Currency cards are a low-fee, prepaid alternative to cash and traditional bank cards that are designed to be used abroad
Multi-currency cards can be used anywhere in the world: your preloaded balance is converted into the local currency wherever you use it. Ideal for holidays outside of Europe and the USA, or for trips to multiple countries with different currencies.
Compare multi-currency cards
Take a prepaid Euro card with you to any of the Eurozone countries and benefit from some of the best exchange rates available. Unlike your UK credit or debit card, most prepaid Euro cards don't charge you any fees for making payments or withdrawing cash anywhere in Europe.
Compare euro currency cards
Specifically designed for use in the USA, prepaid US Dollar cards make a great primary or backup payment method. Chip-and-pin security, brilliant exchange rates and no usage fees - you can use your card anywhere in America that accepts VISA or MasterCard.
Compare US dollar currency cardsCurrency cards are a secure, cheap and convenient way to spend abroad. Your balance is loaded onto the card in advance and topped-up as needed so you can't go overdrawn and you don't need a credit check to get one. They are specifically designed to be used overseas, with lower fees and better exchange rates that regular UK bank cards.
When you apply for a prepaid card, you typically load it with an initial amount of money which is added to the card balance in electronic format. If you are applying for a card in a specific currency (e.g. Euros), you will be offered an exchange rate similar to if you were buying cash. This exchange rate is used to calculate the amount of funds that will be added to your card. If you opt for a multi-currency card, your balance will remain in Pounds Sterling and will be exchanged into the local currency when you make a purchase.
Purchases made on the card will be deducted from your overall balance, and once your balance reaches zero you will be unable to use it again until you reload it. You can top-up again at any time using a variety of different methods including by Phone, Internet, and Credit/Debit Card. This feature makes currency cards perfect for travelling on a budget or as a family because you know exactly how much you are spending and won't be greeted with any bills when you return home!
All of the prepaid cards we compare can be used anywhere in the world that accepts Visa or MasterCard. Anyone who is over 18 can obtain a currency card, and most do not require you to have a bank account or undergo any credit checks because they are all paid for in advance. There is no risk of going overdrawn with a prepaid card, and you cannot get into debt with them.