Can I use my debit card when I travel?

Can I use my debit card overseas? Yes. However, it's a good idea to let your bank know first if you're traveling outside the country.



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Credit cards typically provide better exchange rates than what you'll get from ATM machines and currency stands. Depending on your card issuer, your purchases might automatically qualify for insurance. This coverage doesn't simply apply to consumer goods — it also covers travel delays and lost luggage.

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The best way to get local currency (Euros) is to use a debit card, able to access the Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus or Maestro networks, in an ATM (Interac cannot be used). Usually, the bank rate will be given for exchange rather than the local tourist rate.

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While you're traveling:
  1. Have multiple payment options. Keep an alternate form of payment in a different bag in case your wallet is lost or stolen. ...
  2. Only use secure Wi-Fi networks. ...
  3. Don't post selfies until you get home. ...
  4. Limit your use of Bluetooth. ...
  5. Report your lost card quickly.


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Advantages of using cash If your spending discipline breaks down when you use credit cards, cash may be a better choice while you let loose on vacation. No foreign transaction fees: Many credit cards charge an extra fee of up to 3% on purchases made outside the country, although you can find cards that don't.

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Accessing money while abroad
  1. Cash/Local Currency. Let's start with the most basic form of payment: cash. ...
  2. Opening a Bank Account. If you are abroad for a semester or longer, you may want to investigate the option of opening a local bank account. ...
  3. ATM/Debit Cards. ...
  4. Credit Cards. ...
  5. Apple Pay/Google Pay.


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You might also notice that some small shops accept cards only for purchases above a certain amount, normally 10 euros. Also taxis usually take cards, but some do not or simply do not want to take anything other than cash. For these reasons, it is advisable to always carry a little bit of cash with you.

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Deutsche Bank is the only major bank we found that charges no ATM fees in Spain. With regional banks, Bankinter will charge €0.50 while Banco Popular, Banco Pastor, Targobank and Caja Rural will charge €0.80. In contrast, BBVA charges the highest at €6 per withdrawal while ING's 12% fee can pile up very quickly.

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Wise is our best value travel money debit card for Spain. There's no fee to open a Wise account, and just a small delivery fee for your Wise card, with no minimum balance and no monthly charge.

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European travelers should always have some cash on hand; getting it from an ATM abroad is usually the easiest, most advantageous way. If you need cash from an ATM, it's usually better to use a debit card, because credit cards often charge a high interest rate for a cash advance.

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