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Multi-currency prepaid cards
Choose from our best currency cards
What is a prepaid currency card?
A currency card is a type of prepaid card that lets you load money and use it abroad. Depending on the card, you may be able to hold currencies including pounds, euros and US dollars. Some cards let you lock in an exchange rate when you load money, while others convert your money at the rate available when you spend.
How do they work?
Prepaid currency cards work as follows:
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Top up the card
Depending on the card, you can load it with money when you apply or activate it. You usually do this from your bank account.
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Using the card
Once you’ve loaded your chosen currency, you use the card abroad. Make sure to check the small print for any limits when spending.
How to choose the best prepaid currency card
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Check card fees
Some cards might have fees for inactivity and monthly use. When you compare cards with us, we clearly highlight any fees the card carries.
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Compare benefits
Multi-currency cards may offer benefits such as cashback, spending insights or fee-free withdrawal allowances. Make sure any benefits suit the way you plan to use the card.
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Number of currencies
Some cards support a broad range of currencies, while others offer a more limited selection. Think about where you’re travelling before you apply.
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Seek out offers
Some providers may be running promotional offers. For example, you could benefit from additional cash when you load a certain amount.
How do I load money onto a multi-currency card?
You can load money onto a multi-currency card online, via a mobile app, or through bank transfer or debit card payment. Once logged in to your account, simply choose the currencies you want to add, the amount, and the payment method. Some providers also offer auto top-up options or allow you to lock in exchange rates.
How do I check my balance?
To check your balance, log in to your multi-currency card account through the provider’s website or app. You’ll be able to see your available balance in each currency, along with a breakdown of recent transactions. Some cards also offer SMS balance alerts or ATM balance checks.
How do I make the most out of my currency card?
Here’s how to make the most of your currency card:
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Avoid foreign exchange charges
A prepaid currency card could be cheaper to use abroad than your usual debit or credit card. However, exchange rates and fees vary, so check for charges for spending, withdrawals, top-ups and inactivity.
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Stick to a budget
A prepaid card will help you with your financial planning, as you’ll know exactly what amount you’ll be able to spend. This can help you keep within your budget but it’s still a good idea to carry around additional forms of travel money in case of emergencies.
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Stay secure
If you lose your foreign currency prepaid card, you should contact the card provider immediately to cancel it. Many providers will either issue you with emergency cash or even send out a replacement.
Can I load multiple currencies onto the card?
Yes, that’s what multi-currency cards are designed for. Depending on the provider, you can hold currencies such as euros and US dollars in the same account.
Some cards let you lock in an exchange rate when you load money. Others convert your balance when you spend, so check how your provider handles exchange rates and fees.
Will it cost me to withdraw from an ATM?
It depends on your card provider. Some multi-currency cards offer a fee-free overseas ATM withdrawal allowance, while others charge per withdrawal. Local ATM operators may also apply their own fees.
If an ATM offers to convert the withdrawal into pounds, choosing the local currency will usually help you avoid the ATM operator’s exchange rate.
Can I use the card for online purchases in different currencies?
Yes, you can normally use a multi-currency card for online purchases wherever its payment network is accepted. If you already hold the relevant currency, the payment will usually come from that balance. Otherwise, the provider may convert money from another balance using its own rate, so check the terms first.
What are the pros and cons of getting a currency card?
There are benefits and drawbacks to getting a currency card, such as:
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Pros
Budgeting: You can only spend the money available on your prepaid card, which can help you stick to a travel budget.
Multiple currencies: You may be able to hold several currencies on one card, making it easier to manage spending across different countries.
Security: Many cards offer Chip and PIN, contactless payments and the ability to freeze the card through an app. Chargeback may also be available for eligible purchases, although prepaid cards do not receive Section 75 protection.
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Cons
Not very flexible: Could have restrictions on fund transfers and withdrawal limits, and may charge for ATM use.
Not widely accepted: May not be accepted everywhere, especially regions where there’s limited support for card payments.
Charges: Can come with extra costs such as monthly fees, inactivity charges and for topping up with a credit card.
Is my money safe with a currency card?
Money held on a prepaid currency card usually isn’t protected by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS). Instead, authorised e-money and payment firms are generally required to safeguard relevant customer funds, for example by keeping them separate from the firm’s own money.
Safeguarding is designed to protect your money if the firm fails, but it isn’t the same as FSCS protection and there could be a delay before funds are returned. Check the provider’s regulatory status and safeguarding arrangements before applying.
What do I do if my card is lost or stolen?
Act quickly if your card is lost or stolen. Use the provider’s app or website to freeze it immediately, then report it to the customer service team. The provider will usually cancel the card and arrange a replacement. Check your account for unfamiliar transactions and report anything suspicious straight away.
Are there any fees or charges with a currency card?
Multi-currency card fees may include the following:
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Monthly and annual fees
Some providers may charge you monthly for your prepaid card, while others might impose a yearly fee.
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Withdrawal fees
You could be charged for withdrawing money from the cash machine. Some prepaid currency cards will charge you for using your card to make withdrawals in the UK or abroad.
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Transaction fees
Your provider may charge for certain purchases or currency conversions. Charges can be a fixed amount or a percentage of the transaction, so check the card’s fees before applying.
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Inactivity fees
If your prepaid currency card remains dormant for a while you could be charged for this. It’s important to consider this cost, if you don’t think you’ll be using your card often.
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Loading fees
There may be a charge when you add funds to the card. Check the terms and conditions before you apply
How do currency exchange rates affect prepaid multi-currency cards?
Currency exchange rates affect how much of each foreign currency you get when you load your card. Some multi-currency cards let you lock in exchange rates when you top up, protecting you from rate changes later. Others use the rate at the time of spending, which can vary – so always check how your provider handles conversions.
What are the alternatives to a currency card?
Here are some alternatives to using a prepaid currency card:
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Debit card
Use your regular bank card abroad, but watch out for foreign transaction and ATM fees
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Credit card
Can offer Section 75 protection on eligible purchases and may include rewards, although foreign transaction and cash-withdrawal fees can apply.
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Cash
Handy for small purchases or tipping, but risky if lost or stolen
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Travel money
Order foreign currency in advance from banks or travel money services – useful for budgeting
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Bank transfer
Send money directly to overseas accounts, ideal for larger payments or regular transfers
Our expert says…
Multi-currency prepaid cards are a smart way to manage your travel money, letting you lock in exchange rates and avoid costly foreign transaction fees. They’re especially useful if you’re visiting multiple countries. Just be aware of potential fees for loading, inactivity, or ATM use – and always check the exchange rates offered before topping up.
Tim Heming Personal Finance Expert
Compare prepaid currency cards with MoneySuperMarket
If you’re a frequent flyer, then a prepaid currency card could be a handy way to manage your finances overseas.
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Check currency card offers
We compare currency cards from top providers, and we have a selection of deals you can choose. Sometimes providers may even run promotional offers, so you can get more bang for your buck.
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Compare features
We highlight key features of the card including perks on offer, such as cashback and rewards. We also clearly show you any associated fees with the card, so you know exactly what you’re getting yourself into.
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Apply in seconds
As soon as you’ve found a card you like, you can click through to the provider to apply online. Applying is quick and easy.
Am I eligible for a prepaid currency card?
Most providers will require you to be 18 and over to take out the card, but you shouldn’t need a credit check because you’re not borrowing any money.
What currencies can I load onto the card?
This depends on the card you choose. Some support a limited selection of major currencies, while others offer a much broader range.
How do I switch between multiple currencies on the card?
You can usually do this in online banking, where following your provider’s instructions you can switch between currencies.
Is there a minimum or maximum balance requirement for any of the currencies?
There may be a minimum and maximum balance requirement set by your provider, but this will depend on their terms and conditions, so check them carefully.
Is the currency card contactless?
Many currency cards support contactless payments. You may need to make a Chip and PIN payment before contactless is activated, depending on the provider.
Is the money protected if the card is lost or stolen?
Freeze or block the card through the provider’s app or website as soon as possible, then report it to the provider. Check your account for unfamiliar transactions and report these immediately.
What is the difference between a travel card and a prepaid card
Add the missing question mark. The existing answer can remain unchanged.
Can I reload my currency card while travelling?
Yes, most multi-currency prepaid cards allow you to reload funds while abroad via their app or website. This means you can add money whenever you need to, helping you stay flexible during your trip. Just check if there are any fees or limits for top-ups while overseas.
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