Using a standard credit card abroad typically incurs a 2.99% non-sterling transaction fee every time you spend. Specialist travel cards eliminate this fee entirely.
Top Picks for 2026
Halifax Clarity: The long-standing champion. No fees on foreign purchases or ATM withdrawals worldwide.
Barclaycard Rewards: Excellent alternative with 0% foreign transaction fees and 0.25% cashback on all spending.
The Golden Rule of Travel Cards
Always pay in the local currency when asked by a card machine or ATM. If you choose to pay in GBP, the local merchant sets the exchange rate, which is always worse than the Mastercard/Visa rate.