Apply for the card
Compare the available cards, then apply online or through the provider’s app. You will usually need to provide some personal details and complete an identity check.
Prepaid euro cards
Compare prepaid cards for spending in euros
What is a prepaid euros card?
A prepaid euro card is a payment card you add money to before you spend. Depending on the card, you may be able to convert pounds into euros in advance and lock in an exchange rate, or have your money converted when you pay.
You can use one for purchases and, where supported, cash withdrawals in countries that use the euro. Unlike a debit card, it is not linked directly to your current account, and you can usually spend only the amount available on the card.
Prepaid cards can help you budget and may cost less to use abroad than a standard debit or credit card. However, exchange-rate markups and fees vary, so compare the total cost before choosing one.
How do they work?
Prepaid euros cards are generally simple to get and use.
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Add money
Add money using a supported method, such as a bank transfer or debit card. Some cards let you hold a euro balance; others convert your money when you spend.
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Spend on the card
Use the card wherever its payment network is accepted, subject to the provider’s terms and your available balance. Check the fees, limits and exchange rate before you travel, and take a backup way to pay.
What can I use a Euros prepaid card for?
You can use a prepaid euro card at many places that accept its payment network, including shops, restaurants and ticket machines. Acceptance is not guaranteed. Transactions that require a deposit or pre-authorisation – such as some hotel bookings, car hire and pay-at-pump petrol stations – can be restricted, so check with the business and your card provider first.
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Dining
Pay in cafés, restaurants and bars without needing to carry as much cash.
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Shopping
Use your card in shops and markets where card payments are accepted.
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Attractions
Pay for museum tickets, tours and other activities online or in person.
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Transport
Pay for trains and local transport where the operator accepts your card or contactless payments.
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Accommodation
Pay accommodation bills where the card is accepted, but check before relying on it for a booking deposit or pre-authorisation.
What are the pros and cons of getting a travel money card?
There are advantages and disadvantages to using a prepaid euros card.
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Pros
Budgeting: You can generally spend only the money available on the card.
Separation:. Your card is not directly linked to your main bank account.
Potential savings: The right card could help you avoid or reduce foreign transaction fees.
Exchange-rate choice: Some cards let you convert pounds into euros before you travel, while others convert your money when you pay.
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Cons
Fees can add up: Charges may apply for getting or replacing the card, adding money, withdrawing cash, inactivity or converting currency.
Limited acceptance: Some businesses and transactions, particularly those involving deposits or pre-authorisation, may not accept prepaid cards.
Rates can move against you: If you convert money into euros in advance, you will miss out if the exchange rate later improves.
Different protection: Prepaid card balances are not covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, and purchases do not receive Section 75 protection.
Frequently asked questions
How do I load money onto a euros prepaid card?
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.
How do I check my balance?
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.
How do currency exchange rates affect prepaid euro cards?
It depends on how the card works. If you convert pounds into euros in advance, the rate is fixed for that amount. You are protected if the pound later weakens, but you will not benefit if it strengthens.
Other cards convert your money when you spend, using the provider’s exchange rate at that time. Check whether the provider adds an exchange-rate markup or conversion fee.
When a shop or ATM asks whether you want to pay in pounds or euros, compare the options carefully. Paying in pounds uses dynamic currency conversion, with a rate set by the merchant or ATM provider. Paying in euros normally lets your card provider handle the conversion.
How do I avoid charges on a prepaid travel card?
Check each card’s exchange rate and fee information before applying. Look for charges for getting or replacing the card, adding money, purchases, cash withdrawals, inactivity and returning any unused balance.
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Use a fee-free way to add money
Check which top-up methods are free. There is no benefit in loading a large amount simply to reduce the number of top-ups unless your provider charges for them.
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Pay in the local currency
If a shop or ATM offers to charge you in pounds, check the exchange rate and any markup before accepting. In euro countries, choosing euros will usually allow your card provider to handle the conversion.
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Check ATM charges
Your card provider may charge for cash withdrawals, and the ATM operator can add its own fee. The screen should show any operator charge before you confirm.
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Choose the right card
Compare the total cost based on how you expect to use the card, rather than focusing on a single fee or headline exchange rate.
Are there spending limits?
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.
Can I withdraw cash from an ATM?
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.
How do I choose the best prepaid euros card?
There is no single best card for everyone. The right choice depends on where you are going and how you plan to spend.
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Compare the total cost
Look at the exchange rate and any charges for the card, top-ups, purchases, ATM withdrawals, inactivity and getting unused money back.
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Check how currency conversion works
Decide whether you want to lock in a euro rate before travelling or convert money when you spend. If you are visiting countries that use different currencies, a multi-currency card may be more convenient.
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Review limits and acceptance
Check top-up, balance, spending and withdrawal limits, plus any restrictions on hotel deposits, car hire or pay-at-pump petrol stations.
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Check the provider and app
Confirm who issues the card, how customer funds are protected and what support is available. App features such as instant card freezing and spending alerts can also be useful.
What are the alternatives to a prepaid euros card?
If a prepaid euro card does not suit your needs, other options include:
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Travel credit card
Can offer fee-free overseas purchases and Section 75 protection on eligible purchases. Interest may apply if you do not repay the balance in full, and cash withdrawals can be expensive.
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Debit card
Convenient for everyday spending, although some accounts charge foreign transaction or cash-withdrawal fees.
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Cash
Useful for small purchases, tips and places that do not accept cards, but harder to replace if it is lost or stolen.
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Multi-currency account or card
Lets you hold or spend in several currencies and may be more convenient if your trip includes non-euro countries.
Our expert says…
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
Compare prepaid euros cards with MoneySuperMarket
If you are planning a trip to a country that uses the euro, a prepaid card could help you manage your travel spending.
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View euro card deals
See prepaid euro cards from our panel of providers.
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Compare rates, fees and features
Check how each card converts currency, what it charges and whether its limits and features suit your trip.
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Apply with the provider
Once you have chosen a card, click through to the provider to check your eligibility and apply.
Can I use my prepaid card for purchases online?
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 issuer if you’re unsure whether you’ll face any additional fees or limitations.
Can I withdraw euros from an ATM with my prepaid card?
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.
How old do I have to be to own a prepaid euro card?
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.
Are there any transaction fees on my prepaid euros card?
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.
Is a prepaid travel card right for me?
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.
Is my money safe with a prepaid euros card?
Money held with a prepaid card provider is not protected by the FSCS. Where safeguarding rules apply, the provider must protect customer funds separately from its own money or use another permitted safeguarding method.
This is designed to protect customers if the firm fails, but getting your money back can take longer than with an FSCS-protected bank account and deductions may apply.
Avoid keeping more money on the card than you need for your trip. Check that the provider is authorised or registered and read its safeguarding information before applying.
Prepaid card purchases do not qualify for Section 75 protection. You may be able to request a chargeback in some circumstances, but this is not a legal right and is not guaranteed.
What do I do if my card is lost or stolen?
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.
Can I use my prepaid euros card after my trip?
Usually, yes. Check whether the card has an expiry date or charges for inactivity, and whether there is a fee to convert or withdraw your remaining balance.
Can I get a prepaid euros card with bad credit?
Many prepaid cards do not involve borrowing and therefore do not require a credit check. Providers may still carry out identity and anti-fraud checks, and eligibility rules vary.
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