abroad.

No annual fee, with 0.25% cash back on card spending

Currency exchange uses the network rate and no foreign transaction fee

No ATM withdrawal fee - but interest can still apply

28.9% representative APR, with penalty fees for late payments

Secure spending with extra protection on some purchases

Travel credit card option 2: Halifax Clarity Mastercard

The Halifax Clarity Mastercard has a variable interest rate which is based on your creditworthiness, but doesn’t use different rates for different transaction types as some cards do. There’s no foreign transaction fee when you spend or withdraw in foreign currencies, but bear in mind that an ATM operator might charge a fee, and interest accrues instantly for cash advance transactions.

No foreign transaction fee when spending or making a cash withdrawal overseas

Interest applies instantly when making cash withdrawals

Same interest rate applies on all purchase categories

Variable APR based on your credit score - you’ll need to check your eligibility online to see the APR you’d be offered

Spending is covered by the Consumer Credit act which means extra protections for purchases from 100 GBP to 30,000 GBP in value

Pros and cons of using credit cards for Australia

How much does a travel credit card cost.

As with any credit card, you may find that you run into fees when you use a travel credit card. While the travel credit cards highlighted above have no annual charge, and no foreign transaction fee, interest applies if you don’t pay your bill in full every month. If you’re late making a payment, penalties can also apply. Consider carefully if using a credit card is right for you to avoid running up unexpected or unmanageable bills.

How to choose the best travel credit card for Australia?

The best travel credit card for Australia depends on your preferences and situation. Because there’s an eligibility screening process with credit cards, you may find you can’t get approved for some cards if you don’t have an established and strong credit history. It’s generally worth looking for a card with no annual fee, and the lowest available interest rate, just in case you can’t always repay your bill monthly.

Travel credit card spending limit

Your travel credit card spending limit will be set by the card provider, and will depend on your credit score. You’ll be shown details of your spending limit when you’re approved for a travel credit card.

The cards we’ve looked at earlier don’t charge a cash advance fee, but this is a common cost when using a credit card at an ATM, so worth looking out for when you select any credit card. It’s also worth noting that it’s very common for ATM withdrawals to start accruing interest instantly, so you’ll end up needing to repay some charges whenever you use your credit card in an ATM.

How much money do I need in Australia?

There’s so much to do in Australia it’s pretty much impossible to suggest a one size fits all budget for your trip. How much you need to spend will depend entirely on what you’re planning on doing, how long you’ll stay and your personal preferences. The good news is that there are plenty of options out there so you should be able to find a budget and itinerary that suits you with a bit of research and planning. Here’s a quick look at some common costs in Australia:

Conclusion: Which travel money card is best for Australia?

You’re not going to end up short of fun things to do in Australia. But lots of activities means you’ll need to figure out the best way to pay for things while you’re there, to avoid unnecessary costs and make your money go further.

Using one or more travel card options can help you manage your travel budget flexibly, and may also mean lower overall costs. However, the right card and account for you will depend on your preferences and whether you need extras like ways to get paid in AUD by others.

Consider a Wise travel debit card if you need ways to pay and get paid in AUD, with the mid-market rate and low fees. Or as an alternative, check out a Monese travel prepaid card for free currency conversion to your specific plan limit, or a travel credit card like the Barclays Rewards Visa for cash back opportunities and ways to spread your costs over several months if you need to.

No matter what type of travel card suits you best, there’s going to be an option for you - use this guide to research and get ready to enjoy that trip of a lifetime to Australia.

FAQ - Best travel cards for Australia

Can you withdraw cash with a credit card in australia.

Yes. You can use your credit card to make an ATM withdrawal at any ATM in Australia where your card network is accepted. However, bear in mind you’ll pay interest instantly when you use a credit card in an ATM. Choosing to withdraw with a low cost travel debit card from Wise or Revolut may bring down your overall fees.

Can I use a debit card in Australia?

Yes. Debit cards are widely supported in Australia, and can be used in many places, although you may struggle at some small independent merchants or at markets. That said, having multiple ways to pay is reassuring, making carrying both a prepaid or travel debit card and some Australian dollars in cash a smart plan.

Are prepaid cards safe?

Yes. Prepaid cards are not linked to your normal UK bank account which means that they’re safe to use. Even if you were unlucky and someone stole your card while you’re in Australia, they would not be able to access your main account - and you could freeze your prepaid card in the app easily if you needed to.

What is the best way to pay in Australia?

Paying for things with a specialist travel debit, prepaid or credit card in Australia is most convenient. However, having a few options for payment is a good plan, just in case your preferred payment method can’t be used for some reason. Consider getting a travel card from a provider like Wise or Revolut, which has some no fee ATM withdrawals so you can also conveniently get cash as a back up, and for when card payments aren’t offered.

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The 6 Best Prepaid Travel Cards for Australians 2024

Here is a list of the 6 best prepaid cards you can take with you on your travels and the positives and negatives for each one:

  • Wise - our pick for prepaid cards

Revolut - low fees

  • Citibank - good for use at home
  • Travelex - no fees for ATM withdrawals
  • Australia Post - lock in exchange rates

HSBC - no international transaction fees

With a prepaid travel card you’ll load money - either in AUD or the foreign currency you need - in advance, which you can then use as you travel , for spending and withdrawals. Lots of cards let you top up and manage your account through an app, which means you can always keep up with your money, even when you’re away from home.

Picking the right prepaid card can mean you get more convenient ways to spend and withdraw when you’re abroad - and lower overall costs, too. Let’s look at some of the best prepaid travel cards on offer for Australians , so you can pick your perfect match:

Wise - our pick for prepaid travel card

  • Top up for free in AUD using PayID or bank transfer
  • No annual fee, hidden transaction fees or 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), Canada (CAD) and New Zealand (NZD)
  • Available in the US, UK, Europe, Australia, Singapore, Japan and New Zealand

Find out more about the Wise card .

Wise Australia Travel Debit Card

With this card:

  • It's very easy to set up and order
  • Available as a  virtual card
  • You can receive foreign currency into a multi-currency account linked to the card
  • Pay with your Wise card in most places overseas where debit cards are accepted
  • 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

Go to Wise or read our review .

  • No hidden fees or exchange rate mark-ups (except on weekends)
  • Very easy to use app
  • Free to set up account and top up
  • You can use it to transfer money to a bank account overseas

Revolut Australia Card

Read the full review

  • 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
  • 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

Click here to see the full list of cards and how Revolut compares

Australia Post Prepaid Travel card - lock in exchange rates

  • Load up to 11 different major world currencies
  • Spend and withdraw easily around the world
  • Get access to extras like free wifi when you travel
  • Manage your card in online and via an app
  • Transfer instantly to another Travel Platinum Mastercard

Australia post travel card

  • Load up to 11 different currencies for easy spending and withdrawals
  • Lock in exchange rates so you know what your travel money budget is in advance
  • Get extra perks like free wifi when you load 100 AUD or more
  • Get fraud protections from Mastercard
  • 3.5 AUD international ATM fee, or 2.95% domestic ATM fee
  • Exchange rates to add money in a foreign currency or spend a currency you don’t hold are likely to include a markup
  • Some fees apply depending on how you top up your account

Travelex - no fees for international ATM withdrawals

  • Load up to 10 major currencies at a time
  • Spend and withdraw anywhere Mastercard is accepted
  • Contactless payments so you can just tap and go
  • No Travelex fees for international ATM withdrawals
  • Free to spend currencies you hold in your account
  • Order online and have it delivered to your home - or collect in store

Travelex card

  • Top up and hold up to 10 currencies at a time
  • View and manage your account online
  • Spend online and in person, and make withdrawals as you travel
  • No membership or account fees to pay
  • Get exclusive Mastercard discounts and perks
  • Inactivity fees apply if you don’t use the card for a year
  • Not all major currencies are supported for holding - double check they have the currency or currencies you need

Go to Travelex or read our review .

Citibank Saver Plus - best for use at home

  • No international ATM or transaction fees
  • Fee-free international money transfers to any account worldwide
  • SMS notifications through Citi Alert

Citibank Saver Plus Card

With this card you can:

  • withdraw money for free at over 3000 ATMs Australia-wide and overseas
  • take advantage of no foreign transaction fees, monthly fees, or minimum opening balance
  • transfer money to friends and family anywhere in the world for free
  • Cash deposits available within 24-48 hours
  • Can’t have two cards active at the same time
  • $5 account closure
  • Hold and exchange 10 currencies: AUD, USD, GBP, EUR, HKD, CAD, JPY, NZD, SGD, and CNY 
  • No account opening or annual fees to pay
  • No foreign transaction fee and no HSBC ATM fee at home or abroad
  • Some cashback earning opportunity on local spending 
  • Easy online overseas transfers - 8 AUD fee and exchange rate markups apply

HSBC card

  • Hold and exchange 10 currencies
  • No account opening fee, no ongoing fees 
  • Get up to 2% cashback on eligible card spend
  • No HSBC ATM fee
  • No international transaction fee
  • 8 AUD fee for sending money overseas
  • Cashback on low value transactions made in Australia only
  • Limits apply on how you can use CNY within your account

Read our HSBC Everyday Global Account review .

What are Prepaid Travel Cards?

Prepaid travel cards are a good international card alternatives to carrying cash. They look like credit or debit cards, but they function differently.

You're able to load the card with a set amount of money in the currency you need and can use it to make purchases online, in stores and to withdraw money at ATMs.

Most 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.

Find out how our 5 best prepaid travel cards for Australians compare in our best and worst travel cards article .

Looking for something different?

Read our guides on:

  • The best travel debit cards
  • The best travel cards for Europe
  • The Wise debit card review
  • Best virtual debit cards for Aussies

best travel money card for australia

How does a prepaid travel card work?

Order a prepaid travel card online, through a provider app , or - in some cases - pick one up at a physical location or store. Generally to get your card you’ll need to show or upload some ID documents for verification - this is to keep your account safe and is a legal requirement.

Once you have your card account open , you can load funds . Different cards have their own supported methods for topping up, which usually include bank transfer, PayID, credit and debit card, and which may also allow you to deposit cash in some cases. Once you have funds on your card, you can switch to the currency you need for overseas spending. In some cases you can also leave your funds in AUD and just allow the card to convert for you - but do check that no additional fees will apply in this case.

Prepaid travel cards can then be used to tap and pay , make withdrawals and shop online . You can often also add them to mobile wallets like Apple Pay for convenient spending. Because your card isn’t attached to your everyday account it’s secure, and you can only spend the funds you’ve loaded, which means there’s no chance of accidentally blowing your budget.

Advantages and disadvantages of prepaid cards

Prepaid cards can be a handy addition when you’re abroad, as they are secure and convenient to use for payments and withdrawals. However, they’re not the only option. If you’re not sure about whether a prepaid card is right for you, check out these advantages and disadvantages to help you decide:

Advantages:

  • More convenient than carrying cash, with easy access to ATMs to withdraw when you need to
  • Not linked to your primary day to day account, which can be more secure and make budgeting easier
  • Some accounts let you buy currency in advance to lock in exchange rates when they’re good
  • You may be able to access better exchange rates and lower fees compared to using a regular bank card

Disadvantages:

  • Some prepaid cards have fairly high fees - including charges when you add money to the account. Read more on how to find the best travel cards with no foreign transaction fees
  • Not all prepaid cards support a broad range of currencies - check the currencies you need are covered
  • Prepaid cards aren’t always accepted for things like paying security deposits - so it’s safest to have a credit card as well

Who is a prepaid debit card for?

A prepaid debit card is handy for many different customer needs. For example, you may choose a prepaid debit card in the following situations:

  • You’re planning travel and want to set your budget in advance with no chance of accidentally overspending
  • You want to be able to hold and exchange a selection of foreign currencies all in the same account
  • You want to increase security by using a payment card that’s not linked to your main everyday account when you travel
  • Some cards also offer other perks like ways to receive foreign currency payments conveniently, or cashback 

How can I get a prepaid travel card?

Different prepaid cards have their own order and activation processes. However, to comply with local and international law, providers will usually need to see some ID before you’re able to get a card - this verification step may be available online by uploading images of your paperwork, or in person by visiting a branch. 

Here’s an outline of the basic steps you’ll take to get a prepaid travel card:

  • Pick the right card for your needs
  • Visit the provider’s website or app - or call into a branch if you’d prefer a face to face service
  • Complete a travel card order from, which will include your personal information
  • Get verified - usually this involves showing or uploading ID like a passport or driving licence
  • Add money to your card, which could be in cash, with a bank card, or by bank transfer
  • You can now get your card, and manage your account online or in the app

If you’re ordering a card in person you’ll be able to start using it right away. If you’ve ordered online for delivery, you’ll need to wait a few days, to a couple of weeks, depending on the provider you’ve picked, for your card to be available. You might be able to access virtual card details in the meantime, to start spending right away.

How to choose a prepaid debit card

There are many different prepaid debit cards on the Australian market - so picking the best one for you will require a bit of research. Starting with this guide, compare a few different prepaid debit cards based on features and fees. Here are a few pointers to think about:

  • Make sure you know about any opening or card delivery fee which will apply once you order your card
  • Check how long it’ll take to get your card if you’re ordering online for home delivery
  • Make sure the card you pick can hold a broad selection of currencies, so you can use it for more than one trip away
  • Check the fees for adding funds, making ATM withdrawals and converting currencies
  • Look to see if there are any account close, cash out or dormancy fees that apply once you stop using the card
  • Make sure the card is well rated by other users, and from a trustworthy provider

Where can I get a prepaid debit card?

Generally you can order your prepaid debit card online or by downloading your preferred provider’s app. Some cards, like the Auspost card, can also be collected in physical branch locations.

FAQ - 6 Best Prepaid Travel Cards

Are prepaid cards free.

Prepaid cards may be free to order, or you may pay a small one time fee, depending on the provider and card you pick. Once you have your card you may also pay transaction fees such as exchange rate markups when you switch currencies, and ATM withdrawal charges. Read the card’s terms and conditions carefully so you’re aware of the costs involved.

What are the best prepaid debit cards for international travel?

There’s no single best prepaid debit card - it’ll come down to your personal preferences, where you’re travelling, and the type of transaction you need to make. Pick a prepaid card which is easy to use, which supports the currency you need, and which offers a good balance of low fees and good exchange rates.

What is the best reloadable prepaid card?

There’s no single best reloadable prepaid debit card. Use this guide to compare a few options to pick the one that’s right for you, thinking about features, fees and the range of supported currencies you’ll need.

Should I use a Mastercard or Visa for overseas?

Both Visa and Mastercard are very broadly accepted globally. It’s often a good idea to have a prepaid, debit or credit card on each of these networks, so you’ll always have a backup if for some reason one network isn’t available wherever in the world you are.

Are prepaid currency cards worth it?

Picking the right prepaid currency card can help you save money on currency exchange and access low fee international transaction services. You might also get extra perks like easy ways to lock in exchange rates in advance, so you can get a good deal and fix your travel budget before you go away.

Your currency knowledge centre

best travel money card for australia

5 Best Debit Cards for Australians Travelling Overseas

Travel debit cards are a good alternative to carrying cash. They also offer the convenience of a credit card, but work differently. Here is a list of the 5 best travel debit cards you can take with you on your travels and the positives and negatives for each one.

  • Read more ⟶

best travel money card for australia

Wise Debit Card Review

The Wise Debit card give customers an easy way to spend their balances in multiple countries. With interbank rates and low fees, this product is available in Australia for both personal and business customers.

Transfer money to Europe

8 Travel Traps to Avoid If You're Heading to Europe

To help you avoid spending money unnecessarily, here are some pretty important travel money traps you want to avoid if you travel to Europe.

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Amex Qantas Business Rewards Exclusive Offer

The Best Travel Debit Cards for Australians In 2024

Tom Goward | 27/03/2024

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No matter where you’re going or for how long, making use of a good travel debit card is one of the easiest ways to save money overseas. The problem is that amidst the excitement, the importance of selecting the best travel debit card often slips the minds of many Australians until the eleventh hour. Most novice travellers fail to realise their mistake until arriving home with an overstuffed suitcase and card fees that could’ve been easily avoided.

The harsh reality is that banks and airport currency exchange services will often rip you off, despite their claims of ‘zero fees’ or ‘0% commission’. Think about it, how can an exchange booth afford the insane airport rent if they don’t make a cent from running their business?!

The good news is that Australians have a few brilliant options when it comes time to select a travel money card. While the array of choices can be overwhelming, with a little research and planning, you can save a considerable sum just by using the right card!

WATCH: our video comparing 11 of the most popular travel cards in Australia!

In this post:

What About Prepaid Travel-Branded Cards?

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Many amateur travellers will use their day-to-day debit card overseas, simply because it’s easy to use a card that already has your money loaded and ready to go. But before tapping away, it’s important to understand the fees you’ll be in for.

When making international purchases, there are three main fees you should understand;

  • International Transaction Rate: Charged when you make a purchase with an overseas merchant, often as a percentage of the total transaction. In Australia, many banks charge a foreign transaction fee of 3% or higher.
  • Overseas ATM Withdrawal Fee: Charged for the privilege of withdrawing your own money at an overseas ATM, typically a fixed dollar amount per withdrawal. Sometimes the ATM operator will charge an additional fee for using their ATM. How fun!
  • Foreign Exchange Markup: This is where banks are especially sneaky. While you might think you’re getting the real exchange rate, like you’d see searching Google or XE, banks will make up their own rate which includes a hidden fee on top. Of course, you will only be shown the ‘final price’ to hide the fee applied to the real rate.

If you’ve been looking for the perfect card to use overseas, you would have seen big banks and loyalty schemes offering travel money cards. But just because your day-to-day bank offers a dedicated travel card, it doesn’t mean you should get one. In fact, if a card has the word “travel” as part of its name, RUN AWAY while you still can. That is, unless you like being shafted by some of the richest companies in Australia.

Prepaid options like the Commbank Travel Money Card and Qantas Travel Money Card typically offer a portal where you can preload a foreign currency, before arriving at your destination. While it might sound logical to have your money in the correct currency before payment, the fees involved can be astronomical. Despite the promise of “fee-free load options”, there’s almost always a huge foreign exchange markup when you send Australian Dollars to a prepaid card.

The other downside is that you’re forced to lock-in the exchange rate when loading Australian Dollars. While this is marketed as a perk, it’s also a potential disaster if the exchange rate moves against you, after you’ve transferred your entire spending money across. So, unless you have a crystal ball that predicts when the exchange rate is best, I wouldn’t see it as a benefit myself.

Although Visa and Mastercard don’t offer cards themselves, they do have a say in determining the foreign exchange rate you’ll get. While prepaid cards devise their own inflated rates, the best cards, which we will share below, utilise the Visa or Mastercard exchange rate without applying a markup. The difference between the two is almost non-existent, so there is no point in selecting your card based on the payment network.

The table below shows how much Visa and Mastercard offered for 1 AUD as of 27th March 2024. As you can see, the rates are identical, except for JPY where the difference is minuscule anyway.

How Much Can I Save By Using A Good Card?

How much you can save will depend on the fees associated with your day-to-day card, how much you spend and where you spend it. Let’s compare transactions if you were to use the Commbank Travel Money, Qantas Travel Money or Up Debit cards.

The Commbank Travel Money card charges a flat 3% fee for currency conversion on purchases and withdrawals. Qantas Travel Money claims to have “no fee” for purchases in their marketing material, but their foreign exchange rate adds an insane markup.

As an example, say you paid your 500 Euro hotel bill using one of these cards. Based on our testing (on 27th March 2024), Commbank would charge a $24.92 fee, while Qantas slaps a disgusting $47.13 or 5.67% markup on top of the real exchange rate. Remember – the Qantas card has access to Mastercard’s foreign exchange rates, and if they so pleased, could offer the same true fee-free rate as Up’s Mastercard option.

The Commbank Travel Money card charges $3.5 for ATM withdrawals, charged in the currency from which you’re making the withdrawal. Qantas charges a different rate depending on which currency you’re withdrawing, but for Euros, it’s €1.5. Of course, Up doesn’t charge a fee.

As an example, say you need to withdraw 500 Euros from an ATM. The conversion fees are the same as above, but you’d need to pay an additional fee for using the ATM. Keep in mind that the ATM you use could charge its own fee, but this will apply to most cards so it’s the same across the board.

Our Picks: Best Travel Debit Cards In 2024

Now that you understand how critical it is to utilise a good debit card overseas, it’s time to explore the best options for Australian travellers. Not all banks provide the same features, so be sure to shop around and find a good fit for you. We’d also recommend packing at least one backup card in the event your main card becomes lost or stolen.

best travel money card for australia

  • Payment Network: Mastercard
  • International Transaction Rate: 0%
  • Overseas ATM Fee: $0
  • Account Fee: $0

Sign-Up Bonus: $10 – For a limited time, you can receive a $10 welcome bonus for becoming an Upsider! Join using our Up Bank invite code to score $10 after joining.

Up is a digital bank (owned by Bendigo & Adelaide Bank) that proves it’s possible to love your bank. Setup is a breeze, and of course, Up charges absolutely nothing when you use an Up Debit card overseas. As a neobank, Up doesn’t have any physical branches, with everything easily handled from within the best banking app I’ve ever used. It’s super clean by design and packed full of useful features like payment splitting, the ability to detect recurring charges, easy payments to friends by name and detailed spending insights.

Want the full story? Check out our detailed Up Debit Card Review !

Ubank Debit Card Review

  • Payment Network: Visa

Sign-Up Bonus: $30 – For a limited time, you can use our Ubank referral code C7N1TAZ to score $30 in your new Ubank account after making 5 purchases within 30 days of signup.

Ubank is another digital bank with zero fees for using your connected debit card overseas. While the app isn’t quite as fantastic as Up’s offering, Ubank is still a great option. The upside is that Ubank also offers savings accounts that have consistently given some of the highest interest rates in Australia. Not to mention joining takes just a few minutes and they offer a joint account option.

After more info? Read out our complete Ubank Debit Card Review !

best travel money card for australia

  • Overseas ATM Fee: $0 ($350-$1400/m fee-free limit based on plan)
  • Account Fee: $0-$24.99/month (based on plan)

Sign-Up Bonus: We’ve partnered with Revolut to offer Flight Hacks readers an exclusive $15 in their new account. Join via this link to score $15 after making 1 transaction within 14 days.

Everything money is accessible with Revolut, from spending on your debit card to investing in stocks and EFTs, crypto, gold and silver. From a travel perspective, Revolut offers minimal fees and the ability to preload your card with one of several currencies or spend using AUD at the current exchange rate. SmartDelay also offers complimentary airport lounge passes for you and up to 3 friends when your flight is delayed by more than an hour.

Revolut is also great for those travelling with anyone aged 6 to 17, thanks to the option for parents and legal guardians to create a linked account for their children. The main account holder gains access to a bunch of insights and controls, while under 18’s can spend their own funds with the same money-saving perks as the main account holder.

In Australia, Revolut offers users a free Standard plan, in addition to increased perks on a Premium ($9.99/month) or Metal ($24.99/month) membership. While also including a solid reinforced steel card, the Metal option offers monthly benefits like three fee-free international payments, unlimited fee-free weekday currency exchange and fee-free ATM withdrawals up to $1,400. Not willing to pay for a full year? You can always upgrade for your trip and cancel the plan once you return home.

Ready to learn more? View our Revolut Australia guide !

Macquarie Transaction Account

  • I nternational Transaction Rate: 0%

If you’re after a debit card for travel from a big bank, but not quite big enough to rip you off, Macquarie has you covered. Although the app and online banking portal are in desperate need of an update, the product itself is hard to fault.

Macquarie also offers a few perks like a luggage return service that will pester the airline on your behalf, if they mishandle your checked baggage. There is a small service fee for this, but if your bag is not returned within 96 hours, you’ll receive a $100 payout per lost bag. In addition, cardholders have access to a concierge service, card purchase cover and wallet guard cover. Considering this is just a debit card, those are some nice benefits to have up your sleeve.

Deposits made on a Macquarie Transaction Account can also earn interest, up to 4.75% p.a (as of March 2024).

HSBC Everyday Global Account Debit Card

HSBC’s worldwide reach makes its Everyday Global Account an attractive offering. If you need to make an ATM withdrawal, you can visit a HSBC ATM to guarantee zero withdrawal fees around the world! The exception is in Argentina, France, Greece, Mexico, Malta and Turkey where there is a small fee.

There’s an option to buy and transfer between ten currencies (AUD, USD, GBP, EUR, HKD, CAD, JPY, NZD, SGD, CNY), although HSBC does hide a foreign markup here by using their own HSBC Daily Exchange Rate. For the best rate, simply load AUD onto the debit card before spending overseas, where the Visa exchange rate will apply with zero markup.

Plus, if you deposit at least $2,000 into your Everyday Global Account before the last business day of each calendar month, you can earn 2% cashback up to $50 per month. You’ll earn cashback on eligible purchases with Australian merchants under $100, when you spend via payWave, Apple Pay or Google Pay. There are a few transactions that won’t be eligible, including public transport, car parking and vending machines.

Wise Multi Currency Account

  • Overseas ATM Fee up to 350 AUD/month: $0
  • Overseas ATM Fee over 350 AUD/month: $1.50 ($1.50+1.75% for 3+ withdrawals)
  • Card Load Fee: 0% to 2% depending on currency
  • Physical Card Fee: $10

Wise (previously Transferwise) used to offer one of the best cards out there, until moving to an overly complex fee structure that feels very ‘banky’. That includes a $10 fee if you’d like a physical debit card, and high fees for withdrawing money overseas, once you go over the small monthly allowance. We do appreciate that those fees aren’t hidden, and you’ll see the exact exchange rate and the Wise fee applied before completing a transfer.

Because they still offer a real mid-market rate and are one of the best options for transferring foreign currency between friends, Wise still makes our list. They also offer a cool virtual card feature, that can be useful for pesky subscriptions or transactions where you want to cancel your card afterwards, without the consequences.

All up, Wise is a solid option if you need to make a bunch of transfers, but one to avoid if you plan on using overseas ATMs.

Keen on Wise? Why not read our Wise Australia review !

We’d be here all day if we reviewed every Aussie debit card with zero foreign transaction fees and fee-free overseas ATM withdrawals. Our guide above covers the best options for most travellers, but there are a few cards that deserve an honourable mention.

  • Bankwest Easy Transaction Account
  • ME Bank SpendME Transaction Account
  • Suncorp Everyday Options Account

Australia’s Worst Travel Debit Cards Revealed

Many big banks and frequent flyer schemes market travel money cards, but often, these come packed with hidden fees that make them completely useless. Unless you enjoy giving away your money (in which case you should send it directly to us), here are some popular options to avoid;

Qantas Travel Money

  • International Transaction Rate: “free” with hidden markup
  • Overseas ATM Fee : approx. $1.95 – $3.00 (varies with currency)
  • Card Load Fee: 0.5%

Qantas Travel Money is possibly the worst travel card out there. While advertising zero exchange fees, the ridiculously expensive “Qantas Travel Money Daily Rate” is used when you transfer funds between currencies or make a purchase. For example, in our €500 spend test above, using the Qantas Travel Money would cost a whopping $47.13 more than using a fee-free Up debit card. That’s a hidden markup of 5.67% – and Qantas will still charge an ATM fee!

For international purchases, you can earn 1.5 Qantas Points for every $1 equivalent spent in foreign currency. Even though we love Qantas Points, the insane nearly 6% markup is a complete ripoff and not worth paying to earn points.

best travel money card for australia

  • Foreign Exchange Rate: 3%
  • Overseas ATM Fee: A$3.50
  • Card Load Fee: “free” with hidden markup

Despite its widespread usage, the Commbank Travel Money Card is another terrible option for overseas spending. That popularity comes from Commbank’s extensive customer base within Australia, with many travellers sticking with the one bank, instead of exploring better alternatives. But the thing is, each of the no-fee options listed above can be funded instantly from your existing Commbank account, so there is no upside to using Commbank Travel Money.

While the card itself is free to hold, there’s a 3% conversion fee applied with each transaction made in a different currency. Additionally, you’ll pay $3.50 for every overseas ATM withdrawal. Commbamk becomes an even worse option once you realise how misleading their advertising of “no reload fees” is. While technically true, Commbank makes up its own exchange rate for card loads, which is approximately 4.4% worse than the Visa rate (at the time of writing). Essentially, this translates to a 4.4% fee when loading foreign currency onto the Commbank Travel Money Card.

Travelex Money Card

  • Overseas ATM Fee: $5
  • In-Store Load Fee: 1.1% or $15 (whichever is higher)
  • Online Load Fee: $0
  • Inactivity Fee: $4 monthly (once your card is inactive for 12 months)
  • Closure Fee: $10

You only have to read the endless list of fees to realise the Travelex Money Card is about as deceptive as it gets. Travelex does offer unlimited fee-free overseas ATM withdrawals, which is nice, but once you realise the other fees that are adding up and decide to close your account – oh wait, there’s a fee for that! You’ll also need to pay Travelex a monthly fee for the privilege of NOT using your card, once it becomes inactive for 12 months.

Travelex’s PDS says their foreign exchange rate is “set and determined by Mastercard”. What they don’t openly admit is that there is a hidden markup, which is easily spotted when you compare the Travelex exchange rate to that offered by Mastercard.

NAB Platinum Visa Debit card – 0% foreign currency transaction fees

  • International Transaction Rate: 3%

When NAB acquired Citibank in Australia, they removed one of the best big-bank travel cards available (the Citibank Saver Plus) and directed new customers to the NAB Visa Debit Card. As far as international spending, this new option is an absolute waste of plastic.

Instead of guaranteed free transitions at Citibank’s enormous overseas ATM network, you’ll get charged $5 at every single overseas ATM – yay! There’s also a juicy 3% international transaction rate, so you’ll pay a fee regardless of how you spend your money overseas.

ANZ Plus

ANZ Plus is ANZ’s new digital banking service that comes with a transaction account and a linked savings account. ANZ and ANZ Plus are like two peas in a pod, except one pea decided to get a snazzy makeover and call itself ‘Plus’. It’s as if ANZ woke up one day and thought, ‘You know what this bank needs? Another version of itself that’s slightly better but nearly identical’.

In all honesty, ANZ Plus is a solid product to use within Australia, with a cool banking app, competitive interest rate and useful insights to help you save money. But the good news stops there, with ANZ’s better version of itself keeping the fees for international use. You’ll pay $5 for overseas ATM withdrawals and a 3% fee on foreign transactions.

Westpac Travel Money

  • Foreign Exchange Rate: 0%
  • Overseas ATM Fee: approx. $1.50-$3.50 (varies with currency)

As far as big-bank travel cards go, Westpac’s Travel Money Card (also known as the Westpac Worldwide Wallett) isn’t quite as terrible as the rest. Although there are still hidden fees when you load your card, as well as when you withdraw money from an overseas ATM. The only reason we say Westpac’s travel card isn’t as awful is that they use the Mastercard rate when spending in currencies you don’t have loaded, without a markup. But overall, this is still one to avoid.

ING Orange Everyday Debit Card

We used to love ING’s Orange Everyday card for overseas spending. But as the card became more and more popular, ING decided to capitalise by introducing international transaction fees, and then raise them even higher.

You can get all international transaction fees rebated, but you’ll need to make at least 5 eligible purchases and deposit at least $1,000 to one of your personal ING accounts every month. The same can be said for overseas ATM withdrawals, of which the first five fees can be rebated provided you make at least 5 eligible purchases and deposit at least $2,000 to one of your personal ING accounts every month.

Because of this unnecessary step to qualify for zero fees, we no longer recommend the ING Orange Everyday for travel.

With so many fee-free travel debit cards available, there’s no reason why you should pay banks every time you need to spend money overseas. With a little research into a travel debit card that suits you, it’s pretty easy to save thousands in bank fees.

Alongside a fee-free card, be sure to employ these tips when spending overseas;

  • Never pay in Australian Dollars: It’s one of the biggest travel card scams out there as merchants will make up their own terrible foreign exchange rate, and then charge a fee on top, to convert the local price to Australian dollars. You’ve probably paid with an EFTPOS machine or used an ATM that asks if you want to pay in AUD instead of the local currency. While it might sound like you’re getting a better deal with Australian dollars, this is almost never the case. Be sure to pay in the local currency, using a fee-free card above.
  • Check for fees applied by the ATM: While any good debit card will offer zero ATM fees, that doesn’t stop ATM operators from charging their own fees. The machine should tell you before charging a fee.
  • Be prepared with multiple card options: In case your card stops working, is stolen or becomes lost it’s a good idea to have a backup card.
  • Use your travel debit card for online purchases: Avoid foreign transaction fees when shopping online with overseas merchants by using your card for travel.

I am going to visit [insert destination] – which card should I use?

The cards we recommend above are great for spending overseas. Be sure to consider the features important to you (eg. no ATM fees) when selecting a card for travel.

Which card uses the best currency conversion rates?

We have compared Visa and Mastercard’s spot rates above – there is little difference. Be sure to use a card that uses these spot rates, without applying a markup.

Can I use any Australian debit card overseas?

Nearly all Australian debit cards with a Visa or Mastercard symbol will work around the globe. There are a few exceptions, for example, many cards are currently blocked within Russia and other regions of conflict.

Should I tell my bank where I’m going?

It’s not something we regularly do, but it doesn’t hurt to notify your bank that you’ll be travelling overseas to avoid international purchases being mistaken for suspicious activity.

Why shouldn’t I transfer a bunch of AUD to the currency I will be spending?

It’s a bad idea to convert money ahead of your trip unless you have a crystal ball and know which way the exchange rate will move. If the exchange rate changes in your favour, you could lose out big time. The most accurate rate is achieved with a fee-free card loaded with AUD, using the payment provider’s spot rate

Can I use any frequent flyer credit card overseas?

While your Australian credit card will work overseas, most will charge a 3% fee when spending in a foreign currency. If your card earns a high number of points per dollar, that fee could be worth paying. It just depends how many points you’re going to get, and what fee you’ll be charged.

Which travel debit card is best for international travel?

The best travel debit card is going to have low or no international transaction fees, as well as the features that best suit you. Be sure to check out the best cards listed in this guide.

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Chief Operating Officer & Aviation Nerd at Flight Hacks

Off to Singapore and KL in October, got the BankSA Worldide Wallet card. Unsure whether I’d be better off using a card like the Up debit card instead.

Seems like an “ok” product but they charge for ATM withdrawal, in Europe 2 euros per transaction, 2USD in the US and 1.5GBP in the UK unless you use one of their partner ATMs. I’d say use UP if you’re unsure about whether the ATM you’re about to use is affiliated with Bank SA to save on the fee.

Hi Emmanuel, with the up debit card an u bank card , can you load the money from central america on there to take out? and or can you use the card over there anyway?

No, you can’t. If you want to load a foreign currency, I’d use Revolut or Wise.

Re: unbanked & up – both are digital banks so when I go overseas to Europe how do I notify these digital ‘banking institutions’ of my overseas travel dates so they don’t block my cards?

Hi Jefr, digital bank only means they don’t have a physical branch you can walk into. Personally, I can’t recall the last time I went into a physical bank. As for letting them know you’re travelling, I’ve never done this with either Ubank and Up and have had zero problems. When it comes to fraud, 99% of happens online so they do have a function where you can turn on or off international payments within the app. When you’re traveling and shopping, most of the banks now are smart enough to detect genuine transactions and don’t block you.

I have the Citibank one, it’s fantastic I find. Good rate which I locked in before travel so I know exactly how much I have to spend, I am even in Hawaii at the moment and even though the ATM operator says it charges $4.35USD per withdrawal, my card has not charged it.

I think it’s a mistake to lock in rates before you travel unless you have a crystal ball and know which way the FX market is going to move. Personally, I prefer to convert on the spot which gets you the best rate each time.

Not sure why Wise (previously known as Transferwise) makes on the list but HSBC Everyday Global Account didn’t make the cut. They also offer $0 ATM fees (no cap on withdrawal per month) and 0% overseas transaction fee.

Hi JW, it’s definitely not a complete list and HSBC is a pretty good product as well. I’ve got an HSBC Everyday Global Account but don’t use it because the app is a pain.

how about Bankwest https://www.bankwest.com.au/personal/bank-and-save/bank-accounts/easy

Also not a bad product, does pretty much the same as Up/Ubank etc.

what do you think is the best travel card for Moldova? I know not many people go there, but being a non EU country whose currency isn’t in much demand, I think we get stung when withdrawing from an atm. I’m using the QANTAS travel card. It was many currency wallets, but no Moldovan Leu. In Chisinau, Moldova seems to default to taking US dollars. I get the feeling we are double converting. AUD to USD and then to Leu. Ouch!

Do you know any other alternative?

Hi Ben, one of the debit cards listed here will work just as well. You should never convert money beforehand unless you have a crystal ball and know which way the FX markets will move 😀 The Qantas travel debit card isn’t a great product as they take a much too large percentage on every transaction or conversion you make. I would just use a debit card (or credit card) that doesn’t charge FX and let your bank do the conversion on the spot, much easier.

Thanks for a very interesting article about these attractive products. However, a doubt remains – how do these cards make money out of you? That is, what they do not take with one hand, must be taken by the other.

Hi Tom, most products listed above are not advertised as a “travel card”; why is that you may ask? It’s because the features they offer don’t make them much money, sure they might get a cut from the Mastercard or Visa spot rate but that’s not their main breadwinner. These products offer these specific features in the hope that you will move away from your traditional bank (think Westpac, Commbank, ANZ) and do all your everyday banking with them.

What do you think is better the citibank card, ubank or travelwise? 🙂 Tossing between those 3.

I’d go with Ubank since they are an actual Australian bank and the limits of Transferwise are somewhat limiting (no pun intended). Citi is also good but the app and website are not user friendly IMO. Bonus of Ubank is that they give you $20!

Could you please elaborate more on what the limits are for the Transferwise?

No limits for card payments but there is a very restrictive limit for ATM withdrawals which is $350 a month with max 2 cash out transactions. After that, they charge a fee.

JEN, Citi have withdrawn from the multi currency markets since they where purchased BY NAB. SAD, they were a great card

I have been researching some of the reviews on the cards, some adamantly say don’t use ING because of poor customer support when something goes wrong. Do you know of any that standout as having a good track record for customer support?

I’ve used ING in the past, and didn’t have a bad experience. That said, I’ve never been in a situation where I would need real customer support. For what it’s worth, Up bank has a chat feature within the app so that’s handy when you need a replacement card or something.

Can confirm support is not great, had several issues lately. Call centre times 20-30+ minute wait minimum, which especially sucks while overseas. Need to use Skype, etc or request a call back which can take days. Trying to resolve via messages is useless, appears they are unable to authorise anything this way.

On the plus side only ones that refund ATM fees so unfortunately still recommend them, have saved me a significant amount. Make sure you have several backups, to be honest have all the cards recommended – no fees and no stress if issues occur.

Hey Immanuel, Which is the better of Ubank and Up and why, especially considering you say Mastercard gives better rates than Visa? Thanks in advance!

Also between those and Travelex which I keep reading about?

Maybe times have changed but Travelex offers the worst travel cards/services IMO. As a general rule it’s safe to avoid anything that has the word travel in its name.

I found out that Travelex have competitive rates on their card – and the fees are $0 from our point of view. We can’t protect ourselves from the other side, but at least we can protect ourselves from the Australian point of view.

Plus, you can talk to a physical person in store about it. You can’t do that with the others – I’ve tried wise – and you do a chat – which i hate. I prefer the customer in person approach – especially if things go wrong – you can talk to a person in person and over the phone – and they have toll free numbers around the world for help.

Rates and fees are one thing – BUT HELP AND SUPPORT is a big factor for me when using a Travel card overseas.

Hi Miguel, I would argue the opposite. Travelex makes some of the worst products on the market, that said they do offer convenience (exchange money at the airport). For this, you’re paying a conversion fee of 3.65% (based on the Visa spot rate AUD-USD calculated today), this might not sound like a lot but it’s a rip-off in my book. Up, Ubank, Revolut, Citi Bank, ING etc. offer far superior products with full support (they have a banking license) and best of all they don’t charge fees, on top of that they’re just everyday bank accounts which is an added bonus. The physical people you talk to at Travelex are just salespeople, I’m not sure what sort of support you would need/expect from them? Personally, I carry multiple (free) cards with me so if one gets blocked for whatever reason (which has never happened) I just switch to the other one. Cheers, Immanuel.

Both are pretty much the same, bonus is that you get $20 with Ubank. For rate difference between Visa and MasterCard to matter much you would need to spend a lot of $$, instead, I would prioritise ease of use.

Going to US in 2 weeks. Just wanted to check your advice please. You mentioned “You should never convert money beforehand unless you have a crystal ball and know which way the FX markets will move”. Does this mean I should load up a Ubank Card with AUD and use this for both direct purchases and ATM withdrawals & rely on spot rates? It seems from the discussions above that foreign exchange occur at the UBank end. Is this a correct understanding?

Hi Geoff, your understanding is spot on. Converting currency in advance, hoping you will get a good deal is the equivalent of gambling, nothing wrong with it but the chances you get it right are just as good as the chance of getting it wrong. Ubank is just like any other Australian bank account, free to have money in your account and once you pay with your card it will be converted on the spot by Ubank.

Is there a conversion fee when you buy on the spot with a Ubank or Up card? Also can i book accommodation here in Australia and then just pay at the hotel using the Ubank card and it will just convert with no transaction or conversion fees?

Ubank is an Australian bank, they issue a free debit card (just like any other bank in Australia). You can’t have any currency other than AU$ on it so yes, your account will always have AU$ and it will be converted on the spot to pay for any transaction in any currency that’s supported by Visa, as per our article there’s 0% conversion fee imposed by Ubank (that’s why we like it). The card and bank account have no fees so of course you wouldn’t be charged a fee for booking accommodation using this card either.

Thanks for the article. Do the recommended cards offer travel insurance?

Hi Raymond, for cards with travel insurance you can check out our frequent flyer credit cards here , I can’t think of any debit cards that would offer free travel insurance. Since insurance is very personal, I can’t give you a recommendation as I don’t know your circumstances. However, I can tell you which one I personally use. For me I rely on Amex Business Platinum travel insurance as it’s activated even if I don’t use the card to purchase my flights, it also covers additional card holders so anyone I have listed on my account is automatically covered.

Amex non business credit card don’t give you travel insurance unless u buy your ticket with their card. The issue is if you buy a points flight, which is only technically paying tax, not actual flight, they won’t cover you with travel insurance when u claim as haven’t actually bought a fight. Hard lesson to learn.

ANZ Black or Platinum give you 6 months travel insurance per trip ( including family traveling with you) plus 6 months income protection of $1700/month(may be more $ now, they paid that much in 2017). As long as you spend $250 of your trip eg accommodation on your ANZ card and have a return ticket which can be a points bought one before leaving Australia. Also any auxiliary card holders are entitled to this insurance cover if travelling independently from you. Both my adult children used this to cover them on international trips at great savings. Also earn the most points / $ spend with ANZ black of any credit card except maybe business AMEX card. I never paid for travel insurance and have saved heaps over the years with this. Non cover you for extreme sports though or riding motor bikes if don’t have a bike licence in Australia or illegal to in the country you are riding eg Vietnam. Also can get a certificate prior to leaving saying they are covering you in certain countries of travel if needed.

Hi Immanuel I have a 15 year old daughter going on a 3 month student exchange to Italy at the end of this month. A number of travel websites recommend paying in cash in Italy so regular ATM use will be expected. She will be staying in a smalll village in Tuscany so may not have access to some of the “international/fee-free” ATMs. She will likely be spending around $600 per month (which exceeds some of the monthly fee-free ATM limits). A lot of the recommended debit cards have restrictions for under 18s. What do you recommend for her? Thanks

Hi Stephen, I believe all of these products have an age limit of 16 or older, not sure why but no doubt has something to do with government legislation. What I would do is open an account in your name and just give her the card to use and app login to manage her money. Paying by card is much more popular in Europe now than it ever was and it’s especially usefull when adding the card to a mobile wallet such as iPhone/Samsung etc. Ubank and Up are both very much geared towards young people so I think those would be good options to try out.

Great discussions. Thanks all. How about these cards Westpac – http://www.westpac.com.au/international-travel/travel-money-card/ Commbank Travle money card – https://www.commbank.com.au/travel/travel-money-card.html?ei=prod_TMC

Please advise. Thanks once again.

Westpac is alright but they charge ATM fees so I’d pass for that reason alone. Commbank, avoid unless you want to pay 3% on your transactions. The problem with these cards is that they want you to load it up with foreign currency, however, unless you’re a successful FX trader by profession, the chance of you timing the markets is slim. So essentially you’re gambling on the idea of currency either going up or down, if you were to just let your card convert it on the spot, you would always pay the market price which would then average out over time.

Thanks Immanuel, great discussions. How about wise card and what’s your opinion about it.

Also good but the limits are somewhat prohibitting.

Do you know if you need to convert currency with the Westpac worldwide wallet? I’m travelling to Vietnam and it’s not a listed currency. I would like to withdraw cash.

Hey Mae. Yes, Westpac Worldwide Wallet would require you to convert AUD before using the card, essentially gambling on the exchange rate. While that could work in your favour if the exchange rate worsens, you could also lose out big time. Westpac Worldwide Wallet does not currently support VND. Because of this and the extra fees Westpac charges, you might prefer the UBank or Up cards as mentioned above. Happy travels, Tom.

What is the best travel card for ATM withdrawals. We intend to pay for most things such as meals, taxifares and public transport by cash in the UK and Ireland. Is this the most cost effective method or are we better off just presenting our card when paying for goods and services. TIA

Hi David, Ubank and Up both don’t charge ATM fees so that would be my pick. When paying, it might be easier by card as then you don’t have to convert any leftover currency back but it depends where you go. Small towns in Europe for example sometimes don’t have card facilities so it’s just easier to pay in cash.

Hi Immanuel.

Just confirming, is the link below the ‘travel’ card for UBank, as it is coming up as a ‘transaction’ account rather than ‘travel’ card, so I want to make sure it is the right one?

https://www.ubank.com.au/banking/transaction-account

Any other advice regarding using this card (if the correct one) or UBank’s travel card (please send link) would be greatly appreciated.

Kind regards

Hi Joe, they only have 1 type of account as far as I’m aware. The product isn’t advertised as a “travel card” because they don’t really make money from it. That said, it makes an excellent travel card because it doesn’t charge fees, it’s easy to manage, free and they give you $20 for joining. As previously mentioned, by warry when a product brands itself as “travel” related; there are usually fees associated.

Hi, I was just wondering with up bank do I have to create another account with wise. Just a bit confused. Thanks

Hi, no you don’t unless you plan to send money to family/friends via international transfer. If you just want to use the debit card to pay for stuff and take money out of the ATM, you don’t need to do anything.

Hi Immanuel, Do you know which card would be best to take to Bali? My son will be taking AUD cash as well to change over there for a more favourable rate but lots of cash is a risk.I’ve also heard that ATM’s charge their own fee (randomly) and when making purchases using a credit or debit card a 3% fee is charged. Can you confirm or deny? 🙂 Thanks

Hi Jenny, I wouldn’t take cash, the rate you would get from a vendor will most certainly be worse than what you can get at an ATM. The debit cards listed above such as Up, Ubank etc don’t charge any fees. If an ATM charges you fees, it will always disclose this before you proceed with the transaction, most often it’s a fixed amount. Always use reputable bank ATMs and you will be fine 🙂

Hi Immanuel, thanks for the advice above.

Which is the best card for us?

My partner is heading of the the USA, Canada. Then we are flying across to meet her in Netherlands, then Scotland followed by a trip to Italy for a holiday.

She likes the Wise Travel, I like the Macquarie. I think the limit on withdrawals from atms is a pain in the wise one. She thinks the Wise one has a better currency conversion rate since Macquarie uses Mastercard rate.

What are your thoughts? It’s hard to find detail on ubank and what their currency conversion rate is.

If you plan to use the ATM a lot, I’d stay clear from Wise as they are very limited on withdrawals. If the cards are free, get both that way you always have a backup. Personally, I take an Up debit card and Ubank debit card, if one gets blocked or I lose it somehow I have a backup and it takes seconds to transfer funds from one account to another.

Hi. Just trying to understand how you transfer money if one card has been lost/ stolen, wouldn’t every transaction be blocked ??

You can just lock the card it self. This means you can still use the account.

I just wanted to come here to say thank you Immanuel, so much information – exactly what I wanted to know and have been agonising over! The fact you are still answering the questions a few months after the article was written!

Hey Chantelle, thanks for the kind words! We’re actually planning to add more products to this article soon to expand the comparison for people.

Ditto from me – your info has been really helpful to me to choose the right card for travelling o/s. Just got word from Citibank that they will be closing down their travel card that I have used for last 10 years, so I am in the market for a new one. This article and the follow up discussions have been invaluable. I’m tossing up between UBank & Up Bank. Thanks again for a very informative article and more importantly, the follow up discussions.

Thanks Lisa! Both Ubank and Up are pretty much identical when it comes to real world use. It will come down to which app you find easiest to use. Try them both, it’s free after all 🙂

Totally agree!! How often do we find a site with an article and ability to comment…only to never hear from the author…way too often!

I travel internationally on occasion (Australia bound next month) and I think this discussion is incredibly valuable!! I’ll be getting both Up and Ubank as there is really only an upside to both.

Thanks for the feedback Bryan! When readers take time to comment, we take time to respond. It’s also very useful for others reading this article as it adds information that might not have been clear or mentioned in the main content.

Hi After reading all this I’m still not too sure. I’m traveling to UK and USA in December 22 and have applied for a Revolut card, what do you think? Regards Elly

Hey Elly, Revolut is also really good. You might even want to consider switching to their premium product for the duration of your travel as it might be worth it 🙂

Hi, Interesting article on paying for things overseas! One question/comment. I think it is necessary to advise the bank that your card will being used overseas? Otherwise the bank may put a stop on the account in case it is being used illegally.

Hi Neil, I personally don’t advise them and haven’t experienced any issues (with debit cards that is)

Hi Immanuel, we are travelling to Thailand next year. My sister uses Latitude 28 Degrees Global Platinum Mastercard. Is this any good? Otherwise, I’ll go with the Ubank card. Thanks for some great advice. Regards, Melissa

Yes, it’s good, no FX fees but it’s a credit card so not good if you want to take cash out. Ubank is a debit card/bank account so it’s perfect for taking cash out of ATMs etc.

Hi Just want to which debit card is best for Switzerland? I am traveling from Australia

Hi Ali. Any of the six cards we have listed above will suit your travel to Switzerland.

Im going to europe this year, ill be using card a lot, dont think i need to use atm much. Im considering either UP, wise or NAB platnium. I have considered the NAB platnium because they offer free travel insurance. Do you have any more advice, which would be best for me. Thank you.

Hi Karla, if you plan to use the card a lot it should work out ok since they charge $10 a month account-keeping fee which can be offset by the cashback rebate of up to $10 per month. Just make sure you read the T&C of the insurance to make sure it’d adequate for you.

Hi Immanuel going to Bali and if I get the UBank card do I just put aud in it, and when I pay at restaurants does it just convert to IDR then or do I have to change my Aud to idr.

Hi Chrissie. Good choice! Just load your UBank card with AUD and when you pay it will convert to IDR automatically. Blue skies, Tom.

Hi, thanks for providing such great information it’s really helped narrow down the search for the best debit card to use for our honeymoon. We are travelling to Cancun Mexico and considering either Citibank Plus or HSBC Global account. Do you think we will be fine with these cards?

Hey Adele. HSBC is a good product, although the app needs some serious work. Citi will serve you well along with the other cards listed here. Happy travels, Tom.

Am going on a six month trip – 3 months total in Morocco and Tanzania, and then 3 months in Europe. Am agonising over how to do the money thing – don’t want to carry wads of cash and don’t want to pay loads of fees if I pay by card or make frequent atm withdrawals. Would the Ucard be a good option for me if I just load it up with AUD before I go?

Ubank, Up, Revolut… all good options and will do exactly what you need.

Choosing a card is really hard as the reviews are not that great with any of them. Want to get a card which offers security for my money and easy access to it. I am planning to go to Europe and am worried I wont be able to use my card because its blocked or funds have disappeared (comments in a few google threads). Are all these cards covered by the government guarantee? Are these cards supported by large banks with good customer support should something go wrong?

Many thanks

Hi Diane. We have listed the best cards for travel above, you may wish to consider these for your trip to Europe. Under the Financial Claims Scheme (FCS), deposits of up to $250,000 are protected at licenced banks in Australia. As for the neobanks cards above, Up is backed by Bendigo Bank and UBank by NAB. In my experience, their customer support is fantastic. Cheers, Tom.

Hi Diane. We have compared Visa and Mastercard currency conversion rates above – there is little difference here. As long as you are using a card with zero foreign transaction fees, these are the rates that will apply. Cheers, Tom.

Thank you for the article. My concern is how long will it take for money to be transferred from another bank account onto these Travel Cards so that funds are available? Are you better off getting a travel card from your current bank to get the instant transfer?

Hey Poppy. If your current bank and the the card you will use for travel both support Osko, deposits will be instant. You can check what banks support Osko by clicking here . Cheers, Tom.

Surely ING is worth a mention? As far as I know they’re the only one that offers ATM fee rebates. Unfortunately they’ve recently limited this to 5 per month (whether domestic or international), but depending on the country this could still be worth ~$50. If you only withdraw cash once a week or so while travelling this really isn’t an issue. It’s saved me 100s of dollars in the past while travelling so I’m happy to deal with some sub par support!

Hey Jordan. We did have the ING Orange Everyday card listed when putting this guide together a few years ago. ING was since removed after the benefits became slightly more restrictive, although it’s still a worthy contender for travel. Blue skies, Tom.

We’re going to Argentina in January, which is a money minefield! – with the official dollar rate via banks vs the blue dollar that is worth nearly twice as much when exchanged for USD cash. Apparently the govt is in the process of introducing blue dollar (or better) rates for tourists using foreign cards, so that makes taking a debit card instead of wads of USD cash much more feasible. Are you aware of this? Do you have any advice at all? If not, we’ll take a chance on one of your recommended cards and hope that it works over there. Thank you!

Hi Diane, yes Argentina isn’t your typical country haha the “blue dollar” is the black market exchange rate for USD to the native peso and indeed, you will be much better off bringing USD (make sure you get the newer bills) as everyone in the country wants them. You will still be able to use a debit card at ATMs but when doing so you will convert at the official rate which as you stated is far from favorable. Are you transiting via the USA before getting to Argentina? In this case, I would get USD cash from US ATMs using an Australian debit card, this way you will get the best exchange rate, then take the cash to Argentina and exchange it to Peso on the black market.

Thanks so much for your reply and advice Immanuel. We are flying direct from Sydney to Santiago and from there to Buenos Aires, so no opportunity to use a US ATM I’m afraid. We’ll continue to watch the situation (with a sceptical eye) and assume that USD cash is still the way to go. Sigh.

Hi Diane, if you use Western Union they give you the Blue $ exchange rate. Initially I thought this was only with US $ but according to a discussion on Travel Advisor, it works for other currencies as well. By setting up an account and have Argentina as your home, you can apparently transfer au $ to Pesos while you are in Argentina. Although sometimes hard to find a WU office that hasn’t run out of $, and not always an instant transfer. Apparently you can play around on the WU site to check your exchange rate before doing this. If you already have USD in $100 bills, all very new and clean, you can go to an Arbollito on Florida St and exchange. Remembering the Blue rate does fluctuate.

Cheers Annmarie

link to recent TA conversation if you want to read info https://www.tripadvisor.com.au/ShowTopic-g294266-i977-k13815837-o30-How_to_get_dollar_blue_exchange_rates_through_Western_Union-Argentina.html

Hi there, I am travelling to the UK and Europe for 4 weeks and tossing up between two options which I can’t choose from. Is it better to use a fee free card overseas (Up in particular) and convert on the spot and cop the varying exchange rate, or preload a travel card so I have converted funds, but risk the fees from ATMs and conversion fees when I need to do so? Cheers

Hi Michael. Check out our section on travel-branded cards above. It is just as likely to lock in a bad exchange rate as it is to lock in a good one. It’s up to you, but seeing I don’t hold a crystal ball I avoid gambling on the exchange rate. Once you pay in foreign currency using Up it will be converted to AUD at the current rate with no fees or markup. Cheers, Tom.

Thanks mate, I’ve made the decision to use Up and even going to change my regular banking there cause I love it! Thanks again

Signed up for the U Bank card, used the code – it appears that actually the referrer gets the $20 credit, not the new signed up customer. I used the code C7N1TAZ as mentioned above.

Hey Dinny. To score the $20 you will need to be a brand-new UBank member and make three card purchases. Cheers, Tom.

Hi! Im travelling to the UK and Europe for a month is December and would prefer to use a travel card as opposed to cash. I’ve looked at all of these options but the reviews are a little worrying. Have you used any personally? What would you suggest? Im ideally trying to not spend a whole heap on fees and things and I dont plan on taking much out at an ATM if at all. Also looking for a card that wont cost be a fortune to put the left over money back into my bank account once ive returned. I was originally going to get a qantas card but once again reviews arent very good. Thanks

Hi Hunta. We have tested and would recommend any of the above. Up or UBank might be your easiest option. Cheers, Tom.

Hi there! How about the Macquarie debit card? seems as good as Ubank!

Yes just as good but you don’t get free money for signing up haha! Also, I’m not sure if their application process is as straightforward. Both Up and Ubank instantly activate your digital wallet while you wait for a physical card.

Thanks for the detailed articles team, I’ve always used cash when I travelled in the past but after reading this article I’ll use debit card instead.

Quick question though, would you recommend using Australian credit card overseas? I understand there’re fees (1-5%) but it earn points in return. Still tossing if points are worth the additional fees.

Hi Daniela, most Australian credit cards will charge you a 3% fee on each converted amount. It’s pretty high but if you earn points it can somewhat offset the cost. There are some credit cards that have no fees and earn points but the earn rate is generally pretty bad + they also have annual fees which might outweigh the benefit of saving 3% Macquarie Platinum Qantas, ANZ Travel Adventures, and Bankwest are a few you can look into.

Hi Immanuel, My 15 year old daughter is going to Japan on exchange for a year. I am a bit worried about sending her with a card in my name in case she is questioned (why she has a card in another person’s name). Other kids are going with CommBank as kids 14 and over can use it but I don’t like the sound of their fees. Any suggestions? Thanks

hey Elizabeth, to play it safe you can always have a Commbank account as a backup. Transferring money from Australian banks is instant via Osko so in theory you could give your daughter a card in your name (to take advantage of the low fees) and have a Commbank card as back up if it should be required. That said, you can also use mobile wallets to store Up, Ubank etc for contactless payments, this way the name on the card isn’t shared or displayed.

If I already have a Ubank account (for savings), will this suffice for using on overseas trip? Don’t have a card attached to it, but daresay I could apply for one. Travelling in the new year to UK and France. Thanks

Hi Denise, yes the Up savings account you got now is what you can use overseas. If you don’t have a physical card, you can order it via the app. It usually takes a week or so.

Which is the best card for recieving overseas payments like the japanese yen, etc. ?

Hi Zara. Any of the above cards can receive overseas payments, but Wise was designed especially with regular international payments in mind. Cheers, Tom.

Hi Zara – this is an excellent site and your advice much appreciated. My 19 year old son is going to Japan for working ski holiday next week for 7 weeks. He will need to use cash Yen in most places and hence, a number of ATM withdrawals. From what I read above, he would probably be best off just using his existing Bendigo Bank debit Mastercard – as he can use for payments as well as ATM withdrawals. Do you agree? Thanks in advance – Ian

Hi Ian, Bendigo bank charges 3% on each converted transaction overseas (that’s very high). Since your son is 19, he would be much better off switching to a bank that doesn’t charge those fees. Up bank, Ubank, Revolut, ING etc all offer better banking features and no fees.

Hi Immanuel, I plan to use Macquarie debit card for my upcoming overseas travel. How does Macquarie debit card compare to Citibank? And would Aud convert to other currencies automatically when I pay with my debit card?

Hey Linh. Your Australian Dollars will convert automatically for all cards listed above. Both Macquarie and Citibank offer good products with zero fees, although I’m not a fan of their mobile apps. At least Citi has a worldwide presence. Cheers, Tom.

Hi, I’m travelling to Vietnam, I have the 28 degree MasterCard but need a debit card to withdraw cash. What are your thoughts on Westpac worldwide wallet? I don’t want to lock in a currency.

Hey Mae. I wouldn’t recommend the Westpac Worldwide Wallet as you will pay extra fees compared to any of the cards we have listed above, for no reason. You would also need to lock in the currency, plus the card does not support VND. The 28-degree MasterCard is also one I would avoid, as you can’t make fee-free withdrawals and they apply a markup to overseas transactions. You might prefer the UBank or Up cards as mentioned above. Happy travels, Tom.

Just fyi – ubank is no allowing joint accounts at the moment. Very annoying as all their marketing says they do, but you get to the “new account” section and get a weird error message. Only after 50mins on hold to the call centre did it all become clear.

The argument is that they are being used for phishing which seems odd/unlikely – each of the joint owners need to give over ID but after Optus etc who knows.

I’ll be checking out some of the others – thanks for the tips!

Interesting, I didn’t know! Any benefit to having a joint account?

I’m hoping to take advantage of the exchange rate for japAn before it drops, I have a trip booked in April.

Can you please advise which travel card would be best. I want to transfer $2000 across as a piggy bank. And then continue to use my up account for purchases once this $2000 is gone.

Would it be better to do this or go to a cash exchange in Australia and change money before I leave as a lot of purchases will be in cash?

How do you know the Aussie will drop against the JPY? If you know for sure, why only bet $2,000? Jokes aside, Revolut would be my #1 choice for converting currency.

I feel that when you recommend these cards you take customer service into account. UBank has been in the news of late for poor service and I wouldn’t have believed it unless I experienced this myself. My daughter is in Rome with a UBank card, that we got for her because we read this review. They did an upgrade last night during the early hours of the morning AEDT but that was peak time in Europe. She was not able to use her card and then when they came back online, she still can’t use the card. I was in a queue for over two hours, which is minimum for them, no chat option, which is terrible for a bank. I spoke to someone and they assured me they would fix it and they still haven’t. Luckily her friends are with her and they are paying for her items, but this is a terrible bank it really is. Please factor this into your reviews and don’t worry about the referral fees, think about the people this affects.

Hi Bill. Sorry to hear about your daughter’s poor experience. I have never had an issue using my UBank card overseas, including getting through on the phone. In my experience their customer service is fantastic, but perhaps following the NAB takeover this is no longer the case. Of course, we would always recommend having a few good travel debit cards at hand, in the event that one card is stolen or stops working. Limiting yourself to a single card is undoubtedly risky, hence why we have listed several above. All the best, Tom.

Hi, I’ll be traveling to Germany and Denmark at the start of next year, all of these cards look viable. Is there a specific one that you would recommend…maybe location-wise? Thanks

Hi David. I am a fan of Up Bank for their outstanding customer support and ideal app layout. But yes, all of the above could work for your travels. Cheers, Tom.

Hey Tom, just opened both an Up Bank and Wise account for my Europe trip , thanks for your help there. If I understood correctly, if I tap and buy something with the Up Bank card, it converts the Australian dollar I have in my account at the Mastercard rate and if I tap and buy something using the Wise card, it converts using the Wise Transfer rate? (assuming I haven’t preloaded the Wise card with Euros already)

Hi Tom So is this correct? I miss my choice if card(atm between Up, UBank & Wise) with AUD and use it to pay for things OS (Canada). Therefore I won’t be charged any fees and the money is converted to CAD at the time of transaction? If I choose to withdraw actual cash OS then I may incur a fee of over $350 is withdrawn for the month?

Hi Jo, each card is different: Up, Ubank don’t have withdrawal limits, Wise & Revolut do have limits on free withdrawal, go over and you will incur a fee. Hope that helps?

Hi Immanuel Yes thanks so if I’m mainly using the card as a debit card and not to withdraw cash, then any of those 4 would be ok? If I want to withdraw cash – more than $350 a month- (I’m assuming it’s withdrawn as CAD) then Up & Ubank are best? Is this correct?

Hi, Im going to Europe for 2 months next year which would be the best travel card with the lowest fees? as i will only be using euros and pounds for the trip. My last pre- covid trip I used an ANZ travel card but they dont offer them anymore.

I would go for either Ubank or Up if you want unlimited ATM use with no fees. If you won’t take out much cash but prefer to pay via card, go with Revolut .

Hi Immanual, I’m travelling to Mexico and Hawaii in feb for the whole month and I’m stuck on which card to get. I’m unsure if I should get a prepaid or a debit card. Do you have any tips? I assume in Hawaii I’ll be using eftpos (transaction) more, whereas Mexico I think cash. But I’m really not sure, I’m just going off what people have said in travel blogs. Thanks!

Hi Ava, the answer to your question is in the article, but in short: pre-paid travel cards suck. Get a debit card or if you want to convert currency before your trip, get Revolut. Pro tip: get 2 accounts, that way you have a backup in case you lose a card or it gets blocked.

Can you sign up to revolut as an Australian? I was looking into Up too. What would be better?

I’ve got HSBC, Revolut, Wise and Qantas. Don’t know why people criticise the HSBC website and app, I’ve never had any issues. Exchange rates are pretty good and there’s 2% cashback on paywave purchases under AUD$100 (not sure if this applies OS). Revolut and Wise have the best exchange rates. Revolut Metal plan offers more ATM withdrawals. Lounge access is nothing special (slightly below normal fee unless there’s a +1 hour delay). Wise has no subscription fee. Qantas exchange rates are terrible, points bonus kicks in for overseas spending. I think Wise is the best all-round option if you don’t need many ATM withdrawals.

Hey John. I find the HSBC app outdated and clunky, but if it works for you that’s great. The HSBC 2% cashback will only apply to purchases made in AUD. Personally, I feel Wise and Revolut are far superior as above. Cheers, Tom.

Hi Emmanuel Travelling overseas first time to Europe for five and half weeks. Spain, France, Italy and Greece. I’m looking at both of these, Up Mastercard Debit card and UBank Visa Debit card, as you said have a back up. 1- I have a westpac bank account, how do I transfer money onto these cards from westpac, will I be charged any fees for transferring? 2- For security is it best to have a seperate westpac account with x amount $ in it that is for transferring onto these two debit cards while over seas? 3- Reason I ask about seperate westpac account, if scammed or the debit card is hacked can the scammers get into my main westpac accounts? 4- Do I transfer onto both cards or just one at a time? 5- Would I only have one as back up with no funds on it, and if needed can I transfer while in Europe? 6- As you mentioned, if the card I’m using eg: Up Mastercard Debit card is stolen, lost or blocked can I automatically transfer the funds on that card to my back up card eg: UBank Visa Debit card? Or because it’s compromised I wont be able to transfer those funds to my back up Debit card? 7- If that happens are my funds gone/ lost. Or will the banks that back these cards reinburst me for funds lost? 8- Is Up Mastercard Debit card backed by Bendigo Bank and UBank Visa Debit card backed by NAB bank? 9- With any funds left on these two cards once back in Australia can all the funds be transferred back into my westpac accounts, is there fees to do this? Thanking you in advance for your reply to all my questions.

1 – You can make a bank transfer the same way as any other bank account/debit card. 2 – Personally I don’t worry about this. 3 – No they are separate banks in the same way Westpac and Commbank are separate. 4 – Up to you, but it can be nice to have a backup. 5 – It is good to have a backup loaded with enough cash to get you out of trouble, but it is very easy to transfer in a pinch. 6 – Yes you can transfer funds and lock the card. 7 – It depends but you might be protected under the FCS. 8 – Yes. 9 – Yes you can transfer AUD back with no fees.

Cheers, Tom.

Hi my grand daughter is travelling to the U.S.A, For sport competition, what would be the best travelcard for her as she is a minor.

Hi, the Revolut card will be the best option as you can set up a free sub-account for a minor. See our full review for more details on this feature: https://flighthacks.com.au/revolut-australia-review/

Hi Immanuel I’m travelling for the fist time overseas to the Pacific Islands of Fiji for a 2 week holiday with family and kids. What card would best suit me? I do have accounts with Commonwealth and ANZ if it matters? Regards Mick

Hi Mick. Any of the cards we have covered in this article could work well for your trip. Enjoy Fiji! Blue skies, Tom.

I’m off to Nepal and Bhutan shortly. What is your opinion on the NAB Platinum Visa Debit Card? I believe it’s targeted at o/s travel but I wonder why it hasn’t made your recommendation list. Cheers

Hi Simone. We haven’t included the NAB Platinum Visa Debit as there are better cards out there (eg. Up Bank, UBank and Revolut). NAB charges a $10 monthly card fee, $5 per overseas ATM withdrawal and $1 per overseas ATM balance enquiry (in addition to what the ATM itself charges). You might be better off with one of the cards mentioned in this article, as many won’t charge these fees. Cheers, Tom.

Hi Tom, We are going to the Maldives in Feb and Europe in June/July, it looks like UP or Revolut are our best options. We are with HSBC which doesnt have OSKO. Would we be best to open an account with these other banks for easy transfer. Do you know if you can get multiple cards for the one account with UP & Revolut?

Hi Heidi, I find that transfers from HSBC usually take 1 business day so while it’s not instant like it is with Australian-based banks, it’s also not that slow. You can only get 1 card for your Up/Revolut account but both options also allow you to generate digital cards which you can generate as often as you want.

Hi – I am curious about the markup fees on these cards. Upbank clearly states they don’t do forex markup fees, but I cannot find information on the others. HSBC Everyday Global Rewards does have a forex mark up fee for the currencies you can load into the card for example. What about Ubank?

Hi Alee, HSBC charges a markup if you exchange money within your account; there’s no fee if you exchange it using the spot rate by paying or using your card in a foreign country. As I’ve said many times in these comments: there’s no benefit in exchanging money beforehand UNLESS you have a crystal ball and know what a currency will be worth at the time that you need it. So I never exchange money, all the cards we listed here do that automatically when you pay or use an ATM and do so without any fees.Ubank doesn’t have any exchange fees for the fact that it doesn’t have the option to convert currencies ahead of time, it simply converts based on the best spot rate as stated above.

Hey! Firstly this is the greatest thread regarding travel cards! Thanks for the replies!

I am travelling to Europe in June with my partner, we are heading to Denmark, UK, Greece, Croatia, Albania, UAE, Italy, France, Macedonia and Lebanon (just over 3 months).

I was originally considering Wise, however I see your point on withdrawal caps without fee.

Tossing between the Citibank plus, Wise, HSBC global and now the UP and UBank (open to others)

What would be your best recommendation for no fees and best exchange rate for these countries?

Could I get 4 best card recommendations for;

1/ Exchange rate and fees? 2/ Exchange rate, fees and atm withdrawal 3/ Atm withdrawal 4/ A extra card to carry to withdraw USD dollars to take to Lebanon (don’t want to be carrying a large amount of cash that I need for my last destination)

Thank you in advance! 🙂

Hi Faydi, personally, I use Revolut, Up and Ubank. Mostly because I like the apps they have; my issue with Citi and HSBC is that the mobile applications are somewhat clunky and not as user-friendly. When it comes to rates, all the cards we’ve listed here either use Visa or Mastercard spot rates (these are the best you can access as a consumer), all the cards listed above have no fees. In any case, I would made sure to have at least 2 debit cards (they are free anyway) so you can transfer money between if one stops working for whatever reason or if you lose a card. With Lebanon, from what I hear, it’s best to avoid ATMs because they will exchange your money at the official rate, since the people there want USD, there is a “black market” rate which is much more favourable but this would mean you have to carry some USD with you.

Hi Emmanuel,

Regarding withdrawing USD to use in Lebanon, my plan was to withdraw the USD in a different country (possibly from Macedonia) so I’m not carrying the cash for 2 months around Europe.

Any cards that are best for withdrawing money from ATM’S?

There’s also ING Orange everyday card? Similar product/benifets?

Thank you for taking the time to hear me out. What would be your best recommendation as I am trying to do a lot of research on what would be the best debit card to use for overseas this year. Travelling through to Italy, Spain, Portugal, Greece, Malta, London and Dubai. Would probably mainly try to use the debit card mostly for purchases if that’s what would be best recommended and do minimal cash withdrawals from the ATM. What would be best for saving money on 0 fees and also what would offer the best exchange rate? Secondly would you recommend to load whichever card with AUD and then spend overseas and then apparently when I go through the eftpos machine select the purchase in euro option or exchange the AUD to euro before travelling? And lastly with taking out cash in euro or gbp would you recommend to take out at an exchange rate or public ATM when overseas or exchange it in AUS before travelling ?

Hi Nicholas, in the article, we have listed all our favourite cards. These are the best you can get (in our opinion). While features and fees might vary slightly, it’s negligible. If you plan to mostly pay using the card, I’d go for Revolut as the app is my favourite. As a backup, take Up or Ubank. You can’t go wrong. As for loading money: ALWAYS load AUD. Unless you like to be ripped off. Your card will do the conversion for you at the ATM or eftpos machines. And yes, always chose to pay in local currency overseas, never let the machine offer you a converted AUD rate. As for ATM, again, always take out cash at your destination if you can. This way, you will avoid the fees.

Hi. In regard to using an ATM with an Australian account, do I press the debit or credit option using a debit card??

Debit card because that’s what it is 🙂

Hi there. You mention… many of our top picks use either Visa or Mastercard’s exchange rates, without applying any markup. which ones are these?

All the cards we mention in this article 😀

Between Wise and Revolut which one do you think is better? and why?

Revolut, as they have no fees and the app is better/more functionality.

Hi Immanuel, What a great article! Thank you so much. Can I ask how you think the Mastercard rate compares to the mid-market rate offered by Wise? Thank you.

Wise has a variable fee of 0.44, so the Mastercard spot rate is still better. I’m planning a real-life comparison between all the cards so that should interesting 😀

Hi there. I’m slightly confused with all these options. I have been flying to EU in past and using INg.. would UBank compare? What do I go for? Thank you.

Hi Irena, nothing wrong with ING; it’s actually a really good travel card. The only reason we haven’t listed it is because in order to get the benefits out of ING it takes a lot of requirements to maintain. In our opinion, it’s too annoying to keep track of. Ie: in order to get the fees waived you need to make 5 purchases a month and deposit $1000. This is ok if you use it all the time but it’s too much work if you casually use it as a travel card.

How would you compare the Qantas Frequent Flyer Card thet can be loaded with dollars and used overseas

We have a whole section in the article dedicated to this product and even compared it with the spot rates, did you read it?

hello , we are travelling from AUS to US and staying in multiple hotels and conscious of the Hotel pre-auth holds whilst using Debit cards – could you recommend the best travel credit card for first time users

Hi Ren, there are a few credit cards that don’t charge 3% on top of each converted transaction but the downside is that they have poor points earn rates, and usually they also have high annual fees. Personally, I have Amex Platinum but also use Macquarie Qantas Platinum Visa (only because I get this product fee free). Key ones to look at are Bankwest Platinum & World Mastercard, ANZ Adventures Visa, and Commbank Ultimate Mastercard. There are probably some others I’ve missed but these are the main ones that earn points. I avoid credit cards that don’t offer rewards as they have no purpose other than to create debt. One exception might be 28 Degrees as they have a fee-free card with no annual fee.

Thank you for your reply , totally on your same page about not wanting to get a credit card either but unsure on other options when hotels will take large holds which can take some time to be released , have you used debit cards previously ?

Regarding withdrawing USD to use in Lebanon, my plan is to withdraw the USD in a different country (possibly from Macedonia) so I’m not carrying the cash for 2 months around Europe. Any cards that are best for withdrawing money from ATM’S? Thanks! 🙂

Hey Great article! I am travelling to Japan and Mexico in a month and was wondering what cards I should use while travelling and why. I have the following transaction accounts/cards already Up, Ubank, ING and Commbank debit. I also have a Westpac altitude black credit card. Thanks

Hi Wade. Glad you enjoyed the article. Check out our six cards listed above as we have outlined what you should use while travelling. Cheers, Tom.

Hi thank you this article was very useful for me as I was planning on using a travel money card with preloaded converted currency. I will be travelling to Europe soon, I currently have a Bankwest Easy Transaction account. They do not charge international transaction fees or ATM withdrawal fees. However I don’t know whether they charge any hidden foreign exchange markup fees. Would you recommend this card for travelling.

Hi Fiona, the Bankwest debit card is actually another good one! They also use Mastercard spot rates, so it will be comparable to the likes of Ubank/Up. They have no hidden fees from what I can see. One thing I didn’t like about BW in the past is their somewhat clunky mobile app, but maybe this has been updated since? In any case, make sure you have a backup card of some sort; transferring money from a Bankwest to another OSKO-supported account such as Up, Ubank etc, would be instant.

Thanks for this article, it is really helpful as we try and narrow down our best option. Do you happen to know if the UBank one lets you have a joint account for the times my partner and I are not together ? I will control the app (not his forte) but I would prefer we both have a card we can load to Apple Pay so we can go our own ways at times.

Hey Karen! Yes, they do offer a shared account, you can choose this option during the sign-up process. It will also give you 2 debit cards (one purple and one aqua) to keep it simple to manage. Both of you will need to download the app to verify your identity etc.

Great article – I got the Ubank card without fuss and it has worked without hassle – at a good exchange rate too (way better than i could get cash pre departure).

Only concert is in Apple Wallet you have to choose between Visa, eftpos Savings, eftpos Cheque. Neither of the first 2 worked, i didn’t try Cheque, but the physical card worked. Don’t know why this would be

Hey Alex, thanks for the kind words! As for Apple pay, sounds odd? Which country did you experience the issue? I’ve got Ubank added to apple pay but never had an issue.

Hi Great advice. I am travelling to America, England and Switzerland this year. I will mainly use a card for tap and go purchases what would you suggest. With the CHF is it costing me twice as it appears most options is Euro and not CHF. Thank you

Hi Sarah, both CHF and EUR are very much on par at the moment. Nor sure why it would cost you double? If you don’t take out much cash, I would go with Revolut.

Hello. What would be the best card to use in New Zealand (I am in Australia).

Thanks in advance.

Hi Chris, all the cards we mention here are our favourites. You can’t go wrong with any of them. Personally I use Ubank, Up and Revolut.

Hi! Great article! Have planned a trip to Japan and Korea for March and this is exactly what I needed do THANKS. I’m thinking of getting the Citibank and the UBank cards — thoughts on these for Japan and Korea? I’d be interested in hearing your thoughts on the Citibank card since they have been acquired by NAB. Or do you have any other recommendations on top of the previous ones in the article?

Additionally, along with my current NAB debit card (for emergency, if the previous two cards fail), would you recommend bringing a credit card as well? Thanks again!!

Hi! Yes, Citi is now part of NAB, but NAB also owns Ubank. The key difference would be in the user-friendly side of the apps. Personally, I’m not a big fan of the clunky Citi mobile app. Also, Ubank gives new members $30 with zero strings attached… might as well have a free beer in Japan at their expense 😉

Hi, I’m travelling to Hawaii in a few months and need a new travel card. I’ve always used the Virgin one which was great, but it’s now closed. I’ve been looking at the Westpac Worldwide Wallet, just keen to here your thoughts? They seem to have no fees and the best conversion rate at the moment. The downside it seems is I have to be a Westpac customer. I’ve had poor customer service with uBank before so I want to steer clear of them.

Hi Sam, it’s an “OK” product; however, they do charge ATM fees which we’re not a huge fan of. In Hawaii, you’d be stung US$2 each time you take out cash. As for the exchange rate, it’s a MasterCard, so the spot rate will be identical to Up & Ubank (owned by NAB) and all other debit cards that use Mastercard for their product.

Hi, is it true that Wise has one distinct benefit for travel….it allows purchase verification codes via the app….not SMS? This would be a game changer for me when using o/s sim in phone.

Hi Gary, yes both Wise and Revolut use the app for the verification of payments (usually happens when you make a purchase online)

Hi Immanuel,

I’m travelling to Europe and with NAB – and they don’t seem to have a free option! I’ve clicked the link to Up included in your article. I just followed the prompts and now have a digital card – am I now free to use the digital card on my phone in Europe and incur no fees? Thanks so much for this article by the way!

Hi Micaela, yes that’s correct! You can use the digital card with your phone to tap and pay without fees. Make sure to always pay in the currency of the country you’re in. Sometimes (actually most of the time) the machine will prompt you to choose between Euro or Australian dollar. Always chose Euro as otherwise, you’ll pay 5% for no reason. Up should get you a free physical card within a few days as well though.

Is the westpac worlwide wallet able to be used in unsupported countries such as Denmark? Will it just convert the aud in the account at the time of a purchase?

It will just convert at time of purchase using Mastercard spot rate with no markup. The card is ok but we don’t rate it highly since they charge ATM fees for taking out cash overseas.

Thank you for the article and recommendations. I have been leaning towards the Citi Debit Card to use alongside the Latitude 28 degrees credit card for my 6 weeks overseas trip to Italy in May. This was because the Citi Debit Card has essentially no fees and a worldwide presence (although I am concerned about the constant reference to non user-friendly app). I have just read that NAB will cease sign up to new Citi accounts from May 20th 2023 but will still support active Citi accounts which were opened prior to that date (I’m guessing they are trying to move customers to their UBank product???). Sounds to me that there would be extra risk going abroad with a Citi debit card and it seems from posts by your readers, that there is some question surrounding recent customer service with UBank. I plan to use the Latitude card for most of my purchases and the Debit card for incidentals and ATM withdrawals where necessary. This will be my first foray into the world of internet banking and as such I’m still uncomfortable with the idea of a ‘digital bank’. I will therefore hold my savings in my regular bank account and transfer money from there to my ‘travel debit card’ and my Latitude 28Degrees account. I am thinking to get another debit card as a backup for my Citi card and to cover bases am thinking to go with a Visa network card. I have read your article in Flighthacks re: Revolut Premium. I note that the Standard card does not have 24/7 customer support and I am not keen on paying the monthly account keeping fees when I return to Australia. Could you suggest a pair of Debit cards that can team with my Latitude card to see me comfortably through my travel?

Hi G, digital bank just means they don’t have a physical branch, apart from that they have to comply with all the regulations like any other bank. For example Ubank is just a brand from NAB but geared to a younger audience which means everything can be done via their mobile app. I can’t recall the last time I visited a bank branch. As for support, I have all of these cards and travel frequently. Not once have I had to get support, so for me, it’s not a priority. As always, when it comes to feedback regarding banking support, you will be able to find negative comments on every bank… it’s simply because people don’t complain when everything works as it should. For me the priority for a travel debit card is that it A) has no fees and B) user user friendly app where I can check balances, make transfers and do things efficiently on to go. As for Citi, nothing wrong with it but it’s pretty much the same as all the other products we mentioned with the key difference being an outdated app that will probably lose updates and supports going forward as NAB attempts to integrate these into their own ecosystem. In any case, it’s always smart to have 2 debit cards (since they are free) incase something happens with one you can transfer money to the other one.

I have read most of the comments and will go with one of your suggestions for sure. Only question I have is that I have a few grands of EURO in cash from my last trip and I don’t want to carry it on with myself to spend it. Is there anyway that I load that money to one of the above cards so that I can use it in Europe?

Hi Sam, no you can’t. There’s no way to load Euro to an Australian account without converting it twice. If you were to deposit it, it’s always going to get converted to AUD first. I’d just keep it in cash, alternatively lose a few % and convert it back to AUD at a currency exchange.

Hi there, we have Citi and 28 degrees and have always found them to have the best exchange rates when paying local currencies overseas. Has this changed at all in the last 3 years since we’ve travelled? I did notice on Citi with the new feature to add a global wallet, the exchange rate to lock in a transfer now seems quite a bit lower than the wholesale rate. Is this the new rate that Citi uses even for on the spot transactions overseas?

Citi just uses the Mastercard spot rates so it’s the same as all the other ones that use Mastercard. Exchanging currency within a wallet is always a bad idea, the spot rate will give the best rate on the date as no one can predict FX movements.

Hi Can you tell me if there is a daily withdrawal limit for both Up & Ubank cards.

It’s $1000 for Up and $2000 for Ubank

UBank and Up Bank have appalling review on ‘Product Review’ website, mostly related to customer support and account accessibility. I had personally experienced that with UBank when trying to open a term deposit account and ended up giving up. If one has difficulty, stress, time pressure and frustration getting customer support at home in your comfort zone, imagine what you will experience if you need customer support while overseas. I am sure it will spoil your holidays or might end your holidays with a fatal heart attack. Very afraid and concern about given UBank anothergo and Up Bank ago. I believe online and/or neobanks have less than satisfactory and acceptable customer support. One may also say that customer support by most business are substandard and not meeting consumer expectations and neeeds.

From what I read and understand, Up Bank is not actually a ‘bank’ and not listed as an ADI by APRA but a brand of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank Limited covered by it.

Relating to the above mentioned, do you have any comments or advice regarding other products mentioned in your article or any others not mentioned such as Bankwest, HSBC or Suncorp? Are you aware of any credible and sizable database review by real people using these or any cards while travellig overseas particularly in Europe and ASIA?

Finally, I complement Flighhacks for a well presented article on the topic and so glad that I came across it. Your ongoing discussions and support to readers via this forum is highly commmendable. The fact that I joined the discussion group speaks for itself because I rarely do so. It has been tremendous help and I thank you. I am sure my appreciation is shared by all your readers. Keep up the good work. If banks and businesses are as good and committed as you guys, the world would be different.

Hi Bill, I do my business banking with Commbank. Normally I can do everything online but the other day I got locked out after entering a wrong password. After being on the phone for 2h waiting for “Australian support” the guy told me he couldn’t help because they were also doing a system upgrade. Annoying… yes. Will I run off to “product review” to leave a negative review, probably not but a lot of people would. In any case, my point is that whatever bank you use… sometimes you will run into a less-than-ideal experience. It’s wort noting that Product Review is full of people who are pissed off and want to vent their frustration, people that are happy don’t tend to bother writing reviews about these kinda services so take it with a grain of salt as reviews are skewed to the negative side. I’ve been with Up (Yes they are owned by Bendigo Bank) for 3 years and 10 months. Never had an issue. Customer support is done via their app chat system which for me is super convenient. The only time I’ve hat to reach out was to request a new debit card after mine was stolen. Apart from that it just works… I’m not sure what your issue was opening a Ubank account but I’ve also been using them and had no issues. Bankwest, HSBC, Suncorp also offer similar products. I’ve actually just signed up to Suncorpt to test out their debit card as it has no atm fees and no FX markup which is good for what’s a bigger bank.

Are there any advantages of Ubank over Citibank??

From a fee perspective, no. The only difference: you get $30 for signing up for a free account + the app is lightyears ahead of Citi so it’s just more user friendly.

Hi there. I’m off to Japan in May and I’m considering using the Westpac Worldwide Wallet. I’ve seen your comments about not recommending this option because of ATM withdrawal fees but according to the Westpac website there are no ATM withdrawal fees. Just wondering if I’ve read it wrong.

Hi Tom, Westpac only allows free ATM use when you use a “Global Alliance”. There are no such ATM’s in Japan, so you will be paying the fee. While you did read it correctly on their product page, you should also read the fine print as that’s where they tell you about all the fees.

Hi there, I’m 18 and going to be travelling around europe for 2 months. I’ve read all the comments and it seems like Up or Ubank is the way to go… is there much difference between them which could help me decide what to pick? Would getting both cards be a good idea incase one has issues (lost, not working, etc)? Thanks heaps

Not a huge difference. I think Up is easier to deal with because you can message them in the app. But otherwise just as good, both are free and offer a welcome bonus to sign up 🙂

Im heading to Europe for 2 months and will be in countries that use the pound and euro. What would be my best option regarding what would be the best travel card to take, I’ve been looking online and there is so many options that its kind of confusing me (wise/revolout/aus post/travelex just to name a few) and are travel cards the best option to take?

Just wondering what your opinion would be for the best options, thanks!

Hi Ash, all the products we’ve listed in this article are very good and will suit your purpose. Avoid Aus Post and Travelex unless you want to pay fees for no reason. As I’ve mentioned a few times, personally I use Revolut, Up and Ubank.

Hi Tom, I am going to Europe for 7 months. I have got the basic Revolut plan with the cards. I have already put some Aud and Euro on the card. I have added the Revolut card as my payment card on booking.com and Airbnb. If I choose to pay this accommodation now using this card will they take the money out in Euros or Aud( as I have both on my card?) Also, for a longer stay trip like this should I upgrade my plan? Thankyou for all your advice Leanne

Hi Leanne, it depends on what currency AirBnb is going to charge you in. For example, if AirBnb says AUD$100, you will be charged in Australian Dollars so long as you have enough of that currency in your account. If you had AUD$0 and EUR$200 on your card, you would be charged in EUR as it is the only currency loaded to your Revolut card. As far as upgrading your plan I can’t provide financial advice but can suggest you work out how much you plan to spend, and then compare the fees on a Basic and Metal account. Hope this helps, Tom.

I will be doing some travel in Europe (Malta, Greece, Spain, France etc) before living and working in the UK for a couple of years, paid in GBP. Do you think I should open a local UK bank account to get paid or will one of these travel debit cards work for me as a good allrounder? If yes, which would work best. Just looking to keep it simple.

Hi David. If you are looking to keep it simple and will be in Europe for several years, you might as well open a UK account. You can also get a travel card for when you travel. Cheers, Tom.

Great article / recommendations 🙂

I’m travelling from OZ to the UK, stopping at potentially some European countries (for a few days) I have a bank acc in the UK so can transfer money there (and use UK card in UK where I’ll spend the majority of my time) I’ll probably use the travel card to pay for all bills if possible (rather that use cash)

I’m tossing up between UP card / U Bank?

Any advice from yourself on a preference, and can I get an additional card linked for my partner or do I have to get a separate card?

Thanks in advance for your help 🙂

Hi Matt. Both are good options but I think the Up app is superior, plus the customer service is better and you can message them directly from the app. Both are free and offer a welcome bonus to sign up. Cheers, Tom.

We are a family of 4 (2+2) going to be travelling in India for 1.5 months. Just wanted to get your thoughts on what’s the best card to carry to cover our expenses in India (ATM withdrawal, paying for restaurant/shopping etc.).

Hi Alap. Please read the article for a list of the best travel debit cards. Any of these would work in India. For ATM withdrawals and general spending, I like my Up Debit Card. Cheers, Tom.

Hi I’m travelling to Europe in June for a month with my husband and I’m wondering if wise or Revolut would be best to use? Not sure which one is better but they seem to be very similar, or do you have any recommendations on any other cards Thanks!

Hi Rebecca. Both Wise and Revolut offer a cheap way to spend overseas and you are right in saying they are very similar. The major difference is when you go to make an ATM withdrawal. Both offer AU$350 equivalent of fee-free ATM withdrawals per month before Wise charges 1.75% plus AU$1.50 where Reolut charges 2%. If you subscribe to Revolut Metal for AU$24.99 per month (cancel anytime), you can withdraw AU$1,400 every month before that same fee kicks in (remember the ATM itself might charge a fee). Personally, I like the Wise app more, and use my Up card for unlimited fee-free withdrawals. Safe travels, Tom.

Hi there Thanks so much for this article , it was so helpful I opened a Citibank currency card but they are now closing . I’ve got an Ing orange everyday card which I’ve used before I’ve traveled to japan. Apart from the other comments saying about the bad customer service If you needed to call . And keeping in mind the 5 withdrawals fee free . Do you think it’s on the same level as one u bank ? Much of a muchness ? I won’t be missing out on much if I just take my ing card for convenience sake ? Thanks again

Hi Kath. My preference is UBank has a superior app and more features. Cheers, Tom.

Im travelling Europe later in the year and was wondering with the UP bank card do you convert AUD currency into (euro/pound) or is it payed in AUD? so would you just transfer AUD currency to the card and it withdraws from that?

Hi Jessica, the card automatically converts the money for you using the spot rate. If you use a product that allows you to convert currencies, you’re essentially betting on FX rates going either up or down. Unless you can predict the future, it’s probably smarter to average your FX rates at the time of transaction.

Hi im traveling to Malta soon .Im i better off to use u bank or Up .

Same same really. I use both 🙂

Hi Immanuel, Thanks for the great article and all the chat.

We’re going to France for 10 weeks in late June. We’ll want to be able to pay for some things by card and also withdraw cash. I note you recommend Revolut for paying by card and Up or Ubank for withdrawing cash from ATMs. Is it not possible to pay for things using a debit card? For example, could I pay for hotel accommodation, or some clothing using an Up debit card for example?

We’ve not had a Debit card before, always just had one credit card (NAB Platinum). When travelling in the past we used a NAB travel card and if necessary we used our credit card and accepted any fees that applied. A couple of questions:

1. If we open an Up or Ubank account should we just open it as an individual account for one of us rather than a joint account?

2. You suggest having more than one debit card. Would it be worth getting both an Up and a Ubank debit card or would we be better to get a Revolut card, and either an Up or Ubank debit card?

As we are in WA we might also look into a Bankwest account with a debit card. Thanks.

Hi Michelle, Revolut is a debit card as well. I just like the app interface and they have some extended functionality. It’s definitely possible to pay for things with a debit card. If you have a bank account in Australia, you also have a debit card. Joint or personal… it’s up to you. It would depend on how you like to manage your money. You can try both Up and Ubank and see which one you like the best. The difference would come down to how easy you find the app to use, apart from that they are pretty much the same. As for Bankwest, their debit cards are also pretty good. Just avoid Travelex and Commbank Travel Money card and you’ll be fine 🙂

Thanks for responding Immanuel. I got an Up in my name and my husband got a UBank in his. We haven’t got the physical cards as yet and we haven’t tried the Apps yet so not sure which one we will find the best to use. I think two debit cards will be sufficient so I probably won’t worry about Bankwest. It seems easy to transfer funds from our NAB account to the cards so it should work well overseas. We now just need to decide how to manage internet access whilst out and about in France! Any hacks on best e-sims for data when travelling in Europe?

Hi Michelle, perfect! Yes, you’ll have no issues funding either account from NAB as it’s all instant using the OSKO protocol. For eSim I’ve used Airalo in the past, they are one of the biggest providers. We actually partner with them and we have a discount code for 10% off all their plans with code “HACKS10”. If you do sign up, consider using our affiliate link 🙂

  • https://flighthacks.com.au/recommends/airalo/

I am wanting to go overseas and currently have a 28Degrees, Up and Citi account.

With the recent cyber attacks on Latitude would you still use the card while overseas? Would you recommend getting another card together with the Up and Citi or will these two cards be enough.

Also with Citi not taking new customers from May 23 am concerned there will be issues with this card as well.

I am worried as I do not want to be without access to funds should I go overseas?

Appreciate any suggestions you may have.

Thanks so much.

Hi Alisha, I think the Latitude issues only revolve around them exposing your personal information (which is bad), however it shouldn’t affect their credit card product. Up has been great for me and hasn’t skipped a beat. My understanding with Citi bank is that they will be closing down account sometime in the future since NAB now owns them and they are probably not getting much money out of the debit card side of the business.

Hi, what is quickest way to get a travel card in Australia- Westpac travel card any good as believe I can pick up one in person at bank? Thanks RA

We recently did a test and the Westpac Worldwide Wallet card came out as one of the worst options, from our tests you would be 4.6% worse off compared to using the Up debit card. Most cards take about 1 week to arrive so I would go for Up, Ubank, ING, Macquarie, Revolut or Wise. I’d say from all of them my Revolut was the fastest one to get to me.

Hi Immanuel, As we are tight on time, and only travelling to NY for 10 days we would only use the Westpac card for direct purchases (ie: no ATM use as we’ll take a little cash). Would that be a feasible option? Kind regards RA

Hi Immanuel, When comparing the Ubank Visa Debit foreign exchange rate versus the Wise mid market rate + Wise exchange fee, which provides a better exchange rate usually for UK and America? Or is there a general trend, where one is just better than the other?

They are pretty much the same, on the test we did, Wise came out slightly worse. We cashed out 10k JPY, Wise converted that to AU$114.98 and Ubank converted it to AU$114.76 (all fees included). If you’re sending money overseas, the contenders would be Wise and Revolut.

Hi Immanuel, Thanks for the reply. May be a bit of a silly question, but are you saying, if I want to pay by card when overseas, Ubank is marginally better, whereas if I want to send money overseas, Ubank can’t do that, and you recommend Wise and Revolut?

Thanks so much for doing the real world comparison between wise and ubank. I read right through the entire thread to find it after you suggested you might do one. I have to say your responses are outstanding and it’s a rare thing to see an author so committed to sharing useful information.. Also I would like to commend you for your polite manner in the face of so many people asking questions that could easily be answered by actually reading the article and your previous responses. That must be very frustrating. Impressive!

Thank you! I really appreciate it : )

Hi Immanuel, thanks for your dedication to this post and the discussion thread – both insightful and incredible! I’d be grateful for your opinion on the best card for travelling through Taiwan for a couple of months. I expect to be able to pay with a card at most places in the city centres (Taipei, Taichung, etc) but many places only accept cash. So I’ll need the occasional ATM withdrawal facility, preferably with a bank that has a strong local presence in Taiwan. I’d be grateful for your recommendations. Thanks in advance Tony

Hi Tony, any of the card we’ve mentioned here will work perfectly fine for you. Visa/Mastercard are some of the most accepted worldwide and in Taiwan. In our recent test, both Ubank and Up came out on top in terms of the best rates.

What are your thoughts on the ING Everyday Debit Card for travel in The UK and Europe?

Great card, as long as you meet the minimum spend requirements and funding requirements each month. The reason we don’t list it here is because if you are a casual user, the ING Everyday debit card actually works out very expensive. FYI; you need to make 5 card purchases each month as well as deposit $1000 each month to get the benefits.

Hi Immanuel

My partner and I are travelling to Spain/Portugual/Morroco in June. We would like to usE a combination of ATMs (take out a larger sum of money) and travel cards. We also current customers of Macquarie Bank. My partner is a little hesitant in using banks/travel cards of merchants she’s not heard of. Should we contact Macquarie and use one off their Visa cards or get a travel card. Any advice would be great

Hi Scott, yes the Macquarie Platinum Debit card is just as good as Up/Ubank etc. Only difference is that it doesn’t come with free $$ to open one 😀

I was about to open up a CBA Travel Money Card (Visa) and a Westpac World Wide Wallet (Mastercard) today with foreign currencies pre-loaded, but fortunately I stumbled across your site and I’m now going to open up 2 debit cards instead because they have $0/low transaction/international fees. I do like taking both a Visa and a Mastercard overseas in case one of them is not accepted. I’ll probably be applying for an Up Bank (Mastercard) debit card and a UBank (Visa) debit card. Many thanks for your advice.

Glad to hear that David! We’re currently working on a video comparing 11 different debit cards and so far CBA came out as one of the worst options on our real-world test taking out money and spending on the card.

Hi, Great content here and advice – thank you! Quick question though – Have you evaluated the different fx rates between Wise, Ubank or Up at one point in time? Considering either one of these and leaning to Ubank or Up given no ATM withdrawal fees but are there rates worse than Wise?

Hi Adam, yes we have! I’m actually making a video about it but it’s still being edited. We tested both ATM withdrawals overseas and in-store transactions for 11 different cards. Up & Ubank both came out on top with the same rate for cash out at ATM and also the same rate for in-store purchases. Wise came out slightly worse but only by 1c ($1.34 vs $1.35). For cash-out, 10k JPY converted to $114.57 for both Up and Ubank and $114.98 for Wise. Hope that helps!

Hey, I’m off to Japan in a few weeks. Last year when I went to South Korea I got a Wise card/account which is still active. I’m also a Westpac customer and while at the bank today mentioned I’m going to Japan and they gave me a Worldwide Wallet pack with the two cards (why two cards?). What would be the better option? Sticking with Wise, or going Westpac WWC?

They give 2 cards in case you lose one or it gets eaten by an ATM machine or stolen etc. Westpac Worldwide Wallet is one of the worst products we’ve tested. I’d avoid it. Your Wise card is exponentially better.

Hi, just about to go travelling to Europe and came across your article which is very helpful – thank you. I will now be getting an Upbank and U bank debit card based on your recommendation. I was also wondering if you could recommend a good credit card for large purchases when overseas. I currently have a CW platinum Visa. TIA

Hi Colette, for credit cards the ones that don’t surcharge overseas usually have a poor earn rate for reward points. In general, I never recommend credit cards that don’t provide rewards as there’s no real benefit. For reward-earning cards with no 3% surcharge: Commank Diamond, ANZ Adventurers, Bankwest QF Platinum & World Mastercard, Macquarie Qantas Platinum Visa (that’s all i can think off top of my head).

We are travelling to USA/Canada in a few weeks & are still unsure whether to take cash & a credit card or cash & travel card (currently have Stgeorge World Wide Wallet).Any advice would be appreciated TIA

Hi Michael, why would you take cash? Just leave it in your bank account and use an ATM when you’re in the USA/Canada to take out cash when you need it using one of the travel cards we suggested. Converting your AUD to USD in Australia (or US) in an exchange is a rip-off.

Thanks Immanuel – Great advice

Thank you for this article. I am frequent visitor on your website. Always great content. Just a quick question, I have had Citibank card for decade and have enjoyed benefits while travelling overseas. Since they have been bought by NAB and they are changing product services one by one. Have their transaction account been affected as well or they still offering same benefits? Website doesn’t give clear information either.

Hi Manish, from what I understand they will be closing down the free debit card at some stage this year. Personally, I’ve switched to Up/Ubank for my ATM cash-out needs overseas and Revolut for sending money internationally as they have the best rates.

Hi Immanuel, Just wandering if there is much difference between using my standard Suncorp debit card while travelling Europe in comparison to actually getting a travel card like UP? thanky ou

I don’t think there is, I’ve been wanting to test Suncorp as they also offer no fees but I’m yet to receive my debit card after waiting a month!.

I have the Westpac worldwide wallet travel card that I have loaded money into. I was told it is fee free. So I hope that’s true. I also have the Qantas cash card, but the exchange rate is not as good as the westpac card.

Both are pretty bad. We recently did a test of 11 of the most popular debit cards in Australia and Westpac Worldwide Wallet came in 7th place. Their rates where 4.63808% higher than what Up Bank charged. Qantas Money came in 19th place…

Hi, tossing up between UBank, Up or Wise debit card? I can’t decide, which one would you go with? And, was looking at getting the BankWest Breeze Platinum Credit Card? Is this a good credit card to use when travelling in Europe? Lastly, is it best to order Euros before i travel (was going to order thru S Money) or use an ATM in Italy with my Debit card? Many thanks 🙂

Hi Mel, I’ve just posted a video today which answers all your questions. We tested 11 different debit cards to see which one came out best: https://youtu.be/5KjgrNJTe1s

Firstly let me say this site has been extremely helpful and your recent video comparing 11 cards in Japan was also very informative.

A big thank you for creating this site and spending time to make things easier for travellers who need clarity around this topic.

I am about to travel to Europe and thanks to your post have both an Up and Ubank account. I understand there are no fees from these banks to use these cards overseas however I have been told I will still be charged fees by the overseas banks when using their ATMs to make withdrawls and making overseas instore card purchases? What are these fees? Is there any way these fees can be avoided?

Ideally I dont want to pay any fees to banks while I’m overseas and would like to maximise my funds while on my holiday.

Appreciate your time and advise

Hi Dianne, there are no fees charged by Up/Ubank but the owners of the ATM you use will generally charge a fee (that’s how they make money). It varies, for example for the video we made the ATM charged us AU$1.25 for taking out cash. My tip would be to use the ATM of big brand banks as their fees will be reasonable. The fee is always displayed on the screen and the machine will prompt you to accept it or deny. If you deny, your card comes out. There’s no fee for making in-store card purchases with these cards, your AUD is converted on the spot by Mastercard or Visa which is the best rate you can get as a consumer using a card to pay.

Thanks for this awesome up to date review and the video – so helpful. I’ve been reading up the last few weeks in prep. for our next trip knowing you have to be organised well ahead.

I’ve been a UBank and ING customer for years and was planning on using ING for Cash withdrawls on our next trip but was reassessing because they dropped the ATM reimbursement.

I’ve always used 28degrees Mastercard for purchases thinking it would be a better exchange rate than UBank or ING – I don’t know whether they are or not.

Anyway, reason I’m commenting because there are many many articles online saying how good Wise is. Unfortunately, last night, before reading your article and watching the video I joined Wise and was charged $10 for the Card. I paid before reading this article and am really annoyed about it. I paid because I thought they were way ahead on exchange rate so thought overall I’d be better off. But it seems ING and UBank are as good if not better and their cards don’t cost anything.

I’m thinking of cancelling my Wise card – in principle.

What do you think ?

Did you know there was a $10 fee to get the Wise Card ?

Hi Barbara, thanks for the kind words! Your 28 Degrees credit card will use the same Mastercard spot rate used by Up for example. Therefore I’d expect the conversion to be pretty much the same. Wise is really good for sending money overseas but I feel their debit card (although it’s also one of the best) is somewhat lacking compared to the free options out there. My key concerns with them are: card fee for ordering a card as you mentioned, limitation to cash withdrawal and as per our test their conversion rates on in-person payments and ATM cashouts where beaten by Up and Ubank which are both free and have zero limitations.

The Westpac World Wide Wallet card will cost you hundreds of dollars. Westpac claim no fees, but their exchange rate is always poor and slow to change. I have already lost hundreds of dollars converting to Euros. My cousin has one, and he consistently gets a higher exchange rate than myself, because he has more money in his Australian account than I do. I complained and was blown off, my cousin’s higher exchange rate wasn’t even addressed. I wish I’d read some reviews before blindly accepting their lies. There are better cards out there, you might pay a fee, but the better exchange rate will save you a lot of money.

Absolutely! It was one of the worst cards we tested. The best cards are actually free, for our tests Up and Ubank came out on top: zero cost to get it!

So confused with debit cards, travel cards, varying reviews on which one is best and worst. Please help.

Travelling to Europe for 7 weeks in June and we already use a NAB visa credit and an AMEX card so do we need yet another card?

I understand we have fees to tap and use at places and also for atm withdrawal etc but from what i can find its not a lot of $ but guess over 7 weeks it will add up.

Should i get a NAB Ultimate or Mastercard debit card or just use our current visa amex cards? Thanks for any help in advance everyone. Thank you

Hi Chris, this article is mainly focused on debit cards which you’ll need if you want to take money out of an ATM. Credit cards are good for in-person payments but you’ll get charged cash advance fees if you use credit cards to take money out. Also, keep in mind that a lot of credit cards will charge a 3% fee on the converted amount (if you’re earning reward points this is somewhat offset by the value you get back). As for debit cards, we’ve compared 11 of them in our latest video: https://youtu.be/5KjgrNJTe1s

Thank you for the link to video and very informative. When you check out reviews of both Ubank and Up however there is more unhappy customers than happy. Again my confusion grows as to whats best and who actually tells the truth about these cards.

Currently a ING customer. Travelling to Greece,Crotia and Italy. Looking at Up & UBank any preferences on either? Will be hopefully using card most of the time. Should I look at other options? Should I get hung up on currency conversions that HSBC and Wise offer?

Thanks again for the article

Hi Grant, we compare them all in our video so you’ll see that the difference between the top cards is pretty negligible vs the worst offenders. Personally, I’d go with whichever app/website you prefer. https://youtu.be/5KjgrNJTe1s

Hi Immanuel, the Bankwest Debit card seems to offer no fees for international transactions. Is this a good option for travelling overseas, paying and also withdrawing?

AWESOME REVIEW! Just what we’re looking into right now. What do you think would be the best option for travel to the UK.

I previously used the Qantas Cash Card but that was a disaster

Hi Steven, any of the cards mentioned here or in our video will be exponentially better than the Qantas Cash one and will do the job just fine.

Hi I intend travelling to Europe late next year and want to start saving now by putting a certain amount in a card monthly now. I will probably lean toward the ubank option because of their benefits. Is it too early to apply for a card now

Hi Gordon, it’s a free bank account so there’s no such thing as too early 🙂

Hi Immanuel, your article and answers here are incredibly useful. Thank you so much! I will be touing in Morocco for 2 weeks, and of course will have to buy things!. What is best card for me to use please? I have a Wise card already. Should I get another one as well? many thanks

Hi Christina, Wise is great but they do limit how much money you can take out. From our tests Up and Ubank had the best conversion rates.

Hi Immanuel, My wife and I are travelling to Europe for 3 months and whilst we already have Cash Passport cards pre-loaded with some Euros from last year, we are considering debit cards, but need one that provides 2 cards for joint access to the one account. Any suggestions? Thanks.

Hi Kym, from our tests, Cash Passport came out as one of the worst in terms of fees and conversion rates. As for joint account, it’s probably much easier to open a new account for your other half. Up/Ubank both use OSKO which means transfers from 1 account to the other are instant. From what I know, Ubank does offer join accounts during sign up.

Hi there We are travelling to UK/France/Italy next month. Originally we were going to get the card from Travel Guides TV show LOL travelmoneyoz.com/travel-money-card – after reading the comments and your article would it be safe to say the UBank option would likely be better as i think you have to preload the currency onto the Travel Guides one?

Hi Dan, from what I can tell it’s pretty much the same as AusPost and the likes. The giveaway is in their name “travel money oz”, golden rule is to avoid any company that really advertises the travel aspect of their product as the best cards don’t really advertise or push these features (because they don’t make much money from it). You will 100% be better of with Ubank, Up, Wise, Revolut etc.

Hi, thank you for the advice above. As yet, I don’t think anyone has asked about cards for India and Nepal. Do your suggestions of Up, UBank and Revolut still the best for these countries. They do prefer cash in many places so am guessing atms will be needed regularly.

Same rule applies for all countries where mastercard/visa are accepted.

Hi, great review. The one thing I am not clear about is the difference between the VISA or MasterCard exchange rates vs the mid point rate that WISE provides. Can that be a big difference? Also not clear which rate Revolut uses

Hi, Wise uses Visa so to convert transactions on the spot, the mid point rate you refer to only applies when you’re converting money within your Wise account. However, it’s always smarter to convert on the spot. From our tests, the Mastercard spot rate is slightly better than Visa at the moment but it’s negligible. You can check out our video where we test 11 travel debit cards: https://youtu.be/5KjgrNJTe1s

Presently in Japan on vacay, and signed up for the UP BANK, thanks for the referral bonus. As a digital card in Apple Wallet it works well, except a lot of places (regardless of store size) here “no touch, insert card only.” So if coming to Japan, grab UP’s physical card as well. The SUICA travel card is also available in Apple Wallet, and is easiest topped up from your UP BANK. This reduces your need for cash. The exchange rate for UP BANK Mastercard is so much better than CommBank Visa, and am only using the Visa when paying with the phone is not accepted. UP will probably end up being my default bank when we get back.

Hi 🙂 I’m heading off to Singapore in Sept/Oct, in which you can use mostly debit but I will likely withdraw small amounts of money. I already have a ubank card (from back when they were 86 400). I am looking to grab a backup card. Do you think the Wise or Up Bank, and would you suggest 1 VISA and 1 Mastercard to cover all bases? Thanks so much, Bianca

Hi, Up Bank came out on top during our tests. Probably a good back up (no pun intended!).

My partner and I are going around Europe for a month during December and a deciding what cards to take over with us. Based off your article and the majority of the comments I have read through I am thinking the Up or Ubank will be the way to go and also easiest as we won’t have to worry about have lots of different curriences or enough of each currency like a travel card. I also have a Suncorp banking debit card that has no international conversion fees I can take as a backup.

We are just wondering about security deposits for hotels that are paid when checking in- I have read that using a debit card for these can be a disadvantage as the money is withdrawn and can take a while to come back into your account after checkout, leaving you down a few hundred dollars in the meantime. Do you think it would be beneficial to have a credit card for these type of situations? Or would all associated fees make it better to just cut the losses with the debit card and factor in that “missing money” when planning budgets.

Hi Keely, looks like you got it sorted for debit cards! Personally I try use my credit cards as much as possible in order to earn points and have added benefits of not having to touch your own funds as well as the insurance benefits etc. However, I do understand that a lot of people don’t like using credit cards for whatever reason which is one of the main reasons this article exists 🙂 I use my debit cards to take out cash mainly as doing this on a credit card would attract cash advance fees and currency conversion fees. As for credit cards, there are a few that don’t attract foreign exchange fees but their annual fees might make it a not so attractive proposition. I mainly rely on my American Express (Platinum) and Macquarie Qantas Platinum Visa for daily use. I don’t hold any cards that don’t earn points but if you’re after a fee free card that doesn’t earn points but also doesn’t charge exchange fees, 28 Degrees by Latitude is an ok option.

Hi, is one better than the other hsbc vs ubank? Looking at switching from Citibank.

HSBC uses Visa so it would be mostly a Visa vs Mastercard thing. Difference will be minimal but from our testing, Mastercard is currently slightly better. One other downside of HSBC is that they don’t participate in OSKO so if you transfer money it usually takes 1-2 days.

I am travelling to Japan in couple of weeks and interested to hear what debit card is best to use in Japan? Hoping to be able to get actual physical card within a coming week.

Appreciate all your insights, so amazing is come across this article!

Hi Dragan, we answer this exact question in our video, you can check it out here: https://youtu.be/5KjgrNJTe1s

Hi Immanuel, I’m travelling to Egypt in October, and trying to figure out how to handle my money there… This is a great article and has given lots of good info, but wondering if these recommended cards would be OK for travel in Egypt?

Hi Zelly, the same rules apply in Egypt. The Egyptian pound is what they use there and Visa/Mastercard are widely accepted so you shouldn’t have any issues taking out the local currency via an ATM.

I’m travelling in October and was researching cards and saw your site. I was sold on Ubank but not only can’t I complete registration on the App which is so frustrating , I also checked out Customer Reviews on various sites and nearly all the reviews weren’t only bad, they were horrendous. Confused but definitely no longer confident

Hi Deb, with many review sites people are usually incentivised when something goes wrong. That said, I can only speak from personal experience. Having banked with Up since 2019, I have had zero issues. What a lot of people do is just transfer money from their “everyday bank” for example, Westpac, Commbank etc. to Up, Wise, Ubank etc when they need the money for overseas use and just transfer as much as you need.

Hi Deb, we have been with UBank for a very long time with multiple accounts – including travelling overseas very recently. They have been awesome. Hopefully this gives you some confidence, cheers Barbara

I saw ‘Revolut’ on the list above and I wouldn’t touch them with a bargepole. They hold the accounts of, in particular, the Microsoft Scammers. I stupidly got scammed and wrote a VERY bad review on Trustpilot and Revolut responded with a link to address the issue and reimburse the money but the link didn’t work and I never got a refund.

If you get scammed it’s hard to put the blame on anyone other than yourself… not exactly the fault of Revolut.

Update 23 October – Singapore, Spain and Portugal

sorry, some of this might be a repeat of what you have already provided:

I’m not sure where is the best place to put this up to date information as of October 2023: Have just been to Singapore, Spain and Portugal. I hope this information is helpful. Full disclosure – I am allergic to Bank Fees.

Cash – Good News: before leaving Australia how to obtain cash in a cost effective way took a lot of effort searching the internet and I still wasn’t sure until actually travelling and testing ATMs whether we would be successful keeping fees to a minimum.

First Rule: in case you have not read this before – Do Not Use any ATMs associated with Euronet – ever! The charges are outrageous. And Euronet are everywhere, outside convenience stores, restaurants etc… so very tempting – I cringed everytime I saw someone at an Euronet.

ATM machines – Debit Cards (hopefully you know not to use your Credit Card at a ATM) UBank Debit Card & ING Card were equivalent to each other with no fees and the same fair exchange rate: ING has more rules – but I was already used to their rules and managed to do my 5 transactions at the beginning of every month to meet the requirements. If that is too difficult – UBank is awesome. I used UBank and kept ING as my back-up. You need a back-up.

ATM machines – countries Singapore – one ATM was going to charge 8SGD we walked around the corner to Maybank (yellow colour) and it was zero fee. Suggest google the nearest Maybank to your accommodation – there might even be one at Changi. I took out $20 with ING, UBank and Wise to test their exchange rates (fee free so it was a worthwhile exercise as I was travelling for 66 days). All 3 were similar. I don’l like Wise because they charge you to move your money around. UBank and ING are truly fee free.

Spain – The first banks we tried charged Euro8 or more; the 3rd bank we tried was Deutsche Bank, charged Euro3 on a withdrawl maximum of Euro300, and we went with that. I would google Deutsche Bank and go to the nearest one to your accommodation.

Portugal we used Multibanco – Caixa Geral de Depositos and got charged zero fees. Apparently all Multibancos do not charge a fee – but we stuck with the same brand after having success at Caixa Geral de Depositos in Lisbon. We found that brand everywhere in Portugal.

The maximum withdrawl at one time was Euro200. It didn’t matter because 3mins later or after someone else used the ATM or using a different card accessing the same account you can get another Euro200. We got Euro600 out at a time, (3 times) because in Portugal they appreciate cash – and some smaller businesses only accept cash – fair enough.

Note that during the process the ATM asked if we wanted to accept their exchange rate and we pressed Decline, then it asked a second time in a different way, like do you want to lock in the the exchange rate?, we pressed Decline again – then it processed the withdrawl at our banks exchange rate – which is many many Euros better than the rate offered by the ATM – for us anyway as we were using a Debit card with Australian UBank and Australian ING and both give the best exchange rates on offer.

Credit Card – Lattitude 28 degrees: for good exchange rate and no fees is still the best Credit Card for overseas travelling – in my opinion. Unless you are a points gatherer the best fee free / no points earning credit card. As a couple we have an account each and each of us has an additional card with the others account. We use one card / one account all the time – it’s easier to track our transactions using only one card – and therefore to know quickly whether there is a fraudulent transaction. We have the other card as our back-up. You need a back-up. Travelling alone I would either use my UBank Debit Card for everything and keep the 28 degrees Credit Card as back up – or the other way around.

I hope this is helpful

Thanks for sharing such a detailed report!

Thank you for all this information. I have poured over all the posts several times. For three weeks in EU countries, making ATM withdrawals where we have to pay cash (local transport costs mainly, I guess) but mainly using a card to pay for expenses, am I correct in thinking that UBank or Up would be the best options? I read that you personally use these two, but then I also saw that you recommended Revolut for card payments, with UBank or Up as backups (for ATM withdrawals, I assume). I have poured over your comments and exhaustively researched other sites, but I cannot find out why you would use Revolut as your first option for card payments. They seem to offer the same exchange rate as UBank and Wise, whilst Up seems to offer a very slightly higher rate (MasterCard rate). Would you mind telling me what would be the advantage of using Revolut (or Wise) ahead of UBank or Up as your main payment option please? I am not concerned about ATM withdrawal fees in relation to Revolut or Wise, as we would use UBank or Up for these. I am just trying to figure out whether we should open both a UBank and an Up account and nothing else, or whether we should open either a UBank or an Up account and then also get a Revolut or Wise card – two bank debit cards OR one bank debit card and one travel money card? I would really value your advice! Thank you.

Hi Julie, you can check out our video review of 11 of the most popular cards. Up and Ubank do come out on top, I have accounts with all of them (cause it’s free). I use Revolut mostly for sending money overseas (it has the best rates for that) and also as a back up. If you go for their Metal plans they do offer cash back as well overseas which can be handy.

We currently have Commbank Travel Cards, a friend said she tried the Ubank and UpBank cards and said they were good no fees, but can you load more money onto them whilst you’re away? Can the Citibank one be loaded as well.

Hello Fay. You can load money onto a debit card when you have an internet connection, reguardless of your location. Cheers, Tom.

Thank you for this article- I’ve since decided on an Up card for my travels! Out of interest have you encountered many places that only accept Visa and not MasterCard or vice versa?

I don’t think i’ve ever found a place that only accept visa or only mastercard

Went to sign up to the Ubank Debit Card and followed the link, and it says it’s $10 sign up bonus.

Is it now $10 or is it actually $20 if you enter the code?

I can confirm that the $20 bonus is no longer, it is only $10 from FlightHacks.

Money landed in my account this morning.

Citibank Plus account is gone now, except for those grandfathered in who got given a special version of the a NAB account with no forex/ATM fees.

Hasn’t been taking new applications for months, and will close for existing customers in the coming months (except for the aforementioned NAB account, which isn’t available to new customers, afaik).

Thank you for the comprehensive replies and generosity of info provided. It seems Wise & Revolut have the advantage of international money transfers over and above their use as a debit card. However there is little mention of whether fees are charged moving money in or out of these accounts?

I have a number of cards similar to your good self. I also find the Macquarie card of a high standard. Moreover they have an Authenticator app that may be useful if there are issues with a transaction and you don’t have an internet connection

Thanks again for the invaluable advice

Why is Citibank Plus still on this page? It no longer exists. Sadly.

Not to worry! We’ve got a big update to this article coming out soon 😉

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best travel money card for australia

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Best Travel Card for Australians

best travel money card for australia

By Will Ellis

Blue credit card

When you spend money abroad, the fees can quickly make the trip more expensive, especially when using your regular debit card and bank account. T

here are usually foreign currency fees and additional fees when you withdraw money and the exchange rates, too. Using a travel card can reduce the cost of fees when you use one for spending money outside of Australia.

There are three types of travel cards: prepaid travel money cards, travel reward credit cards, and travel debit cards. In this article, you’ll learn all about travel cards, and we’ll introduce you to the best ones on the market.

Table of Contents:

  • What Is a Travel Card
  • Travel Cards: Pros and Cons
  • 1. Travelex Money Card
  • 2. Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard
  • 3. Qantas Money Travel Money Card
  • 4. Wise Travel Money Card
  • 5. Revolut Travel Money Card
  • 6. HSBC Everyday Global Account Debit Card
  • 7. Bankwest Breeze Platinum Credit Card
  • 8. ING Orange One Low Rate Credit Card
  • 9. 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard
  • The Verdict

What Is a Travel Card? 💳️

A travel card is a card that is specifically to be used when someone is planning to travel outside of their home country. Travel cards allow you to spend money abroad with lower fees than expected with your everyday bank account . Most travel card providers will tell you about the currency conversion fee, interest rates and other fees before you make a transaction so you know exactly how you could spend abroad on fees.

You can use different types of travel cards; each will depend on your spending needs and financial situation. Before diving into the best travel cards on the market, we’ve provided a list of all three types of travel cards.

There are three types of travel cards:

  • Prepaid travel card: A prepaid travel card is a card you load money onto. You can use a prepaid card wherever Mastercard is accepted. You can use it like your everyday debit card, but it helps you shop safely and stick to a budget, as you can’t spend more than the balance allows. You can load more than one foreign currency onto the card, so it’s perfect for travelling overseas. You simply need to bank transfer money across to the prepaid debit card.
  • Travel debit card: A travel debit card is part of a travel bank account, usually known as a multi-currency account; you can use it just like your everyday bank account, but it’s for travelling. If planning a long trip, you may benefit from opening a travel bank account.
  • Travel credit card: Travel credit cards are similar to credit cards you can apply from your main bank provider. However, they usually offer better currency conversion fees and reward you with travel points or perks for using the credit card and repaying the balance on time. Travel credit cards typically require a good or excellent credit score.

Travel Cards: Pros and Cons ➡️

You may be unsure if a travel card is the right option, so we’ve compiled a list of all the pros and cons of using one for travelling overseas.

  • Cheaper foreign transaction fees: Travel cards typically have lower foreign currency conversion fees. Plus, you won’t be charged as much as you were if you used your everyday bank account.
  • Easy access: You can apply for and access your travel money card online. Most prepaid cards allow you to reload money onto the card via an app on your phone.
  • Hold multiple currencies: When you have a travel debit card, you will get a multi-current account, which allows you to hold multiple currencies on one account. You can use this bank account for spending abroad; currency conversion fees are usually the lowest with these types of accounts. Prepaid travel cards also allow you to hold and use multiple currencies on one card.
  • Earn reward points: When you use a travel credit card, you can earn reward points when you use the credit card for spending. You can use the points for travel perks, discounts, cheaper flights, and lounge access.
  • Helps to budget: With a prepaid card, you can only use the balance as there is no credit option. So, if you’re trying to stay on a budget, it’s easier when there is no temptation of an overdraft or credit balance.
  • Locked-in exchange rates: Most prepaid cards have a locked-in exchange rate, so you don’t have to worry about fluctuation of exchange rates when transferring money into a different currency. Some companies may use a live exchange rate; always check with the provider about fees before you use your card abroad.
  • Use just like a debit card: A prepaid debit card allows you to spend and pay for things like your regular debit card. If you choose a prepaid debit card, it will be attached to a bank account that works like your everyday account.
  • Backup card: Most prepaid card providers will send you a backup card if you lose or damage the first one. They will send you two cards together, so keep one separate from the other for safekeeping so you don’t lose them both together.
  • Currency conversion: When you use a travel card overseas, especially a travel debit card, the provider will automatically transfer funds into the currency you’re paying with.
  • Potential reload delay: Sometimes, there can be a delay in reloading prepaid cards. To prevent potential delays, try to transfer all the money you need before you travel so you don’t have to worry about it whilst you’re away.
  • Travel money card fees: A travel money card has its own fees, such as account fees, reload fees, and inactivity fees. Some travel credit cards have monthly fees.
  • ATM fees: Depending on the country you visit, there may be overseas ATM withdrawal fees and which ATM operators are used. Some ATMs charge fees when you withdraw cash, so you should look out for that.

Best Travel Cards: Reviews 🔎️

As there are three types of travel credit cards, we’ve provided a list of the top three of each type so you can pick which card suits your needs the best.

1. Travelex Money Card: Award-Winning Prepaid Travel Card

  • Exchange rates: Locked-in exchange rates that vary between foreign currencies
  • Currency conversion fees: None
  • Loading money fee: Free online AUD load and top-ups
  • ATM fees: There are no ATM fees outside of Australia

Travelex logo

With the Travelex Money Card, you can load up to 15 currencies onto the card, including AUD, GBP, EUR, UDS, NZD, CAV, TJB, SGB, JPY and HKD. There are no fees for cash withdrawals overseas. However, you may be charged for withdrawals in Australia using this card. The prepaid card is accepted at millions of locations worldwide; look out for the Mastercard logo, and you can use your prepaid card at that location.

There is currently an offer online that offers free online AUS load funds and top-ups. If you apply for a prepaid card in-store, there will be a 1.1% fee of 1% of the transaction amount for adding AUD. However, if you load a foreign currency, the top-ups are free. If your prepaid card is inactive for over 12 months, there will be AU$4 monthly inactivity fees.

The minimum top-up amount is AU$50, and the maximum you can load on initial purchase is AU$5,000 so if you want to add a large sum of money to the card, you will have to do it once you’ve applied for the card and already have funds on it. The maximum balance during any 12 months is AU$75,000.

Benefits of this prepaid card include free Wi-Fi worldwide; you can reduce your data usage without worrying about roaming fees with on-the-go internet access using free Boingo Wi-Fi. If your card is lost or stolen, Travelex offers 24/7 global assistance to help replace the card or provide emergency cash so you’re not stuck without money when travelling. You can also add an optional additional emergency card at checkout.

2. Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard: A Low Fee Prepaid Travel Card

  • Exchange rates: The exchange rate will vary between each foreign currency
  • International transaction fees: None
  • Loading money fee: Free for bank transfer, but there is a 1.1% for instore and 1% for BPAY
  • ATM fees: $3.50 for international cash withdrawals and 2.95% for domestic cash withdrawals

Australia Post logo

The Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard is a prepaid card that allows you to load with 11 different foreign currencies and easily switch between currencies as you travel. There are fixed exchange rates, but they may vary depending on the currency you’re converting. You can manage and load your prepaid card on the go by accessing your ‘My account’ on the website or using the Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard app.

There is no direct link to your bank account, and your prepaid card is Mastercard’s Zero liability protection against fraudulent and unauthorised transactions; you can travel and spend safely without worrying about compromised data or funds.

Benefits include three months of access to millions of Wi-Fi hotspots worldwide when you reload $100 onto your card. You can reload money onto your prepaid card at any Australia Post Branch or online in the app.

3. Qantas Money Travel Money Card: Earn Reward Points With a Prepaid Travel Money Card

  • Exchange rates: Locked in
  • Currency Conversion fees: 0%
  • Loading money fee: Fee-free load options; otherwise, a 0.5% debit card instant load fee
  • ATM fees: $1.95

Qantas Money logo

To make the most of a prepaid card, you can earn Qantas points with the Qantas Travel Money Card. You can load up to 10 foreign currencies, lock in exchange rates before you travel, and transfer between currencies.

Using the prepaid card, you earn 1.5 Qantas Points for every AU$1 spent in a foreign currency. You’ll earn 1 Qantas Points for every AU$4 spent in Australian dollars. You can earn double points when you spend with Qantas Frequent Flyer program partners using Qantas Travel Money. If you load over AU$1,500 equivalent of foreign currency by 20 November, you can earn up to 10,000 bonus points. For shopping discounts, you can use your Qantas Points for cheaper travel at select airlines or popular retailers.

If you lose your card or it’s stolen, you can temporarily lock it and access emergency funds while travelling. You’ll also have access to the 24/7 Mastercard Global Support team, who can help you if you have any issues or are seeking help while travelling. You will also receive fraud protection against unauthorised transactions.

4. Wise Travel Money Card: Travel Debit Card and Multi-Currency Account

  • Exchange rates: Competitive exchange rate
  • Currency conversion fees: From 0.43%, fees vary by currency
  • Loading money fee: $2
  • ATM fees: 2 free ATM withdrawals per month up to AU$350

Wise logo

With the Wise card and multi-currency account, you can spend and withdraw money in over 40 currencies at a live exchange rate. You can transfer money between banks, use the wise debit card overseas, receive and add money to your account and hold different currencies in one account. It’s free to register for a Wise account.

The wise card works just like your regular debit card, but it’s designed to help make spending money abroad cheaper. The card costs $10, but you also get a free digital card that you can use on your smartphone to spend online, in-store and overseas safely with Apple Pay and Google Pay.

So, while waiting for your debit card to be delivered, you can start spending using your virtual card. There are no markups, monthly or hidden fees; you can spend overseas with the real exchange rate. You’ll know how much each transaction will cost upfront.

The application process is simple; you can create an account and order a card within five minutes. So, if you’re travelling soon, you still have time to order a wise travel debit card. With the account and card, you can manage your finances from the Wise app. On the app, you can freeze and unfreeze your card whenever you want, generate digital cards and get notifications for all your transitions to keep in control of your spending.

5. Revolut Travel Money Card: Low Fee Travel Debit Card

  • Exchange rates: Competitive rates
  • Loading money fee: No loading fee
  • ATM fees: Fee-free for withdrawals up to $350 every 30 days

Revolut logo

There are over 30 currencies available with the Revolut Travel Money Card, that you can spend in over 150 currencies. You can spend overseas with one of the best exchange rates globally. With this travel debit card, there are no fees. You simply pay the exchange rate and for any additional cash withdrawals above the free amount with the standard free plan. You can transfer money across borders at low rates, and the transactions are quick to complete no matter where in the world you are.

You can choose the colour of your Revolut travel debit card and even personalise it. With a Revolut account and card, you can create one-use virtual cards to help make shopping online more secure. Additionally, if you want to control your spending whilst travelling, you can set up spending limits and freeze your card immediately if you lose it.

Revolut offers paid plans, but they’re optional. If you want to invest in cryptocurrency and save more globally, you can apply for the Premium account for $9.99 monthly. Additionally, if you want all available benefits, plus earning cashback and getting a metal card, you can pay A$24.99 monthly for the Metal plan. Whatever your budget, you can still benefit from the Revolut debit travel card.

6. HSBC Everyday Global Account Debit Card: Banking for Home and Overseas

  • Exchange rates: Competitive real-time exchange rates
  • Loading money fee: None
  • ATM fees: None for ATMs with a VISA or VISA plus logo

HSBC logo

If you’re looking for a bank account that you can use at home and on your travels, the HSBC Everyday Global Account allows you to do fee-free everyday banking across 10 currencies. You don’t need to pay a monthly HSBC ATM or transaction fees. You can switch between 10 currencies seamlessly with the HSBC Mobile Banking App; available currencies are EUR, GBP, AUD, USD HKD, CAD, JPY, NZD, SGD, and CNY (with some restrictions with CNY).

If you’re sending money overseas, there are no HSBC fees for you to worry about. You don’t have to worry about ATM fees either. When you’re in Australia, you can get free cash withdrawals from HSBC ATMs, and when you’re overseas, you have to look out for ATMs with the VISA logo.

You can earn up to 2% cashback for contactless payments under $100, so you can earn money just by using your travel debit card to make purchases when you’re home in Australia. You can use your card with Visa payWave, Apple Pay, and Google Pay.

7. Bankwest Breeze Platinum Credit Card: Complimentary Travel Insurance

  • Annual fees: No annual fee for the first year, then $69 yearly
  • Interest rates: 12.99% after the introductory period
  • Foreign transaction fees: None
  • Minimum credit limit: $6,000

Bankwest logo

If you’re looking for a travel credit card with low-interest rates, consider Bankwest’s Breeze Platinum credit card. You can spend interest-free for the first 55 interest-free days on purchases if the balance is repaid in full and on time, then you’ll only have to pay 12.99%. When using your credit card overseas, there are no foreign transaction fees, so you can spend knowing there won’t be additional fees to pay. You can use the credit card anywhere that accepts Mastercard.

There is no annual fee for the first year; after the first year, there is a $69 annual fee. A perk of the Breeze Platinum card is complimentary overseas travel insurance, interstate flight inconvenience insurance and 90-day purchase security insurance. Additionally, new customers will benefit from a 2% balance transfer fee.

To be eligible for this credit card, you must be a permanent Australian resident over 18 with a regular income of over $15,000.

8. ING Orange One Low Rate Credit Card: No Annual Fee Travel Credit Card

  • Annual fees: No annual fee
  • Interest rates: 11.99% variable
  • Foreign transaction fees: No international transaction fees
  • Minimum credit limit: $1,000

ING logo

The ING Orange One Low Rate credit cards are ideal if you’re concerned about additional fees when spending overseas. There are two Low Rate cards, classic and platinum, to choose from. Both cards have no annual costs, and there are no international transaction fees either.

To benefit from no international transaction fees, you need to make a $1,000 monthly deposit to any of your ING accounts (Super and Orange One accounts not included) and make more than five credit card purchases that are settled each month.

The most significant difference with the cards is credit limits. With the Low Rate Classic, the credit limit ranges from $1,000 to $5,999. The Low Rate Platinum has a credit limit range of $6,000 to $30,000. The interest rate is 11.99%, but if you use instalment plans to pay off your purchases, you can lock in a lower interest rate plus manage your repayments to ensure they’re on time.

To be eligible for this credit card, you will need to be aged 18+, be an Australian citizen, New Zealand or Australian permanent resident, earn $36,000 or more a year, have a good credit rating and have an active Orange Everyday account (or you can open one alongside your credit card application).

9. 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard: Low Fee Travel Credit Card

  • Interest rates: 26.99% after the introductory period

28degrees logo

The 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard has low fees, with no annual fee, no overseas purchase fee, currency conversion fee or foreign transaction fee. So, you can use your card without worrying about payments racking up. With this travel credit card, you get 55 days interest-free on purchases and access to free 24/7 concierge service.

Perks of this credit card include a complimentary Flight Delay Pass and Global Data Roaming. Additionally, you can get a discount on upcoming trips with 10% discounts on selected hotels at Wotif and Expedia when you have your 28 Degree card before 30 September 2024 and when you stay before 31 December 2024. If you lose your card whilst on holiday, 28 Degrees offers worldwide emergency card replacement.

To be eligible for this credit card, you must be 18 years old and over and be a permanent Australian resident.

Leading Travel Cards for Australians: The Verdict 💡️

Using a travel card for your spending abroad can help you stick to a budget, avoiding credit options to reduce debts, and you can use one just like your debit card so you can seamlessly spend whilst on your adventure overseas. You don’t need to meet any specific requirements to get a travel prepaid card, so that you can get one with little to no fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions 📢️

What is the difference between a prepaid travel card and a travel debit card.

A prepaid travel card is a card you load money onto. You can use a prepaid card wherever Mastercard is accepted. You can load more than one foreign currency onto the card and transfer money to the prepaid card. A travel debit card is part of a travel bank account, usually a multi-currency account; you can use it just like your everyday bank account, but it’s for travelling.

What Are the Benefits of Travel Money Cards?

There are many benefits to travel cards, the main benefits include:

  • Lower foreign currency conversion fees, as you won’t be charged as much as you were if you used your everyday bank account.
  • Most travel cards will allow you to hold multiple currencies, so if you’re travelling to a few different countries with different currencies, you can hold more than one at a time.
  • Most prepaid travel cards have a locked-in exchange rate, so you don’t have to worry about fluctuating exchange rates when transferring money into a different currency.

What Fees Are There for Using a Travel Money Card?

The fees involved for a travel money card will depend on the type of travel card you have. In general, a travel money card will have costs for annual or monthly fees, exchange rates, currency conversion fees, interest rates, and international transaction fees. How high the fees are will vary from card type and provider.

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Best Travel Money Card For Australians

In the age of global connectivity, the Australian spirit of adventure has never been more alive. With passports in hand and itineraries planned, Aussies are jet-setting across the globe, seeking new experiences and cultures. However, amidst the excitement of travel, there lies a practical challenge that every international traveler must address: managing finances abroad. This is where the travel money card emerges as a modern-day essential for the savvy traveler. It's not just about carrying money; it's about smartly navigating the financial landscapes of foreign lands with ease and security.

Table of Contents

  • Our Top 3 Travel Money Card

 Travelex  

What is a travel card, how travel money cards work:, advantages over traditional banking cards:, security features:, how to get a travel card, step-by-step guide:, eligibility and documentation:, which credit card is best for international travel, role in international travel:, comparison with travel money cards:, rewards and fees:, emergency assistance:, our choice of travel money card, what are travel money cards and how do they differ from regular debit or credit cards, can travel money cards be used worldwide, are there fees associated with using travel money cards, how do i reload my travel money card if i run out of funds while traveling, what should i do if my travel money card is lost or stolen.

Travel money cards have revolutionized the way we access our funds while overseas, offering a convenient alternative to the traditional methods of cash, traveler's cheques, or personal credit cards. They are specifically designed to reduce fees, simplify money management, and provide peace of mind. Yet, with a plethora of cards on the market, each promising the best rates and the lowest fees, the task of choosing the right one can be as daunting as navigating a bustling foreign market.

This comprehensive guide is tailored for Australians looking to find the best travel money card for their international escapades. We will embark on a journey through the intricacies of travel money cards, dissecting their features, benefits, and the fine print that often goes unnoticed. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Tuscany, a reliable travel money card is your financial companion, ensuring that currency concerns never dampen your travel experience.

In our quest, we will closely examine and compare the offerings of three prominent companies: Travelex, S Money, and CommBank. These industry stalwarts have been selected for their reputation, customer feedback, and the range of services they offer to international travelers. Through a meticulous comparison of their fees, exchange rates, ease of use, and customer service, we aim to provide an authoritative verdict on which card stands out as the best choice for Australians abroad.

As we navigate through the details of each service provider, we will also touch upon the essential considerations every traveler should make before choosing a card. From understanding the nuances of exchange rate margins to the importance of global customer support, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to make an informed decision.

And while objectivity is the cornerstone of our comparison, we will conclude with the author's personal recommendation. Spoiler alert: Travelex, with its compelling blend of features and customer-centric services, may just clinch the title. But before we reveal why, let's delve deep into the world of travel money cards and unravel the secrets to choosing the best one for your travel needs.

Our Top 3 Travel Money Cards

When it comes to selecting a travel money card, the devil is in the details. Fees, exchange rates, and the fine print can make or break your travel budget. In this section, we meticulously compare the offerings of three well-regarded companies in the Australian market: Travelex, S Money, and CommBank. Our comparison will be based on a variety of factors that are crucial to the traveler's experience, including but not limited to, the cost of use, currency conversion rates, ease of reloading funds, customer service responsiveness, and the availability of additional features such as insurance or rewards programs.

best travel money card for australia

Travelex  has long been a trusted name in travel finance, and their travel money card is a testament to their commitment to serving globetrotters. Let's take a closer look at how Travelex stands out in the competitive market of travel money cards.

Fee Structure : Travelex sets itself apart with a fee structure that is designed to be traveler-friendly. With no EFTPOS fees, no international ATM withdrawal fees (although some ATM operators may charge their own fee), no currency conversion fees, and no online shopping fees, the Travelex Money Card positions itself as a cost-effective option for Australians traveling abroad. This fee transparency is a significant advantage, potentially saving travelers from the nickel-and-diming that can occur with other cards.

Currency Flexibility : The ability to support 10 different currencies on a single card is a standout feature for Travelex. This flexibility is ideal for those embarking on multi-destination trips, allowing for seamless transitions from one currency to another without the need for multiple cards or carrying large amounts of cash.

Convenience and Accessibility : Travelex enhances the user experience by offering free home delivery of the travel money card, an intuitive online top-up system, and a user-friendly mobile app. These features underscore the company's focus on convenience, ensuring that managing travel funds is a hassle-free part of trip planning.

Digital Tools : The Travelex Money App is a digital companion that allows travelers to check their balance, reload currencies, and monitor their spending, all from their smartphone. This app, coupled with the travel rate tracker and currency converter on their website, empowers travelers with real-time information to make informed financial decisions while abroad.

Additional Services : Beyond the money card, Travelex's array of services includes foreign cash with 50+ currencies available, international money transfer with no transfer fees, and the sale of international SIM cards. These services provide a comprehensive travel finance solution, addressing more than just the need to spend abroad but also the need to utilise cash overseas, stay connected and transfer funds internationally.

Customer Support : Travelex's commitment to customer service is evident in their accessible support channels, including a dedicated phone line and a clear process for card activation and registration. This support network is crucial for travelers who may require assistance in different time zones and under various circumstances.

Promotions and Savings : Promotions and Savings: Travelex has regular sales, offers, and promotions for the Travelex Money Card allowing you to save on reloads, new card purchases, and on particular currencies such as USD. It's these kinds of tailored promotions that can sway a decision when comparing travel money card options.

best travel money card for australia

SMoney is a newer entrant in the market, but they've quickly made a name for themselves with competitive rates and transparent fees.

  • Market Positioning : As a challenger brand, S Money positions itself as a cost-effective solution. We'll investigate how well they deliver on this promise.
  • Fees and Rates : We'll break down S Money's fee structure and compare their exchange rates to see if they truly offer more bang for the buck.
  • Innovation : S Money prides itself on innovation. We'll explore any technological advances they've implemented to enhance the customer experience.
  • Customer Feedback : What are real users saying? We'll sift through customer reviews to gauge overall satisfaction with S Money's product.

best travel money card for australia

As one of Australia's largest banks, CommBank offers a travel money card backed by a trusted financial institution.

  • Trust and Security : We'll discuss the peace of mind that comes with using a product from a reputable bank and the security measures in place to protect users' funds.
  • Fees : While bank-backed cards can be more expensive, we'll analyze CommBank's fees to see if the additional cost is justified by their services.
  • Global Acceptance : With CommBank's extensive network, we'll evaluate the global acceptance of their travel money card.
  • Additional Perks : Often, bank-issued cards come with extra perks such as insurance or emergency assistance. We'll highlight any such benefits offered by CommBank.

A travel money card, often known as a prepaid currency card, is a card that you load with money before you travel, locking in the exchange rate at the point of loading. It functions much like a debit card, but with the added benefit of being able to pre-load multiple currencies on a single card, making it a versatile companion for those traveling to different countries.

  • Loading Funds : You add funds to your card in your home currency, which can then be converted into one or several foreign currencies at current exchange rates.
  • Locking in Rates : The exchange rate is locked in on the day of loading the funds, which means you know exactly how much you have to spend and are protected from currency fluctuations.
  • Using the Card : Travel cards can be used at ATMs, in stores, and online, just like a regular debit card. They are accepted anywhere that displays the card network's logo, such as Visa or Mastercard.
  • Budget Control : Since you load the card with a set amount, it's easier to manage your travel budget without the risk of overspending.
  • Currency Conversion Savings : By locking in exchange rates, you avoid the fees and additional costs associated with dynamic currency conversion when using a regular bank card.
  • Multiple Currencies : The ability to hold and manage multiple currencies is a boon for travelers visiting several countries, as it negates the need to carry different cards or cash.
  • Chip and PIN : Travel cards are protected by chip and PIN technology, making them more secure than carrying cash.
  • Freeze Function : Many cards come with an app that allows you to freeze and unfreeze your card, providing an immediate stop to potential fraud.
  • Replacement Services : If your card is lost or stolen, providers often offer emergency card replacement and sometimes emergency cash services.

best travel money card for australia

Obtaining a travel money card is a straightforward process that can usually be completed online, in a bank, or at a currency exchange provider.

  • Research : Compare different cards to find the one that offers the best rates and lowest fees for your travel needs.
  • Apply : Once you've chosen a provider, complete the application process, which can often be done online or in-store.
  • Load Funds : Load money onto the card using your preferred payment method, such as a bank transfer or credit card.
  • Receive and Activate : After receiving your card, follow the provider's instructions to activate it, which may involve setting up a PIN or signing in to an app.
  • Age Requirement : Most providers require you to be at least 18 years old.
  • Identification : You'll need to provide identification, such as a passport or driver's license.
  • Residency : Some cards may require you to be a resident of the country from which you're applying.

Credit cards play a vital role in international travel, offering convenience and often additional travel benefits.

  • Widely Accepted : Credit cards are accepted worldwide and can be a backup in places where travel money cards might not be accepted.
  • Emergency Assistance : Many credit cards offer travel assistance services, which can be invaluable in emergencies.
  • Pros of Credit Cards : They often come with rewards programs, travel insurance, and fraud protection.
  • Cons of Credit Cards : They can incur high fees for foreign transactions and ATM withdrawals, and the exchange rates are not locked in.
  • Rewards : Points, miles, and cashback are common rewards that can offset the cost of travel.
  • International Fees : It's important to be aware of the fees for international transactions, which can add up.
  • Assistance Services : Many credit cards offer 24/7 global assistance, which can include help with lost cards, medical referrals, and legal assistance.

By understanding the nuances of travel money cards and credit cards, travelers can make informed decisions on the best financial tools for their journey, ensuring a smooth and secure travel experience.

In the competitive landscape of travel money cards, Travelex emerges not merely as a contender but as the preferred choice, the author's champion for the global traveler. This section will encapsulate why Travelex, with its robust features and customer-centric services, is poised as the frontrunner in this financial travel race.

Why Travelex Stands Out: Travelex's travel money card distinguishes itself through a combination of competitive exchange rates, a user-friendly interface, and a suite of services that cater to the practical needs of travelers. The absence of fees on EFTPOS, international ATM withdrawals, currency conversion, and online shopping positions Travelex as a beacon of value and transparency in a sea of often-confusing financial products. Moreover, the ability to load and manage ten different currencies provides unparalleled flexibility, allowing travelers to move across borders with financial ease.

Superior Service in Action: Imagine landing in the bustling heart of Tokyo, where the currency market is as dynamic as the city itself. With Travelex, you've locked in your yen at a favorable rate long before your plane touched down. As you withdraw cash to navigate the city's vibrant alleys, the absence of ATM fees means one less expense to worry about. Or picture yourself in a Parisian café, where you decide to purchase a last-minute gift online. Travelex's zero online shopping fees mean you can splurge on that extra macaron box without fretting over transaction costs.

The Case for Travelex: The criteria for evaluating the best travel money card were clear: low fees, competitive exchange rates, ease of use, comprehensive customer service, and additional features. Travelex not only meets these criteria but excels in them. The card's fee structure is designed to keep more money in the traveler's pocket. The locked-in exchange rates shield against market volatility, and the Travelex Money App ensures that control over your finances is always at your fingertips.

The additional services, such as free home delivery, international money transfers, and the sale of international SIM cards, show Travelex's understanding of a traveler's journey from start to finish. Their global ATM network and emergency assistance services underscore a commitment to convenience and safety.

Travelex is not just a tool but a travel companion, one that understands the rhythms of the road and the value of a dollar. It's for these reasons that Travelex is not only recommended but stands as the author's choice for the best travel money card for Australians venturing abroad. All advise is general in nature and we recommend visiting:  Moneysmart.gov.au  to make an informed decision.

Travel money cards are prepaid cards that you can load with multiple currencies before you travel. Unlike regular debit or credit cards, they allow you to lock in exchange rates before you go, potentially saving you money if the rate is favorable. They also help you budget more effectively, as you can only spend what you've loaded onto the card.

Most travel money cards are accepted worldwide at merchants and ATMs that accept Visa or Mastercard, depending on the network of the card you choose. However, there may be some countries or regions where acceptance is limited, so it's always a good idea to check with your card provider before you travel.

While travel money cards are designed to help you avoid some of the fees associated with using debit or credit cards abroad, such as foreign transaction fees, they may have their own fee structure. This can include initial purchase fees, reload fees, inactivity fees, and sometimes, ATM withdrawal fees. It's important to review the fee schedule of any travel money card before purchasing.

You can usually reload your travel money card online, over the phone, or via a mobile app using a debit card, credit card, or bank transfer. Some cards also allow you to reload at designated retail locations. Reload times can vary, with some being instant and others taking several business days.

You should contact your travel money card provider immediately to report a lost or stolen card. Many providers offer 24/7 global assistance and can block your card to prevent fraudulent transactions. They may also be able to issue you an emergency replacement card or provide emergency cash access depending on your card's features.

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Why we need activation dates?

  • We need these dates to activate your SIM card so you can use them when you’re ready to travel.
  • If you don’t give us an activation date, your SIM card will not work when you plug them into your phone.

Not sure on your dates yet?

  • You can add in an estimated date for your SIM. Your SIM’s data & validity won’t start until you plug it into your device.
  • Once you know your exact dates, please let us know via our live chat or at [email protected] so we can activate it for you at the right time. 

What if you need to change the dates?

  • You can reach out to us via our live chat or at [email protected] with your SIM number so we can change it for you.

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Rate last updated Tuesday, 26 March 2024 2:07:11 PM AEDT. Please note that these are the Travelex online sell rates.

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best travel money card for australia

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Travelex Money Card offer Dollars on us

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Load more, save more with the travelex money card.

  • Save up to AUD $240! View all available discounts codes here .
  • Available online, in-store, or via the Travelex Money App. Ends 28 April at 11.59pm AEST. T&C Apply.

The Travelex Money Card

best travel money card for australia

Travel Card Exchange Rates & Currencies

Choose your currency, $0 currency conversion fee when spending a currency not on your travel card:.

The below calculator is a handy tool to help you estimate the applicable exchange rate for your transaction 2 :

Spend Calculator

You can use this calculator to see what your spend would look like for your trip. It will help you estimate the applicable exchange rate for your transaction.

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$0 Eftpos Fees

$0 atm fees 1, $0 currency conversion fees ^, $0 online shopping fees*, $0 free delivery to your home, special offer, load aud on your travelex money card and save when spending in the below currencies.

  • Free Online AUD Load and Top-Ups
  • $0 International ATM Fees

Features and Benefits

UNLIMITED FREE overseas ATM withdrawals 1

Highly competitive exchange rates

NO fees when you buy online $0 Currency conversion fee ^

24/7 Global Assistance

Convenient Mobile App Download it here

Shop at millions of outlets wherever Mastercard is accepted and on international websites with the local currency

Buy online, collect in-store or get it delivered to your home

5 ☆ outstanding value award winning travel money card

Exclusive offers with Mastercard Priceless TM Cities

No account or membership required

How our Travel Card Works

Order your travel card.

Order your Travelex Money Card online or in-store (passport or driver's license required)

Get your travel card

Free delivery to your home or collect from a Travelex store

Home delivery

Delivered within 1 to 3 days

Download the App

Download the app from the Google Play and Apple App stores

Register for My Account

Simply activate your card by registering your account via the app or online

Manage and check your balance online and on your mobile

Exchange leftover currency

After your trip, exchange leftover money for another currency, transfer into your bank account or withdraw in-store or at an ATM.

Fees and Limits

NO fees online $0 Currency conversion fee ^

Withdraw daily up to AU$3,000 (or currency equivalent)

Maximum Card limit of AU$50,000

Free initial and replacement card

The following fees and limits apply. Fees and limits are subject to variation in accordance with the Terms and Conditions. Unless otherwise specified, all fees will be debited in AU$ Currency

If there are insufficient funds in AU$ Currency to pay such fees, then we will automatically deduct funds from other Currencies in the following order of priority: AU$, US$, EU€, GB£, NZ$, THB, CA$, HK$, JP¥, SG$.

• Online: FREE via travelex.com.au or the Travelex Money App • In-Store: FREE for loads of foreign currency (loads of Australian dollars (AUD) incur a fee of 1.1% of the amount or $15 whichever is greater).

• Online: FREE via travelex.com.au or the Travelex Money App • In-Store: FREE for top-ups of foreign currency (top-ups of AUD incur a fee of 1.1% of the amount or $15 whichever is greater). • BPAY: Top-ups not made via travelex.com.au or the Travelex Money App incur a fee of 1% of the amount. - MasterCard Biller Code: 184416 - Reference No: your 16 digit Travelex Money Card number - Funds will be allocated to your default currency. To check your default currency login to your account.

FREE (note: Some ATM operators may charge their own fees or set their own limits)

  • Charged at the start of each month if you have not made any transactions on the card in the previous 12 months
  • Unless your card is used again, or reloaded, this fee applies each month until the card is closed or the remaining card balance is less than the inactivity fee.

AU$4.00 per month

  • Charged when you close your card or withdraw from your Card Fund. This fee is set and charged by Mastercard Prepaid.
  • This is applied when you move your funds from one currency to another currency.

At the then applicable retail foreign exchange rate determined by us. We will notify you of the rate that will apply at the time you allocate your funds from one currency to another.

  • Applied when a purchase or ATM withdrawal is conducted in a currency either not loaded or sufficient to complete the transaction and the cost is allocated against the currency/ies used to fund the transaction.

FREE* *The Spend Rate will apply to foreign exchange transactions in accordance with the Terms and Conditions.

AU$350 or currency equivalent AU$100 or currency equivalent

AU$50 or currency equivalent

The maximum amount you can load on the card at the time of the initial online purchase is AU$5,000 equivalent.

to a maximum of $10,050 per single top-up; and to a maximum of $10,050 top-up value over 24hrs; and to a maximum of $20,000 top-up value over 21 days.

AU$3,000 or currency equivalent

AU$15,000 or currency equivalent

Other Important Information

Please read the following information about your Travelex Money Card carefully:

  • Your Travelex Money Card does not generate any interest or any other similar return. You do not earn interest on the amount standing to the credit of the Travelex Money Card Fund accessed by the card.
  • Although the issuer of the card is an authorised deposit-taking institution in Australia, the Card is not a deposit account with the Issuer.

Important Information about Fees & Limits for loads/top ups made online:

  • If you are making a purchase or topping up the Card online via www.travelex.com.au (i) the initial load and top up fee may differ to (but not be greater than) those contained in the “Fees and Limits Table” of this Product Disclosure Statement; and (ii) the limits may differ to those contained in the “Fees and Limits Table” of this Product Disclosure Statement. Travelex may also charge a card surcharge if you pay with a credit or debit card. Please refer to the relevant online terms and conditions available at www.travelex.com.au for details of the applicable fees and limits.
  • AU$ cannot be loaded or topped up onto a card online via www.travelex.com.au

Terms & Conditions

Download the travelex travel money app.

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Convenience on the go

  • Top up your Travelex Money Card
  • Check your balance
  • Quick touch log in

The app requires Android 5.0 and up or iOS 10.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.

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Other Ways to Get Foreign Currency

All the easy options to access foreign currencies with travelex.

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About Travelex Money Card online and in-store

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All you need to know getting foreign cash with Travelex

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Historical Rates

Check out current and historical AUD to FX Travelex rates

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Track Currency Rates

Receive an alert when your selected foreign currency has reached your desired rate

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Travelex Travel Card Currency Information

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Using the Card

Topping up the Card

Travelex Money Card FAQ

You can only hold one card in your name at any one time.

Top-up via the Travelex website

Note that you must use your unique reference number when paying or the transfer may be delayed.

Top-up via the Travelex Money App

Move currencies on your card, instantly.

If you have AUD (or any other currency) already loaded on the card, you can move your funds to another currency within the Travelex Money App. Instant top-up!

Top-up in a Travelex store

Direct top-up via bpay:.

Top-ups not made via travelex.com.au or the Travelex Money App incur a fee of 1% of the amount. You must make payment using your own account.
MasterCard Biller Code: 184416 Reference No: your 16 digit Travelex Money Card number
Funds will be allocated to your default currency. To check your default currency login to your account. Top ups will generally take two business days to be processed however may take longer if the payment is not made before 2pm on a business day Australian Eastern Standard Time.

Yes, travel money cards come with a host of advantages that can save you money when travelling. These include the ability to load multiple currencies at a fixed and competitive exchange rate, and the capability to make purchases in-store, online, and at ATMs worldwide with no overseas ATM or withdrawal fees.

  • Locking in fixed foreign currency exchange rates and avoiding foreign transaction fees before you travel
  • The ability to load multiple currencies onto one card, similar to a travel debit card
  • The ability to spend money conveniently and comfortably overseas
  • No overseas ATM withdrawal fees
  • No fees when making online purchases
  • Travel money cards can be ordered online and collected in store next day.
  • Just walk in store. Cards purchased and loaded in-store are active and ready-to-use on the spot. We will automatically transfer funds between currencies complete your card transactions.
  • Home delivery within 5-7 business days.

Most common questions

The best travel money card for Australians is the one that caters to the currencies available at your destination, removes ATM withdrawal and foreign purchase fees, and has the best exchange rate. The Travelex Money Card is a prepaid travel card and has been awarded the best prepaid travel card by Mozo two years in a row.

A travel money card is a global currency card that allows you to load several foreign currencies into a personal account at a prevailing exchange rate . Like debit and credit cards, a travel money card can be used to make purchases in stores, online, and to withdraw cash at ATMs while travelling. You can buy currencies and add or reload them into your travel money card account via a mobile app whilst abroad.

One of the best ways to use the Travelex Money Card is with the Travelex Money App. The Travelex Money App makes ordering, transferring, and checking currencies quick and simple on your travel card. You can also use the Travelex travel exchange rate tracker to check currencies in real time.

You can order a travel money card online or purchase one directly from a Travelex store. Find a store near you.

The Travelex Money Card is a Mastercard travel card, meaning it is free to make international withdrawals at ATMs displaying the Mastercard acceptance mark. It is also free to obtain cash over the counter and to make online purchases with a travel money card. However, some ATM operators may charge their own withdrawal ATM fees. Be sure to check with the ATM in question prior to making cash withdrawals.

Similar to any bank account, you can withdraw money from your travel money card at ATMs worldwide. When withdrawing cash, select the “credit” option on the ATM machine screen to access funds. You will not be charged credit card fees by selecting this option. If the “credit” option does not work, try selecting “debit” or “savings”. The maximum withdrawal amount is 3,000 Australian dollars each 24 hour period. Bear in mind that some ATMs may also have their own ATM fee, adding a cost to your withdrawal.

The Travelex Money Card is a multi currency card that can be used in most countries around the world. Widely considered the best travel money card for overseas travel, the Travelex Money Card can be used in the US, Europe, Japan, Canada, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, New Zealand, and many more countries.

The initial card fee is free, subject to minimum load amounts. Please see the fees and limits section for more information. There are fees associated with the way you use your card e.g. the type of transaction, the currency you use, and when you move currencies on your card. Limits also apply to top up amounts and method of top up. Please see more information on applicable fees and limits section.

Activity on your Travelex Money Card is monitored every day to detect unusual behaviour, and if something is spotted you'll be contacted to check your transactions. There are also things you can do to help keep your travel money secure: • Sign your card as soon as you receive it • Check your transactions regularly and report anything unusual to Card Services immediately • If you print statements from the internet, keep them safe and shred them when you've finished using them • Never give your personal details to someone on the phone • Don't give out your details in response to unsolicited email • Be wary of anyone who asks for common security details like your mother's maiden name, passwords, date of birth, or information about your work • Never give your PIN to anyone, even if they claim to be from your card issuer • Don't let yourself get distracted when using cash machines or point of sale terminals - somebody may be trying to find out your PIN

Mastercard Prepaid Management Services Australia Pty Ltd (ABN 47 145 452 044, AFSL 386 837) arranges for the issue of the Travelex Money Card in conjunction with the issuer, EML Payment Solutions Limited (‘EML’)(ABN 30 131 436 532, AFSL 404131). You should consider the Product Disclosure Statement for the relevant Travelex Money Card and Target Market Determination available at www.travelex.com.au , before deciding to acquire the product. Any advice does not take into account your personal needs, financial circumstances or objectives and you should consider if it is appropriate for you. Mastercard and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated.

* Transacting via some online merchants may incur a surcharge.

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The Best Prepaid SIM Cards in Australia in 2024

best travel money card for australia

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.

These days, it’s almost impossible to imagine visiting a foreign country without mobile connection. You may need to call a rideshare, find your hotel on maps, connect to the internet when away from Wi-Fi, or translate signs in a foreign language.

However, using international roaming with your home carrier to get data could cost hundreds of dollars. This is why prepaid eSIM cards are the fastest growing option for international tourists who own an eSIM-compatible device.

In this guide, you’ll find the 5 best prepaid SIM and eSIM options available for tourists in Australia in 2024, including their pricing and data plans. Let’s get going!

Airalo is our top choice to avoid expensive international roaming fees. Airalo offers eSIMs tailored to you, from 5 days up to months at a time, covering hundreds of countries, with both multi-country and various GB plans available.

The Best Prepaid SIM Cards in Australia For Travel in 2024

  • 01. Where can I buy prepaid SIM cards in Australia? scroll down
  • 02. Do I need to register my prepaid SIM in Australia? scroll down
  • 03. Physical prepaid SIM cards in Australia scroll down
  • 04. Best prepaid eSIMs in Australia scroll down
  • 05. What are the largest mobile network operators in Australia? scroll down

Facts About Prepaid SIMs in Australia

Where to buy physical prepaid sim cards for australia.

Australia offers an easy process for tourists to purchase prepaid SIM cards, available at airports, convenience stores, and supermarkets. The market is well-adjusted to tourists, providing a range of options with reasonable rates.

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1. Australian Airports

Major Australian airports, including Sydney Kingsford Smith and Melbourne Airport, offer prepaid SIM cards from telecommunications providers like Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone. Tourists can find these SIM cards in various retail outlets within the airport terminals. The cost for a basic SIM card starter pack usually starts around $20 AUD, which will include a combination of data, local, and sometimes international call options. On a trip to Brisbane, I went with a cheap SIM card option with Optus, which was available outside the arrival terminal. The 5 GB of data for $12 AUD was a perfect fit for me.

2. Network Provider Retail Stores in Australia

Optus and Telstra stores are ubiquitous across major Australian cities, offering a variety of prepaid SIM card options suitable for tourists.

best travel money card for australia

You could also consider having a physical prepaid SIM card shipped to your house before you travel by shopping on online sites (like Amazon). You’ll often find small SIM card providers that partner with the large Australian networks (like Telstra or Optus) to connect your phone to mobile data. You could even consider buying a portable Wi-Fi hotspot device.

Shopping online requires a little travel pre-planning but allows you to search around for better prices and data plans that meet your needs.

The easiest online option, and the one that we highly recommend, is to purchase an eSIM. These digital SIMs can be instantly activated straight from your smartphone from apps like Airalo and Holafly , which then give you seamless access to data in your travel destination.

Registration Process For Prepaid SIM Cards in Australia

In Australia, registration is necessary, and you'll need to show your passport to the issuer. 

It's worth noting that an increasing number of countries are requiring registration from mobile phone users for security reasons, where purchasing a prepaid SIM card requires consumers to provide proof of identity.

For the countries that have these Know-Your-Customer (KYC) laws, registration will also apply to eSIMs. However, eSIMs do have the benefit of digital registration as opposed to the hassle of an in-person process. If your eSIM is data only (no local phone number), then you may be able to get connected without registering your info.

Cheap Physical Prepaid SIM Card Options For Australia Travel

Here are some of the most popular options for plastic SIM cards for tourists in Australia:

Telstra is known for its exceptional mobile 4G/5G network coverage, offering reliable internet across Australia.

Telstra offers prepaid SIM cards for $12 AUD for 3 GB data, $35 AUD for 35 GB, and $45 AUD for 45 GB, all with unlimited calls/SMS and international calls for 28 days.

Optus, available in stores across Australia, offers both physical and e-SIM cards for tourists, featuring 3 standard tourist plans geared towards visitors.

$12 AUD buys 5 GB data with unlimited calls/SMS for 7 days; $35 AUD for 40 GB or $45 AUD for 60 GB both with additional international calls for 28 days.

Best Digital Prepaid e-SIMs For Tourists in Australia

Want to ditch physical plastic SIM cards? You can conveniently download and active the following international eSIMs from your smartphone instead.

best travel money card for australia

Airalo is an excellent eSIM provider for international travel. For Australia, they offer eSIMs from 1GB for 7 days at $4.50 up to 20GB for 30 days at $40, and other plans in between. It was super easy for us to set up in the app and purchase instantly.

More info: Read our Airalo review or visit their website .

Holafly offers unlimited data volume packages for international travel. Holafly's data packages for Australia cost between $19 and $54 once off and are valid from 5 to 20 days, offering peace of mind that you'll never run out of data.

Although Holafly offers unlimited data in most countries, including Australia, if you're a globetrotter, it's worth keeping in mind that Holafly offers limited data plans to some other destinations. Be sure to check their website or app before traveling to a new country to confirm whether Holafly's unlimited packages apply.

More info: Read our Holafly review or visit their website .

Yesim, a Swiss-based eSIM service, offers flexible plans for 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, and 20GB. The pricing of these eSIMs for Australia range from $12.10 to $44.

The 3GB plan is good for 7 days while the 5GB one is good for 15 days. The 15GB and 30GB plans both last for 30 days.

To make sure your phone can support eSIM cards, read our list of eSIM-compatible phones .

Largest Mobile Network Operators in Australia

eSIMs are great because they connect to the best network available wherever you are. Your phone might connect to Telstra or Optus, depending on your location, at no extra cost. In contrast, if you buy a SIM card directly from one Australian telecom provider, then your phone will only access that provider's network.

In Australia, expect to see these names as you connect to data on your travels:

  • TPG Telecom: Offers competitive pricing, particularly in the broadband sector.
  • Optus: Varied plan options and strong focus on sports content.
  • Telstra: Extensive coverage, especially in remote areas, and leading 5G network.

Frequently Asked Questions About Prepaid SIM Cards For Travel in Australia

Yes, it is wise to plan ahead, but you can also opt for an eSIM even 24 hours before your trip if you have an eSIM-compatible phone. The best part about eSIMs like Airalo and Holafly is that the plans won’t activate until you connect within the plan’s designated country. This means you won’t be on the clock until your trip finally starts.

We believe Airalo offers the best prepaid eSIMs in Australia and around the world in 2024, with options that are 5G compatible, starting from 1GB for 7 days at $4.50 up to 20GB for 30 days at $40.

Check our list to make sure your device is compatible with eSIM technology.

best travel money card for australia

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How a Travel Credit Card Can Be Your Ticket to Big Savings

Melissa Lambarena

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

Next time you're planning a vacation, a travel credit card could defray some or all of the costs if it packs the right incentives. Typically, cards with higher annual fees provide the most value with perks like ongoing rewards, free checked bags, airport lounge access or other benefits. But even cards with low or no annual fees make it possible to earn some value toward travel, if you can qualify.

These cards generally require good credit (scores of 690 or higher), and even if you're eligible, it's not worth pursuing one if you can't pay off the credit card bill in full every month to avoid steep interest charges. And if you're working toward paying down existing debt, it might not be worth chasing points and miles until you've made progress on that front.

But as long as travel credit cards align with your financial goals, their potential savings merit consideration — even if you travel just once or twice per year. Explore the flexibility of a general-purpose travel credit card to book travel anywhere, or a branded credit card to book travel with a favorite hotel or airline. Either option may offer money-saving benefits toward your next trip.

Valuable features can lower costs

Offers will vary among general-purpose travel credit cards and airline- or hotel-branded credit cards, but some savings opportunities may include:

If a credit card offers a lengthy list of perks, the value can quickly add up. Here are some features to look out for:

A sign-up offer: Travel credit cards generally come with lucrative sign-up offers that let new cardholders earn a pile of points or miles by meeting a minimum spending requirement. It’s easier to snag if you can strategically time a credit card application around planned purchases during a heavy-spend month or season.

Free checked bags: Some airline credit cards offer free checked bags , which can add up to real savings when applied per person on a round trip. This is one way that Doug Figueroa, a content creator at the YouTube channel Zorito y Doug, makes up the cost of the $150 annual fee on an airline credit card. “The savings are $70 round trip per passenger listed in the same reservation,” he says. 

TSA or Global Entry credit : Some travel cards issue a credit (up to $100) when you use them to pay for a TSA or Global Entry application fee. These expedited airport security screening programs can save time while traveling.

Travel credits: Depending on the card’s terms, travel credits may be used to save money on a variety of travel expenses like rideshare services, airfare or accommodations. 

Airport lounge access: You can skip the pricey airport food with some travel credit cards that offer complimentary airport lounge access . Austin Maxwell, a South Carolina-based content creator at the blog The Maxwells Travel, uses a travel credit card to avoid those costs. “I’m saving $20 to $30 every time I go to the airport because I don’t have to buy food or drinks during a layover or preflight,” he says.

A companion ticket: Some airline credit cards cover the cost of a ticket for a friend or family member. Depending on the card's terms, you may have to pay taxes and fees on the fare, the companion ticket may have an expiration date and/or a spending requirement may apply.

Automatic elite status: You may earn elite status without much effort on some hotel-branded credit cards. Elite status can add up to valuable savings if the program offers free food, bonus points or suite upgrades.  

Free nights: If your favorite hotel has a branded credit card that offers annual free night awards, it can stretch your vacation budget. 

Protections and other benefits

A travel credit card that offers trip delay or cancellation insurance, lost baggage insurance, rental car coverage or other protections may also be of value to you. To qualify for these benefits you typically need to pay for the trip or covered purchase with the eligible credit card. Read the terms carefully to understand the extent of your coverage.

Figueroa says he saved $90 over three days with his card’s primary rental car coverage on a trip to Miami.

“Once you make the online reservation, you must decline all insurance offered by the rental company and pay for everything with your [card],” he says.

High-value reward redemptions

Points or miles on some travel credit cards might lose value if they are used for non-travel redemptions like cash back, gift cards or other options. Travel redemptions typically offer the best value, and you might squeeze out even more value with a general-purpose travel card that allows points to transfer to airline or hotel partners. It’s a strategy that Maxwell uses often to his advantage.

“It’s even better if there’s a transfer bonus associated with that," he says. "Credit card companies offer transfer bonuses — 15%, 20%, 30% bonus — if you are to transfer points to a specific airline.”

He says he has also transferred points to hotel partners to book hotel rooms with them. “It would be the equivalent of getting a hotel room at $120 that’s actually valued at $500,” he adds.

To determine whether to redeem rewards for travel or transfer them to a partner, compare costs by checking the credit card’s booking platform and the partner’s website. Also factor in whether rewards transfer on at least a 1:1 ratio, meaning that you'll get the equivalent value in points or miles transferred.

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best travel money card for australia

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best travel money card for australia

Interest rates in Australia have finally moved up from the record lows of recent years, and so there is now more choice when it comes to finding a decent earnings rate for your savings.But with so many different accounts on the market, from bonus rate savings accounts to fixed term deposits and fee-free everyday banking accounts, it can be daunting to decide which savings option is right for you.

That’s why each year, Mozo’s team of money experts assess and compare every savings account, term deposit and everyday bank accounts in our database to determine which ones offer Australians the best value. For our 2024 Mozo Experts Choice Awards^, we compared over 400 products from 91 banking providers.

So no matter whether you’re wanting to maximise your interest rate, enjoy fee-free everyday banking or reach your savings goal faster, read on for our Editor’s round-up of some of the stand-out winners from the 2024 Awards.

BEST SAVINGS ACCOUNTS

Macquarie savings account.

  • 5.35% p.a. for the first 4 months (4.75% p.a. ongoing)
  • Multiple Mozo Experts Choice Award Winner 2024^

The Macquarie Savings Account was awarded in the kick starter and no strings savings categories in the 2024 Mozo Experts Choice Awards. It offers a cracking intro rate of 5.35% p.a. for the first four months on balances up to $250K and has a competitive ongoing rate of 4.75% p.a. There are zero account keeping fees to worry about. You'll need to open a Macquarie Transaction Account as a first step (which also has no account keeping fees), but once that's done you can open as many linked Savings Accounts as you like using the Macquarie mobile banking app - one for each savings goal! This account is 100% online so can only be accessed by the app or via internet banking.

RABOBANK HIGH INTEREST SAVINGS ACCOUNT

  • 5.75% p.a. for the first 4 months (4.40% p.a. ongoing)
  • Mozo Experts Choice Winner 2024 ^

If you are looking to kick-start your savings, this award-winning online savings account account from Rabobank has a high introductory rate of 5.75% p.a. for the first four months on balances up to $250k. The ongoing rate is still a competitive 4.40% p.a and there are no pesky minimum balance or minimum deposit requirements. There are also no account fees so you can enjoy both hassle-free and fee-free saving. This account is only accessible via online banking so you’ll need to download the Rabobank app or login via internet banking.

AMP - Saver

  • Earn up to 5.40% p.a. on when you deposit $1,000 in the previous month
  • Mozo Experts Choice Award Winner 2024^

If you really want an incentive to save, the AMP Saver account has a high 5.40% p.a. as long as you deposit at least $1,000 into the account in the previous month (on balances up to $250,000). While this is a high monthly savings target to meet, once you deposit $1,000, if needed you can withdraw funds from the account without penalty and still earn the bonus interest. If you don’t meet the previous month deposit criteria, the base rate on the account is 1.20% p.a. (T&Cs apply). There are no ongoing account management fees or transaction fees. This is an online only savings account so you’ll need to manage the account via My AMP online banking or via the MY AMP app. AMP says it takes around 5 minutes to open an account. 

BENDIGO BANK REWARD SAVER ACCOUNT

  • Earn up to 5.25% p.a. on balances up to $100K
  • Only requires $1 to open

If you’re looking for a straightforward savings account where you can earn high interest without jumping through hoops, the award-winning Bendigo Reward Saver is worth considering . You only need a $1 to open the account and you will need a linked Bendigo transaction account but as long as you grow your balance each month (excluding interest deposits) you’ll earn up to 5.25% p.a. on balances up to $100K. There’s no account keeping fee and interest is paid monthly. If you don’t increase your balance in a month, the interest rate will revert to 0.30% p.a. so it’s a good idea to set up an auto payment into your account so that you’re guaranteed to get the higher interest. The account is 100% online so you’ll access and manage your account via e-banking or the Bendigo Bank app. 

WESTPAC LIFE 18-29

  • Earn up to 5.20% p.a. on your savings (18 - 29 year olds only)
  • Best Young Adult Savings Winner 2024^

This award-winning savings account is designed to help boost the savings of young Australians between 18-29 years. The Westpac Life account offers a generously high interest rate of 5.20% p.a on balances up to $30K. To earn the max rate, you’ll need to be able to grow your balance by making at least one deposit into the account each month. You’ll also need to take out a Westpac Choice everyday account and make at least 5 eligible purchases a month on your Westpac Choice debit card. If you don't meet the criteria the interest rate drops to 2.00% p.a.

BEST TERM DEPOSITS

Judo term deposit.

  • 5.10% p.a. for a 1 year term, plus 0.10% loyalty bonus on roll-overs
  • 4.85% p.a. for a 2 year term
  • Best Term Deposit Winner 2024^

Judo Bank is a multi-year Mozo Experts Choice Awards recipient and offers some of the highest term deposit rates in the Mozo database. There are a range of terms to choose from starting from as short as three months up to five years, with the minimum investment starting at $1,000. Interest can be paid out when the term deposit hits maturity or there’s also an annual or monthly option but these have a slightly lower interest rate. Judo Bank also lets savers have their interest paid to another bank and offers a 0.10% interest rate bonus on rollovers once your deposit reaches maturity. Fees may apply to early withdrawals. Deposits up to $250K backed by Government deposit guarantee.

RABOBANK TERM DEPOSIT

  • 4.85% p.a. on a 6 month term
  • 4.75% p.a. on a 1 year term
  • $1,000 minimum investment

Rabobank was once again awarded a Mozo Experts Choice Award for Australia's Best Term Deposits in  2024^. It offers a choice of investment terms from 6 months up to 5 years and the interest rates vary depending on the investment term. The minimum investment is just $1,000, there are no account fees and you can enjoy a 0.10% loyalty bonus when you automatically reinvest your Term Deposit before maturity. Early withdrawal fees may apply.

BEST BANK ACCOUNTS

Ing orange everyday.

  • Zero ING international transaction fees, zero monthly fees + rebates on domestic ATM transactions
  • Exceptional Everyday Account Winner 2024^

ING’s award-winning Orange Everyday account offers 1% cashback on eligible utility bill payments (up to $100 per financial year), rebates on ATM fees anywhere in Australia and unlimited rebates on international transactions. It also has zero monthly account fees. To access these savings, simply deposit at least $1,000 from an external bank account and make at least 5 card eligible purchases using your ING debit card each month.

HSBC EVERYDAY GLOBAL

  • Holds up to 10 currencies in the one account
  • 2% cashback on tap & pay purchases under $100 AUD (conditions apply)
  • Dual Mozo Experts Choice Award Winner 2024

Taking out an award for Exceptional Everyday Account^, this fee-free bank account bundles up the useful features of an everyday transaction account alongside international spending features. As long as you deposit AUD$2,000 or more into your HSBC Everyday Global Account before the last day of each calendar month, you could earn 2% cashback on tap and pay purchases under $100 (conditions apply). There’s no monthly fees or HSBC ATM fees at most locations worldwide, and you’ll have unlimited fee-free transactions online, via EFTPOS, BPAY or direct debits. Users can hold up to ten different currencies which can be spent while travelling overseas or making international purchases.

Suncorp Everyday Options

  • 9 sub accounts to help you spend, budget and save
  • Double Winner Mozo Experts Choice Awards 2024^
  • No account-keeping fees

Suncorp’s Everyday Options account scooped two Mozo Experts Choice Awards in 2024 - Exceptional Everyday Account and Travel Debit Card making it a top account to have here in Australia and while you are travelling. This account lets you create up to nine sub accounts to manage your spending buckets. These are all accessible online, have no account-keeping fees and have unlimited withdrawals to and from the main account. There are no monthly account fees and when overseas travellers won’t need to worry about being charged overseas ATM fees or foreign exchange fees by Suncorp.

ubank Spend Account

  • Zero monthly fees to pay
  • No overseas or online charges
  • Free card purchases and ATM cash withdrawals
  • Dual Mozo Experts Choice Awards^ winner

The award-winning ubank Spend Account will provide you with fee-free banking whether you’re in Australia or overseas. There are  no monthly fees and no charges for overseas or online payments and you can make free purchases and ATM cash withdrawals in Australia ( some ATM operators may charge a fee).  Account features include ubank’s spending insights and bill prediction via the ubank app which can help with spend tracking and keeping you a step ahead. 

These are just some of the winners from the 2024 awards. To see the full list of winners head over to our Mozo Experts Choice Awards page or our hub pages to compare high interest savings accounts , term deposits or bank accounts for your needs.

* Different interest rates apply to different amounts or different interest payment frequencies.

^See information about the Mozo Experts Choice Savings Account Awards

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best travel money card for australia

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Credit Cards

Why I got the Citi Custom Cash Card this year instead of another travel rewards card

Kevin Payne

Julie Sherrier

Julie Sherrier

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Robin Saks Frankel

Robin Saks Frankel

Published 6:27 a.m. UTC March 27, 2024

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Featured Image

megaflopp, Getty Images

Citi is a Blueprint partner. 

I love travel rewards . They have played a pivotal role in our family’s travel plans for over a decade. We’ve redeemed countless points and miles for flights, hotel stays, vacation rentals, Disney World tickets and other travel experiences. 

As a credit card writer, I’ve covered a wide range of cards over the years. While I’ve reviewed and written about dozens of cash-back cards, it wasn’t until this year that I added one to my wallet. I was recently approved for the Citi Custom Cash® Card . Although it’s not the flashiest card, it’s been a godsend this year. 

Here’s why I opted for Citi Custom Cash instead of another travel rewards card. 

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Blueprint receives compensation from our partners for featured offers, which impacts how and where the placement is displayed.

Citi Custom Cash® Card

Welcome bonus.

Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $1500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

Regular APR

Credit score.

Credit Score ranges are based on FICO® credit scoring. This is just one scoring method and a credit card issuer may use another method when considering your application. These are provided as guidelines only and approval is not guaranteed.

Editor’s Take

  • No annual fees.
  • Easy-to-redeem cash-back rewards.
  • Introductory APR period.
  • Charges foreign transaction fees.
  • There’s a balance transfer fee.
  • Limited cash-back reward categories.

Card Details

  • Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou ®  Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
  • 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% – 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
  • Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.
  • No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
  • No Annual Fee
  • Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash® Card account per person.

It comes with an attractive intro APR offer 

The primary reason I decided to get the Citi Custom Cash Card was its intro APR offer. It comes with a 0% intro APR for the first 15 months on purchases and from the date of the first transfer for balance transfers within the first four months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% to 29.24%. There is a balance transfer fee of 5% of each balance transfer with a $5 minimum.

I had no interest in doing a balance transfer and, normally, an intro 0% interest rate wouldn’t matter because I pay my balances on time and in full each month. However, I knew our family had several large financial obligations coming up. Having the option to finance those purchases for up to 15 months without incurring interest charges provided additional flexibility if we needed it. 

Have your eye on a Citi card with a balance transfer offer? Here’s how to do a balance transfer with Citi .

It earns elevated cash-back rewards across a range of eligible categories

While plenty of cash-back cards feature intro APR offers, what drew me to the Citi Custom Cash was its unique bonus rewards structure. Cardholders earn 5% cash back on purchases in a top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent each month and 1% cash back on all other purchases.

These are the 10 eligible spending categories where you can earn 5% cash back, up to the $500 monthly billing cycle maximum:

  • Restaurants.
  • Gas stations.
  • Grocery stores.
  • Select travel.
  • Select transit.
  • Select streaming services.
  • Drugstores.
  • Home improvement stores.
  • Fitness clubs.
  • Live entertainment.

Our monthly budget almost always includes several of these categories, so it’s easy for us to max out our rewards potential every billing cycle. The best part is that I don’t have to activate or opt into these categories or track my rewards. Citi automatically assigns the bonus cash back designation to my top eligible spend category each month. 

It features an easily attainable bonus offer 

Earning welcome bonuses is one of the simplest ways to earn a ton of rewards quickly. Typically, you have to meet a specific spending requirement within a certain time period to earn that bonus. With the Citi Custom Cash Card, you’ll earn $200 cash back, in the form of 20,000 ThankYou points, after spending $1,500 on purchases in the first six months of account opening. 

While that’s not the lowest spending requirement I’ve seen to earn a bonus, I hit the mark in the first month without straying from our typical monthly spending. That’s a nice chunk of cash back in my pocket for purchases our family was going to make anyway.

It has no annual fee

There’s nothing wrong with paying an annual fee, especially if you get enough value from a card’s rewards and benefits to offset the cost. But it’s also nice to have in your wallet a valuable credit card that doesn’t charge an annual fee . 

The Citi Custom Cash doesn’t offer many extra benefits, so it’s hard to say if I would value it as much if it included a yearly fee. 

How I am using Citi Custom Cash as part of my overall credit rewards strategy

So far, I’ve only redeemed rewards earned from Citi Custom Cash as statement credits, but it offers other redemption options, such as cash back via direct deposit or check, gift cards, travel and Shop with Points at Amazon.com. 

Cash back rewards come in the form of ThankYou® points . And, because I already have the Citi Premier® Card * The information for the Citi Premier® Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer. , Citi lets me pool my points together and take advantage of another valuable redemption option—point transfers to Citi’s hotel and airline transfer partners.

Wondering how to use your Citi ThankYou points for travel? Read our complete guide to the ThankYou travel portal .

The Citi Custom Cash offers few additional card benefits beyond its rewards and intro APR offer. But because I have multiple rewards credit cards, I can already access a full suite of perks, like travel and consumer protections, annual credits, partner perks and elite status upgrades. I don’t need those types of benefits from my new cash-back card. 

It’s not a perfect card by any means. The bonus cash back is capped at the first $500 in your top eligible spending category each billing cycle. So far, we’ve maxed out our bonus cash back potential every cycle. The base cash-back rate on all other purchases is low, so I use the Citi Custom Cash for spending in a specific category and rely on other cards with higher rewards rates when spending in other categories. 

The Citi Custom Cash does charge a 3% foreign transaction fee, but since I have several other rewards cards that don’t charge a fee for international purchases, it’s not a dealbreaker.

Final verdict

Cash-back rewards like those earned with the Citi Custom Cash don’t get much love from travel rewards enthusiasts because they’re perceived to offer less value. But regardless of point valuations and the perceived “best” way to earn and redeem rewards, value is in the eye of the beholder. 

Often, it’s better to survey your current circumstances to see if there might be a credit card that fits your needs better than those generally regarded as the best rewards cards. By adding the Citi Custom Cash to my wallet, I have a more diverse card selection to choose from without having to pay another annual fee. 

Read more: How to choose the right credit card for you .

*The information for the Citi Premier® Card has been collected independently by Blueprint. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Kevin Payne

Kevin Payne is a personal finance and travel writer who covers credit cards, banking, and other personal finance topics. In addition to Forbes, his work has been featured by Bankrate, Fox Business, Slick Deals, and more. He is the budgeting and family travel enthusiast behind Family Money Adventure. Kevin lives in Cleveland, Ohio with his wife and four kids.

Julie Stephen Sherrier is a personal finance writer and editor based in Austin, TX. She is the former senior managing editor for LendingTree, responsible for all credit card and credit health content. Before joining LendingTree, Julie spent more than a decade as the managing editor and then editorial director at Bankrate and CreditCards.com. She also served as an adjunct journalism instructor at the University of Texas at Austin.

Robin Saks Frankel is a credit cards lead editor at USA TODAY Blueprint. Previously, she was a credit cards and personal finance deputy editor for Forbes Advisor. She has also covered credit cards and related content for other national web publications including NerdWallet, Bankrate and HerMoney. She's been featured as a personal finance expert in outlets including CNBC, Business Insider, CBS Marketplace, NASDAQ's Trade Talks and has appeared on or contributed to The New York Times, Fox News, CBS Radio, ABC Radio, NPR, International Business Times and NBC, ABC and CBS TV affiliates nationwide. She holds an M.S. in Business and Economics Journalism from Boston University. Follow her on Twitter at @robinsaks.

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best travel money card for australia

Best rewards credit cards where you can use points toward things like travel, cash back

If you are going to be spending money anyway, you might as well earn some points when you swipe. 

There are several different types of rewards credit cards you can apply for. When thinking about the best one for you, look into your spending habits and pinpoint where the majority of your money is going. Then try to find a credit card that offers high rewards matching your spending.

You'll also want to think about what is most important to you. Is it a necessity that the credit card you possess has no annual fee? Maybe you don't care about the annual fee as long as the benefits outweigh that cost.

THE 4 BEST CREDIT CARDS WITH NO ANNUAL FEE

Many rewards credit cards operate on a points system. As a baseline, each dollar you spend will earn you at least one point. Then, depending on the card you have, you can exchange your points for things like cash back and travel experiences . In general, with rewards cards, you'll get the most bang for your buck if you use your points towards travel. 

Below are five popular rewards credit cards you can apply for today. 

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  • Chase Freedom Unlimited
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve
  • Capital One Venture
  • American Express Gold
  • Bilt Mastercard

The Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card is great for beginners to earn rewards. The rewards with this card are very simple, and it's easy to trade in your points for a variety of rewards. 

The first plus to this card is that there is no annual fee, but it still offers a generous welcome bonus of $200 if you spend $500 on purchases in the first three months of opening the account.

CREDIT CARD LATE FEES CAPPED AT $8 UNDER NEW BIDEN ADMIN RULE

This credit card also offers 0% APR for the first 15 months of opening the card. Once those 15 months pass, there is a 20.49%-29.24% APR on this card. 

With this card, you'll earn 5% back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% back on drugstore purchases, 3% on dining and 1.5% back on all other purchases. 

The points you gather do not expire and there are no minimum points you need to obtain before cashing them in.

If you don't want cash back, no problem. You have plenty of other options at your disposal. You can book travel arrangements with your points, redeem gift cards at your favorite stores and restaurants or even pay for your Amazon purchase with your points .

The Chase Sapphire Reserve card is a big step up from the Freedom card. This card is ideal for the luxury traveler. 

This card comes with a hefty annual fee of $550, but it may be worth it if you travel often and can fully take advantage of all the benefits it offers. 

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With this card, you can earn up to a $300 travel credit each year that can be used toward travel-related purchases. 

A huge perk of this card is the access it grants to luxurious airport lounges . If you are a frequent flyer, having access to these lounges can really elevate your travel experience. 

This card also comes loaded with travel insurance and will reimburse you for TSA PreCheck/Global Entry/NEXUS up to $100 every four years. 

With this card, you'll earn 3x points on dining and travel purchases, 10x points on hotels and car rentals and 5x points on flights. All of these rates will kick in once $300 is spent on travel each year. 

3 TYPES OF CREDIT CARD REWARDS: HOW THEY WORK AND HOW TO USE THEM

The best way to use the points you earn on this card is on travel-related purchases. 

The Capital One Venture card comes with a $95 annual fee. The current welcome bonus for this card is 75,000 bonus miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of opening the account. 

Even though you'll earn miles with this credit card, it doesn't necessarily mean you have to use your miles for travel. 

Capital One miles work the same way as points do for other credit cards. Miles can be exchanged for travel when booked through Capital One Travel, but they don't have to be. 

Miles can also be used for exclusive event tickets through Capital One Entertainment or redeemed for cash or gift cards. You can gift your miles to another that has a Venture card. 

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With this card, you'll earn two miles per dollar on every purchase you make and five miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. You'll also earn up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck. 

In terms of Capital One's rewards cards, this one falls somewhat in the middle. If you want a card with no annual fee, you could go with VentureOne Rewards. 

If you want even more benefits wrapped up in your card, you can apply for the Venture X card. This card has a $395 annual fee. You'll receive a $300 annual Capital One Travel credit, TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit and access for you and two guests to over 1,300 airport lounges. 

If you love dining out , the American Express Gold card is one to consider. 

This card has a $250 annual fee. You'll earn 4x times points at restaurants, 4x points on grocery store purchases, 3x points for flights booked through Amex Travel and 1x points on all other eligible purchases. 

With this card, you'll also earn up to $120 in Uber Cash annually. 

The Bilt Mastercard was launched in 2021 and is ideal for renters. 

This credit card is extremely unique in the sense that you can pay rent and earn points with the card, with no transaction fees.

With this card, you'll earn 3x on dining, 2x on travel and 1x on other purchases, including rent payments. For purchases made on the first of each month, you'll earn 6x on dining, 4x on travel and 2x on other purchases, excluding rent. 

Your points can be used in a multitude of ways. You can redeem them for travel through the Bilt Travel Portal or even for workout classes. 

You can also use your points toward a rent payment, shopping on Amazon or even toward a down payment on a home. 

Original article source: Best rewards credit cards where you can use points toward things like travel, cash back

There are so many options for credit cards out there, making it difficult to narrow down which one is best for you. Rewards cards are a great way to earn points for the money that you spend. Matt Cardy

  • What’s the offer from PlayStation Visa Credit Card?

Additional benefits of the PlayStation Visa

Explore other credit cards that earn rewards on gaming purchases, want playstation plus premium for free you can with this credit card.

Score 12 months of the premium service for free and earn 5x points on PlayStation purchases with this credit card.

Tiffany Connors

Tiffany Connors

Tiffany Wendeln Connors is a senior editor for CNET Money with a focus on credit cards. Previously, she covered personal finance topics as a writer and editor at The Penny Hoarder. She is passionate about helping people make the best money decisions for themselves and their families. She graduated from Bowling Green State University with a bachelor's degree in journalism and has been a writer and editor for publications including the New York Post, Women's Running magazine and Soap Opera Digest. When she isn't working, you can find her enjoying life in St. Petersburg, Florida, with her husband, daughter and a very needy dog.

Courtney Johnston

Senior Editor

Courtney Johnston is a senior editor leading the CNET Money team. Passionate about financial literacy and inclusion, she has a decade of experience as a freelance journalist covering policy, financial news, real estate and investing. A New Jersey native, she graduated with an M.A. in English Literature and Professional Writing from the University of Indianapolis, where she also worked as a graduate writing instructor.

The editorial content on this page is based solely on objective, independent assessments by our writers and is not influenced by advertising or partnerships. It has not been provided or commissioned by any third party. However, we may receive compensation when you click on links to products or services offered by our partners.

Listen up, PlayStation fans. Gamers can now score a subscription to the top-level PlayStation Plus Premium service with a new offer from the PlayStation® Visa® Credit Card*.

New cardholders can get a 12-month subscription to the premium service free for 12-months when they make $600 in qualifying purchases within 60 days of account opening. If you’re a Sony PlayStation enthusiast, the credit card is worth worth checking out since it also lets you earn bonus points that you can redeem for games and gear.

Here’s how you can level up your credit card game.

PlayStation® Card

PlayStation® Card

What’s the offer from playstation visa credit card.

By spending $600 within 60 days of account opening, new PlayStation Visa Credit Card holders can receive a code they can redeem for a 12-month PlayStation Plus Premium subscription.

PlayStation has three subscription levels within Plus: Essential, Extra and Premium. For fans of the classic PlayStation games, the Plus Premium subscription offers the most options with PlayStation 1, PS2, PS3 and PSP games available among the 700 games in its catalog.

The announcement notes that if you’re already a subscriber at any level, you can either upgrade or claim the year of Premium by redeeming the code when your current subscription ends. If you were considering getting the Premium anyway, using this credit card offer could save you $160 on the annual subscription , so long as the card’s spending requirements fall within your regular budget. 

The Premium subscription offer is only available in the continental US, Alaska and Hawaii, and it ends Sept. 15, 2024.

In addition to this welcome offer, the PlayStation Visa lets cardholders earn points for purchases with their credit card, which can be redeemed for games, movies and electronics.

The earning rate is competitive with other co-branded credit cards . Here’s the PlayStation Visa points tier:

  • 5x for purchases of PlayStation and Sony products at authorized retailers.
  • 3x for cable and internet bill payments.
  • 2x on restaurants, including takeout and delivery services.
  • 1x on other qualifying purchases.

There’s no annual fee with this card, but if you’re a casual gamer or aren’t brand loyal to PlayStation, there are plenty of great rewards credit cards that earn cash back and points on purchases you make regularly. 

While the PlayStation Visa is best for those dedicated for PlayStation gaming, the Prime Visa lets you earn 5% cash back on Amazon.com purchases, making it ideal if you buy gaming supplies from the e-commerce giant. Or, you might consider the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card cards for better general rewards in the category of your choosing to help you earn more money back on each gaming purchase and even your internet or streaming bills. Here’s how they compare:

Prime Visa

Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card

Recommended articles, this new travel credit card could dethrone the chase sapphire preferred, capital one is cutting lounge access for venture rewards and spark miles cardholders, 5 common questions people ask me as a credit card editor, as a credit card expert, i use this southwest perk to get nearly free flights for companions, 8 best credit card strategies to maximize earnings in 2024, 6 reasons the chase sapphire preferred should be your next credit card.

*All information about the PlayStation Visa Credit Card, Prime Visa Card and the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card has been collected independently by CNET and has not been reviewed by the issuer.

CNET editors independently choose every product and service we cover. Though we can’t review every available financial company or offer, we strive to make comprehensive, rigorous comparisons in order to highlight the best of them. For many of these products and services, we earn a commission. The compensation we receive may impact how products and links appear on our site.

IMAGES

  1. Best Travel Card For Australian Travelers

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  2. The Best Travel Debit Cards for Australians

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  3. Reviews & compared: the best travel money cards in Australia

    best travel money card for australia

  4. How to Compare Best Travel Cards in Australia

    best travel money card for australia

  5. Credit cards for Australian travellers

    best travel money card for australia

  6. Best Travel Card For Australian Travelers

    best travel money card for australia

VIDEO

  1. As a Travel Blogger for 16 years, I use one of the best credit cards in India to travel FOR FREE

  2. How to recharge T Money card in korea || Recharge transportation card in korea

COMMENTS

  1. Travel Money Cards: Best prepaid options for Australians

    CommBank Travel Money Card: +61 2 9999 3283; Cash Passport Platinum Mastercard: +44 207 649 9404; Qantas Travel Money Card: +61 1300 825 302; Travelex Money Card: 1800 303 297; Revolut: +61 1300 ...

  2. Compare Travel Money Cards Australia

    Canstar considers travel money cards from a range of providers. Our expert researchers use a sophisticated methodology to rank travel money cards based on their fees and features. We give the top-performing cards a 5-Star Rating. Some of the factors Canstar considers are:

  3. 7 of the Best Travel Money Cards in 2024

    Wise Travel Card. Cross currency conversion fees are between 0.24-3.69%. AUD to USD, EUR or GBP was 0.42%, which is one of the lowest on the market. Free cash withdrawals up to $350 every 30 days. However after that, Wise charge a fixed fee of $1.50 per transaction + 1.75%. Daily ATM withdrawal is $2,700.

  4. Reviews & compared: the best travel money cards in Australia

    Travellers are increasingly warming to prepaid travel money cards as the next best thing to carrying cash. Travel money cards such as the well-known Travelex Cash Passport and the relatively new American Express Global Travel Card combine the convenience of credit cards with the simplicity of cash exchange. When you buy a travel money card you also buy a certain amount of foreign currency ...

  5. Travel money cards with the lowest fees

    Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard. Available online or at post offices. Currencies: AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, AED. Fees: 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.

  6. Best Travel Cards in Australia in 2023 For Overseas Travel

    Revolut — Best all-round travel card in Australia. 02. Wise — Best for number of currencies and foreign account details. 03. Considering going through your bank. 04. Compare the best travel cards in Australia. 05. Tips to save money when travelling overseas.

  7. The best travel money cards for Australian travellers

    Revolut offers virtual and physical Visa cards, support for over 30 currencies and other travel perks - plus 3-month Premium trial with this offer. Use finder's interactive world map to learn ...

  8. 2022 Travel Money Card Star Ratings & Awards

    2022 Canstar travel money card winner: Revolut - Standard account. Revolut is a winner in Canstar's 2022 Travel Money Card Star Ratings and Awards. Revolut has been recognised in the awards for its Standard account, which can be opened in minutes online and enables exchanging money in more than 27 currencies at the interbank exchange rate.

  9. List: The Best to Worst Travel Cards in Australia

    Suncorp Cash Passport. A$253.80. 12. Mastercard Cash Passport & Bendigo Bank Prepaid Cash Passport. A$260.30. 13. Westpac Global Currency Card. A$280.00. Taking the average Australian's three week holiday budget of A$4,679, we calculated how much it costs to use a travel card.

  10. Best Travel Cards for Australians Heading Overseas in 2024

    The Citibank Plus Everyday Account - bank debit card. With this card you can: withdraw money for free at over 3000 ATMs Australia-wide and overseas. take advantage of no foreign transaction fees, monthly fees, or minimum opening balance. transfer money to friends and family anywhere in the world for free.

  11. 6 Best Travel Money Cards for Australia 2024

    Wise - our pick for travel debit card for Australia. Wise accounts can hold and exchange 40+ currencies, and you can get a linked Wise card for a one time delivery fee. Top up your account in GBP and switch to AUD before you travel. All currency conversion uses the mid-market exchange rate, with low fees from 0.41%.

  12. Travel money Australia 2024: How to pay & how much to bring

    Travel rewards with no annual fee. Go to site Terms apply, see rates & fees. 20,000 miles (equal to $200 in travel) after spending $500 in the first 3 months. Earn unlimited 1.25x miles on all purchases. Low intro rates on purchases and balance transfers.

  13. The 6 Best Prepaid Travel Cards for Australians 2024

    Here is a list of the 6 best prepaid cards you can take with you on your travels and the positives and negatives for each one: Wise - our pick for prepaid cards. Revolut - low fees. Citibank - good for use at home. Travelex - no fees for ATM withdrawals. Australia Post - lock in exchange rates. HSBC - no international transaction fees.

  14. The Best Travel Debit Cards for Australians

    Commbank Travel Card. Believe it or not, the Commbank Travel Card (also known as the Commbank Travel Money Card) is still one of Australia's most used travel debit cards. The reason for its popularity is that Commbank is one of the biggest banks in Australia and many people do not bother researching better options.

  15. 9 "Best" Travel Card for Australians in 2024 (+ Pros & Cons)

    On the app, you can freeze and unfreeze your card whenever you want, generate digital cards and get notifications for all your transitions to keep in control of your spending. 5. Revolut Travel Money Card: Low Fee Travel Debit Card. Exchange rates: Competitive rates. International transaction fees: None.

  16. Best Travel Money Card for Australia

    Pre-paid travel money cards for Australia. With the Caxton FX Currency Mastercard you can pre-load your travel money and spend it in 15 currencies, including Norwegian Krone, South African rand and Swiss franc. There are no extra costs for ATM withdrawals or purchases, but a minimum of £50 or £100 needs to be loaded if using your mobile to ...

  17. Best Travel Money Card For Australians

    In the age of global connectivity, the Australian spirit of adventure has never been more alive. With passports in hand and itineraries planned, Aussies are jet-setting across the globe, seeking new experiences and cultures. ... The criteria for evaluating the best travel money card were clear: low fees, competitive exchange rates, ease of use ...

  18. Best Travel Money Cards & Currency Exchanges

    The 19 best Travel Money Cards & Currency Exchanges in 2024 ranked based on 3,936 reviews - Find consumer reviews on ProductReview.com.au, Australia's No.1 Opinion Site.

  19. Travel Money Card

    Load more, save more with the Travelex Money Card. We're offering a range of discount codes when you load foreign currency on the Travelex Money Card. Load more and save up to AUD $240! View all available discounts here. Available online, in-store, or via the Travelex Money App. Ends 28 April at 11.59pm AEST.

  20. The Five Best Travel Credit Cards for 2024

    Annual fee: $695. The quick sell: Even with patchy acceptance of Amex cards abroad, the Platinum card continues to reign supreme for its excellent airport lounge access and instant VIP status at ...

  21. Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards Of March 2024

    United isn't the only airline with a no-annual-fee card, but it's the best no-annual-fee airline offering. The United Gateway℠ Card provides a few valuable benefits when a cardholder flies ...

  22. The Best Prepaid SIM Cards in Australia in 2024

    Telstra offers prepaid SIM cards for $12 AUD for 3 GB data, $35 AUD for 35 GB, and $45 AUD for 45 GB, all with unlimited calls/SMS and international calls for 28 days. 2. Optus. Optus, available in stores across Australia, offers both physical and e-SIM cards for tourists, featuring 3 standard tourist plans geared towards visitors.

  23. How a Travel Credit Card Can Be Your Ticket to Big Savings

    This is one way that Doug Figueroa, a content creator at the YouTube channel Zorito y Doug, makes up the cost of the $150 annual fee on an airline credit card. "The savings are $70 round trip ...

  24. 5 Habits of Savvy Travel Card Users

    I'll share a few habits savvy travel credit card users have to help you get the most from your travel credit card. 1. They only charge what they can afford to pay off. Carrying a balance on your ...

  25. Australia's Best Savings, Term Deposits and Bank Accounts Unveiled

    RABOBANK TERM DEPOSIT. 4.85% p.a. on a 6 month term. 4.75% p.a. on a 1 year term. $1,000 minimum investment. Go to site. Rabobank was once again awarded a Mozo Experts Choice Award for Australia's Best Term Deposits in 2024^. It offers a choice of investment terms from 6 months up to 5 years and the interest rates vary depending on the ...

  26. Why I got the Citi Custom Cash Card this year instead of another travel

    With the Citi Custom Cash Card, you'll earn $200 cash back, in the form of 20,000 ThankYou points, after spending $1,500 on purchases in the first six months of account opening. While that's ...

  27. The best credit cards with airport lounge access in March 2024

    Keep in mind that Delta cut some lounge benefits last year and increased the Delta Reserve card's annual fee to $650 (from $550) in early 2024. Beginning Feb. 1, 2025, Reserve card holders will ...

  28. Best rewards credit cards where you can use points toward things ...

    The best way to use the points you earn on this card is on travel-related purchases. The Capital One Venture card comes with a $95 annual fee. The current welcome bonus for this card is 75,000 ...

  29. This New Travel Credit Card Could Dethrone The Chase Sapphire Preferred

    Intro Offer. 60,000 bonus points. Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate ...

  30. Want PlayStation Plus Premium for Free? You Can With This Credit Card

    Score 12 months of the premium service for free and earn 5x points on PlayStation purchases with this credit card. Tiffany Wendeln Connors is a senior editor for CNET Money with a focus on credit ...