Check foreign transaction and ATM fees
Look for accounts that waive overseas spending and withdrawal charges to avoid unnecessary costs
Best bank accounts to use abroad
How to find the best bank accounts to use abroad
Can I use any bank account abroad?
Yes, you can use many bank accounts abroad, but it’s not always cost-effective, so always check your bank’s international terms before travelling.
Using a UK account overseas may incur foreign transaction fees, offer poor exchange rates, or ATM withdrawal charges.
Some cards are accepted worldwide, but others may be restricted or blocked for security reasons.
Travel-friendly options like multi-currency accounts, prepaid travel cards, or international bank accounts can reduce fees and make spending abroad far easier.
How can I find the best bank account to use abroad?
If you travel often, finding the right bank account can save you money and make spending abroad easier. Here’s how to choose the best one:
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Compare exchange rates
Some banks offer competitive currency exchange rates, while others add hidden charges. Choose one with transparent, real-time currency conversion
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Consider multi-currency or digital accounts
Accounts like Revolut or Wise let you hold and spend in different currencies with low or no conversion fees
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Review travel-friendly perks and support
Pick an account offering travel insurance, spending alerts, and good customer support when you’re abroad
Bank accounts to use abroad compared
Foreign transaction fees | Foreign cash withdrawal | Other travel perks | |
|---|---|---|---|
Starling Bank | None on card purchases abroad | Generally free (no ATM fee) | Strong app, no foreign usage charges, app features for budgeting abroad |
Monzo | None on card purchases abroad | Free up to £200/month outside EEA, then ~3% over limit | Intuitive app, savings pots, bill splitting |
First Direct | None on card purchases abroad | Free ATM withdrawals (up to high daily limit) | Excellent service scores, welcome bonuses sometimes available |
Chase UK | None on card purchases abroad | Free ATM withdrawals up to ~£1,500/month | 1% cashback on selected spend (capped monthly) |
Revolut (Standard) | Free up to monthly FX limit, small fees after limits apply | Free up to a monthly threshold; small fees over limit | Multi-currency accounts, flexible app controls |
NatWest Travel Account | No fees if paying in local currency | Uses linked account; may involve fees when funding from current account | Allows spending in EUR/USD with no NatWest fees |
Lloyds (Club Lloyds) | Foreign currency fees waived for Club Lloyds customers | Free cash withdrawals abroad for Club Lloyds members | Packaged account perks (e.g., discounts, subscriptions) |
Will I be charged to use my bank account abroad?
Yes, using your bank account abroad can incur several charges. Common fees include:
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Foreign transaction fees
A percentage of each purchase made in a foreign currency
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ATM withdrawal fees
Charges for withdrawing cash from overseas ATMs, sometimes both by your bank and the ATM operator.
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Currency conversion fees
Extra costs when your bank converts your money into the local currency.
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International transfer fees
Fees for sending or receiving money between countries.
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Dynamic currency conversion fees
Additional charges if a merchant converts the transaction to your home currency at checkout.
What is the best way to use my bank account abroad?
If you are planning to use a UK bank account abroad, then its good practice to take the following steps to try and reduce costs:
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Use a card with low or no foreign fees
Choose a debit or credit card that doesn’t charge extra for international purchases to save money
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Withdraw cash strategically
Take out larger amounts less frequently to avoid repeated ATM withdrawal fees, but don’t carry too much cash
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Pay in local currency
Always select to pay in the local currency rather than your home currency to avoid poor exchange rates and extra conversion fees
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Monitor transactions and notify your bank
Keep an eye on your spending and inform your bank of travel plans to prevent card blocks for suspicious activity
Should I use a digital-only bank account abroad?
Using a digital-only bank account abroad can be convenient, with free or cheap international transactions, competitive currency exchange, and easy app-based account management. Many digital banks also let you send and receive money globally without the high fees traditional banks often charge.
However, they often lack in-person branch support and may have withdrawal limits or higher fees for certain transactions. For frequent travellers, combining a traditional bank account with a digital-only account can provide flexibility for international spending while maintaining
If I’m going to have a long-term stay overseas, should I use my UK bank account or open an international account?
If you’re living abroad for several months or longer, opening an international or local bank account is usually the better choice.
While your UK account may work for occasional spending, ongoing use can lead to high foreign transaction fees and poor exchange rates.
An international account can allow you to receive payments, make local transfers, and withdraw cash without repeated conversion charges, making it a more practical and cost-effective option for long-term stays.
What are the alternatives to using my UK current account abroad?
If you’d rather not use your UK current account abroad, you have the following options:
If you’d rather not use your UK current account abroad, you have the following options:
Prepaid travel card
Load money in foreign currencies to spend safely abroad, avoiding high conversion fees and interest
Digital-only bank account
Digital-first banks like Revolut and Wise allow low-fee international transactions, real-time currency exchange, and easy money management
Peer-to-peer payment services
Platforms like PayPal let you send and receive money internationally, but small transaction fees may apply
Credit card with no foreign fees
Use a card that waives overseas fees and offers strong fraud protection for international purchases
How can I switch bank accounts?
If you’re a frequent traveller and feel your current bank account doesn’t support you when you travel, then switching bank accounts is straightforward. You will need to meet the new provider’s eligibility requirements and if you’re aiming for a switch incentive, check the specific criteria carefully.
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Deposit a certain amount
Many banks require you to transfer a minimum sum into your new account to complete the switch or qualify for any bonuses
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Direct debits
Your new bank may ask you to set up a minimum number of direct debits or standing orders as part of the process
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Be a new customer
Typically, you must be a first-time customer or not have held an account with the bank for a set period to qualify for switch offers
Our expert says…
Using your UK bank account abroad can be convenient, but it’s important to be aware of potential costs. Many standard current accounts charge foreign transaction fees, ATM withdrawal fees, and offer less favourable exchange rates, which can quickly add up.
For frequent travellers or those spending internationally, it’s worth considering alternatives such as travel money cards, credit cards with no foreign fees, or digital-only bank accounts designed for multi-currency use. Planning ahead, monitoring your spending, and checking your bank’s international terms can help you avoid unexpected charges while making your money go further abroad.
Kara Gammell Personal Finance & Insurance Expert
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What is the best type of bank account to use abroad?
Accounts with low or no foreign transaction fees, or multi-currency digital accounts, are ideal for international spending.
Is it better to use a credit card or debit card when abroad?
Both can be useful, but they serve different purposes. Credit cards are often safer for larger purchases, offering fraud protection and Section 75 cover on spending over £100, as well as emergency support if your card is lost or stolen. Debit cards, on the other hand, are better for accessing your own funds and avoiding interest charges.
Can I use my UK current account abroad?
Yes, but standard accounts may charge foreign transaction and ATM fees, and offer less favourable exchange rates
Should I carry cash or use my card abroad?
Use cards for safety and convenience but keep some local cash for small purchases or emergencies.
Are prepaid travel cards a good alternative?
Prepaid cards let you load multiple currencies, helping avoid high conversion fees and overspending abroad.
How can I avoid unexpected charges when using my bank account abroad?
Check your bank’s foreign fees, monitor transactions, and consider combining a UK account with a travel-friendly digital or prepaid card.
Reviewed on 30 Dec 2025 by
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