Monito.com
Best travel debit card for international travel with no foreign transaction fees on monito ranked

5 Best Debit Cards for International Travel With No Foreign Transaction Fee (Updated For February 2024)

Jan 8, 2024
Advertiser disclosure

As an American traveler with experience exploring both Eurozone and non-Euro countries, as well as East and Southeast Asia, I've felt the frustration of dealing with high fees and inconveniences when using traditional bank debit cards for international travel. Having personally relied on Revolut and Wise during my own journeys, I've been able to avoid foreign transaction fees and charges for local ATM withdrawals.

Debit cards with no international transaction fees are solid options because you'll get the low currency conversion rates from VISA and Mastercard, without the markup. But for an even better experience, multi-currency accounts like Revolut allow you to hold local currency and be treated as a local cardholder.

In addition, the ideal debit card should offer additional features like virtual cards for added safety, instant card freezing, and travel benefits. This guide will present five top-notch no foreign transaction fee debit cards, including Revolut, Wise, Chime, and more, designed to meet your needs while traveling internationally.

recommendation icon

In general, we consider Revolut the best international travel debit card. It has a generous fee-free ATM withdrawal allowance of $1,200 monthly, and you can hold balances of 30+ foreign currencies. ✨ Get three months of free Revolut Premium as a Monito reader with our exclusive link.

However, if you're from the UK or Canada, here are a few more recommendations to explore:

  • Best for travelling from the UK: Starling Bank
  • Best for travelling from Canada: KOHO
  • Best US checking without FX fees: Chime

Key Facts: Using Your Debit Card Overseas

💱 VISA/Mastercard Base Rate

0.2% - 0.9%

💳 Debit Card Acceptance

Worldwide, with few exceptions

💷 Best Travel Debit Card (UK)
💶 Best Travel Debit Card (EU/EEA)
💵 Best Travel Debit Card From (USA)
💵 Best Travel Debit Card (Canada)
⚕️ Best Travel Insurer
✈ Best Flight Aggregator

Consider These Factors When Choosing a Debit Card for International Travel

When it comes to selecting a debit card for your international adventures, there are a few key factors that can ease your travel experience:

  • No foreign transaction fees: Look for a debit card that eliminates foreign transaction fees, which often come as a percentage of the purchase total. Make purchases abroad without incurring unnecessary charges, saving your money for more enjoyable experiences.
  • Fee-free or low-fee ATM withdrawals: Find a debit card that offers fee-free or low-fee ATM withdrawals. While not all banks will reimburse fees from ATM machines, many will at least not charge you for taking out cash abroad. In many cases, though, you'll incur a fee from the ATM network itself, which is often impossible to avoid entirely.
  • Travel perks: Consider debit cards that come with additional travel perks. These can range from discounts on accommodations and transportation to access to airport lounges or travel insurance.
  • In-app security: Opt for a debit card that provides virtual card options for enhanced security from pickpockets. Many apps also allow you to freeze your cards instantly if the physical debit card gets lost or stolen.
  • Backed by a major issuer: Ensure that your chosen debit card is provided via a major issuer such as VISA, Mastercard, or other reputable companies. This ensures wider acceptance and reliability, giving you peace of mind during your travels.

Do Debit Cards Work Abroad?

Yes, debit cards do work abroad, and you can learn more about why, when, and where in our dedicated guide on the subject.

The key thing to know here is that VISA and Mastercard cards (as well as those from smaller payment providers, although to a lesser extent) are accepted worldwide with few exceptions. As long as the merchant accepts them instead of cash, you'll be able to pay. Accordingly, be on the lookout for signs like this one when you're traveling, which you'll often find on storefronts or next to the teller:

Visa Mastercard and card issuer networks on atm abroad

How to Reduce ATM Withdrawal Fees

Although searching for an ATM from which to withdraw cash while you're abroad might seem like a spur-of-the-moment decision, you can often benefit from planning a little in advance.

If you plan to withdraw cash while abroad, we suggest looking for a partner within the Global ATM Alliance network and planning your ATM visit there instead of visiting any old machine you find on the street (especially not the ones at tourist hotspots!). The Global ATM Alliance consists of banks worldwide that waive international ATM access fees. Here's a list of Global ATM Alliance Partners for you to check.

If you don't have access to a Global ATM Alliance bank, always try to use an ATM that belongs to a local bank rather than a generic cash machine like Euronet. By doing so, you can have greater confidence that you will receive the mid-market exchange rate, although you'll probably still incur a fixed ATM withdrawal fee from the ATM network itself. Check out our guide to the cheapest ways to get cash abroad to learn more about keeping your costs down in this regard.

Revolut (Global)

Revolut offers an excellent debit card to use abroad because it allows you to hold over 30 currencies and spend money in over 150 currencies. Revolut charges an industry-low 0.2%-0.4% fee on weekdays to convert your home currency to the local currency of your travel destination. Then, when you use the local currency with your Revolut card, you'll avoid both typical foreign transaction fees and dynamic currency conversions.

You will also be able to withdraw cash from ATMs worldwide without incurring any fees (up to a $1,200 limit per month, depending on the type of account you have), although third-party ATM fees may still apply. After that $1,200 limit, each withdrawal will incur a 2% fee. This is quite generous when compared to its competitor, Wise, which has a $250 per month limit.

With their paid plans, you can even get discounted airport lounge access for you and a friend, travel insurance for delays and baggage, and medical insurance coverage.

Chime (USA Only)

Chime is a good debit card for international travel thanks to its no foreign transaction fees¹. Unlike multi-currency accounts like Revolut (which let you hold local currency), Chime uses the live exchange rate applied by VISA. This rate is close to the mid-market rate, and Chime does not add any extra markup to your purchases.

info icon

Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC.

While Chime waives ATM fees at all MoneyPass, AllPoint, and VISA Plus Alliance ATMs within the United States, this fee waiver does not extend to withdrawals made outside the country. For withdrawals abroad, Chime applies a $2.50 fee per transaction, with a daily withdrawal limit of $515 or its equivalent. This is in addition to any fees charged by the ATM owner. Therefore, we recommend Chime primarily for card purchases rather than relying on it for withdrawing cash while traveling internationally.

Wise (Global)

Wise Multi-Currency Account is an exceptional debit card option for international travel, particularly for customers in Canada where Revolut is not available. With the app, you'll be able to hold and spend money in over 50 currencies. When converting your home currency to the local currency of your travel destination, Wise charges a minimal fee, often ranging from as low as 0.35% to slightly above 2% for less common currency corridors. By paying with the local currency on your Wise card, you'll be treated as a local cardholder, bypassing both the typical foreign transaction fees and dynamic currency conversions.

Furthermore, Wise enables you to withdraw cash from ATMs worldwide without incurring any fees, up to a monthly limit of $250. However, make sure to note that third-party ATM fees may still apply. And once the $250 limit is exceeded, each withdrawal will be subject to a 1.75% fee.

Capital One (USA Only)

Capital One's 360 debit cards are much more transparent about waiving international transaction fees than other big American banks. When you use the card abroad, Capital One applies the live exchange rate provided by the card issuer (they have a wide range of card options, and they partner with VISA, MasterCard, American Express, and others). Capital One does not impose any additional markups when you spend your USD in foreign countries. However, make sure to enroll in their 360 accounts to avoid potential fees because they may charge a fee of $2, plus 3% of the total transaction amount, for non-360 products.

Capital One is part of an alliance that includes AllPoint, MoneyPass, and other partners, giving you access to over 70,000 ATMs throughout the United States. However, this coverage is limited to the US, so when making international ATM withdrawals, Capital One may charge a fee of $2 per transaction in addition to potential fees imposed by the ATM owner. All of this makes 360 Checking a far better alternative to spending abroad than with debit cards from other US banks like Wells Fargo or Bank of America.

Starling Bank (UK Only)

Starling Bank stands out as one of the premier debit cards for international travel for customers in the UK, thanks to its absence of foreign transaction fees. If you solely have their GBP account, your Starling Bank card will apply the live exchange rate used by MasterCard, which closely aligns with the mid-market exchange rate. Moreover, Starling Bank provides EUR and USD accounts for an additional fee, making it an ideal choice for traveling to countries that accept these currencies. In such instances, your Starling Bank debit card will access these account balances, allowing it to be recognised as a local card.

One of the most compelling features of Starling Bank is its complete exemption from ATM fees, both domestically and internationally. Irrespective of the amount of cash withdrawn or the frequency of withdrawals, Starling Bank never imposes any fees for ATM transactions. While third-party fees may still apply, as determined by the ATM owner, this travel benefit solidifies Starling Bank's position as the top debit card for international travel for UK residents and citizens.

Curious to See How They Compare?

If you'd like to see how the debit cards we explored above compare head-to-head, take a look at the table below:

Last verified: 8 January 2024

Bottom Line: The Best Debit Cards for International Travel in 2024

Now is the perfect time to plan your next trip and ensure you have the right debit cards for seamless international travel. With these cards, you can store local currency, avoid pesky international transaction fees, or reduce international ATM fees when you need local cash.

Best of all, they all offer virtual cards that can be instantly added to your digital wallet for convenient contactless payments while adding an extra layer of security. With their smartphone apps, you'll have complete control, allowing you to freeze the card instantly in case of loss or theft.

Take a look at the summary below for the best debit cards for international travel:

  1. Revolut: Best overall US debit card for international travel
  2. Chime: US digital account without foreign transaction fees
  3. Wise: Multi-currency account with most currency options
  4. Capital One 360: Best US bank for international transactions
  5. Starling Bank: Best ATM card in the UK for international travel

Disclaimers

Chime is a financial technology company, not a bank. Banking services and debit card provided by The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A.; Members FDIC. Credit Builder card issued by Stride Bank, N.A.

¹ Out-of-network ATM withdrawal and over-the-counter advance fees may apply. See here for details.

² To apply for Credit Builder, you must have received a single qualifying direct deposit of $200 or more to your Chime Checking Account. The qualifying direct deposit must be from your employer, payroll provider, gig economy payer, or benefits payer by Automated Clearing House (ACH) deposit OR Original Credit Transaction (OCT). Bank ACH transfers, Pay Anyone transfers, verification or trial deposits from financial institutions, peer to peer transfers from services such as PayPal, Cash App, or Venmo, mobile check deposits, cash loads or deposits, one-time direct deposits, such as tax refunds and other similar transactions, and any deposit to which Chime deems to not be a qualifying direct deposit are not qualifying direct deposits.

³ The Annual Percentage Yield ("APY") for the Chime Savings Account is variable and may change anytime. The disclosed APY is effective as of September 20, 2023. No minimum balance is required. Must have $0.01 in savings to earn interest.

⁴ On-time payment history can have a positive impact on your credit score. Late payment may negatively impact your credit score. Results may vary.

⁵ SpotMe® on Credit is an optional, no-interest/no-fee overdraft line of credit tied to the Secured Deposit Account available to qualifying members with an active Chime Credit Builder Account. SpotMe on Debit is an optional, no-fee overdraft service attached to the Chime Checking Account available to qualifying members after Visa debit card activation. Both SpotMe on Credit and SpotMe on Debit are sometimes collectively referred to as "SpotMe" or, if you have signed up to use SpotMe with only one account, "SpotMe" means the elected service. To qualify for SpotMe, you must receive $200 or more in qualifying direct deposits to your Chime Checking Account monthly. Qualifying members will be allowed to overdraw their Chime Checking Account and/or Secured Deposit Account (associated with your Chime Credit Builder credit card) up to $20 but may be later eligible for a higher limit of up to $200 or more based on Chime account history, direct deposit frequency and amount, spending activity and other risk-based factors. The SpotMe limit will be displayed within the Chime mobile app and is subject to change at any time, at Chime’s sole discretion. Although Chime does not charge any overdraft fees for SpotMe, there may be out-of-network or third-party fees associated with ATM transactions. SpotMe Debit Terms and Conditions and SpotMe on Credit Terms and Conditions.

Why You Can Trust Monito

Our recommendations are built on rock-solid experience.

  • We've reviewed 70+ digital finance apps and online banks
  • We've made 100's of card transactions
  • Our writers have been testing providers since 2013
Learn more about us

More Guides on International Travel, Debit Cards Overseas, No Foreign Transaction Fees Abroad

Best Travel Money Cards
January 8, 2024 - by François Briod
Debit Card Disadvantages Abroad
August 21, 2023 - by Jarrod Suda
The Best Bank for Expats
January 8, 2024 - by Jarrod Suda
Living Abroad Tips for Expats & Travelers
September 30, 2022 - by Jarrod Suda
Using ATMs Abroad: Exchange Rates, Fees & Best Debit Cards
August 25, 2022 - by Jarrod Suda
How to Use Revolut Virtual Card Like a Pro: Step-by-Step Guide
March 21, 2023 - by Jarrod Suda
Best Way to Get Euros For Travel in 2023
July 28, 2023 - by Byron Mühlberg
Using Revolut Abroad: Maximize Your Card's Potential Abroad
May 30, 2023 - by Jarrod Suda
Best International Insurance
July 27, 2023 - by Byron Mühlberg
Travel Insurance for Business
April 5, 2023 - by Byron Mühlberg
The Best Place to Buy Euros in the UK in 2023
June 20, 2023 - by Jarrod Suda
The Best Way to Buy Euros in the USA in 2023
June 20, 2023 - by Jarrod Suda
7 Best Freelancer Bank Accounts for Online Business Banking
June 8, 2023 - by Jarrod Suda
Best Credit Builder Cards to Build Credit in 2024
June 13, 2023 - by Jarrod Suda
Apps to Get Paid Early
November 16, 2023 - by Jarrod Suda
10 Best Credit Cards for Students with No Credit in 2024
November 7, 2023 - by Jarrod Suda
The 6 Best Credit Cards For Travel to Italy in 2024
March 14, 2024 - by Jarrod Suda
6 Best Travel Credit Cards to Use in Japan in 2024
March 9, 2024 - by Jarrod Suda
The 6 Best Credit Cards to Use in Ireland in 2024
March 25, 2024 - by Jarrod Suda
The 7 Best Credit Cards You Can Use in Canada in 2024
March 27, 2024 - by Jarrod Suda
Prepaid VISA Cards For International Use
March 18, 2024 - by Byron Mühlberg
HSBC Global Money Account Review
February 12, 2024 - by Byron Mühlberg
Cheapest Ways To Exchange Money
February 5, 2024 - by Jarrod Suda

Why Trust Monito?

You’re probably all too familiar with the often outrageous cost of sending money abroad. After facing this frustration themselves back in 2013, co-founders François, Laurent, and Pascal launched a real-time comparison engine to compare the best money transfer services across the globe. Today, Monito’s award-winning comparisons, reviews, and guides are trusted by around 8 million people each year and our recommendations are backed by millions of pricing data points and dozens of expert tests — all allowing you to make the savviest decisions with confidence.

Learn More About Monito
  • Monito is trusted by 15+ million users across the globe.

  • Monito's experts spend hours researching and testing services so that you don't have to.

  • Our recommendations are always unbiased and independent.

Monito.com

Global Impact Finance Ltd
Rue du Pont 22
1003 Lausanne
Switzerland

Affiliate Disclosure
Instead of banner ads and paywalls, Monito makes money through affiliate links to the various payment service providers featured on our website. While we work hard to scout the market for the best deals, we're unable to consider every possible product available to you. Our extensive range of trusted affiliate partners enables us to make detailed, unbiased, and solution-driven recommendations for all types of consumer questions and problems. This allows us to match our users with the right providers to suit their needs and, in doing so, match our providers with new customers, creating a win-win for everybody involved. However, while some links on Monito may indeed earn us a commission, this fact never impacts the independence and integrity of our opinions, recommendations, and evaluations.