netbank travel money card

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Enjoy the safety and convenience of a CommBank Travel Money Card that lets you load 13 currencies at the same time.

The CommBank Travel Money Card is a prepaid Visa card that lets you load up to 13 foreign currencies and lock in exchange rates. You can manage your account online, save on loading fees and enjoy peace of mind thanks to chip and PIN-protection.

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What currencies can I load on the CommBank Travel Money Card?

The CommBank Travel Money Card supports 13 major currencies including:

• United States dollar
• Great British pound
• Australian dollar
• Japanese yen
• New Zealand dollar
• Hong Kong dollar
• Canadian dollar
• Singapore dollar
• Vietnamese dong
• Chinese renminbi
• Emirati dirham

There are no fees involved when you load funds into a foreign currency wallet, transfer funds between currency wallets on the card, or spend money in a currency that isn't loaded or supported by your card. Instead, a retail foreign exchange rate determined by CommBank is applied at the time of conversion. You can find the foreign exchange rates on the CommBank website or on the CommBank app under "Tools & Calculators" and "Foreign Exchange Toolkit".

Your currencies will be locked in at the bank's retail foreign exchange rate applicable on the day your transfer or payment is processed. When loading or reloading, the money will be available the same day for transfers from CommBank transaction accounts and up to two business days for BPAY transactions.

What if I want to spend money in a different currency to the ones loaded on my card?

When spending money in a currency that is unsupported or insufficiently loaded on your card, the next available currency balance in your currency order will be used. You may customise your currency order through NetBank or by calling +61 1300 660 700. Otherwise, the following default currency order applies.

Default currency order:

To illustrate, when paying for a US$50 lunch in Los Angeles, it turns out that you only have US$21 in your US dollar wallet. Instead of declining the transaction, your card is debited in Euros instead, since you have sufficient Euros in your account. CommBank's prevailing retail foreign exchange rate is applied to convert your Euros into US dollars.

Where can I use my Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card

The CommBank Travel Money Card enjoys the worldwide acceptance of the Visa network and can be used in-store, at ATMs, online, over the phone and by mail order. However certain merchants and financial institutions may not accept the card, including stores where Visa prepaid cards are not accepted or where merchants process transactions manually.

Features of the CommBank Travel Money Card

When you apply for a CommBank Travel Money Card, you can look forward to the following benefits and features:

• Locked-in exchange rates. When you load funds on your card, they'll be locked in at the exchange rate you got when you loaded your card. This will give you peace of mind and help you manage your budget since you don't have to deal with fluctuating exchange rates. Foreign exchange rates are available on the CommBank website or in the CommBank app by following "Tools & calculators" to the "Foreign Exchange Toolkit".
• Additional card. Your free backup card ensures that you'll still be able to access your money should the first card be lost, damaged or stolen.
• Smartphone app. Enjoy the modern convenience of currency planning from your smartphone with the CommBank app. Monitor your expenses, convert currencies and reload funds while on the go.
• Worldwide ATM alliance. The robust Visa alliance ensures that you will be able to access cash almost anywhere in the world.
• Concierge service. Enjoy the luxury of personal concierge services when you need dinner reservations, air tickets, accommodation or concert tickets booked for you.
• Purchase security insurance. If an item purchased on your card gets lost, stolen or damaged in the first 90 days, your card insurance coverage ensures that it will be repaired or replaced for free.

How much does the CommBank Travel Money Card cost?

This table lists the costs associated with this card and when you'll be charged them.

How to use the CommBank Travel Money Card

Follow these simple steps to start using your CommBank Travel Money Card:

• Activating the card. For cards purchased in-branch, your two cards have already been automatically activated. For cards purchased online via NetBank, including replacement or reissued cards, you will need to activate your cards online. In any case, you should set up a PIN for each card by logging in to NetBank, going to a CommBank branch or calling the Travel Money Customer Service Centre at 1300 660 700, or +61 2 9374 0609 from overseas.
• Loading funds on the card. Different currencies can be loaded on your card at the time of purchase, which will be subject to the bank's foreign exchange rates at that time. When reloading the card, funds will be accepted in Australian dollars and converted into your primary currency according to your currency order. The applicable exchange rate is taken on the day your payment is processed, which is instant when paying cash in-branch or transferring funds via NetBank from a CommBank transaction account and up to two business days when using BPAY.When reloading via BPAY, you may only load one currency at a time. You will need to wait for your first BPAY transaction to be completed before changing your currency order and making another transfer to that primary currency. Each load and reload must be more than the equivalent of AUD$1 and less than AUD$100,000.
• Managing your online account. You can manage your account online at NetBank or on your smartphone's CommBank app. You can view your balances and transaction history, transfer currencies within the account, reload funds, and make real-time fund transfers to and from eligible CommBank accounts. You can also change your PIN and currency order, set up SMS alerts and lock or unlock your card for security reasons when necessary.

What do I do if I return home with foreign currency remaining on the card?

Who do i contact if my card is lost, stolen or damaged.

Report loss or theft immediately by calling 1300 660 700 or +61 2 9374 0609 when overseas. Similarly, if you suspect your card has been subject to unauthorised use, notify the bank immediately by calling 13 22 21 or +61 2 9374 0609 when overseas.

How to apply for a CommBank Travel Money Card

For existing CommBank customers with NetBank accounts, ordering is a simple online process which involves logging into NetBank. Your card will then arrive in the mail in under six business days. If you are not an existing CommBank customer, you may get your card straight away by heading into any CommBank branch. Bring your Australian passport or driver's licence for identification purposes.

Are there any eligibility requirements?

While you do not need to be an existing Commonwealth bank customer, you must be more than 14 years old and satisfy customer identification requirements. You will have to register with NetBank when purchasing the card. Also, you are limited to only having five active Travel Money Cards at any one time.

The CommBank Travel Money Card offers up to 13 major currencies and fee-free loads and reloads. Make sure to factor the card issue, replacement fees and ATM withdrawal fees when comparing your options. When deciding which travel card to get, use our travel money comparison table to compare your available options and find the right card for your spending needs.

• CommBank Travel Money Card information PDF
• CommBank Travel Money Card TMD

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February 26, 2024

When useing my travel card is it credit i push to withdraw cash from it at the atm ? Thanks

Elizabeth Barry Finder

April 05, 2024

You should select “Credit” when using this card.

I hope this helps,

December 02, 2019

Can I use this card for everyday purchases within australia, and will there be a fee if I do so?

Nikki Angco

December 04, 2019

Thanks for your comment and I hope you are doing well. You can use the travel money card in Australia. The card can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. There can be a fee if you are paying in a currency not loaded onto your card so be sure to nominate AUD as your preferred currency when making purchases and do cash withdrawals at CommBank ATMs.

Hope this helps and feel free to reach out to us again for further assistance.

Best, Nikki

October 21, 2019

I’m in USA. I’m drawing cash from ATM. Do I draw it as Credit or Savings?

October 24, 2019

Hi Marlene,

Thanks for reaching out to Finder. When using the Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card review, you would select the credit option. As added information, the maximum value of purchases per day is AUD 7,500 or its foreign currency equivalent. The maximum amount you can withdraw from ATMs per day is AUD 2,500 or its foreign currency equivalent. However, most ATM operators have a limit on how much you can withdraw from an ATM per transaction which may be less than the Commonwealth Bank’s maximum. You may want to check out that specific information before withdrawing.

Hope this helps and feel free to write back, we’re here to help.

Cheers, Nikki

September 16, 2019

Do I get charged the 5.25% fee if I am changing currency with in my card eg: US$ to AUD $

September 18, 2019

Hello Connie,

Thanks for getting in touch! As mentioned on our page above, there is no fee when you are transferring between currency wallets on the card, Instead, a retail foreign exchange rate determined by CommBank is applied at the time of conversion. You can find the foreign exchange rates on the CommBank website or on the CommBank app under “Tools & Calculators” and “Foreign Exchange Toolkit”.

Hope this helps!

September 10, 2019

With my CBC travelcard is there any withdrawal fee to withdraw Aus dollars while in Australia (currency on card is Aus dollars)

September 11, 2019

Thanks for getting in touch! The Commonwealth Bank Travelcard doesn’t have any withdrawal charge at any Commonwealth Bank or BankWest ATM in Australia when you withdraw in Australian dollars. Hope this helps and feel free to reach out to us again for further assistance.

The Finder team is dedicated to helping you start making better financial decisions right now. See full profile

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What Is A Travel Money Card?

How does a travel money card work?

How many currencies can you load at once, other features to compare, how to get a travel money card, when is a travel money card worth it, alternative options.

A travel money card, also called a prepaid travel card, is a type of card that can hold foreign currencies. It’s intended for overseas travel, and you can use one to withdraw foreign cash from ATMs and to make purchases in a local currency. 

Think of a travel money card as a debit card that uses local currency. Before you use a travel money card, you’ll preload a set amount of a specific international currency onto the card at the day’s exchange rate. For example, if you’re travelling to Italy and France for two weeks, you’d load Euros (€‎) onto the card and use it instead of your regular debit or credit card during your trip. 

You can continue reloading money onto the card via an app or website as you spend your funds. So, if you blow through your Euros in Rome, you can top off your card’s balance before arriving in Paris. 

Understanding the value of your exchange

The value you exchange currency for will depend on when you load your funds. Rates change from day to day, but you’ll lock in the rate used at the time you exchange currency. So, you’ll know the exact worth of the foreign currency in Australian dollars every time you use your preloaded card. 

On the one hand, a locked-in rate protects you from volatile currencies with fluctuating values. However, if the rate drops, you could be stuck with devalued foreign funds. So, while you can’t predict the future, try to coordinate the load when the exchange rate is most valuable — even if that means waiting a few days. 

The number of foreign currencies available will depend on the company providing the card, but you’ll generally find a wide variety of options. Even if dozens of currencies are available, there are typically limits to the number someone can load onto a travel money card. These limits vary by card, but these cards generally only allow for about a dozen currencies at once.

For example, here are common travel money cards and the number of currencies they can support simultaneously:

• Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard: up to 11 currencies
• Cash Passport Platinum Mastercard (issued by Heritage Bank): load up to 11 currencies
• CommBank Travel Money Card: up to 13 currencies
• Qantas Travel Money Card: up to 10 currencies
• Travelex Money Card: up to 10 currencies
• Travel Money Oz Currency Pass Travel Money Card: up to 10 currencies
• Westpac Worldwide Wallet: up to 10 currencies. 

The number of currencies available and the ability to load multiple currencies onto one card have obvious advantages: it helps you save on fees and makes it easier to manage your money while travelling overseas .

However, there are other key features to compare when choosing a travel money card.

Another thing to look for is reduced or waived fees for loading or reloading funds, account keeping, account closing and emergency card replacements.

Be sure to check for any potential fees when accessing leftover foreign funds you didn’t use on your trip, as there may be an unloading fee or an extra charge to withdraw funds and close your account. For example, Travelex charges a $4 monthly inactivity fee when the card hasn’t been used for more than 12 months. 

Top-up options

How easy it is to use a financial product is typically important, but simplicity and convenience may feel more essential when you’re on holiday. In that case, options to quickly load or reload funds and notifications when your balance is low can be very helpful. Some cards may allow you to top up your balance immediately and with little cost. With others, you may have to wait a few days and pay a small fee.

Top-up methods also vary. For example, you can use BPAY with certain cards, but not all. Some cards may require you to use a specific app or portal. If convenience and flexible top-up options are important to you, compare options accordingly.

Perks and benefits

Travel perks, such as airport lounge access or the ability to earn rewards, are also great features to look for. Digital wallet compatibility, allowing you to use a virtual version of your card, can also be helpful.

Security and customer service

Security features are also important. Look for a card with a PIN to use at ATMs and the ability to lock the card instantly if lost or stolen.

And, since you’re travelling overseas, 24/7 customer support is essential to ensure you have access to help when you need it.

To get a travel money card , you can go through your bank, an airline, a foreign exchange retailer or a payment merchant.

Prepaid travel card eligibility is comparable to the requirements for a debit card. For example, CommBank requests that cardholders are at least age 14, are registered with NetBank, and provide a valid email and residential address. 

You can apply directly on the provider’s website once you choose your favourite prepaid travel money card. Make sure to submit your application at least a few weeks before your trip in case of delays. 

» MORE: How old do you have to get a credit card?

Activating the card

Once you receive the card: 

• download the provider’s app and familiarise yourself with how it works
• register your account
• activate the card
• convert your money to the chosen currency. You might want to start with a smaller amount for the first part of your trip and reload while overseas or make one big transfer. 

While overseas, you’ll likely alternate between paying in local cash and pulling out your travel card. Your goal is to find the best travel card that allows you to pay for items with minimal fees and maximum protections flexibly. 

Possible advantages

• Provides access to multiple currencies. Most options allow you to convert Australian dollars into several different currencies simultaneously. That means you can have secure access to a handful of foreign funds during your next multi-country adventure. 
• Saves on ATM fees. Credit card holders won’t usually be charged the standard 3% foreign transaction fee or pay extra for in-network ATM withdrawals, loading, and topping up their cards. However, these are just generalisations — each credit card company or bank will have its own fee structure.
• Exchange rates are locked. You’ll pay for the local currency using the exchange rate available when you load funds, which locks in the rate. Having dependable value for your funds goes a long way for peace of mind, especially when travelling. 
• Fewer risks when lost. Losing a prepaid card while travelling is undoubtedly a hassle. However, a lost or stolen credit card can mean more risks, like thieves potentially accessing your personal banking details and account funds. Since a lost travel money card is unlikely to result in identity theft and fraud , some travellers find it a safer choice while abroad.
• Helps with budgeting. Trying to keep to preloaded funds may help you stick to a budget while on vacation. Plus, you see the value of money in the local currency, which can help you manage your finances while travelling. 
• May come with rewards and perks. Some travel money cards earn frequent flyer points or come with other special travel perks, like overseas customer service. For example, the Qantas Travel Money Card earns Qantas points, and the Westpac Worldwide Wallet prepaid travel money card offers airport lounge access to the cardholder and one companion access when a flight is delayed. 

Potential risks

• There are delays when reloading. If you need to top up your balance, you may need to wait up to a few days before funds are available to use. 
• Other fees. Some travel money cards may levy typical credit card fees for reloading funds, emergency card replacement, account maintenance, closures, inactivity and more. For example, Travelex and the Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard charge a $10 account closing fee.
• Limited acceptance. Travel money cards are less common than other payment options, so you may need help using one for all purchases. So, it’s always a good idea to carry emergency cash. 
• Typically lack rewards or major perks. Travel money cards may come with some, but these extras are usually less robust than the offerings on rewards credit cards . 

The right travel money card supports a stress-free trip, but you don’t have to use one when travelling overseas — your bank card or credit card could also be a suitable option. 

If you’re deciding between a travel money card and a travel credit card , it’s important to understand the differences in how they work. 

• Travel money cards are preloaded with foreign currencies, while travel credit cards spend borrowed money. Travel money cards are generally easier to obtain as they don’t require good credit or income thresholds. With a travel money card, you can withdraw funds from an ATM without incurring interest or cash advance fees . 
• Travel credit cards don’t usually hold foreign currency but offer perks such as international buyer protections, free insurance , airport lounge access and frequent flyer travel points . 

Be sure to consider other important features — such as security, reduced fees and travel perks — to decide if a travel money card is worth it for you. 

Frequently asked questions about travel money cards  

The available currencies will depend on the card, but you’ll generally find the following options: 

• United States Dollars (USD)
• Europe Euros (EUR)
• Great British Pounds (GBP)
• Japanese Yen (JPY)
• New Zealand Dollars (NZD)
• Hong Kong Dollars (HKD)
• Canadian Dollars (CAD)
• Singapore Dollars (SGD)
• Thai Baht (THB)
• Vietnamese Dong (VND)
• Chinese Renminbi (CNY)
• Emirati Dirham (AED).

Most Australian banks — including Westpac, CommBank, ANZ and NAB — have some sort of travel product, whether that’s a travel money card, a travel-friendly debit card or a travel credit card. However, ANZ and NAB no longer offer prepaid travel money cards.

About the Author

Amanda Smith is a freelance reporter, journalist, and cultural commentator. She covers culture + society, travel, LGBTQ+, human interest, and business. Amanda has written stories about planning for retirement for…

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Commonwealth Travel Card Review – [2023]

The Commonwealth Travel Money Card is a prepaid Visa debit card you can top up in 13 different currencies, for global spending and ATM withdrawals. That can be handy for managing your budget when you’re overseas, as you can lock in exchange rates in advance so you know exactly what you have to spend.

This guide covers the Commonwealth travel card in detail, including how the card works and the fees that you’ll pay to use it. We’ll also touch on a couple of Commonwealth travel card alternatives from Wise and Revolut , which support more currencies and may come with lower fees.

Commonwealth travel card: key features

The Commonwealth Travel Money Card has a good selection of supported currencies, and is globally accepted wherever you see the Visa logo. However, there are currency conversion fees to pay when you use the card to spend unsupported currencies, or when you don’t have enough balance to cover the cost of your purchase in a particular currency. Plus, you’ll pay an ATM fee at home and abroad.

This guide walks through the Commonwealth Travel Money Card in detail – to kick off, here’s a quick look at the key pros and cons of using the card on your travels.

Travel money cards can be handy when you’re away. They let you convert funds to the currency you need in advance, so you know your budget before you leave – plus, they’re not linked to your normal bank account which can increase security and offer peace of mind when you travel. However, the features and fees you find in travel money cards from different banks and providers can vary pretty widely. Shopping around is essential to make sure you get the best deal for your specific needs – this guide should tell you all you’ll need to know to help you pick.

Who is the Commonwealth travel card for?

The Commonwealth travel card supports 13 currencies including those used in popular holiday destinations like Thailand, Japan, Vietnam and New Zealand, plus major global currencies like US dollars, euros and British pounds. That can mean it’s a handy card to have for people travelling for business or pleasure, or for anyone shopping online with overseas retailers.

What is the Commonwealth travel card?

The Commonwealth Travel Money Card is a Visa debit card you can load in advance in AUD or any of the other supported currencies, for international spending and withdrawals. You can use your Commonwealth travel card when you travel, and also for online shopping in foreign currencies.

Is the Commonwealth Travel Money Card a multi-currency card?

Yes. You can add AUD to your Commonwealth card, and convert to any of the following supported foreign currencies:

• United States dollars (USD)
• Euros (EUR)
• Great British pounds (GBP)
• Japanese yen (JPY)
• New Zealand dollars (NZD)
• Hong Kong dollars (HKD)
• Canadian dollars (CAD)
• Singapore dollars (SGD)
• Thai baht (THB)
• Vietnamese dong (VND)
• Chinese renminbi (CNY)
• Emirati dirham (AED)

There is a fee – in the form of an exchange rate markup – added when you switch to the currency you need from AUD. However, it’s then usually free to spend the currencies you hold in your account.

If you’re looking for different currencies – or you’re planning on travelling more widely – you can also consider a travel card from a specialist service like Wise or Revolut. Wise supports 50+ currencies, while Revolut covers 25+ – more on that, including some other important features of Wise and Revolut, next.

Alternatives to Commonwealth travel card

The Commonwealth travel card has some handy features, but there are also some fees you’ll need to think about before you order one. One important cost is rolled into the price of switching from one currency to another. There’s a markup added to the exchange rate used when you initially switch from AUD to the currency you need, and if you use your card to spend an unsupported currency, or if you run low on the currency you need while you’re away, extra fees of 3% kick in too.

To weigh up whether the Commonwealth card is best for you, take a look at our comparison against alternative providers Wise and Revolut:

Information taken from CommBank Travel Money Card desktop site and Fees , Wise pricing page , Revolut international transfer fees and Revolut Australia ; correct at time of writing, 24th May 2023

As you can see, Wise and Revolut both support a broader selection of currencies compared to the Commbank card, which can be helpful if you’re travelling more widely. Plus, you may find you get lower overall currency conversion costs with a specialist service. Revolut has some fee free currency conversion which uses the mid-market rate for all account holders – even if you’re using a standard account plan with no monthly fees. And Wise has mid-market rates for all currency exchange, with low fees based on the currencies you need, starting at 0.41%.

There’s a quick introduction to Wise and Revolut next, to help you decide if either may suit your needs.

Read a full Wise review here

Wise accounts can hold and exchange 50+ currencies, and come with an optional linked Wise card to spend with the mid-market rate and low fees from 0.41%, in 170+ countries. You can apply, and manage your account, from your smartphone, and get extra perks like fast payments to 70+ countries, and local bank details for 9 currencies, to get paid easily from 30+ countries.

Get a Wise travel card

Revolut accounts come with linked debit cards, and can hold 25+ currencies. You can either get a standard plan which has no monthly fees, or pay a monthly charge to access extra features and perks. Revolut currency exchange uses the mid-market exchange rate to plan limits, with fair usage fees after that. Out of hours fees may also apply if you switch currencies when the global markets are shut.

Go to Revolut

Commonwealth travel card fees & spending limits

Let’s take a look at the fees and limits that apply to the Commbank travel card. First, here are some important limits to know in advance:

And what about the charges involved with using a Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card? Here’s a rundown of the key costs:

Information correct at time of writing – 24th May 2023

Exchange rates

When you top up your card in AUD and convert to a foreign currency for overseas spending, the Commbank retail exchange rate applies. This rate can be found online, but it’s handy to know it won’t be the same as the mid-market rate you find using a Google search or currency conversion tool, as it includes a margin – which is a fee. The margin used by Commonwealth Bank can vary depending on the currencies in question, so you’ll need to take a look on their website to see the rate for your currency pair, and then compare it back to the rate you get from a conversion tool, to spot the margin that’s been added.

If you’re spending a currency you don’t hold in your account, the exchange rate applied is set by Visa, and there’s then an extra 3% fee to pay. That doesn’t sound like a lot, but it can mount up quickly if you’re travelling for a while.

As an alternative, you might want to check out prepaid international debit cards which offer the mid-market exchange rate – like those from Wise and Revolut.

How to get Commonwealth travel card

You can order a Commonwealth Travel Money Card if you fulfil the eligibility criteria:

• You must be at least 14 years old
• You must be a Commonwealth Bank customer, registered to use NetBank
• You’ll need an Australian residential address

Assuming you fit these criteria you can order in a Commonwealth Bank branch, or online. Once you have your card in your hands, you then need to activate it in NetBank or the Commbank app. You can also set a PIN for security.

What documents you’ll need

To open a Commonwealth Travel Money Card account you’ll need to be registered with NetBank. That means you’ll also need a valid Commbank account and card to get started. If you already have a Commonwealth Bank account you can open your travel card account with no new documents – just log into NetBank or visit a branch to get started.

If you don’t have a Commbank account yet, the process is a bit more involved as you’ll have to first select and open a bank account. This normally means you also need to provide proof of ID and address, which you can upload online or show in a branch.

What happens when the card expires?

The Commonwealth Travel money Card is valid for 4 years. Once it expires it’s not automatically replaced with a new card. You’ll need to request a new card in NetBank. If you don’t do this within 3 months of the card expiry date, you’ll lose access to your account – so make sure you open a new card in time, or remove any remaining funds from the account to avoid extra hassle.

How to use a Commonwealth travel card?

The Commonwealth travel card is a Visa debit card you can use online and in person for spending and withdrawals. You can also send money from the card account to other Commbank cards and accounts, although fees may apply for this service if you’re switching currencies as part of the transfer.

How to withdraw cash with a Commonwealth travel card?

Once you have funds on your Commbank card you can make withdrawals around the world, just as you would with your regular debit card. There’s a Commonwealth ATM limit of 2,500 AUD per day – although most ATMs have their own limits which are likely to be lower than this. You’ll also pay a fee of 3.5 AUD or the currency equivalent when you make a cash withdrawal, plus any applicable currency conversion fee if you’re withdrawing in a currency you don’t hold in your account.

Is the card safe?

Yes. Commonwealth Bank is a trusted and regulated bank, making it a safe provider to use. Plus, using a prepaid travel card when you’re abroad can be safer than using your normal card. As it’s not linked to your main day to day account, even if you’re unlucky enough to have your travel card stolen, thieves don’t have access to your primary account balance.

How to use the Commonwealth travel card overseas?

The Commbank travel card is issued on the Visa network, which means you can use it in millions of ATMs and with merchants worldwide. If you’ve got a balance in the currency you need, there’s no extra fee for paying at a merchant abroad. However, it’s useful to know that a 3% fee applies if you spend in a currency you don’t hold in your account, or if the balance you have in that currency isn’t enough to cover the purchase. This can push up costs significantly, so it’s worth keeping an eye on your balance in the Commbank app, so you don’t run low without realising.

Conclusion: is the Commonwealth travel card worth it?

The Commonwealth Travel Money Card is a helpful card for travel to any of the countries and regions covered by the 13 supported currencies. Using a prepaid card can help you set your travel budget in advance as you’ve locked in exchange rates before you leave. However, the Commbank card isn’t free to use. There’s a fee to switch currencies – either a 3% conversion cost for direct spending, or a margin added to the exchange rate when you convert within your account. Plus, there’s a 3.5 AUD fee for ATM withdrawals overseas.

Compare the costs and flexibility of the Commbank travel card against alternatives like the international debit cards from Wise and Revolut. Both offer a broader selection of currencies, and use the mid-market exchange rate to switch over your funds from AUD to the currency you need. This can cut the costs overall, and it’s more transparent as you can easily see all the fees involved in currency exchange.

Commonwealth travel card review FAQ

How does the Commonwealth travel card work?

The Commonwealth Travel Money Card is a prepaid international Visa card you can use for spending and withdrawals around the world. You’ll need to add money in AUD and can then convert to any of the 13 supported currencies within NetBank.

Is the Commonwealth travel card an international card?

Yes. The Commonwealth Travel Money Card can hold 13 different currencies, and as it’s issued on the Visa network you can use it more or less anywhere in the world. There’s a 3% fee to spend currencies you don’t hold in your account though – so if your currency isn’t supported by the Commbank card you might be better off with an alternative like the multi-currency cards from Wise and Revolut.

Are there any alternatives to the Commonwealth travel card?

Commonwealth Travel Money Card alternatives are available from banks and specialist digital providers. Compare the options from Wise and revolut as an example – both offer dozens of supported currencies, with low, transparent fees and great global acceptance.

Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card

AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, HKD, JPY, CAD, THB, AED, VND, CNY, RMB

Mozo editorial review Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card - last updated: 20 May 2022

• Load up to 13 currencies on the one card
• No monthly inactivity fee
• 5.35% cross currency conversion

Mozo snapshot

The Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card is a handy prepaid travel card if you are visiting multiple countries on your holiday as it allows you to load up to as many as 13 currencies. You can also transfer funds between the currencies for free while travelling and monitor your balance online or over the phone 24/7.

Key features

The Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card is accepted wherever Visa is and can be used internationally at shops, restaurants, at overseas ATMs and for online purchases.

The card has no purchase fee, whether you order it online or in a branch and it is one of the few prepaid travel cards on the market that does not have an inactivity fee so you can keep the card until your next trip if you have money left on the card (but make sure you check the cards expiry date as they do expire at some point.)

You can store up to 13 currencies at any one time, the most of any prepaid card on the market. This is one of the only prepaid travel cards to preload Vietnamese Dong, Chinese Reminbi and it is one of the few to also have Thai Baht as an option. The smart card feature means that it will always use the currency of the country in which the transaction is made first, as long as that currency is loaded on the card.

The Travel Money Card does have a 3.00% cross currency conversion charge if you make a purchase in a currency other than the one on your card so make sure you have the right currency loaded before you spend.  

There's also a flat AUD $3.50 cash withdrawal fee for ATM withdrawals and over the counter withdrawals made outside of Australia. The fee is charged in the currency you're making the withdrawal with though, so if that's not AUD, the Visa exchange rate (at that time) will be used to calculate whatever that foreign currency equivalent of $3.50 AUD is. 

Who is it good for

Prepaid travel cards are great for the budget conscious traveller as they allow you to set a travel budget and stick to it without the temptation of going into debt over that 'must do' romantic sunset cruise with 50 other tourists.

You don't have to be a Commonwealth Bank account holder to get a Travel Money Card, which makes this a good prepaid card choice for anyone who is visiting more than one country on their trip.

If you want to use your travel card solely for online international shopping you can load the travel card up in several currencies and then go on a global shopping spree knowing exactly what exchange rate to use when comparing costs.

Any catches

Make sure you've loaded the correct currencies onto your card before you start spending, because if you spend in a currency you don't have loaded, you'll be stung by the 3.00% cross currency conversion fee.

Atm withdrawal fee

Minimum load, upper limit, monthly inactivity fee, customer reviews.

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Loading and accessing money.

• What currencies can I load on my card?
• How can I load my card?
• How much does it cost to reload my card?
• How do I reload using BPAY?
• How do I reload via Bank Transfer?
• I'm getting a reload error message, what should I do?
• Why do I receive a reload authorisation SMS?
• How long does it take for my funds to be loaded onto my card?
• How do I transfer between currencies?
• How do I change my card's default currency?
• What happens if I run out of one currency on my card, but still have funds in another?
• What is the minimum/maximum amount I can load on to my card?
• Why are there limits on how much I can withdraw and spend each day?
• What is the maximum amount I can use contactless payment for?
• Still need assistance? Contact us on:

Up to 10! They include... USD, EUR, GBP, NZD, CAD, HKD, JPY, SGD, THB and AUD. If you're heading somewhere and their currency isn't one of the above, no stress - load in AUD and withdraw the local currency from an ATM. Or swipe/tap as normal and it will convert as you go with each transaction.

You have a few options. You can load money onto your card using the Travel Money Oz app, or by logging into your account on our website - from here, you can load via Debit or Credit Card (including by Google or Apple Pay), or via Bank Transfer using Poli (a secure instant bank transfer method), or you can load your Currency Pass in any of our stores nationwide. You can also reload your card with BPAY at any time from your online banking account (2-3 days for BPAY transfers to appear on your card).

If you reload your card instore we're not going to charge you any fees. There are also reload fees depending on which payment method you opt for. Please refer to our Fees for more information.

The important things about BPAY are below..

1. It will take 2-3 business days for your BPAY transfer to appear and the rate used will be the rate of the day the load is applied, not the day the transaction is initiated.

2. If this is a new card, make sure you card is activated before you try load (you'll know it's activated if it's already got money on it)

3. Biller Code: 184416. Reference: Your 16 digit card number.

4. Funds will appear in your defaut currency (which may be AUD). From here, distribute between currencies using the "transfer between currencies" feature.

1. Log into my.travelmoneyoz.com and click the Load Money button, along with the currency and amounts.

2. On the payment screen, select the Bank Transfer by Polipay option.

3. From here, you'll be directed to the Poli platform to log into your bank account.

4. Once you've logged in and selected your account, you may be sent a code from your bank to verify the transaction.

5. Once complete, you will be redirected back to our website where you will get a confirmation of the successful transaction and load.

If you see an error during your reload this means your card has not been loaded (even if you see the funds pending in your bank balance). Please contact us via  [email protected] before you re-attempt your transaction.

We use extra authentication as a security measure when you reload funds. This SMS is sent from your bank, not us, so it will be the phone number you have listed with your bank. If you can't receive the SMS, you'll need to contact your bank to update your details.

As an alternative, try reloading using BPAY however, if we're a new payee, it's possible your bank still may need to send a SMS.

How quickly do you need the money? Credit / debit card transfers are instantly available. Bank transfers will take 1 business day (Mon-Fri) and prior to 2pm AEST. BPAY will take a little longer, this is on average 3 business days. Alternatively, come and see us in store at one of our 140+ locations for more immediate assistance.

Follow the below steps to transfer between currencies:

• Log into your account by clicking on the login/register button at the top of the Travel Money Oz website.
• Once you're in, click on the Currency Card tab, and select Transfer between currencies.
• Select the currency you wish to transfer from, and to. From here you can enter the amount you wish to transfer.
• You will then see the amount of the new currency, along with the rate in which the transfer is completed.
• Don't forget to click "Confirm Transfer" to complete your transfer

To start, make sure you're logged into the Currency Pass portal then...

1. Select Currency Card in the top menu, and Currency Card Settings

2. Then click on the set default currency button

Once this change is made, any unquoted Bank transfer or BPAY loads will land in the default purse.

If a purchase cannot be completed because there are not enough funds in that currency on your card and you do have other currencies, the card will automatically convert other currencies to complete the purchase. The transaction will be split across 2 or more currencies and will appear that way on your statement. Read more about this in our PDS.

The minimum amount you can load is $20 (AUD) but who are you kidding, you'll be spending alot more than that on your holiday.

The maximum amount you can load onto your Currency Pass in one load is $10,000 (AUD). If you need more though, just speak to us in store.

This is a security feature to protect your spending money and should you misplace your card it simply means that someone can't access everything. The limits currently in place are; ATM withdrawals up to $3000 AUD or equivalent per day. EFTPOS maximum is $100 AUD without a pin and $15000 AUD during any 24 hour period (requiring pin authorisation). There are however some countries with a lower ATM withdrawal limit, like Thailand which is 20,000THB (around $800AUD).

In most cases, contactless payment can be made for purchases up to the equivalent of $100 AUD. Transaction limits for contactless transactions may change from time to time. For transactions above the limit, additional authorisation is required, usually the cards PIN. Different transaction limits apply in different countries.

• Australia - 1800 098 231
• UK – 0800 056 0572
• USA/Canada – 1877 465 0085
• Japan – 00531 780 221
• Thailand – 001800 442 212
• New Zealand – 0800 444 691
• Hong Kong – 800 966 321
• South Korea – 00798 4434 1279
• Other countries – +44 207 649 9404

Here Are the Four Best Travel Money Cards in 2024

François Briod

Co-Founder of Monito and money transfer expert, François has been helping Monito’s users navigate the jungle of money transfer fees, bad exchange rates and tricks for the last ten years.

Jarrod Suda

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.

From the multitude of bank fees and ATM charges to hidden currency conversion fees, there's no question that spending your money abroad while travelling can be costly — and that's saying nothing about the cost of the holiday itself!

As you prepare for your trip abroad, the golden rule is that you'll save the most money by using the local currency of your destination. This means withdrawing local cash at foreign ATMs and using a debit card to pay directly in the local currency. For example, if you're from the UK, using your bank's debit card that accesses your British pounds will likely lose you money to hidden fees at ATMs abroad and at local merchants.

In general, we rate Revolut as the best travel card all around. Its versatile account and card can be used to spend like a local pretty much anywhere in the world. ✨ Get 3 months of free Revolut Premium as a Monito reader with our exclusive link .

If you're from the EU, UK, or US, here are a few more specific recommendations to explore:

• Best for travelling from the UK: Chase
• Best for travelling from the US: Chime ®
• Best for travelling from the Eurozone: N26

If it's not possible for you to spend in the local currency when travelling abroad, then spending in your home currency while using a card that doesn't charge any hidden exchange rate markups from your bank (e.g. only the VISA or Mastercard exchange rates to convert currency) is still a good bet for most people.

In this guide, we explore cards that waive or lower ATM fees and that hold multiple currencies. Spend on your holiday like a local and enjoy peace of mind after each tap and swipe!

Best Travel Cards (And More!) at a Glance

Best travel money cards.

• 01. What is the best best multi currency card? scroll down
• 02. Are prepaid currency cards really it? scroll down
• 03. Monito's best travel money card tips scroll down
• 04. FAQ about the best travel cards scroll down

Revolut: Best All-Rounder

Revolut is one of the most well-known fintechs in the world because it offers services across Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Oceania.

• Trust & Credibility 8.9
• Service & Quality 7.9
• Fees & Exchange Rates 8.3
• Customer Satisfaction 9.4

Revolut is available in many countries. You can double-check if it's available in yours below:

Here's an overview of Revolut's plans:

Revolut Ultra is currently only available in the UK and EU.

Like Wise, Revolut converts your currency to the local currency of your travel destination at an excellent exchange rate (called the 'Revolut Rate', which, on weekdays, is basically on par with the rate you see on Google), making it a good way to buy foreign currency before travelling abroad. As always though, bear in mind that Revolut's exchange rates might be subject to change.

Revolut's Standard Plan only allows currency exchange at the base mid-market exchange rate for transfers worth £1,000 per month. ATM withdrawals are also free for the first €200 (although third-party providers may charge a withdrawal fee, and weekend surcharges may also apply). These allowances can be waived by upgrading memberships.

N26: Good Bank For EU Travellers

One of the most well-known neobanks in Europe, N26 and its debit card operate in euros only. However, N26 is a partner with Wise and has fully integrated Wise's technology so that you never have to pay foreign transaction fees on your purchases outside of the eurozone. While N26 does not have multi-currency functionality, N26 will apply the real exchange rate on all your foreign purchases and will never charge a commission fee — making N26's card a powerful card for EU/EEA residents who travel across the globe.

• Trust & Credibility 7.9
• Service & Quality 8.0
• Fees & Exchange Rates 9.3
• Customer Satisfaction 8.1

These are the countries in which you can register for an N26 account:

And here is an overview of the various plans and account:

This low-fee option for banking is also ideal for travellers who do not belong to a European bank but frequent the Eurozone. For example, N26 is available for residents and citizens of Switzerland, Norway, and other European Economic Area countries that do not run on the Euro.

These citizens, who are in close proximity to the Eurozone, will save each time they spend with an N26 card while in Europe. N26 provides three free ATM withdrawals per month in euros but does charge a 1.7% fee per ATM withdrawal outside of Europe.

Take a look at our guide to the best travel cards for Europe to learn more.

Wise: Best For Multi-Currency Balances

Load up to 54 currencies onto this card at the real exchange rate, giving you access to truly global travel.

• Trust & Credibility 9.3
• Service & Quality 8.9
• Fees & Exchange Rates 7.6
• Customer Satisfaction 9.6

These are the countries in which you can order a Wise debit card:

Unlike banks, credit unions, airport kiosks, and foreign ATMs, Wise is transparent about never charging a hidden exchange rate margin when you convert your home currency into up to 54 currencies. The live rate you see on Google or XE.com is the one you get with Wise.

An industry-low commission fee per transaction will range from 0.35% to 2.85%, depending on the currency.

Chase: Great UK Bank For Travel

A recent arrival from the USA, Chase is one of the UK’s newest digital challenger banks and comes with a rock-solid reputation and no monthly charges, no currency conversion charges, no withdrawal fees, and no other charges for everyday banking from Chase. It’s a simple, streamlined bank account with an excellent mobile banking app and a great cashback offer. However, it doesn’t yet offer more advanced features like international money transfers, joint accounts, business banking, overdrafts and loans, and teen or child accounts.

• Trust & Credibility 10
• Fees & Exchange Rates 10
• Customer Satisfaction 8.7

Chime: Great Account For US Travelers

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, although out-of-network ATM withdrawal and over-the-counter advance fees may still apply.

• Trust & Credibility 9.5
• Service & Quality 8.8
• Fees & Exchange Rates 9.8

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.

• No  foreign transaction fees ¹;
• Uses VISA's exchange rate ( monitor here ):
• A $2.50 fee per ATM withdrawal made outside of the United States;
• More info:  Read our  Chime review  or  visit their website .

Best Travel Money Cards in 2024 Compared by Country

In the table below, see our comparison summary of the four best travel cards for 2024 by country:

Last updated: 8 January 2024

What's The Best Prepaid Card to Use Abroad?

Travel cards come in many varieties, such as standard credit cards or debit cards with no foreign transaction fees or cards that waive all foreign ATM withdrawal fees.

What is a Multi-Currency Card?

Multi-currency cards are a specific type of travel card that allows you to own all kinds of foreign currencies, which you can instantly access when you pay with your card abroad. By spending the local currency in the region of travel , you bypass poor foreign exchange rates. ATMs and cashless payment machines will treat your card like a local card.

We have already mentioned a few multi-currency cards in this review, but we will also introduce Travelex . Travelex's Money Card also allows you to top up several foreign currencies — albeit at exchange rates slightly poorer than the real mid-market rate .

Wise Account

Wise has one of the best multi-currency cards available on the market.

Read our full review for more details.

Revolut is impressive for its vast options in currencies and its additional services.

Our in-depth review explores Revolut's services in detail.

Travelex offers a prepaid travel money card that supports 10 currencies and waives all ATM withdrawal fees abroad.

• Trust & Credibility 9.0
• Service & Quality 5.8
• Fees & Exchange Rates 7.1
• Customer Satisfaction 9.3

Travelex charges fees, which fluctuate according to the exchange rates of the day, in order to convert your home currency into the currencies that it supports. But once the currency is on the card, you'll be able to spend like a local. Learn more with our full review .

Don’t Let Banks, Bureaux de Change, and ATMs Eat Your Lunch 🍕!

Are you withdrawing cash at an ATM in the streets of Paris? Exchanging currencies at Gatwick airport? Paying for a pizza with your card during a holiday in Milano? Every time you exchange currencies, you could lose between 2% to 20% of your money in  hidden fees . Keep reading below to make sure you recognize and avoid them.

Currency Exchange Fees Eating My Lunch? What’s That?

You’re often charged a hidden fee in the form of an alarming exchange rate.

At any given time, there is a so-called “ mid-market exchange rate ” — this is the real exchange rate you can see on  Google . However, the money transfer provider or bank you use to exchange currencies rarely offers this exchange rate. Instead, you will get a much worse exchange rate. They pocket this margin between the actual rate and the poor exchange rate they apply, allowing the bank or money transfer provider to profit from the currency exchange. 

In other words, you or your recipient will receive less foreign currency for each unit of currency you exchange. All the while, the provider will claim that they charge zero commission or zero fees.

So the question now is… how can you avoid them? Thankfully, the best travel money cards will allow you to hold the local currency, which you can access instantly with a tap or swipe. Carrying the local currency avoids  exchange rate margins  on every purchase.

Top Travel Money Tips

• Avoid bureaux de change. They charge between 2.15% and 16.6% of the money exchanged.
• Always pay in the local currency and never accept the  dynamic currency conversion .
• Don't use your ordinary debit or credit card unless it's specifically geared toward international use. Doing this will typically cost you between 1.75% and 4.25% per transaction. Instead, use one of the innovative travel money cards below.

By opting for a travel card without FX fees, you can freely swipe your card abroad without worrying about additional charges. However, saving money doesn't stop there. To make the most out of your travel budget, consider using  Skyscanner , one of the most powerful flight search engines available that allows you to compare prices from various airlines and find the best deals.

With Skyscanner's user-friendly interface and comprehensive search options, you can discover cheap flights and enjoy your holidays with peace of mind and more money in your pocket.

Best Travel Money Card Tips

When you convert your home currency into a foreign currency, foreign exchange service providers will charge you two kinds of fees :

• Exchange Rate Margin:  Providers apply an exchange rate that is poorer than the true  "mid-market" exchange rate . They keep the difference, called an  exchange rate margin .
• Commission Fee:  This  fee  is usually a percentage of the amount converted, which is charged for the service provided.

With these facts in mind, let's see what practices are useful to avoid ATM fees, foreign transaction fees, and other charges you may encounter while on your travels.

Tip 1: While Traveling, Avoid Bureaux de Change At All Costs

Have you ever wondered how bureaux de change and currency exchange desks are able to secure prime real estate in tourist locations like the Champs-Élysées in Paris or Covent Carden in London while claiming to take no commission? It’s easy: they make (plenty of) money through hidden fees on the exchange rates they give you. 

Our study shows that Bureaux de Change in Paris charges a margin ranging from 2.15% at CEN Change Dollar Boulevard de Strasbourg to 16.6% (!!) at Travelex Champs-Élysées when exchanging 500 US dollars into euros for example. 

If you really want cash and can’t wait to withdraw it with a card at an ATM at your destination, ordering currencies online before your trip is usually cheaper than exchanging currencies at a bureau de change, but it’s still a very expensive way to get foreign currency which we, therefore, would not recommend.

Tip 2: Always Choose To Pay In the Local Currency

Don’t fall for the dynamic currency conversion trap! When using your card abroad to pay at a terminal or withdraw cash at an ATM, you’ve probably been asked whether you’d prefer to pay in your home currency instead of the local currency of the foreign country. This little trick is called dynamic currency conversion , and the right answer to this sneaky question will help you save big on currency exchange fees.

As a general rule, you always want to pay in the local currency (euros in Europe, sterling in the UK, kroner in Denmark, bahts in Thailand, etc.) when using your card abroad, instead of accepting the currency exchange and paying in your home currency. 

This seems like a trick question - why not opt to pay in your home currency? On the plus side, you would know exactly what amount you would be paying in your home currency instead of accepting the unknown exchange rate determined by your card issuer a few days later.

What is a Dynamic Currency Conversion?

However, when choosing to pay in your home currency instead of the local one, you will carry out what’s called a “dynamic currency conversion”. This is just a complicated way of saying that you’re exchanging between the foreign currency and your home currency at the exact time you use your card to pay or withdraw cash in a foreign currency, and not a few days later. For this privilege, the local payment terminal or ATM will apply an exchange rate that is often significantly worse than even a traditional bank’s exchange rate (we’ve seen margins of up to 8%!), and of course, much worse than the exchange rate you would get by using an innovative multi-currency card (see tip #3). 

In the vast majority of times, knowing with complete certainty what amount you will pay in your home currency is not worth the additional steep cost of the dynamic currency conversion, hence why we recommend always choosing to pay in the local currency.

Tip 3: Don't Use a Traditional Card To Pay in Foreign Currency/Withdraw Cash Abroad

As mentioned before, providers make money on foreign currency conversions by charging poor exchange rates — and pocketing the difference between that and the true mid-market rate. They also make money by charging commission fees, which can either come as flat fees or as a percentage of the transaction.

Have a look at traditional bank cards to see how much you can be charged in fees for spending or withdrawing $500 while on your holiday.

These fees can very quickly add up. For example, take a couple and a child travelling to the US on a two-week mid-range holiday. According to this study , the total cost of their holiday would amount to around $4200. If you withdraw $200 in cash four times and spend the rest with your card, you would pay $123 in hidden currency exchange and ATM withdrawal fees with HSBC or $110 with La Banque Postale. With this money, our travellers could pay for a nice dinner, the entrance fee to Yosemite Park, or many other priceless memories. 

Thankfully, new innovative multi-currency cards will help you save a lot of money while travelling. Opening an N26 Classic account and using the N26 card during the same US holidays would only cost $13.60.

Need Foreign Cash Anyway?

In many countries, carrying a wad of banknotes is not only useful but necessary to pay your way since not every shop, market stall, or street vendor will accept card payments. In these cases you'll have two options to exchange foreign currency cheaply:

1. Withraw at an ATM

As we've explored in great depth in this article, withdrawing money from a foreign ATM will almost always come with fees — at the very least from the ATM itself, and so it's therefore the best strategy to use a travel debit card that doesn't charge in specific ATM withdraw fees on its own to add insult to injury. That said, if you need cash, we recommend making one large withdrawal rather than multiple smaller ones . This way, you'll be able to dodge the fees being incurred multiple times.

2. Buy Banknotes (at a Reasonable Rate!)

As we've also seen, buying foreign currency at the airport, at foreign bank branches, or in bureaux de change in tourist hotspots can be surprisingly expensive. Still, not all exchange offices are equally pricey . If you're looking for a well-priced way to exchange your cash into foreign currency banknotes before you travel, Change Group will let you order foreign currency online and pick them up at the airport, train station, or a Change Group branch just before you leave for your holiday. A few pick-up locations in the UK include:

• London centre (multiple locations),
• Glasgow centre,
• Oxford centre,
• Luton Airport,
• Gatwick Airport,
• St. Pancras Station.

(Note that Change Group also has locations in the USA, Australia, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Austria, and Finland!)

Although its exchange rates aren't quite as good as using a low-fee debit card like Revolut, Change Group's exchange rates between popular currencies tend to be between 2% to 3%, which is still a lot better than you'll get at the bank or at a touristy bureau de change in the middle or Paris or Prague!

FAQ About the Best Travel Money Cards

Having reviewed and compared several of the industry's leading neobanks, experts at Monito have found the Wise Account to offer the best multi-currency card in 2024.

In general, yes! You can get a much better deal with new innovative travel cards than traditional banks' debit/credit cards. However, not all cards are made equal, so make sure to compare the fees to withdraw cash abroad, the exchange rates and monthly fees to make sure you're getting the best deal possible.

• Sign up for a multi-currency account;
• Link your bank to the account and add your home currency;
• Convert amount to the local currency of holiday destination ( Wise and Revolut convert at the actual mid-market rate);
• Tap and swipe like a local when you pay at vendors.

Yes, the Wise Multi-Currency Card is uniquely worthwhile because it actually converts your home currency into foreign currency at the real mid-market exchange rate . Wise charges a transparent and industry-low commission fee for the service instead.

More traditional currency cards like the Travelex Money Card are good alternatives, but they will apply an exchange rate that is weaker than the mid-market rate.

The Wise Multi-Currency Card is the best money card for euros because unlike banks, credit unions, airport kiosks, and foreign ATMs,  Wise  is transparent about never charging a hidden exchange rate margin when you convert your local currency into euros with them.

The live rate you see on Google or XE.com is the one you get with  Wise . An industry-low commission fee will range from 0.35% to 2.85%. USD to EUR transfers generally incur a 1.6% fee.

Learn more about how to buy euros in the United States before your trip.

There are usually three types of travel cards, prepaid travel cards, debit travel cards and credit travel cards. Each have pros and cons, here's a short summary:

• Prepaid travel cards: You usually need to load cards with your home currency via a bank wire or credit/debit card top-up. You're then able to manage the balance from an attached mobile app and can use it to pay in foreign currencies or withdraw cash at an ATM abroad tapping into your home currency prepaid balance. With prepaid travel cards, as the name indicates, you can't spend more than what you've loaded before hand. Some prepaid card providers will provide ways to "auto top-up" when your balance reaches a certain level that you can customize. On Revolut for example, you can decide to top-up £100/£200/£500 from your debit card each time your balance reaches below £50.
• Debit travel cards: Some innovative digital banks, like N26 or Monzo, offer travel debit cards that have the same advantages than a Prepaid Travel Cards, except that they're debit card directly tapping into your current account balance. Like a Prepaid travel card, you can't spend more than the balance you have in your current account with N26 or Monzo, but you can activate an overdraft (between €1,000 or €10,000 for N26 or £1,000 for Monzo) if you need it, for a fee though.

Note that even if they're Prepaid or Debit cards, you can use them for Internet payments like a normal credit card.

• Credit travel cards: You can find credit cards made for international payments offering good exchange rates and low fees to withdraw money abroad, but you'll need to pay interests in your international payment if you don't pay in FULL at the end of every month and interest on your ATM withdrawals each day until you pay them back.

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Internet banking while overseas

Travelling internationally? There’s a good chance you’ll need to do some banking while you’re away.

Accessing Internet banking while you’re overseas

So long as you’ve got access to a secure Internet connection, an international mobile number, or an Australian phone with global roaming, you can continue to bank in the same way you would at home. 

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This includes:

• Reloading your Travel Money Card immediately  in NetBank  or the  CommBank app  
• Paying bills in NetBank and the CommBank app 
• Scheduling payments, paying someone and paying your credit card bill from NetBank and the CommBank app
• Transferring money to and from your CommBank accounts in NetBank and the CommBank app.

We may need to send you a NetCode as an SMS or a CommBank app notification, so make sure the device you’re planning to use overseas can receive SMS or has the CommBank app installed with notifications allowed (or both).

You’ll need to use a NetCode to authorise things like an online password reset and an International Money Transfer. You’ll also need a NetCode when you’re adding or deleting a biller in your address book.

What to set up before you go

Being organised ahead of your international adventure can give you back precious time to enjoy your time away. 

• Make sure you can receive SMS or CommBank app notifications for when you request changes or certain transactions
• Get your bills sent straight to  NetBank  and the  CommBank app  so you can see, keep track of, and pay bills all in one place
• Consider paying your credit card automatically
• Check your international payment settings suit your needs when you’re overseas. Take a look at  Lock, block, limit ® if you’ve got a CommBank credit card 
• Set PINs for any credit card or debit cards – it’s worth bearing in mind that some countries only accept PINs. You can do this in NetBank and the CommBank app
• Activate a new card in NetBank or the CommBank app
• Check your credit limit and make sure your cards aren’t due to expire while you’re away
• Some  CommBank credit cards  include international travel insurance which you need to  activate before you travel . If yours doesn't, you can purchase a policy and  tailor CBA travel insurance  through Allianz Global Assistance to your specific needs 
• Tell us you’re going away in NetBank and the CommBank app > Overseas travel > Tell us about your trip so we can keep an eye out for any suspicious transactions.

If you’re using NetBank while you’re away, make sure you always log out, especially if you’re using a device that’s not your own. 

And if you're using someone else’s device, remember not to download anything private and not to tick 'remember client number' on the NetBank log on page.

What to do in an emergency

• Lock, Block, Limit  your CommBank credit card or lock your Travel Money Card for added security
• Cancel and order replacement CommBank cards in NetBank or the CommBank app
• Call us on +61 2 9999 3283 to report lost or stolen CommBank cards

For 24-hour travel insurance emergency assistance, call Cover-More in Australia direct and toll free on +61 2 8907 5641. You can also call from:

• Canada on 1844 345 1662
• New Zealand on 0800 632 031
• UK on 0808 234 3737
• USA on 1844 345 1662

Charges apply if calling from a pay phone or a mobile phone.

Things you should know

This article is intended to provide general information of an educational nature only. It does not have regard to the financial situation or needs of any reader and must not be relied upon as financial product advice. As this information has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should, before acting on this, consider the appropriateness to your circumstances.