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Planning a trip abroad soon? Choosing the right debit card can make a big difference to your travel budget.
Unfortunately, many UK debit cards still charge as much as three per cent in foreign transaction fees — plus ATM charges — which can quickly add up and make it harder to keep your spending under control.
Luckily, some providers now offer fee-free spending and cash withdrawals abroad, helping you make the most of your money while you travel.
What should you look out for in a Travel Debit Card?
No foreign transaction fees: The best cards charge zero per cent on non-sterling transactions.
Exchange rates (FX) based on official market rates: Card providers should use the standard Visa/Mastercard exchange rates with no hidden markups.
Low ATM withdrawal fees: If you need easy access to cash, choose a card with no ATM withdrawal fees. Bear in mind that cash is still the most common method of payment in many countries across the world and some cards may include withdrawal limits before small fees apply.
A user-friendly app with strict controls: Many providers have apps that enable you to freeze a lost card, track your spending, or access support while you're abroad.
Best UK debit cards for spending abroad in 2025
Here are six of the best UK-issued debit cards to spend your money with abroad. All of these offer zero per cent foreign transaction fees.
Starling Bank
Starling’s debit card is fee-free for all overseas spending and ATM withdrawals.
You’ll benefit from the real Mastercard exchange rate with no added charges. There’s no monthly withdrawal cap – just a £300 daily ATM limit for security and a daily cap of six cash withdrawals.
First Direct
HSBC-owned First Direct removed its foreign usage fees in 2023, so its customers enjoy free card payments and withdrawals abroad.
Using a First Direct debit card overseas costs the same as using it at home. The daily cash withdrawal limit is £500.
Chase UK
The app-based Chase UK current account includes a debit card that has 0 per cent fees around the world. It uses the Mastercard rate with no foreign loading and also doesn’t charge for ATM withdrawals abroad.
You should note that there is a £1,500 per month ATM withdrawal limit (and £500 per day) for overseas use. Beyond this, withdrawals could be declined, though most travellers are unlikely to reach this limit as long as you plan properly.
Virgin Money M Plus
The Virgin Money M Plus account provides a Mastercard debit card with no fees on foreign transactions or ATM withdrawals.
Whether you’re spending in shops or taking out cash, Virgin won’t add any charges (though an ATM provider abroad might). The card’s daily ATM withdrawal limit is around £350, which should suit most travel budgets, depending on your travel location.