Besides exchanging cash, you can spend abroad with a multi-currency travel card or a regular credit or debit card. Each has a different fee structure.
Travel cards (multi-currency cards)
You load foreign currency in an app, then pay or withdraw cash abroad. Major currencies often have no or very low conversion fees. Local ATM operators may still charge their own withdrawal fee.
Regular credit and debit cards
Each purchase usually carries a network fee plus your bank's foreign transaction fee, often around 1–3% in total. ATM withdrawals add a per-withdrawal fee.
Cash
With a good bank rate, major currencies can be bought cheaply. In countries where many shops and markets take only cash, you will need some.
The trap to avoid: paying in your home currency (DCC)
If a shop or ATM abroad asks whether you want to pay in your home currency, decline and choose the local currency. Paying in your home currency applies the merchant's rate, which often adds several percent.
A sensible mix
- Card-friendly countries: mostly a travel card plus a little cash.
- Cash-heavy countries: exchange cash (or double exchange) plus a backup card.
- If you use ATMs, withdraw larger amounts less often.
In the converter, change the number of ATM withdrawals and card fees to see which option is cheapest for you.
💳 Card fees and promotions differ by issuer and change often. Always check the exact fee policy on your card issuer's website or app.