A prepaid euros card is a payment card that you load up with euros before you go on holiday and then use it in the same way as a debit or credit card.
The advantage of a currency card is that you avoid the expensive fees debit and credit cards usually charge for overseas use.
You can use prepaid euros cards for transactions in shops or cash withdrawals while you’re travelling abroad in Europe. Once you’ve used the preloaded euros, you’ll need to top it up before you can keep spending.
Prepaid euros cards are generally simple to get and use.
Apply for the card. Compare, decide and then apply for the card online, choosing the currency you want to use. Some providers may require you to download and apply through an app. You will need to provide a few basic personal details.
Load the card. During or after the application process, you’ll need to load up your card with money before you can spend overseas. This is generally done from your bank account.
Spend on the card. Once you’ve loaded your card, you can use it for spending in most locations in Europe. Check the terms and conditions so you’re aware of any limitations – or advantages if you use it a certain way.
You can use your prepaid Euros card almost anywhere that accepts Visa or Mastercard – but watch out for places like car hire firms, petrol stations and toll booths, which might not accept them.
Pay for meals out in cafes, restaurants or beachfront bars without needing to carry cash
Use your card in high street stores or local markets where card payments are accepted
Buy entry tickets for museums, theme parks or guided tours directly with your card
Pay for train tickets, trams or buses in most European cities with contactless convenience
Settle hotel bills or pay deposits at many hotels and B&Bs that accept card payments
There are advantages and disadvantages to using a prepaid euros card.
Charges. Euro prepaid cards are usually cheaper to use overseas than a standard debit or credit card
Budgeting. Independent of your bank account, you can only spend the money you’ve loaded on to it
Security. Prepaid euro cards generally come with the same basic features as standard credit cards, including chip and pin protection
Limited acceptance. May not be accepted everywhere, especially in regions with limited access to card payment infrastructure or outside of the EU
Lack of flexibility. Restrictions on fund transfers, withdrawal limits, and currency conversion options
Costly for non-euro transactions. May incur additional fees for currency conversion outside of the EU, making them less cost-effective compared to other payment methods
You can usually load money onto your prepaid Euros card online or through your card provider’s mobile app using a debit card or bank transfer. Some providers also allow automatic top-ups or let you set up regular payments to keep your balance topped up while abroad.
You can check your balance through your card provider’s app or by logging into your online account. Some providers also send SMS updates or allow you to check via customer service if you're not connected to the internet.
When you load your card and convert pounds to euros, the exchange rate is locked in at that time, meaning you won’t benefit from future rate improvements, but you’re protected from drops too. If your card allows, you can apply now and wait to convert your balance when the rate looks favourable.
To avoid potential charges, read the description of each deal carefully. Once you’ve chosen your card, take the following steps to avoid extra costs:
This reduces the number of times you will be charged transaction or loading fees on your prepaid euros card
Shops or restaurants may ask whether you want to conduct the transaction using sterling, which is often more expensive
Cancel the card as soon as you realise it’s lost. With contactless technology, someone could use it immediately
Try to avoid cards that impose extra charges, but if it’s not possible, understand what the charges are and when they will be applied
Prepaid euro travel cards often have spending and withdrawal limits in place that can vary depending on the card issuer and the specific type of card you have.
These limits are set to ensure security and to prevent unauthorised use of the card. The maximum amount you can load on your card also depends on the terms of the card provider.
If you’re concerned you won’t be able to spend or withdraw as much as you need, review the terms and conditions before applying.
This will depend on the terms of your card and where you plan to make the cash withdrawals. For example, some cards might allow you to make euro ATM withdrawals abroad, but not in the UK.
You should also be aware of the fees because they can differ between card issuers and where you withdraw the cash. Finally, even though the card issuer might not charge you, the ATM provider may impose its own fee.
Minimise costs by looking for a prepaid euro card with low or no monthly fees, transaction fees, and ATM withdrawal fees
Opt for a card that allows you to hold multiple currencies, offering convenience and potential savings on currency conversion fees
Some providers offer incentives for taking out the card, such as additional cash when you load more than a certain amount
Look for feedback from existing users to gauge the card's reliability, customer service quality, and ease of use
MoneySuperMarket has won the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award, an independent seal of excellence, which recognises businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.
If a prepaid euros card doesn’t suit your needs, there are several other ways to manage your money while travelling abroad:
Ideal for overseas spending, with competitive exchange rates and added fraud protection
Convenient for everyday purchases, but may come with foreign transaction or ATM fees
Widely accepted and useful for tips, small shops or emergencies, but riskier to carry
A secure but outdated option, and not accepted everywhere
Works like a prepaid card but supports several currencies, making it flexible for multiple destinations
A prepaid euros card can be a smart, secure way to manage your holiday spending. It helps you lock in exchange rates before you travel, avoid overspending, and keep your main bank account separate from your holiday budget. It’s also widely accepted and easy to top up on the go.
Tim Heming Personal Finance Expert
If you’re planning a trip to Europe, taking a prepaid euro card could be a good way to manage your money while you’re abroad.
MoneySuperMarket’s selection of prepaid euro cards gives you a range of different deals from leading providers to choose from
Choices include the exchange rate offered, any fees they apply, the currency you will use, and any incentives to sign up
Once you’ve made your choice, you can simply click through to the provider to apply for the card online in minutes
Yes, you can generally use a prepaid euro card for online transactions in the same way as a debit or credit card. Just enter the card details, including the card number, expiry date, and CVV code. Check with your card issue if you’re unsure whether you’ll face any additional fees or limitations.
This will depend on the terms of your card and where you plan to make the cash withdrawals. For example, some cards might allow you to make euro ATM withdrawals abroad, but not in the UK. You should also be aware of the fees because they can differ between card issuers and where you withdraw the cash. Finally, even though the card issuer might not charge you, the ATM provider may impose its own fee.
The specific requirements may vary depending on the card issuer, but typically anyone over the age of 18 can apply for a prepaid euro card, although some card providers may also offer options for individuals aged 16 or 17. Review the terms and conditions of the card issuer before applying.
It depends on the terms and conditions of the card. You can often find prepaid euro cards that don’t charge in the nominated card currencies, but if you try to pay in a different currency you might be charged.
Determining whether a prepaid travel card is right for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. Prepaid travel cards can be a convenient option for managing your expenses while travelling, providing security and ease of use. They are particularly useful if you want to avoid carrying cash and want to lock in exchange rates in advance. However, consider factors such as card fees, transaction fees, and the countries you'll be visiting. Assess your spending habits and compare the features and costs of different cards to decide if a prepaid travel card aligns with your travel requirements.
Yes, your money is generally safe with a prepaid euros card. While it’s not protected by the FSCS, providers regulated by the FCA must keep your money in a separate, safeguarded account.
However, prepaid cards don’t offer the same fraud protection as credit cards. If your card is lost or stolen, refunds aren't always guaranteed – so keep it secure and report any issues quickly.
If your prepaid euro card is lost or stolen, contact the travel money card provider's customer service department to report the incident as soon as you realise.
They will be able to block the card to prevent unauthorised use and assist you in getting a replacement card or accessing emergency funds.
Yes, you can usually continue using your prepaid euros card after your holiday as long as it has a balance. However, some cards may charge inactivity fees if not used for a certain period, so check your provider’s terms.
Yes, most prepaid cards don’t require a credit check since you’re not borrowing money. This makes them accessible to people with poor or limited credit histories.
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Reviewed on 17 Dec 2025
