Choosing between travel cards can be overwhelming. Exchange rates, ATM fees, foreign transaction fees and hidden charges can be confusing – and all add up fast. Our 2026guide compares the top options out there to help you find the best travel card for overseas spending based on where you’re going and how you travel. Use our international travel card comparison to see which travel cards offer the lowest costs, strongest features and best value abroad.
Quick summary: Best travel cards for overseas spending
Which card is best for international travel? Ultimately, the best card to use overseas will depend a lot on your preferences, travel style and where you’re heading off to.
Here’s a quick peek at the cards we’ll look at in this travel card comparison, and what’s great about them:
- Wise travel card: mid-market exchange rates, with 40+ supported currencies and low conversion fees
- Revolut travel card: different account plan options which suit individual spending habits, with some no fee transactions included
- Travelex travel card: 10 supported currencies, with option to pick up in store if you’re in a hurry
- 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard: reward earning credit card option with no foreign transaction fee to pay
In this guide we have reviewed cards based on their availability, fees, convenience and safety, looking at popular providers in Australia.
Compare travel cards side-by-side
| Card | Best for | FX fee | ATM fee | Currencies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | Frequent travellers; best for transparent conversion rates | Low conversion fee (varies by currency, uses mid-market exchange rate) | Withdraw up to A$400 with no Wise fee, then 2.69%* | 40+ held currencies, spend in 150+ countries |
| Revolut | App-first travellers who manage limits and exchange timing | 0% within plan limits, but weekend surcharge (up to ~1%) and fair-usage fees can apply | Free up to plan limit (~A$350 / 5 withdrawals on Standard), then 2% | 25+ held currencies, spend in 150+ countries |
| Travelex Money Card | People who want to preload and lock exchange rates before travel | No explicit FX fee, but exchange rate includes a markup | Typically ATM fees apply depending on region/currency | 10 held currencies |
| 28° Global Platinum Mastercard | Travellers who mainly pay by card and want 0% foreign transaction fees | 0% international transaction fee | Not ideal for cash withdrawals – treated as cash advances (fee + interest) | No stored currencies – uses Mastercard exchange rate |
*Wise will not charge you for these withdrawals, but some additional charges may occur from independent ATM networks
**Details correct at time of research – 28th May 2026
How do we rank international travel cards? We compare travel cards across the factors that matter most for international spending and travel convenience:
- Foreign exchange (FX) costs – Exchange rates, conversion fees, and markups.
- ATM withdrawal costs – Fees charged by the provider and free withdrawal allowances.
- Supported currencies & coverage – Number of currencies you can hold and countries where the card can be used.
- Ease of use – App experience, card management, top-ups, and customer support.
- Travel features – Security controls, virtual cards, insurance, and spending insights.
- Overall value – Total cost and flexibility for typical traveller scenarios.
How to choose the best travel card in Australia
The best travel card for Australians depends on your travel style, destination and how you prefer to spend money overseas. While some travellers prioritise low fees, others value flexibility, mobile apps or the ability to lock in exchange rates before they fly.
Before you move on to our travel money cards reviews, it helps to focus on these key features:
| Feature | What to look for |
|---|---|
| 💱 Exchange Rates | Look for low exchange rate markups, and transparent conversion fees. Some travel money cards in Australia allow you to lock in rates before travelling, while others use live exchange rates when you spend. |
| 💳 Foreign Transaction Fees | Some prepaid overseas travel cards and debit cards charge international transaction fees on purchases and ATM withdrawals. Choosing a card with low or no foreign transaction fees can help reduce overseas spending costs. |
| 🏧 ATM Withdrawal Costs | Compare overseas ATM withdrawal fees, monthly free withdrawal limits and foreign ATM operator charges. Some of the best overseas debit card options offer free or low-cost international ATM access. |
| 📱 Mobile App Features | Many modern travel cards now include app features such as instant card freezing, real-time spending alerts, Apple Pay and Google Pay support, currency transfers and exchange rate tracking. |
| 🌍 Supported Currencies | Traditional prepaid travel cards often support a fixed range of currencies, while multi-currency debit cards may allow you to hold and spend dozens of currencies from one account. |
| ⚖️ Prepaid vs Debit Card Functionality | Prepaid travel cards can help with budgeting and locking in exchange rates, while travel debit cards usually provide more flexibility and access to live exchange rates when spending overseas. |
| 🆘 Emergency Support Overseas | Some providers and apps offer emergency card replacement, virtual cards, backup travel cards, emergency cash assistance and 24/7 global support if your card is lost or stolen overseas. |
Let’s dive into the details of our overseas travel card reviews. Here we’ll explore the top travel cards we’ve picked for Australians heading off on their next adventure.
Wise is our pick for travel debit card
For Australian travellers, the Wise travel card stands out because it combines everyday card spending with international money transfer capabilities in one account. You can hold multiple currencies, receive payments in supported currencies, and spend abroad without needing separate travel money products.
Pros
- Simple online setup with fast account opening
- Linked multi-currency account to hold and manage foreign currencies
- Receive payments in supported foreign currencies
- Send money directly to overseas bank accounts
- Uses the mid-market exchange rate with no exchange rate markup
- Spend and withdraw in 150+ countries
- No annual fee or minimum balance requirement
- 24/7 customer support with in-app chat available
Cons
- Card delivery can take 7–14 business days
- ATM withdrawal limits apply before fees kick in
- Additional cash withdrawal fees can add up for frequent ATM users
- Currency conversion fees still apply when converting balances
Wise card fees
| Fee type | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual fee | No annual fee |
| Card issuance | One-off card fee may apply |
| Foreign transaction fees | No hidden foreign transaction fee |
| Exchange rate | Mid-market exchange rate + transparent conversion fee |
| ATM withdrawals | Withdraw up to A$400 with no Wise fee, then 2.69%* |
| Minimum balance | None |
*Wise will not charge you for these withdrawals, but some additional charges may occur from independent ATM networks
Fees and limits may change over time and should be verified before applying.
Who is the Wise Travel Card for?
The Wise Travel Card is best suited for:
- Frequent travellers visiting multiple countries in one trip
- Digital nomads and remote workers receiving payments internationally
- Students or expats managing spending across currencies
- Travellers who prefer debit over credit and want more control over spending
- People who withdraw cash occasionally rather than heavily relying on ATMs
“It may be less suitable if you expect to make frequent ATM withdrawals or want premium travel perks like lounge access or complimentary insurance.” Wise card user review
“Your essential travel companion. The best way to shift money quickly and easily when travelling. It’s so user friendly, with inexpensive fees and swiftly transfers money in a moment. We’ve not had any issues with using the card at ATMs or shops in numerous countries. We wouldn’t travel without it!” Trustpilot review, May 2026
Revolut – multi-currency travel card
For Australian travellers, Revolut appeals to people who want a flexible app-based experience with international spending features and optional premium upgrades. Depending on the plan, users may benefit from no fee currency exchange within limits and access to additional travel features.
Pros
- Free account option available with no setup fee
- Easy-to-use app with strong spending controls
- Multiple account tiers depending on travel needs
- Hold and receive supported foreign currencies
- Transfer money directly to overseas bank accounts
- Some no fee currency exchange included across all plans
- Virtual card and in-app card management available
Cons
- Weekend currency conversion markups may apply
- Fair usage limits apply to some exchange allowances
- 2% ATM withdrawal fee once you exceed your monthly plan allowance
- Premium plans can become expensive if not used regularly
- Physical card delivery can come with higher fees if you’re in a hurry
- Subscription fees apply on Plus, Premium and Metal plans
Fee type Details Annual fee None 0 AUD – 28.99 AUD Standard plan has no ongoing fees Foreign transaction fees No foreign transaction fee for supported spending Exchange rate Revolut exchange rate within limits; additional fees may apply outside limits or on weekends ATM withdrawals Monthly allowance based on plan, then 2% fee applies Minimum balance None Card delivery Delivery fee may apply depending on plan
Fees, limits and inclusions vary by account type and may change over time.
Who is the Revolut Travel Card for?
The Revolut Travel Card is best suited for:
- Frequent travellers who want one account for spending and transfers
- App-first users who like managing money digitally
- Travellers who mostly pay by card instead of withdrawing cash
- People who benefit from premium travel perks and additional plan features
- Users comfortable staying within monthly exchange and ATM limits
It may be less suitable if you want a completely free long-term travel card or regularly convert currency on weekends.
Revolut card user review
I’ve been using Revolut for travel and everyday spending and found the app extremely easy to use. Currency exchange and payments abroad were straightforward and being able to manage everything in one place made travelling easier.”
— Public customer review, Trustpilot
Travelex Money Card
The Travelex Money Card is a prepaid international travel card designed for travellers who want to preload foreign currency before departure and lock in exchange rates in advance. Unlike debit or credit cards linked to a bank account, the Travelex Money Card works on a prepaid model – you load money onto the card, convert it into supported currencies, and spend while travelling.
Pros
- No overseas ATM withdrawal fee charged by Travelex
- Access to Travelex exchange rates when loading currencies
- Can be ordered online or purchased in store
- Delivery and collection options available
- Supports up to 10 currencies, including AUD, USD, EUR, GBP and NZD
- Compatible with digital wallets such as Apple Pay
- Free replacement card available
- 24/7 global customer support
Cons
- Supports fewer currencies than multi-currency competitors
- Exchange rates may include a currency conversion markup
- Requires an initial load amount (typically AUD $100–$350)
- Inactivity fee may apply after 12 months without use
- Prepaid structure offers less flexibility than account-based travel cards
Travelex Money Card Fees
| Fee type | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual fee | None |
| Setup fee | No setup fee |
| Foreign transaction fees | Included through prepaid exchange process |
| Exchange rate | Travelex exchange rate may include a markup |
| ATM withdrawals | $0 overseas ATM withdrawal fee charged by Travelex |
| Initial load | Minimum initial load applies (typically AUD $100–$350) |
| Inactivity fee | Applies after 12 months of inactivity |
| Replacement card | Free replacement available |
Who is the Travelex Money Card for?
The Travelex Money Card is best suited for:
- Holiday travellers who want to preload spending money before departure
- People who prefer to set and manage a fixed travel budget
- Travellers who expect to withdraw cash overseas
- Users who want a familiar prepaid travel product with in-store support
- Travellers who like the idea of exchanging currency before they travel
It may be less suitable for frequent travellers, digital nomads, or people managing multiple currencies regularly, as other travel cards tend to offer broader currency support and more flexible exchange features.
Travelex card user review
Very easy to use overseas and convenient having multiple currencies loaded before travelling. It helped with budgeting and meant I didn’t need to carry as much cash.” _Public customer review
28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard Review
The 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard is a travel-focused credit card designed for Australians who want to spend overseas without paying foreign transaction fees. Unlike prepaid travel cards or multi-currency debit cards, the 28 Degrees card works as a traditional credit card — purchases are converted using the Mastercard exchange rate rather than requiring users to preload currencies
Pros
- No annual fee in year one*
- No overseas purchase fee
- No foreign transaction fee or currency conversion fee
- Up to 55 days interest free on purchases (subject to conditions)
- Complimentary 24/7 concierge service
- Emergency card replacement available worldwide
- Additional cardholders at no extra cost
- Includes extra card benefits such as shoppers and repayment cover
Cons
- AUD $96 annual fee applies after year one
- High purchase interest rates apply if balances are not paid in full
- Credit approval and checks required
- Cash withdrawals are generally less attractive than card purchases due to cash advance conditions
- Not suitable for travellers who prefer spending only their own funds
28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard fees
| Fee type | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual fee | $0 in year one* |
| Ongoing annual fee | AUD $96 after year one |
| Foreign transaction fee | $0 |
| Overseas purchase fee | $0 |
| Currency conversion fee | $0 |
| Interest-free period | Up to 55 days on purchases |
| Additional cardholders | No additional cardholder fee |
| Replacement card | Free emergency replacement available |
Eligibility criteria and terms apply.
Who is the 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard for?
The 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard is best suited for:
- Travellers who mostly pay by card instead of withdrawing cash
- Australians looking to avoid foreign transaction fees overseas
- People who pay off their credit card balance in full each month
- Travellers who value credit card protections and concierge services
- Users who want access to emergency card replacement while travelling
It may be less suitable for people who carry balances month to month, rely heavily on cash withdrawals, or want a prepaid budgeting approach.
28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard real user review
“Used this card extensively overseas and never had issues paying internationally. The lack of foreign transaction fees made it noticeably cheaper than using my regular credit card.”— Public customer review
Travel cards vs debit cards vs credit cards
Choosing between a prepaid travel card, travel debit card or credit card can make a big difference to your overseas spending costs. Each option has different fees, exchange rates, security features and benefits depending on how you travel.
If you’re trying to compare international travel cards in Australia, here’s what you need to know before your next trip.
| Option | Best for | Pros | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Travel card | Multi-country trips, budgeting, locking in spending | Hold multiple currencies, easier to manage travel spending, dedicated travel features | Some providers charge ATM, conversion, or inactivity fees |
| Debit card | Everyday overseas spending | Access your own money directly, simple setup, often lower fees than credit cards | Foreign transaction and ATM fees can still apply |
| Credit card for travel | Frequent travellers, rewards, larger purchases | Travel perks, purchase protection, rewards points | Interest charges and overseas fees if not managed carefully |
| Cash | Small purchases, markets, backup spending | Accepted almost everywhere and useful as emergency backup | Exchange costs, security risk, harder to track spending |
Which option should you choose?
- Choose a travel card if you want to manage multiple currencies and separate travel spending from your everyday account.
- Choose a debit card if you want convenience and direct access to your money.
- Choose a credit card if you value rewards, travel benefits, and extra purchase protection.
- Carry some cash for flexibility — especially in destinations where card acceptance may vary.
Tip: Most travellers don’t rely on one payment method alone. A combination of a travel card, a backup debit or credit card, and a small amount of local cash usually offers the most flexibility overseas.
Credit cards can offer convenience, rewards points and travel perks when spending overseas.
Some travel-focused credit cards include:
- Frequent flyer points
- Complimentary travel insurance
- Airport lounge access
- Purchase protection
- No international transaction fees
For travellers who pay off their balance in full each month, credit cards can be one of the most rewarding ways to spend overseas.
Bank travel card options
Not found what you wanted in our travel money cards reviews? Check this additional travel card comparison table for fees and features for different travel debit and credit cards available for Australians travelling overseas.
| Debit cards | Monthly Account fee | International ATM fee | International point-of-sale fee | Currency conversion fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ING Orange Everyday Visa | $0 | $0 | 3.0%* | 3.0%* |
| NAB Classic Banking Visa | $0 | $5 | 3.5% | 3.5% |
| ANZ Access Advantage Visa | $5 | $5 | 3.0% | 3.0% |
| Credit cards | Annual fee | Currency conversion fee | Travel insurance | Cash advance costs |
| Bankwest Zero ClassicMastercard | $0 | 2.95% | No | 3% of transaction amount or $4 (whichever is greater) |
| 28 Degrees by Latitude Mastercard | $96 | 0% | No | 3.5% of the cash advance or $4 (whichever is greater). |
| CommBank Low Rate Credit Card Mastercard | $72 | 3.5% | No | 3% of transaction amount or $4 (whichever is greater) |
| Travel money card | Purchase fee | Reload fee | ATM fee | Currency conversion fee |
| Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard | $0 | 1.1% when loading AUD in-store; no fee online | $3.50 or equivalent when abroad, 2.95% domestic | 0% (Spend rate applies, which may include a markup) |
| Travelex Money Card | $0 | $0 online and in store – 1% for BPAY | $0 | 0% (Spend rate applies, which may include a markup) |
| Qantas Travel Money | $0 | $0 | $1.95 or equivalent | 0% (Spend rate applies, which may include a markup) |
** Monthly fee waived for eligible customers. Data collected on 28th May 2026.
Common mistakes Australians make with travel cards
Many Australians choose travel cards based on brand familiarity instead of total cost – overlooking:
- exchange rate markups
- ATM withdrawal fees
- inactivity charges
- overseas transaction costs
Others rely on a single card while travelling or assume all travel cards work the same overseas. It’s also common to choose a card without checking supported currencies, withdrawal limits or whether it’s widely accepted at your destination.
Understanding these common mistakes can help you compare options properly and choose a card that actually saves money.
Which option is best for your trip? ⚖️
The best travel card for Australians depends on your travel habits, destination and spending style.
| Travel Style | Best Option | Card option |
|---|---|---|
| Want to lock in exchange rates | 💳 Prepaid travel card | Travelex Money Card |
| Want low fees and flexibility | 🏦 Travel debit card | Wise Travel Card |
| Want rewards and travel perks | ✈️ Credit card | 28 Degrees Platinum Mastercard |
| Travelling across multiple countries | 🌍 Multi-currency debit card | Wise Travel Card |
| Prefer strict budgeting | 💰 Prepaid travel card | Revolut Card |
| Want fee-free overseas spending | 💳 No foreign transaction fee debit card | Wise Travel Card |
For many travellers, the best approach is using a combination of cards while overseas. For example, you might use a travel debit card for everyday spending, a credit card for flights and hotel bookings, and a backup prepaid travel card for emergencies.
Find the best travel card for your travel style
Not all overseas travel cards work the same way. The right option depends on where you’re going, how often you travel, and how you spend overseas.
Here’s a summary of the best travel cards compared for Australians based on destination and trip type:
🇪🇺 Best for Europe
Choose a card that supports multiple currencies, low conversion fees, and flexible ATM access for multi-country trips.
🇺🇸 Best for the USA
Prioritise low international transaction fees, strong card acceptance, and mobile wallet compatibility.
👨👩👧 Best for families
Look for easy budgeting, real-time spending tracking, and simple account management across multiple travellers.
🎓 Best for students
Focus on low fees, easy top-ups, and good ATM access for longer stays or exchange programs.
✈️ Best for frequent travellers
Choose a card that offers consistent exchange rates, convenience, and easy reuse across multiple trips.
💻 Best for digital nomads
Look for multi-currency flexibility, simple transfers, and strong mobile account management.
Tip: Compare travel cards based on your destination, spending habits, and trip length – not just exchange rates.
Conclusion – Which is the best travel card for overseas?
There’s no single best travel money card – which works best for you will depend on your personal preferences and where you’re heading.
Using a multi-currency debit card which supports a large range of currencies can keep your costs low and allow you to skip foreign transaction fees. Plus you’ll be able to use your card for online shopping in foreign currencies, or for your next trip abroad, with no ongoing fees to worry about.
Prepaid travel money cards are safe and easy to use, and you can often pick one up instantly if you’re in a hurry. You’ll be able to add travel money before you leave or top up as you travel, although it’s worth converting to the currency you need in advance, and looking for a card with mid-market exchange rates to avoid extra costs.
Generally using a credit card will come with the highest overall fees – but you’ll be able to spread out the costs of your travel over a few months if you need to, and you may also be able to earn rewards or cash back as you spend. Use this guide to compare different card types and options, and pick the perfect one for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions for best cards to use overseas
What is the best card to use overseas?
There’s no single best overseas travel card for everyone. The right option depends on your destination, spending habits, and whether you prefer a prepaid, debit, or credit travel card. Comparing exchange rates, overseas transaction fees, and ATM costs can help you choose.
Which travel card is best for Europe?
If you’re travelling across multiple European countries, look for a travel card that supports multiple currencies, offers competitive exchange rates, and keeps overseas spending fees low.
Which bank travel card is best?
Australian banks offer travel credit, debit, and prepaid travel card options. Compare fees, exchange rates, supported currencies, and account features to find the right fit for your trip.
Is a travel card better than using a debit card overseas?
Travel cards can help reduce overseas transaction costs and make budgeting easier, while debit cards offer convenience and direct access to your account. Compare foreign transaction fees, ATM charges, and exchange rates before you travel.
Is Wise better than the CommBank Travel Money Card?
The right choice depends on what matters most to you. Compare supported currencies, exchange rates, card fees, ATM access, and account features to decide which option suits your travel style.
Can I use my travel card for online purchases?
Most travel cards can be used for online purchases anywhere the card network is accepted. Check whether currency conversion or international transaction fees apply.
Does ANZ have a travel card?
ANZ previously offered travel card products but withdrew them. If you’re comparing travel cards today, look at available prepaid, debit, and multi-currency options instead.
Do travel cards charge fees?
Travel cards may include card issuance fees, ATM withdrawal fees, inactivity charges, or currency conversion costs. Compare the total cost of using a card overseas—not just the exchange rate.
