Best Neobanks for International Travel in 2025
This guide compares top neobanks like Revolut, Wise, N26, Monzo, and Starling for travel. It covers key features such as FX fees, ATM limits, and insurance. Use it to choose the best travel card for your needs.
International travel in 2025 is easier when you have a neobank account designed for globetrotters. These digital banks offer low or zero foreign transaction fees, competitive exchange rates, and convenient mobile apps. Below, we review the top neobanks for travel, highlighting key features and limitations.
Best Neobanks for Travel in 2025
Revolut
Revolut is a versatile neobank available in many countries. Standard accounts provide fee-free spending up to £1,000 per month (or local currency equivalent), after which a 1% fee applies. Revolut supports over 30 currencies and allows in-app exchanges at the interbank rate. However, note that from Friday to Sunday, a 1% markup is added. For frequent travelers, Premium (£7.99/month) and Metal (£14.99/month) plans offer unlimited fee-free spending, travel insurance, airport lounge access, and higher withdrawal limits (e.g., £600/month free ATM withdrawals on Premium). Revolut also provides disposable virtual cards for secure online payments.
Wise
Wise focuses on transparency and low costs. It uses the real mid-market exchange rate with no margin, charging a small percentage fee (typically 0.35% to 1%). Wise multi-currency account holds 40+ currencies and gives you local bank details in countries like the US, UK, Eurozone, and Australia. The Wise debit card lets you spend worldwide with no annual fee. ATM withdrawals are free up to £200 per month; beyond that a 0.5% fee applies. Wise is regulated in multiple jurisdictions and offers deposit protection up to €100,000 in Europe (through partner banks). It is ideal for travelers who want to avoid hidden markups.
N26
N26, based in Germany, is excellent for European travel but also works globally. The free N26 Standard account offers unlimited free ATM withdrawals in euros and free spending in any currency, but non-euro withdrawals cost 1.7% plus a 1% ATM fee if the operator charges. N26 You (€9.90/month) and Metal (€16.90/month) include worldwide free ATM withdrawals, travel insurance (flight delay, luggage loss, etc.), and purchase protection. N26 also features Spaces for savings goals and payment widgets. Note that N26 is available primarily in the Eurozone and a few other countries.
Monzo
Monzo is a UK neobank popular among British travelers. The free account allows fee-free spending and ATM withdrawals abroad up to £200 per month; after that a 3% fee applies. Monzo Plus (£5/month) raises the limit to £600/month and includes commission-free cash withdrawals globally. Monzo Premium (£15/month) adds unlimited fee-free spending, travel insurance (including COVID-19 cover), car hire excess insurance, and a premium metal card. Monzo uses the Mastercard exchange rate with no markup, but the weekend exchange rate may differ slightly. Monzo also offers instant notifications and easy budgeting.
Starling Bank
Starling Bank stands out for its no-fee overseas spending. It charges zero fees on foreign transactions and free ATM withdrawals (up to £300 per day, with a 2% fee after £5,000 in any 12-month period). Starling uses the Mastercard rate with no markup. Accounts are interest-bearing, and you can add a travel insurance add-on for £10/month. Starling also offers joint accounts and euro and US dollar accounts (via its marketplace). It is regulated by the FCA and deposits are protected up to £85,000 under the FSCS.
How to Choose the Right Neobank for Your Travels
Consider these factors when comparing neobanks for travel:
- Fee structure: Look for no or low foreign transaction fees, and understand ATM withdrawal limits.
- Exchange rate transparency: Prefer banks that use the real mid-market rate with a clear fee, rather than hiding a markup in the rate.
- Multi-currency features: If you handle multiple currencies often, opt for an account that lets you hold and convert them easily.
- Travel insurance: Some paid plans include comprehensive travel insurance, which can save you money.
- Global availability: Not all neobanks are available worldwide. Check if the bank serves your country of residence and destinations.
- Customer support: In-app chat or phone support that works around the clock is valuable when you're abroad.
Additionally, be aware of deposit protection limits (e.g., FSCS in the UK up to £85,000, EDIS in the EU up to €100,000).
Final Considerations for 2025
In 2025, neobanks continue to improve their travel offerings. Many now include real-time spending alerts, savings pots, and integration with travel apps. To maximize benefits, consider using multiple accounts: one for everyday spending with low fees (like Starling) and another for currency exchange (like Wise). Always check the latest terms before traveling, as fees and limits can change.