My 4 favorite travel cards

Essential travels cards for international Travellers

Planning your next adventure? Choosing the right financial tools can make all the difference in managing your expenses. I use four popular travel cards : Revolut, Boursorama, American Express, and Wise. They offer unique benefits and features for travellers. Whether you’re looking for no foreign transaction fees, competitive exchange rates, or convenient ATM withdrawals, understanding these options will help you choose the right card for your next trips.

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each card, highlight any ATM withdrawal limits, and provide essential information to ensure you travel with confidence.

💳🌍 My 4 travels cards

Revolut - The Digital Multi-Currency Card

I can’t say it enough ! This travel card is my bestie hehe. Revolut has quickly become one of the most popular options for travellers, offering a convenient way to manage multiple currencies, send money abroad, and withdraw cash from ATMs without excessive fees. With competitive exchange rates and a user-friendly app, it’s a must-have card for those frequently on the go.

Guess what? You have a travel buddy that has Revolut and owes you money ?! He/She can reimburse you instantly by using your Revolut handle. It is super convenient, isn’t it ?

Are you ready to get yours ? Click here to proceed and thank me later 😉.

Boursorama - The French Banking Giant

This is my backup card ! I often combine it with my revolut. To give you a concrete example, in Kyrgyzstan I withdrew the equivalent of 200€ in som (Kyrgyz som KGS) and did the same with my Boursorama since I owed 400€ to the travel operator. The ATM didn’t allow me to withdraw more money with one card. It would have been a nightmare with just one card.

For those based in Europe, Boursorama is a good alternative for fee-free banking service. Its Ultim card is tailored for frequent travellers, providing unlimited foreign currency transactions without additional charges. If you’re interested, Boursorama even provides global travel insurance, making it a top contender for long-term travellers.

Backup card here we go, subscribe with my link here.

American Express - Premium Benefits for Travelers

American Express is known for its premium perks, especially with the Platinum and Gold travel cards. While it has higher annual fees compared to other options, Amex stands out for its luxurious benefits such as travel insurance, airport lounge access, and reward points on every purchase. It’s best for travellers who prioritise comfort and service.

I have the basic card which is AIR FRANCE KLM – AMERICAN EXPRESS GOLD. I regularly use miles as coupons to reduce flight ticket prices.

Looking for more miles to collect ? Receive between 12000-15000 miles to get you started by using my referral link here. Your AMEX will be free the first year ! Woot Woot.

Wise - The International Money Transfer Expert

To be honest I got Wise recently. I needed to do a bank transfer to a travel agency, and thus, I created an account to smooth the process. I knew that this card was used a lot in Asia, so I wanted to anticipate before heading there for my sabbatical. For now, I only have the virtual version and I’m using it with Apple Pay.

Wise, formerly known as TransferWise, is ideal for international travellers who need to send or receive money across borders. Its Wise Debit Card offers some of the best exchange rates with no hidden fees. It’s perfect for budget-conscious travellers who prioritise transparent pricing. Most of my friends in Japan use Wise. Same as Revolut, it is easy to reimburse one another by using our respective handles.

If this card is more convenient to you, get it here.

💡KEEP IN MIND💡

Each card has its own strengths, so consider your travel style and financial needs before making a choice. Check the comparison below to help you find the ideal card for you. 🌏✈️💰

Comparison Table: Pros and Cons of Revolut, Boursorama, American Express, and Wise

Travel card

Pros

Cons

ATM Withdrawal Limits

Competitive exchange rates
Hold multiple currencies
Split bills and easy transfers

Weekend exchange markups (0.5%-1%)
Limited ATM withdrawals
Not always accepted in rural areas

Free up to €200/month, fees apply afterward

No foreign transaction fees
Free ATM withdrawals worldwide
Competitive exchange rates

Available only to French residents
ATM withdrawal limits may apply
Primarily French-language customer support

Free worldwide ATM withdrawals, limits vary by plan

Premium rewards (Membership Rewards)
Airport lounge access (Platinum card)
Purchase protection and travel insurance

High annual fees on premium cards
Limited acceptance, especially with smaller merchants
High ATM withdrawal fees

Generally high ATM fees

Transparent currency exchange
Low and transparent fees
Multi-currency holding and spending

No rewards or cash-back programs
Limited perks compared to credit cards
ATM withdrawal limits apply

Free up to €200/month, then fees apply

Choosing the Best Travel Card based on your expense habits

Each of the aforementioned cards offers distinct advantages based on your travel needs. Revolut and Wise are great for budget-conscious travellers seeking excellent exchange rates and low ATM fees, while Boursorama is an excellent option for French residents looking for no foreign fees. On the other hand, American Express provides premium travel benefits like airport lounge access and rewards, though it may be better suited for luxury travellers with limitations internationally.

Make sure to choose a card that aligns with your spending habits, whether you prefer to pay with cash, use card payments, or maximise travel rewards