A comparison of the best travel debit cards

Card name	FX rate	Coverage
Chase debit card	Mastercard exchange rate	Worldwide
Virgin Money debit card	Mastercard exchange rate	Worldwide
Starling Bank debit card	Mastercard exchange rate	Worldwide
First Direct debit card	Mastercard exchange rate	Worldwide

European travelers should always have some cash on hand; getting it from an ATM abroad is usually the easiest, most advantageous way. If you need cash from an ATM, it's usually better to use a debit card, because credit cards often charge a high interest rate for a cash advance.It's possible to use a debit card to pay for things when traveling internationally. However, it's always important to be prepared. By planning ahead and taking care with each transaction, people can avoid potential extra expenses such as foreign transaction fees or ATM withdrawals.

Do US bank debit cards work in Europe : For credit cards, Visa and MasterCard are universal, while American Express and Discover are less common. US debit cards with a Visa or MasterCard logo will work in any European ATM.

Can I use my normal bank card in Europe

You can take your debit card abroad, but some account types have non-sterling transaction fees. Select your account type to find out more.

Which bank card is free to use in Europe : Best debit card to use abroad

Digital bank Chase doesn't charge fees for making purchases abroad. Chase also doesn't charge fees for withdrawing cash while overseas, though you're limited to withdrawing £500 per day. When abroad you can withdraw up to £1,500 a month.

You can use your debit card in shops and cash machines anywhere with the Visa sign around the world. You don't need to tell us when you're travelling. We check all transactions to make sure your account is protected from fraud.

Disadvantages of Using a Debit Card Abroad

• The unexpected debit transaction foreign exchange fees.
• Private ATM costs.
• Unexpected Charges by your own bank for using an ATM abroad.
• Poor exchange rates.
• Card freezes for security.
• Risk of losing your physical card without having a backup.

Do debit cards automatically convert currency

If you refuse, your payment network, such as Visa or Mastercard, will convert the currency, and you'll see the conversion on your statement in U.S. dollars. Visa and Mastercard offer exchange rate calculators to give you an idea of what you're being charged upfront.Visa Debit cards work like cash, only better. They are issued by your bank or other financial institution, and use funds directly from your bank account. Accepted worldwide, Visa Debit cards offer quick, secure and convenient access to your money in person, online, overseas and over the phone.How to avoid fees when using ATMs in Europe

1. Find a bank account that doesn't charge them. Some banks—particularly digital-only ones—offer a number of free withdrawals every month.
2. Stick to bank-owned ATMs.
3. Be tactical with withdrawals.
4. Pay by debit card where you can.

Despite some differences between European and US cards, there's little to worry about. US-issued Visa and Mastercard credit cards, along with familiar payment apps, typically work fine in Europe.

Should I tell my bank I’m going abroad : Notify Your Bank

Larger banks generally grant customers the ability to avoid bank fees when withdrawing cash and reduce the likelihood of your bank flagging your account for spending overseas. As with your credit card, if you're with a big bank, stay on the safe side and notify them of your trip.

How can I avoid ATM fees in Europe : How to avoid fees when using ATMs in Europe

1. Find a bank account that doesn't charge them. Some banks—particularly digital-only ones—offer a number of free withdrawals every month.
2. Stick to bank-owned ATMs.
3. Be tactical with withdrawals.
4. Pay by debit card where you can.

Can I use my debit card at an ATM in Europe

You can visit a bank when you get to Europe and withdraw money from an ATM using your debit card. Some checking accounts may charge a fee when you use your debit card at ATMs abroad. And some banks might also charge a foreign transaction fee.

With the Starling Bank account you do not pay any fees to withdraw foreign currency from a cash machine while anywhere in the world outside Europe.Use a debit card

Most providers will charge you for every transaction you make overseas, but you can find credit or debit cards that will cut the cost of your spending abroad.

Is it better to use debit or credit abroad : If you want to keep a tab on the spending, a debit card can be a good option. Credit cards, on the other hand, are handy if you face a shortage of funds while travelling abroad.