Travel money and the best ways to spend abroad

Whether you’re using travel cash or cards, here’s the best ways to spend on holiday and get a better deal on foreign currency.

Four ways to spend abroad

There are four main ways to pay when you’re abroad: cash, a prepaid travel card, a digital or multi-currency card/account, or your usual debit or credit card.

For most trips, it’s worth having more than one way to pay, so you’re not relying on a single card or carrying too much money around.

Travel cash: Useful for small purchases, tips, taxis or places that don’t accept cards.
Prepaid travel cards: Load money before you go and use it like a debit card.
Digital or multi-currency cards/accounts: Providers like Revolut, Wise and N26 may offer low-fee spending, currency features or in-app controls.
Standard debit or credit cards: Easy to use abroad, but some cards charge foreign transaction, ATM or conversion fees.

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Compare ways to spend abroad

Each payment option works slightly differently, so it’s worth checking how you’ll access your money, what fees apply and what backup you’ll need.

Option	Main difference	Best for	Watch out for
Travel cash	Physical foreign currency	Small spends, tips and emergencies	Poor rates, fees and carrying too much cash
Prepaid travel card	Card loaded before travel	Budgeting and separating holiday spend	Reload fees, ATM charges and unused balances
Digital or multi-currency debit card/account	App-based account with travel-friendly features	Low-fee spending, currency exchange and in-app controls	ATM limits, weekend markups and plan limits
Standard current account debit card	Card linked to a more traditional bank account	Easy access to your main account	Foreign transaction fees and ATM charges
Credit card	Borrowed spending repaid later	Hotels, car hire and larger purchases	Cash fees, interest and non-euro charges

Spending with foreign currency

Using local currency can be handy for small purchases, tips and taxis, but it’s not always the cheapest or safest way to spend abroad.

Pros

It’s accepted almost everywhere
There are no card transaction fees when you pay in cash
It can help you stick to a budget

Cons

You may lose some or have it stolen
Carrying a large amount is a security risk
Poor exchange rates or fees can make it expensive
You can only spend what you have

lovely sunny holiday

Ordering foreign currency

Each travel money provider will offer a different exchange rate, so always check rates and additional charges before you order.

If you order travel money online, the rate may be better, but there could be additional costs like commission fees and home delivery charges.

A 0% commission deal isn’t always the cheapest if the exchange rate is weaker. The easiest way to compare providers is to check how much currency you’ll actually receive after all fees are included.

Make sure you work out the overall price of the transaction before you order currency online.

Where to get foreign currency

If you opt for foreign currency, you can order it online, collect it in person or arrange delivery. Each provider will offer different rates, fees and collection options, so compare the total amount of currency you’ll receive before you buy.

Where to get foreign currency	Good for	Watch out for
Your bank	Existing customers who want a familiar provider	Exchange rates, fees and limited currency availability
An Post	Common currencies and branch collection	The rate may not always be the best available
Travel agent	Convenience if you’re booking a holiday	Commission, fees or weaker exchange rates
Exchange bureau	Last-minute or in-person currency exchange	Airport and high-street rates can be poor value
Online currency specialist	Comparing rates and ordering ahead	Delivery fees, minimum orders and collection limits

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Tips for getting the best exchange rate

Getting a good exchange rate gives you more travel money for your euro. Here are a few tips:

Shop around and compare rates from different providers. Some offer an online tool that lets you see how much currency you’ll get in return for your euro.
Order online and collect your order in person, as you’ll usually get a better rate.
Be aware of tiered rates and check which rate you’d get for the amount you need. The more currency you order, the better the rate.
Check the delivery charges if you order online or over the phone. These can vary depending on how much you buy so look at the total cost.
Watch out for commission charges but be aware that commission-free isn’t necessarily the best deal as the exchange rate may be lower.
Don’t buy your currency at the airport as you’ll usually get a bad exchange rate. If time is running out, order online in advance and collect it from the airport.

If you have currency left over at the end of your trip, you can get larger notes converted back to euro, but you may be charged.

Spending with a prepaid currency card

If you don’t want to carry your travel money as cash, but want to control your spending, a prepaid card could work for you.

Pros

Transaction fees tend to be lower than a credit card
Load the card with the amount you need
Reload the card while you’re away
Some cards let you load multiple currencies

Cons

You may be charged each time you make a transaction
Can be expensive to reload the card
You’ll need to apply for the card and wait for delivery
Can be expensive to withdraw cash

How to find the right prepaid card for your trip

Opt for a travel prepaid card which is cheaper to use abroad than a standard one.
Check which currencies you can top up and choose a card that covers the countries you’re visiting.
Shop around: and compare transaction fees because some have zero foreign transaction fees.
Check the cost of ATM withdrawals and maximum daily withdrawal amounts, but avoid withdrawing cash while you’re away as this can be expensive.
Check the reload charges and minimum and maximum loading amounts, but avoid topping up if you can as this can be expensive.
Choose a recognised card scheme that’s accepted where you’re travelling, for example, Visa and Mastercard.

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Spending with a digital card or account

Digital cards and multi-currency accounts can help reduce fees abroad and make it easier to manage travel spending in-app.

Many digital and multi-currency cards are a type of debit card that travellers often use separately for travel spending, currency exchange or lower-fee payments abroad.

Pros

They can offer low or no foreign transaction fees
You can manage your card and spending in-app
Some accounts support multiple currencies
Virtual cards can be useful for online bookings or extra security

Cons

ATM withdrawals may be limited or charged
Weekend markups or fair usage limits may apply
Some features depend on your plan or account type
You may still need cash or a backup card

Are digital cards fee-free?

Digital and multi-currency cards can be cheaper for spending abroad, but some charges may still apply depending on your plan, currency and how you use the card.

ATM limits: Free withdrawals may be capped, with fees after a set amount.
Weekend markups: Some providers add a markup when markets are closed.
Currency limits: You may pay more after reaching a monthly exchange limit.
Plan fees: Some travel features may only be available on paid plans.
Backup access: Check how you’d replace your card or access money if your phone is lost.

Used carefully, a digital card can still help you manage holiday spending, track payments in-app and avoid some foreign transaction fees.

Where can you get a digital card or account?

Digital and multi-currency cards are usually available through app-based providers, online banks or money transfer services.

Providers like Revolut, Wise and N26 are commonly used in Ireland for travel spending, currency exchange and in-app money management.

Before signing up, check which currencies are supported, what fees apply abroad and whether you’ll get a physical card, virtual card or both.

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Spending with a bank debit or credit card

Taking a more traditional (non-digital) current account debit card abroad seems simple, but foreign transaction fees, ATM charges and poor exchange rates can quickly add up.

Pros

It’s more convenient and safer than carrying cash
You can put a stop on your card if it’s lost or stolen
You have access to money in your current account

Cons

You may be charged for non-euro transactions
Cash withdrawals abroad can be expensive
Some retailers and restaurants may not take cards, or may apply a minimum spend
You could go overdrawn and be charged

Check your debit card fees before you travel

If you usually rely on a standard current account debit card from a traditional bank, check the fees before you travel.

Each time you use your debit card outside the EU, you’re likely to be charged a percentage of the transaction’s value - up to 3%, or the maximum capped amount if lower.

These charges can vary depending on your bank, where you’re travelling and whether you’re paying for goods or withdrawing cash.

If you travel abroad often, you could save by using a digital card or account with low or no foreign transaction fees alongside your regular bank card. However, check ATM withdrawal limits, weekend markups and other fees before you go.

Debit card charges depend on things like:

Whether your purchase is in euro or another currency
Who you bank with
Whether you’re withdrawing cash or purchasing goods or services on your card
Whether you choose to pay in euro or the local currency

How much can card fees cost abroad?

Card fees can add up quickly outside the eurozone, especially if you pay in euro, withdraw cash often or use a card with foreign transaction fees.

Foreign transaction fees: A percentage charge for spending in a non-euro currency. Use a digital card or account with no foreign transaction fees where possible.
ATM withdrawal fees: A charge for taking out cash abroad. Withdraw less often, avoid credit cards and check your card’s ATM limits.
Currency conversion fees: Extra costs can apply if a shop, restaurant or ATM converts your payment into euro. Pay in the local currency instead.
Credit card cash advance fees: A fee for withdrawing cash on a credit card, with interest often charged straight away. Avoid using credit cards at ATMs.

These charges can apply when you spend in a non-euro currency, take out cash abroad, accept payment in euro instead of the local currency, or use a credit card at an ATM.

Pay in the local currency

If you use your debit card abroad, it’s usually cheaper to pay in the local currency rather than euro.

If a shop, restaurant or ATM offers to charge your Irish card in euro, it may use its own exchange rate. This is known as dynamic currency conversion and can cost more than letting your card provider handle the exchange.

For example, choose sterling in the UK, dollars in the US, or the local currency wherever you’re travelling.

Example: spending money on a two-week US holiday

If you’re travelling outside the eurozone, how you pay can make a big difference to the final cost of your trip.

In Switcher.ie examples based on a €2,800 holiday budget:

Standard debit card foreign transaction fees from three major Irish banks averaged around €51 for 56 card payments of €50.
ATM withdrawal fees averaged around €110, based on nine foreign currency withdrawals of €311.

Using a digital card or account with no foreign transaction fees could help reduce or eliminate card payment costs.

Travel money cost	Example charge
Debit card foreign transaction fees	€51
ATM withdrawal fees	€110
Total potential saving	Up to €161

Based on Switcher.ie examples using a €2,800 holiday budget outside the eurozone. Debit card fees are based on 56 foreign currency transactions from 3 major banks; ATM fees are based on 9 withdrawals. Savings and costs vary by provider, card type, destination, exchange rate, limits and fees.

Credit cards

A versatile and secure payment type, some credit cards in Ireland promise no foreign transaction fees on euro transactions and add nothing to the Mastercard exchange rate.

Pros

Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted worldwide
You can buy now and pay later
You can put a stop on your card if it’s lost or stolen
You get chargeback protection in the EU
Some credit cards offer zero foreign transaction fees or travel perks

Cons

It can be expensive to withdraw cash
You’ll usually be charged interest on cash withdrawals straight away
Transaction charges can be higher than debit cards
Charges can be expensive for non-euro purchases
You may be tempted to overspend

Outside the EU, you’ll be charged a currency conversion fee (around 1% of the purchase) each time you use your credit card or withdraw money. Typically you’ll pay a percentage of the transaction value, up to 3% too.

Avoid withdrawing cash with your credit card as you’ll also be charged a cash advance fee. Plus, you’ll be charged interest even if you pay your balance in full at the end of the month.

Prepaid, digital or bank card: what’s main difference?

The main difference is how you access and manage your money while you’re away.

Prepaid travel card: A separate card you load with money before you travel, often to keep holiday spending separate.
Digital card or account: An app-based card or account, like Revolut, Wise or N26, often used for low-fee spending, virtual cards or multi-currency features.
Bank debit card: Your regular current account card from an Irish bank, which is easy to use abroad but may have foreign transaction or ATM fees.
Credit card: Borrowed spending you repay later, often useful for hotels, car hire, deposits or larger purchases.

Holiday money euros

So, what is the best travel money option?

The best way to spend abroad depends on where you’re going, how much cash you’ll need and what fees your card provider charges.

Eurozone holiday: A bank debit or credit card should work for most spending, with some cash for small purchases.
UK trip: Pay by card in sterling rather than euro to avoid poor exchange rates or extra conversion fees.
US or long-haul trip: A digital card with low or no foreign transaction fees can help reduce costs, but it’s worth carrying some local cash too.
Family holiday: A prepaid travel card or separate digital spending card can help you stick to a set budget.
All-inclusive holiday: You may only need a small amount of cash, plus a backup card for emergencies.
City break: A digital, debit or credit card with low foreign transaction fees is usually the easiest option.

Tips for spending while you’re abroad

Once you’ve sorted your travel money, a few simple checks can help you avoid poor exchange rates, card problems and unnecessary fees.

Take more than one way to pay: Bring a backup card and some local cash in case your main card is lost, blocked or not accepted.
Pay in the local currency: If you’re offered the choice, pay in the local currency rather than euro to avoid poor exchange rates.
Say no to ATM currency conversion: Don’t let the ATM charge your Irish account in euro, as its exchange rate may be worse than your card provider’s.
Avoid credit card cash withdrawals: You may be charged a cash advance fee and interest from the day you withdraw.
Limit ATM withdrawals: Take out cash less often to reduce withdrawal fees, but avoid carrying too much at once.
Check your card fees before you go: Look at foreign transaction fees, ATM fees, currency conversion fees and spending limits.
Spend loose change before you travel home: Coins and small notes can be hard to convert back to euro.

Some providers let you manage travel settings or card security in-app before you go, so check if your bank needs travel notice.

Not sure how much you’ll need? Budget for food, drinks, transport and excursions each day, then add a little extra for emergencies.

Travel money FAQs

Is it better to exchange money or use a card abroad?

It depends on where you’re travelling and how you plan to spend.

For many trips, using a debit, credit or digital card with low or no foreign transaction fees can be cheaper and easier than carrying lots of cash. However, it might still worth bringing some local currency for small purchases, tips, taxis or places that don’t accept cards.

Should I pay in euros or local currency when using my card abroad?

You should usually pay in the local currency when using your card abroad.

If a shop, restaurant or ATM offers to charge your Irish card in euro, it may use its own exchange rate. This can be more expensive than letting your card provider handle the currency conversion.

If you plan on using a debit or credit card, it’s worth choosing one with low or zero foreign transaction fees on purchases.

Can I use Revolut, Wise or N26 abroad?

You can usually use digital cards and accounts like Revolut, Wise or N26 abroad, but fees and limits can vary by provider and plan.

Before you travel, check foreign transaction fees, ATM withdrawal limits, weekend exchange-rate markups, fair usage limits and any charges for the currency you need.

Can I use chargeback on foreign transactions?

A chargeback is where you dispute a transaction on your debit or credit card, usually because:

You didn’t authorise the transaction
The transaction went through twice
You didn’t get the goods or services you paid for

If a disputed transaction occurs while you’re abroad, contact your bank or card issuer as soon as possible.

To find out more, read our guide to refund rights and chargeback.

How will my travel money be delivered?

If you order travel money for delivery in the Republic of Ireland, it may be sent by registered post and require a signature on arrival.

Delivery options, charges and insurance can vary by provider, so check the terms before you order.

What is the maximum I can load on a prepaid currency card?

Prepaid travel card limits vary by provider, but maximum balances are often between €5,000 and €10,000, with minimum loads from around €50.

You may also need ID, such as your passport or EU driving licence, when buying larger amounts of foreign currency.

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