8 Best Debit Cards for International Travel of 2025

Planning an international trip means more than booking flights and packing your bags. Once you arrive, you’ll need a reliable way to access your money without paying steep bank charges. Many banks add foreign transaction fees, ATM withdrawal fees, and hidden exchange markups when you use your debit card overseas.

The right debit card can help you avoid those extra costs. Some banks now offer debit cards built for international travel, with no foreign transaction fees and worldwide ATM access. We’ve rounded up the best debit cards for international travel in 2025 so you can spend with confidence wherever your trip takes you.

Best Debit Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees

Finding the right debit card for overseas use can save you a lot in fees. Below are five of the best options in 2025, with details on perks, international use, and any downsides you should know about.

Best Debit Cards for International Travel with Lower Fees

Not every debit card wipes out international fees completely, but some offer lower costs or better exchange rates than the big banks. If you’re looking for an option that reduces charges when spending or withdrawing abroad, these debit cards are worth a closer look.

How to Choose the Best International Debit Card

If you travel often or shop regularly from international merchants, the debit card you choose can make a big difference in both cost and convenience. The right card helps you avoid extra fees, gives you easy access to your money, and may even provide added benefits. Here are the key factors to keep in mind when comparing international debit cards:

Acceptance

Your debit card should work wherever you go. Choosing a card on the Visa or Mastercard network is generally the safest option since these networks are accepted worldwide at millions of merchants and ATMs.

Fees

Every bank has its own fee structure, so you’ll want to review it carefully. Pay close attention to foreign transaction fees, which can add up quickly. It’s also important to know whether the bank charges for ATM withdrawals, account maintenance, or other common services.

Exchange Rates

The exchange rate your bank uses directly impacts how much you pay for foreign purchases. Some banks offer more favorable rates than others, so check this before you decide. Even a small difference can lead to meaningful savings over time.

Rewards

Some debit cards provide perks for international spending. These can include cashback offers, discounts, or points you can redeem later. Consider whether the rewards program aligns with your travel habits and spending patterns.

Accessibility

An international debit card should make it easy to access your money abroad. Banks with large ATM networks or a strong global presence can save you time and hassle if you need assistance or cash while overseas.

Travel Insurance

Certain international debit cards come with travel-related protections. These can include coverage for trip interruptions, lost luggage, or accidents. While not a replacement for full travel insurance, it can add an extra layer of protection.

International Money Transfers

If sending or receiving money across borders is part of your routine, look for a debit card that supports affordable and convenient international transfers.

Customer Service

Reliable customer service is especially important when you’re in a different time zone. Round-the-clock support ensures you can get help quickly if you have issues with your account or card.

Security

Security should be a top priority. Choose a card that offers fraud protection, spending limits, and EMV chip technology. These features help protect your money from unauthorized transactions.

Zero Liability

Make sure the debit card you choose has a zero liability policy. This protects you from financial loss if your card is lost, stolen, or used fraudulently.

Using Your Debit Card Abroad

You can use your debit card almost anywhere in the world since Visa, Mastercard, and other major payment networks operate internationally. For most travelers, a debit card will work without issue. Still, it’s smart to take a few extra steps before you leave to avoid disruptions and keep your money secure.

Notify Your Bank Before You Travel

Let your bank know your travel dates and destinations. This prevents your transactions from being flagged as suspicious and your debit card from being frozen while you’re overseas. A quick note to your bank can save you from the hassle of declined purchases at restaurants, shops, or ATMs abroad.

Set Up and Use the Mobile App

Download your bank’s mobile app before your trip and make sure it’s activated. Many apps include location-based security features that confirm your phone and debit card are in the same place, which helps reduce the chance of blocked transactions. These apps also give you instant alerts and easier account management while you’re traveling.

International Debit Card Fees to Watch For

Banks often charge extra fees when you use your debit card abroad, and the exact amount depends on your institution. These charges can quickly add up if you’re not prepared, so it’s important to know what to expect before you leave.

ATM Withdrawal Fees

Using an out-of-network ATM overseas is similar to doing so at home, but the fees are usually higher. You may be charged $2 to $5 per transaction by your bank, and the ATM owner may add their own fee on top.

Foreign Transaction Fees

Many banks also apply a foreign transaction fee on purchases or ATM withdrawals made in another currency. This fee is typically 2% to 3% of the total transaction amount. Even small purchases can become costly when these charges stack up.

Foreign Transaction Fees: What the Big Banks Charge

Ready to see how your bank stacks up? Here’s a list of nationwide banks that charge relatively hefty fees for international ATM use.

BANK	SERVICE FEE	FEE PERCENTAGE
Bank of America	$5	3%
BB&T	$5	3%
Chase	$5	3%
Citibank	$2	3%
Fifth Third	$5	3%
PNC Bank	$5	3%
Wells Fargo	$5	3%

If you make an ATM withdrawal of $100 from an ATM in another country, and you use any of these banks, you could be paying up to 8% just for the privilege of accessing your money. Sure, some customers have premier checking accounts and preferred cards, but you can expect to pay some hefty ATM fees if you don’t.

Debit cards are the easiest way to access cash when you’re out of the country, but it will cost you—unless you pick the right bank.

Other Ways to Pay While Traveling Abroad

Debit cards are one of the easiest ways to access money abroad, but they aren’t your only option. Depending on your destination and comfort level, these alternatives may help:

Credit Cards

Travel credit cards often waive foreign transaction fees and provide benefits like rewards, travel insurance, and fraud protection. Always notify your issuer before leaving so your card doesn’t get flagged for suspicious activity.

Mobile Wallets

Apple Pay, Google Wallet, and Samsung Pay are widely accepted in major cities overseas. They allow contactless payments and reduce the risk of carrying multiple physical cards. Availability varies by country.

Preloaded Travel Cards

Prepaid travel cards can be loaded with foreign currency ahead of your trip, locking in exchange rates. They make budgeting easier but may come with purchase or reload fees.

Prepaid Debit Cards

Unlike older anonymous prepaid cards, today’s prepaid Visa and Mastercard products require identification and are tied to your name. They can still work abroad, though fees and limits vary, so it’s worth comparing options before you go. Check out this list of top-rated prepaid debit cards.

International Money Transfer Services

Companies like PayPal or Western Union allow you to send money for pickup in local currency. They’re convenient in emergencies but usually carry higher fees and less favorable exchange rates.

Cryptocurrencies

Some travelers experiment with Bitcoin or other digital currencies when abroad. While a growing number of businesses accept them, volatility and regulatory differences make crypto more of a niche option than a dependable travel solution.

Local Cash

Carrying some local currency is always smart for small vendors or emergencies. Exchange your money at banks or trusted providers, and avoid carrying large sums. Airport exchange counters are the most expensive, often with high fees and poor rates.

See also: Where to Exchange Currency: Low-Fee Options

Bottom Line

The right debit card can make international travel smoother and far less expensive. Banks like Schwab, Fidelity, and Betterment stand out for reimbursing ATM fees worldwide, while Wise offers fair exchange rates that traditional banks rarely match.

Even if you prefer to carry a backup card like Discover or Ally, choosing an account with low fees and strong protections will keep more money in your pocket.

Before your trip, review your bank’s international policies, let them know your travel dates, and bring at least one alternative payment method. With the right debit card and a little preparation, you can enjoy your travels without worrying about surprise charges every time you swipe or withdraw cash.