How to avoid debit card fees abroad?

How to avoid debit card foreign transaction fees while traveling?

To avoid foreign transaction fees and international ATM fees when travelling, use a debit card with no international ATM fees.

Seriously, finding one of these was a game-changer for me. I still remember the absolute sting of those fees back in March 2019, trying to get euros in Rome. It felt like I was just giving away money for nothing. Now, my Starling card is just brilliant for that, zero fuss.

Use a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees.

For bigger splurges, like booking tours or hotels online while abroad, a credit card without those nasty foreign transaction fees is a must. My Barclaycard Rewards doesn't add that sneaky 3% extra. Made a huge difference when I booked that hot air balloon ride in Cappadocia in October 2022.

Withdraw cash from ATMs belonging to your bank's partner networks to minimize charges.

This bit, about hunting down partner banks, I'll be honest, I sometimes just forget. Like, I know Citibank has global connections, but when I'm utterly jet-lagged and just need cash, my brain defaults to the first ATM I see. I really should try harder to pay attention.

Always inform your bank about your travel plans to prevent card blocking.

Oh my god, this one is so important. I learned this the incredibly hard way back in August 2018 when my card got blocked mid-backpacking trip in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Such a headache. Now, a quick app notification or call is always my first step before I fly.

Check and compare exchange rates, and avoid poor rates from local exchange bureaus.

Meticulously checking exchange rates feels a bit advanced for me, I'll confess. I always, always steer clear of airport exchange booths; they're just pure daylight robbery. But beyond that, I sorta trust my fee-free cards to give me a decent enough rate, you know.

Consider using a prepaid travel money card for managing specific foreign currencies.

I actually tried a prepaid card once, a Revolut, for my trip to Japan in February 2020. It was alright for loading yen and budgeting. But honestly, as my main debit cards got better with no fees, it felt a little redundant. Still, for some, it has its place.

Keep track of your spending while abroad to manage your budget effectively.

And for keeping track of spending, my personal budgeting is, let's just say, an ongoing journey. But seeing every transaction instantly on my banking app, even in a different currency, really helps me not go totally wild. Prevents that horrible "oh dear" moment post-holiday.