Choosing the right card before traveling internationally can save you hundreds of dollars in foreign transaction fees, ATM charges, and poor exchange rates. Here are our top picks based on extensive research across 50+ countries.
What to Look For
The most important features in a travel card are:
- No foreign transaction fees — Most banks charge 1–3% on every purchase abroad. The best travel cards eliminate this entirely.
- Real exchange rates — Cards like Wise use the mid-market rate with no markup, meaning you get the same rate banks use between themselves.
- Contactless payments — Many countries now prefer tap-to-pay. Ensure your card supports NFC contactless.
- ATM access without fees — Some cards reimburse ATM withdrawal fees worldwide — essential in cash-heavy countries.
Our Top Picks
1. Wise Multi-Currency Card
The Wise card is our overall top pick for international travel. It offers mid-market exchange rates in 40+ currencies with no hidden fees. It is accepted in every country we cover and works well for both in-store and online purchases.
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, digital nomads, and anyone who wants the fairest exchange rate.
2. Revolut Premium
Revolut offers free currency exchange (up to a monthly limit on Standard, unlimited on Premium), virtual cards for online safety, and instant spending notifications. Works exceptionally well in Europe and Asia.
Best for: European destinations, frequent travelers who want app-based control.
3. Chase Sapphire Preferred
For US-based travelers, the Chase Sapphire Preferred remains a solid choice. No foreign transaction fees, 2x points on travel, 3x on dining, and points transfer to major airline and hotel programs.
Best for: US travelers who want rewards points and travel insurance.
4. Charles Schwab High Yield Investor Checking
This debit card reimburses all ATM fees worldwide — a lifesaver in countries like Thailand and Vietnam where ATMs charge $5–7 per withdrawal. No foreign transaction fees.
Best for: Cash-heavy destinations in Southeast Asia, South America, and Africa.
5. Capital One Venture X
Premium travel rewards with no foreign transaction fees, 2x miles on everything, airport lounge access, and strong travel protection. Good for high-spending travelers.
Best for: Frequent flyers who want lounge access and premium travel perks.
Quick Comparison
| Card | FX Fees | ATM Fees | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | None (mid-market) | 2 free/month | Overall best value |
| Revolut Premium | None | Free (limits apply) | Europe, app control |
| Chase Sapphire Preferred | None | Standard bank fees | US rewards travelers |
| Charles Schwab | None | All reimbursed | Cash-heavy countries |
| Capital One Venture X | None | Standard bank fees | Premium travel perks |
Bottom Line
For most international travelers, a combination of Wise (for everyday spending at real exchange rates) and a rewards credit card like Chase Sapphire (for dining and travel bookings) gives you the best of both worlds. Add a Charles Schwab debit card if you are visiting cash-heavy destinations.
Explore our country-by-country payment guides to see which card is best for your specific destination.