top 10 travel money

• Turkish Lira
• Australian Dollars
• Canadian Dollars
• Polish Zloty
• VIEW ALL CURRENCIES
• canadian dollars
• ALL BUY BACKS
• US Dollar Card
• Multi-currency Card

Travel Money Comparison

Get the best exchange rates when you buy or sell foreign currency online

• buy Currency
• sell Currency

What Currency do you want to buy?

How much do you want to spend, what currency do you want to sell, how much do you want to sell, buy currency, sell currency, why use a travel money comparison site.

Have you ever started researching the best rates between different travel money providers?

We know it can be overwhelming: the different suppliers, their different offers and of course, the ever-changing currency exchange rates. It's a lot of information to process and compile!

Our comparison site takes the stress out of researching and does it all for you. FInd the travel money supplier that will get you the best rate today.

• ✓ Compare Travel Cash is a non-biased travel money comparison site.
• ✓ To ensure our independence, we always use transparent, objective and verifiable criteria in our comparisons.
• ✓ Our mission is to show you the best rates so you can save when buying your travel money.
• ✓ We constantly update our exchange rates as they change for each money exchange supplier, and whilst we try to do this in almost real-time, there will be times when our data is slightly out of date (in normal circumstances, not more than 5 minute). Our travel money comparison site is designed to save you money by showing you the latest rates.
• ✓ We check out all the companies we list, ensuring they are reputable suppliers and pass our standards before we list them.
• ✓ We value your privacy.  We do not sell your data - you don't even need to give us your information to use our site.  Even if you choose to, it is safe with us, we will never pass it on to third parties.
• ✓ You won't get cheaper rates if you go directly to the supplier, at times, we may have discounts and incentives that you would not get by going direct!
• ✓ We do sometimes make money - but we don't make it from you.  We will never add fees or commissions to the travel money rates on the site.

Frequently asked questions

It's a great idea to buy your currency online to ensure you get the best exchange rate. You can often get much better deals online compared to what you can find on the high street or the airport. In fact ccording to recent surveys, 9 out of 10 tourists find that exchanging money at airports is the most expensive option.

The best thing about buying your travel money online through a comparison site is seeing all currency prices in one place, so whether you are buying euros , buying dollars or other currencies you get the best rate for your travel money and more importantly save time!

The quickest way to get the best currency exchange rate is by using our comparison tool . We compare the latest information from all the best travel money providers in the market to show you the best currency exchange rates.

Keep an eye out for the following when searching for the best currency exchange deals so you can choose the best option for buying your holiday money:

• High exchange rate - The higher the exchange rate number, the more holiday money you will get to the pound
• Delivery Charges - different currency providers charge different amounts for delivering your holiday money to your door
• Special offer - We will let you know if the providers are offering travel money deals

Commission is the fee that travel money providers charge for the service to exchange your money into foreign currency . The charge is usually included in the exchange rate they advertise. You will see that many foreign exchange companies advertise 0% commission, they are still charging you by including the charge in the rates.

All the travel money prices we quote include any fees and commissions, including delivery!

The simple answer is yes! Usually, the minimum order amount for foreign currency is £100, and the maximum is usually £7,500, although some providers allow you to exchange more.

Travel money is normally sent via special delivery service with Royal Mail. Travel cash orders worth more than £2,500 will be sent via a courier or multiple Royal Mail packages. This is for insurance reasons, making sure your travel money is safe.

This depends on the currency provider. Some providers offer next-day delivery, sending your travel money using Royal Mail's Special Delivery Guaranteed by 1pm service. There will be an extra cost for this and you can see how much when you compare the holiday money prices.

Don't forget, many foreign currency providers also allow you to pre-order currency and you can collect it in store, this means you can avoid delivery charges.

Most do, any holiday money that you have leftover after your trip abroad can be sold using a buy-back service that will convert it back to pounds. Our comparison tool will show you the providers offering the best buy-back rates .

Every few of minutes we compare the exchange rates and latest currency deals from the best travel money providers in the UK. You can see instantly who is offering the best deals and choose a service that suits your needs best.

Also, if you've come home from a trip abroad and have leftover currency, we compare many foreign currency buy back companies, showing the best rates to convert your foreign currency back into pounds.

Hundreds of customers order travel money through our site daily and have a great experience. However, as with ordering anything online, the process is never completely risk-free and you should always take care when transfering money to any company.

We undertake comprehensive checks on all of our providers and monitor them to make sure they meet our high standards and continue to do so. Having said that, no company is guaranteed not to come into trouble and we cannot guarantee the solvency of any of the providers listed on our website. We always recommend that you conduct your own due diligence before placing an order with any company.

There are many destinations where taking some local currency is extremely useful to make sure you are covered in places where credit cards are not accepted. Many of the smaller retailers globally will not allow credit cards, so cash is the only option.

Read our blog post on taking cash on holiday .

The best time to buy any travel money is when the pound is performing strongly relative to the currency you are buying, this means it will have a higher exchange rate, so will give you more currency for your money. The amount you receive is calculated by multiplying the exchange rate by the amount of pounds you want to spend, so the higher the exchange rate, the more foreign currency you get.

Exchange rates are constantly changing but we show you the historical exchange rate performance for each of the currencies so you can have more of an idea of whether now is a good time to buy your travel money.

Exchange rates tend to be very similar wherever you are in the world to those offered in the UK, however waiting until you are away means you may be stuck with poor exchange rates, fewer options of places to offer competitive rates or even worse, you may have to pay big additional fees and commissions. By buying your travel money in the UK there are no hidden fees, charges or nasty surprises, you know exactly how much you are getting.

Once you have found the best rate, place an order on the currency suppliers’ site, and pay for your currency.Each currency supplier has different payment options, including bank transfer, debit card, with some suppliers offering payment by Apple pay and Android pay. Once your order has been confirmed your order will be prepared and your currency sent to you by registered delivery, some suppliers even offer next-day delivery.

LATEST CURRENCY NEWS

The 8 Best Travel Money Belts of 2024: Secure Your Valuables on the Go

The best travel money belts of 2024 excel in comfort, style and security. These belts are not just fashionable, they are also equipped with the latest technology like RFID-blocking to protect your personal information from theft. Particularly noteworthy is a model that offers sizes adaptable to multiple waist measurements. After all, securing your cash and

The Perfect Carry-on Case for Airline Travel: Top Recommendations and Tips

The perfect carry-on case for airline travel fits within the usual size limits of 22 x 14 x 9 inches. This ensures it complies with most airlines’ overhead bin space restrictions. Despite this uniformity, some international airlines may have varying rules, so cross-checking with your specific airline before purchasing a case is a smart move.

What currency is used in Dublin, Ireland? A clear answer for travellers

Dublin, the capital city of Ireland, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. As a result, many people who plan to visit Dublin may wonder what currency is used in the city. The official currency of Ireland is the Euro, which is used throughout the country, including

Join newsletter

• Best Euro Rate
• Best US Dollars Rate
• Best Turkish Lira Rate
• Best Australian Dollars Rate
• Best Thai Baht Rate
• Best UAE Dirham Rate
• Best Canadian Dollars Rate
• Best Polish Zloty Rate
• Best Croatian Kuna Rate
• Buy Travel Money
• Sell US Dollars
• Sell Turkish Lira
• Sell Australian Dollars
• Sell Thai Baht
• Sell UAE dirham
• Sell Canadian Dollars
• Sell Polish Zloty
• Currency buy backs
• Currency Online Group
• Sterling FX
• Covent Garden FX
• The Currency Club
• Tesco Money
• Sainburys Bank
• Virgin Money
• Natwest Travel
• Post Office
• Thomas Cook
• Marks and Spencer
• No1 Currency
• Rapid Travel Money
• Best Supermarket Euros
• Privacy Policy

@2024 Comparison Technology Ltd, 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2H 9JQ | Company Registration Number 12065287

CompareTravelCash.co.uk is a travel money comparison service that's designed to help you save money – whilst we do our best to ensure the site is 100% up-to-date, we cannot guarantee this. We advise you to carry out your own due diligence before buying or selling travel money.

Best Travel Money Exchange Rates

This guide explains the cheapest and most expensive ways to buy travel money. It can help save you money if you are thinking about going abroad and trying to work out the best way to spend while you’re there.

Commission charges when you buy foreign currency have mostly been phased out. Now most currency operators make money on the difference between the interbank exchange rate and the rate they actually give you.

So the best way to know if you’re getting a good deal is to compare the actual exchange rate you’re getting.

For each of the currency exchange locations below we have used the euro as an example – but where you see a location giving a bad rate (versus the benchmark interbank rate) for euros, you can be pretty much guaranteed you’ll get a bad rate on any other currency at that place too.

Here are the ways to get the most for your money when buying foreign currency, ranked best to worse.

(All exchange rate figures accessed on 31 May 2023.)

1. Currency cards – BEST RATE

Currency cards are debit card-style payment cards designed to be used while you are on holiday or travelling outside the UK to pay for goods and services, usually anywhere you see the Visa or Mastercard symbol. They either come as regular debit cards with travel money functions, or as a separate card that connects to your current account.

Currency cards offer some of the best exchange rates around, and are available from, for example, Starling, Monzo, Revolut , and Curresea.

The euro rates for Monzo and Starling are based on the Mastercard rate so are the same:

• £1 = €1.152 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• On the (free) Curresea Essential plan the euro rate is:
• £1 = €1.152
• On the (paid for) Curresea Elite and Premium Plans the euro rate is:
• £1 = €1.163
• Ease : Currency cards are easy to apply for and usually arrive within a few days. If your bank already offers a travel card service as part of your account you may not even need to apply for a new card. Plus you don’t need to worry about changing up loads of cash before you go away.
• Safety : If you lose cash, it’s usually gone forever. If you lose your currency card you can cancel or freeze it in the app that comes with it to prevent anyone else using your holiday money.
• Virtual wallet: You can add most currency travel cards to your phone’s virtual wallet, so you can still pay if you only have your phone with you.
• Charges : Fees and charges to use your currency card abroad can vary significantly so it’s a good idea to compare different providers before you choose which one to go with. Be aware the card provider – typically either Visa or Mastercard – can add its own fees of 1% to 3% on top of transactions.
• ATM limits : Some card providers limit how much you can withdraw from an ATM in another currency, after which point more charges will kick in.
• No section 75 protection : Debit card payments and purchases are not covered by section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. But you might be able to make a claim for a refund under a voluntary scheme called ‘chargeback’.

2. Cash point abroad

Withdrawing cash from an ATM abroad can be a good option if you use one of the cards mentioned above, or a travel credit card. They are designed for use while travelling, so give the best rates on foreign exchange, and limit the fees and charges you pay while using them abroad. It is for this reason that cash point abroad is 2nd on this list.

Currensea , for example, as well as offering one of the best exchange rates, allows free ATM withdrawals of up to £500 using its Essential Card (2% fees over), and with its Premium Card (which costs £25 a year) you can make fee free ATM withdrawals up to £500 (1% over).

Just remember – if the ATM tells you a fee applies, always choose to be charged in the local currency of the country you’re in (this also applies to card purchases).

However beware – this is important – if you just take your normal debit card or credit card abroad you can expect high fees from both your bank and the ATM you withdraw cash from every time you use it.

For example, Barclays charges a 2.99% fee for using your standard debit card abroad when making purchases, withdrawing cash or for refunds.

So while you get a pretty decent exchange rate with Barclays (which uses the Visa rate), once the fee is added the real rate is much less. It works out as:

• Visa rate: £1 = €1.161 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate) before charges
• Barclays debit rate after 2.99% fee added £1 = €1.128
• Cheap if you use the right cards: Taking money out at an ATM abroad can be one of the cheapest ways to access cash if you use a card designed for travel that has fee-free options and a good exchange rate (see out Best Rated above).
• Don’t have to carry so much cash : Carrying huge wads of cash is a theft risk. Carrying a couple of cards (one for use and one for back up) is much safer.
• High costs if you use the wrong card : Avoid taking your regular debit or credit card abroad as to use it you will have to pay high fees.

3. Highstreet in the UK

UK highstreets offer a number of exchange rate options, from inside department stores like John Lewis, to specialist foreign exchange rate shops like No1 Currency. The rates will vary from place to place.

At No1 Currency, for example, the online rates are below, although the website says the in store rates may differ from what is advertised.

• £1 = €1.136 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €113.67

At John Lewis, on the same day the rate was a little lower.

• £1 = €1.133 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €113.38

At Marks & Spencer, the rate was:

• Click & Collect: £1 = €1.138 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
•  £100 = €113.80
• In-store bureau de change: £1 = €1.119
• £100 = €111.90

At a TUI branch the rate was:

• £1 = €1.139 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €113.90
• Click and collect rates : No1 Currency for example gives you a better rate if you order online then pick up in store, rather than have your currency delivered.
• Perks: For example at John Lewis you can earn points when you pay for currency with your Partnership Credit Card.
• Delivery charges : No1 Currency only offers free delivery for orders of £800 or more. At John Lewis the minimum for free home delivery is over £500.
• Minimum orders online: John Lewis, for example, has a £250 minimum for online orders.

4. Online with a supermarket

Most supermarkets sell travel money these days and it can be a convenient way to pick up some currency while you do your weekly shop. You can buy on the day or order online to collect.

As an added bonus, supermarkets offer a better rate on foreign currency for their loyalty card holders, pushing supermarkets up the ranking in terms of rates.

• Standard rate: £1 = €1.130 (vs €1.16 interbank rate)
• £100 = €113
• Tesco Clubcard rate:  €1.135
• £100 = €113.50

Sainsbury’s

• £1 = €1.131 (vs €1.16 interbank rate)
• £100 =  €113.17
• Sainsbury’s Nectar card rate: €1.1340
• £100 = €113.40
• Loyalty perks and points : Loyalty card holders get better exchange rates, plus you can earn loyalty points when you pay for the currency just like any other purchase.
• Convenience : Order online then pick up when you do your weekly shop.
• Minimum order amounts: For example Tesco has a minimum order amount of £400 worth of currency when you buy online, and a minimum of £500 to have a free home delivery. There is no minimum order amount for Sainsbury’s but a £4.99 fee to have currency bought online delivered at home.

5. Post office

The Post Office is a handy one-stop-shop for lots of holiday related things, from travel insurance to international driving permits, and including travel money. While the Post Office doesn’t offer the best rates on the market, it does have several other advantages that could make it a good option, especially if you are in a hurry.

• £1 = €1.116 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €111
• Rate increases : Order online for the best rates on every currency. The more you buy, the better the rate.
• Fast pick up service : You can pick up euros and US dollars from your nearest branch in as little as 2 hours, from selected branches. Order by 2pm (1pm Saturday) to collect the same day, from 2 hours later. Order after 2pm (1pm Saturday) to collect the next working day, from 11am. Or you can choose delivery to your home.
• Refund policy : Will refund 100% of the holiday money you bought if your trip abroad is cancelled
• Queuing : With a number of Post Offices closing, and banks shutting branches that force Post Offices to do more services with less, queues to get you travel money in person can be long.
• Limited currencies: Post Office in my experience don’t carry that much currency and only in a few of the most common types. Beware buying last minute – if you try to just pop in on the day to buy your currency without pre-ordering you may find they have run out, or don’t stock it.
• Buying limits : The minimum you can buy online of a currency is £400 worth, and the maximum is £2,500.

6. At the airport

The only times I have bought currency at the airport it has been out of desperation and from a lack of forward planning – and I have always regretted it. It is typically one of the most expensive (i.e. worst exchange rate) places to buy foreign currency.

But if you’re in a panic because you forgot to get out any cash before your trip, it is at least convenient to be able to grab some foreign currency before your flight.

Two of the most common foreign exchange kiosks you’ll find at UK and global airports are Travelex and Eurochange. The rates below are for their online services – rates in the airport are likely to be worse.

Travelex (online)

• £1 = €1.130 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)

Eurochange (online)

• £1 = €1.131 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €113.10
• Location : If in the rush to get away you forgot to pick up any currency, airport foreign exchange kiosks offer a last minute lifeline.
• Availability of currencies: Because of their location, currency kiosks in international airports tend to be well stocked in multiple currencies, even the less common ones.
• Switching currency : If you are visiting multiple countries on a trip but don’t want to carry large amounts of currency, changing up just what you need at each airport you pass through is an option.
• Expense : You will never get the best foreign exchange rate at an airport.
• Lack of comparison : Even if there is more than one currency store at the airport, they all tend to offer the same rates. Once you’re there you have no other options, you have to take what you can get.

7. Online with a bank

Buying travel money from your local bank might seem like the obvious choice, but surprisingly the rates on offer are likely among the worst you’ll get anywhere in the UK. However the limits on how much you can purchase can be higher (though you won’t get a better rate the more you buy so why bother?)

• £1 = €1.105 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €110.51
• £1 = €1.106 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €110.67
• High purchase limits : At Barclays, for example, you can order up to £5,000 per person within a 90-day period, and a maximum of £2,500 from that amount can be sent for home delivery to a single residential address.
• Fee free deliveries : HSBC, for example, offers fee-free deliveries on your travel money to HSBC Full and Cash Service branches or to your home. Other banks may charge.
• Limited to customers : You may find you have to be a customer. For example, you’ll need a Barclays debit card or Barclaycard to place your order for currency online there.
• Expensive : Among the worst rates for currency exchange you’ll find anywhere in the UK.

8. Bureau de change abroad – WORST RATE

Bureau de changes abroad are typically in tourist hotspots. And what do we know about tourist hotspots? Rife for pickpockets and overinflated prices. This is the attitude you should take to foreign currency shops in these locations.

One example that proves the ‘expensive option’ point is Ria Money Transfer & Currency Exchange, situated in the busy Plaza de Callao in central Madrid, Spain.

Ria’s exchange rate on 31 May 2023 was:

• £1.00 = €0.99 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)

Convenient : If you really need cash while you’re abroad, maybe because you’re in a place where your cards are not widely accepted, a local bureau de change may be a lifeline – just expect to pay heavily for that life raft.

• Cost, cost, cost: Buying foreign currency from a currency shop or kiosk in a tourist hotspot (where you are most likely to find them) is an extremely expensive way of getting your hands on cash. Avoid if at all possible.
• Theft risk : Pickpockets may hang around bureau de change just like they hang around ATMs, because they know you have just withdrawn what is probably a large amount of money. Secure your cash hidden away before you leave the kiosk.

Is it still worth getting travel cash ahead of your holidays?

Yes. Absolutely. Cards aren’t accepted everywhere, as I found to my detriment when I arrived in Buenos Aires and tried to take out local currency on my credit card at the foreign exchange desk at the airport.

“Absolutely not possible”, I was told. A combination of a lack of provision to buy currency on credit card there, and the Argentinian peso being just too volatile for credit card providers to let you buy it on their service.

All I had in hard currency was US$100 in Argetininian pesos I had changed in the airport at Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, where I had just come from, and a US$100 bill. Luckily I’d pre-paid my Buenos Aires hotel in advance, and I could easily find restaurants that would accept my credit card. But taxis only took cash, so I spent a lot of time walking – thinking about how I should have brought more pesos with me.

We’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to travel money.

Yes, in most cases. Cash withdrawal fees will probably apply of around 3%, just like they would at home for taking cash out on a credit card, and these will be on top of any currency conversion fees.

Be aware though – in countries with a highly fluctuating exchange rate, like Argentina, you may not be able to buy foreign cash with your credit card (not even at the bureau de change at the airport, for example). You still may be able to pay for goods and services with your credit cards, but check how widely they are accepted before you travel.

Yes, on the whole. When buying travel money online, like with buying anything online, you’re best off sticking to well known brands, whether that be banks, supermarkets, or currency exchange stores.

A large institution or well known brand is less likely to go bust, and that is important because foreign exchange is not a regulated service. This means your cash is not protected if the company you tried to get your foreign currency from closes suddenly.

Yes. Most places that sell you travel money will buy it back from you. But just like when you’re swapping your pounds for foreign currency, when you swap it back you should compare the exchange rates on offer. As a general rule, a location that offers a good rate one way, offers a good rate the other way.

Travel money providers – from the currency shops and bureau de change, to the banks and supermarkets, anywhere basically that sells currency – make money by giving you slightly less than the central banks give them for the foreign money you want to buy.

For example, if a currency provider tells you they will give you €1.131 for every pound you give them, but the central bank rate for euros is €1.157 per pound, the difference is €0.026, which they pocket. This may not sound much, but multiplied over millions of transactions a  year, it adds up.

Compare, compare, compare the single unit price – which means the £1 for a €1 rate, or whichever currency you choose, versus the interbank rate, which you can get by just Googling “1 GBP in EUR”.

Places that sell currency, online or in a shop, have to show you the exchange rate for that day. While it’s probably not practical to go traipsing around comparing shops, it’s easy enough to do so online. If you run up against minimum purchase amounts online, still go with the company providing the best rate but visit their location in person.

Also try not to get yourself in a position where you’re desperate to buy foreign currency, either at home or abroad. This means having enough cash on you in remote locations, and tourist hotspots, and before you travel (to avoid the airport currency shops).

Laura Miller has been a financial journalist for more than 10 years, and was on staff at the Telegraph before going freelance in 2019. Her experience includes hosting podcasts and panels, and she writes for the Times and Sunday Times, Daily Mail, Mail on Sunday and the Sun, as well as trade titles. She now lives by the sea in Aberystwyth, west Wales.

You may also be interested in:

Privacy Overview

Here Are the Four Best Travel Money Cards in 2024

François Briod

Co-Founder of Monito and money transfer expert, François has been helping Monito’s users navigate the jungle of money transfer fees, bad exchange rates and tricks for the last ten years.

Jarrod Suda

A writer and editor at Monito, Jarrod is passionate about helping people apply today’s powerful finance technologies to their lives. He brings his background in international affairs and his experiences living in Japan to provide readers with comprehensive information that also acknowledges the local context.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

From the multitude of bank fees and ATM charges to hidden currency conversion fees, there's no question that spending your money abroad while travelling can be costly — and that's saying nothing about the cost of the holiday itself!

As you prepare for your trip abroad, the golden rule is that you'll save the most money by using the local currency of your destination. This means withdrawing local cash at foreign ATMs and using a debit card to pay directly in the local currency. For example, if you're from the UK, using your bank's debit card that accesses your British pounds will likely lose you money to hidden fees at ATMs abroad and at local merchants.

In general, we rate Revolut as the best travel card all around. Its versatile account and card can be used to spend like a local pretty much anywhere in the world. ✨ Get 3 months of free Revolut Premium as a Monito reader with our exclusive link .

If you're from the EU, UK, or US, here are a few more specific recommendations to explore:

• Best for travelling from the UK: Chase
• Best for travelling from the US: Chime ®
• Best for travelling from the Eurozone: N26

If it's not possible for you to spend in the local currency when travelling abroad, then spending in your home currency while using a card that doesn't charge any hidden exchange rate markups from your bank (e.g. only the VISA or Mastercard exchange rates to convert currency) is still a good bet for most people.

In this guide, we explore cards that waive or lower ATM fees and that hold multiple currencies. Spend on your holiday like a local and enjoy peace of mind after each tap and swipe!

Best Travel Cards (And More!) at a Glance

Best travel money cards.

• 01. What is the best best multi currency card? scroll down
• 02. Are prepaid currency cards really it? scroll down
• 03. Monito's best travel money card tips scroll down
• 04. FAQ about the best travel cards scroll down

Revolut: Best All-Rounder

Revolut is one of the most well-known fintechs in the world because it offers services across Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Oceania.

• Trust & Credibility 8.9
• Service & Quality 7.9
• Fees & Exchange Rates 8.3
• Customer Satisfaction 9.3

Revolut is available in many countries. You can double-check if it's available in yours below:

Here's an overview of Revolut's plans:

Revolut Ultra is currently only available in the UK and EU.

Like Wise, Revolut converts your currency to the local currency of your travel destination at an excellent exchange rate (called the 'Revolut Rate', which, on weekdays, is basically on par with the rate you see on Google), making it a good way to buy foreign currency before travelling abroad. As always though, bear in mind that Revolut's exchange rates might be subject to change.

Revolut's Standard Plan only allows currency exchange at the base mid-market exchange rate for transfers worth £1,000 per month. ATM withdrawals are also free for the first €200 (although third-party providers may charge a withdrawal fee, and weekend surcharges may also apply). These allowances can be waived by upgrading memberships.

N26: Good Bank For EU Travellers

One of the most well-known neobanks in Europe, N26 and its debit card operate in euros only. However, N26 is a partner with Wise and has fully integrated Wise's technology so that you never have to pay foreign transaction fees on your purchases outside of the eurozone. While N26 does not have multi-currency functionality, N26 will apply the real exchange rate on all your foreign purchases and will never charge a commission fee — making N26's card a powerful card for EU/EEA residents who travel across the globe.

• Trust & Credibility 8.0
• Service & Quality 8.0
• Fees & Exchange Rates 9.3
• Customer Satisfaction 8.5

These are the countries in which you can register for an N26 account:

And here is an overview of the various plans and account:

This low-fee option for banking is also ideal for travellers who do not belong to a European bank but frequent the Eurozone. For example, N26 is available for residents and citizens of Switzerland, Norway, and other European Economic Area countries that do not run on the Euro.

These citizens, who are in close proximity to the Eurozone, will save each time they spend with an N26 card while in Europe. N26 provides three free ATM withdrawals per month in euros but does charge a 1.7% fee per ATM withdrawal outside of Europe.

Take a look at our guide to the best travel cards for Europe to learn more.

Wise: Best For Multi-Currency Balances

Load up to 54 currencies onto this card at the real exchange rate, giving you access to truly global travel.

• Trust & Credibility 9.3
• Service & Quality 8.9
• Fees & Exchange Rates 7.6
• Customer Satisfaction 9.4

These are the countries in which you can order a Wise debit card:

Unlike banks, credit unions, airport kiosks, and foreign ATMs, Wise is transparent about never charging a hidden exchange rate margin when you convert your home currency into up to 54 currencies. The live rate you see on Google or XE.com is the one you get with Wise.

An industry-low commission fee per transaction will range from 0.35% to 2.85%, depending on the currency.

Chase: Great UK Bank For Travel

A recent arrival from the USA, Chase is one of the UK’s newest digital challenger banks and comes with a rock-solid reputation and no monthly charges, no currency conversion charges, no withdrawal fees, and no other charges for everyday banking from Chase. It’s a simple, streamlined bank account with an excellent mobile banking app and a great cashback offer. However, it doesn’t yet offer more advanced features like international money transfers, joint accounts, business banking, overdrafts and loans, and teen or child accounts.

• Trust & Credibility 10
• Fees & Exchange Rates 10

Chime: Great Account For US Travelers

Chime  is a good debit card for international travel thanks to its no foreign transaction fees¹. Unlike multi-currency accounts like Revolut (which let you hold local currency), Chime uses the live exchange rate applied by VISA. This rate is close to the mid-market rate, and Chime does not add any extra markup to your purchases, although out-of-network ATM withdrawal and over-the-counter advance fees may still apply.

• Trust & Credibility 9.5
• Service & Quality 8.8
• Fees & Exchange Rates 9.8
• Customer Satisfaction 8.2

While Chime waives ATM fees at all MoneyPass, AllPoint, and VISA Plus Alliance ATMs within the United States, this fee waiver does not extend to withdrawals made outside the country. For withdrawals abroad, Chime applies a $2.50 fee per transaction, with a daily withdrawal limit of $515 or its equivalent. This is in addition to any fees charged by the ATM owner. Therefore, we recommend Chime primarily for card purchases rather than relying on it for withdrawing cash while traveling internationally.

• No  foreign transaction fees ¹;
• Uses VISA's exchange rate ( monitor here ):
• A $2.50 fee per ATM withdrawal made outside of the United States;
• More info:  Read our  Chime review  or  visit their website .

Best Travel Money Cards in 2024 Compared by Country

In the table below, see our comparison summary of the four best travel cards for 2024 by country:

Last updated: 8 January 2024

What's The Best Prepaid Card to Use Abroad?

Travel cards come in many varieties, such as standard credit cards or debit cards with no foreign transaction fees or cards that waive all foreign ATM withdrawal fees.

What is a Multi-Currency Card?

Multi-currency cards are a specific type of travel card that allows you to own all kinds of foreign currencies, which you can instantly access when you pay with your card abroad. By spending the local currency in the region of travel , you bypass poor foreign exchange rates. ATMs and cashless payment machines will treat your card like a local card.

We have already mentioned a few multi-currency cards in this review, but we will also introduce Travelex . Travelex's Money Card also allows you to top up several foreign currencies — albeit at exchange rates slightly poorer than the real mid-market rate .

Wise Account

Wise has one of the best multi-currency cards available on the market.

Read our full review for more details.

Revolut is impressive for its vast options in currencies and its additional services.

Our in-depth review explores Revolut's services in detail.

Travelex offers a prepaid travel money card that supports 10 currencies and waives all ATM withdrawal fees abroad.

• Trust & Credibility 9.0
• Service & Quality 5.8
• Fees & Exchange Rates 7.1

Travelex charges fees, which fluctuate according to the exchange rates of the day, in order to convert your home currency into the currencies that it supports. But once the currency is on the card, you'll be able to spend like a local. Learn more with our full review .

Don’t Let Banks, Bureaux de Change, and ATMs Eat Your Lunch 🍕!

Are you withdrawing cash at an ATM in the streets of Paris? Exchanging currencies at Gatwick airport? Paying for a pizza with your card during a holiday in Milano? Every time you exchange currencies, you could lose between 2% to 20% of your money in  hidden fees . Keep reading below to make sure you recognize and avoid them.

Currency Exchange Fees Eating My Lunch? What’s That?

You’re often charged a hidden fee in the form of an alarming exchange rate.

At any given time, there is a so-called “ mid-market exchange rate ” — this is the real exchange rate you can see on  Google . However, the money transfer provider or bank you use to exchange currencies rarely offers this exchange rate. Instead, you will get a much worse exchange rate. They pocket this margin between the actual rate and the poor exchange rate they apply, allowing the bank or money transfer provider to profit from the currency exchange. 

In other words, you or your recipient will receive less foreign currency for each unit of currency you exchange. All the while, the provider will claim that they charge zero commission or zero fees.

So the question now is… how can you avoid them? Thankfully, the best travel money cards will allow you to hold the local currency, which you can access instantly with a tap or swipe. Carrying the local currency avoids  exchange rate margins  on every purchase.

Top Travel Money Tips

• Avoid bureaux de change. They charge between 2.15% and 16.6% of the money exchanged.
• Always pay in the local currency and never accept the  dynamic currency conversion .
• Don't use your ordinary debit or credit card unless it's specifically geared toward international use. Doing this will typically cost you between 1.75% and 4.25% per transaction. Instead, use one of the innovative travel money cards below.

By opting for a travel card without FX fees, you can freely swipe your card abroad without worrying about additional charges. However, saving money doesn't stop there. To make the most out of your travel budget, consider using  Skyscanner , one of the most powerful flight search engines available that allows you to compare prices from various airlines and find the best deals.

With Skyscanner's user-friendly interface and comprehensive search options, you can discover cheap flights and enjoy your holidays with peace of mind and more money in your pocket.

Best Travel Money Card Tips

When you convert your home currency into a foreign currency, foreign exchange service providers will charge you two kinds of fees :

• Exchange Rate Margin:  Providers apply an exchange rate that is poorer than the true  "mid-market" exchange rate . They keep the difference, called an  exchange rate margin .
• Commission Fee:  This  fee  is usually a percentage of the amount converted, which is charged for the service provided.

With these facts in mind, let's see what practices are useful to avoid ATM fees, foreign transaction fees, and other charges you may encounter while on your travels.

Tip 1: While Traveling, Avoid Bureaux de Change At All Costs

Have you ever wondered how bureaux de change and currency exchange desks are able to secure prime real estate in tourist locations like the Champs-Élysées in Paris or Covent Carden in London while claiming to take no commission? It’s easy: they make (plenty of) money through hidden fees on the exchange rates they give you. 

Our study shows that Bureaux de Change in Paris charges a margin ranging from 2.15% at CEN Change Dollar Boulevard de Strasbourg to 16.6% (!!) at Travelex Champs-Élysées when exchanging 500 US dollars into euros for example. 

If you really want cash and can’t wait to withdraw it with a card at an ATM at your destination, ordering currencies online before your trip is usually cheaper than exchanging currencies at a bureau de change, but it’s still a very expensive way to get foreign currency which we, therefore, would not recommend.

Tip 2: Always Choose To Pay In the Local Currency

Don’t fall for the dynamic currency conversion trap! When using your card abroad to pay at a terminal or withdraw cash at an ATM, you’ve probably been asked whether you’d prefer to pay in your home currency instead of the local currency of the foreign country. This little trick is called dynamic currency conversion , and the right answer to this sneaky question will help you save big on currency exchange fees.

As a general rule, you always want to pay in the local currency (euros in Europe, sterling in the UK, kroner in Denmark, bahts in Thailand, etc.) when using your card abroad, instead of accepting the currency exchange and paying in your home currency. 

This seems like a trick question - why not opt to pay in your home currency? On the plus side, you would know exactly what amount you would be paying in your home currency instead of accepting the unknown exchange rate determined by your card issuer a few days later.

What is a Dynamic Currency Conversion?

However, when choosing to pay in your home currency instead of the local one, you will carry out what’s called a “dynamic currency conversion”. This is just a complicated way of saying that you’re exchanging between the foreign currency and your home currency at the exact time you use your card to pay or withdraw cash in a foreign currency, and not a few days later. For this privilege, the local payment terminal or ATM will apply an exchange rate that is often significantly worse than even a traditional bank’s exchange rate (we’ve seen margins of up to 8%!), and of course, much worse than the exchange rate you would get by using an innovative multi-currency card (see tip #3). 

In the vast majority of times, knowing with complete certainty what amount you will pay in your home currency is not worth the additional steep cost of the dynamic currency conversion, hence why we recommend always choosing to pay in the local currency.

Tip 3: Don't Use a Traditional Card To Pay in Foreign Currency/Withdraw Cash Abroad

As mentioned before, providers make money on foreign currency conversions by charging poor exchange rates — and pocketing the difference between that and the true mid-market rate. They also make money by charging commission fees, which can either come as flat fees or as a percentage of the transaction.

Have a look at traditional bank cards to see how much you can be charged in fees for spending or withdrawing $500 while on your holiday.

These fees can very quickly add up. For example, take a couple and a child travelling to the US on a two-week mid-range holiday. According to this study , the total cost of their holiday would amount to around $4200. If you withdraw $200 in cash four times and spend the rest with your card, you would pay $123 in hidden currency exchange and ATM withdrawal fees with HSBC or $110 with La Banque Postale. With this money, our travellers could pay for a nice dinner, the entrance fee to Yosemite Park, or many other priceless memories. 

Thankfully, new innovative multi-currency cards will help you save a lot of money while travelling. Opening an N26 Classic account and using the N26 card during the same US holidays would only cost $13.60.

Need Foreign Cash Anyway?

In many countries, carrying a wad of banknotes is not only useful but necessary to pay your way since not every shop, market stall, or street vendor will accept card payments. In these cases you'll have two options to exchange foreign currency cheaply:

1. Withraw at an ATM

As we've explored in great depth in this article, withdrawing money from a foreign ATM will almost always come with fees — at the very least from the ATM itself, and so it's therefore the best strategy to use a travel debit card that doesn't charge in specific ATM withdraw fees on its own to add insult to injury. That said, if you need cash, we recommend making one large withdrawal rather than multiple smaller ones . This way, you'll be able to dodge the fees being incurred multiple times.

2. Buy Banknotes (at a Reasonable Rate!)

As we've also seen, buying foreign currency at the airport, at foreign bank branches, or in bureaux de change in tourist hotspots can be surprisingly expensive. Still, not all exchange offices are equally pricey . If you're looking for a well-priced way to exchange your cash into foreign currency banknotes before you travel, Change Group will let you order foreign currency online and pick them up at the airport, train station, or a Change Group branch just before you leave for your holiday. A few pick-up locations in the UK include:

• London centre (multiple locations),
• Glasgow centre,
• Oxford centre,
• Luton Airport,
• Gatwick Airport,
• St. Pancras Station.

(Note that Change Group also has locations in the USA, Australia, Germany, Spain, Sweden, Austria, and Finland!)

Although its exchange rates aren't quite as good as using a low-fee debit card like Revolut, Change Group's exchange rates between popular currencies tend to be between 2% to 3%, which is still a lot better than you'll get at the bank or at a touristy bureau de change in the middle or Paris or Prague!

FAQ About the Best Travel Money Cards

Having reviewed and compared several of the industry's leading neobanks, experts at Monito have found the Wise Account to offer the best multi-currency card in 2024.

In general, yes! You can get a much better deal with new innovative travel cards than traditional banks' debit/credit cards. However, not all cards are made equal, so make sure to compare the fees to withdraw cash abroad, the exchange rates and monthly fees to make sure you're getting the best deal possible.

• Sign up for a multi-currency account;
• Link your bank to the account and add your home currency;
• Convert amount to the local currency of holiday destination ( Wise and Revolut convert at the actual mid-market rate);
• Tap and swipe like a local when you pay at vendors.

Yes, the Wise Multi-Currency Card is uniquely worthwhile because it actually converts your home currency into foreign currency at the real mid-market exchange rate . Wise charges a transparent and industry-low commission fee for the service instead.

More traditional currency cards like the Travelex Money Card are good alternatives, but they will apply an exchange rate that is weaker than the mid-market rate.

The Wise Multi-Currency Card is the best money card for euros because unlike banks, credit unions, airport kiosks, and foreign ATMs,  Wise  is transparent about never charging a hidden exchange rate margin when you convert your local currency into euros with them.

The live rate you see on Google or XE.com is the one you get with  Wise . An industry-low commission fee will range from 0.35% to 2.85%. USD to EUR transfers generally incur a 1.6% fee.

Learn more about how to buy euros in the United States before your trip.

There are usually three types of travel cards, prepaid travel cards, debit travel cards and credit travel cards. Each have pros and cons, here's a short summary:

• Prepaid travel cards: You usually need to load cards with your home currency via a bank wire or credit/debit card top-up. You're then able to manage the balance from an attached mobile app and can use it to pay in foreign currencies or withdraw cash at an ATM abroad tapping into your home currency prepaid balance. With prepaid travel cards, as the name indicates, you can't spend more than what you've loaded before hand. Some prepaid card providers will provide ways to "auto top-up" when your balance reaches a certain level that you can customize. On Revolut for example, you can decide to top-up £100/£200/£500 from your debit card each time your balance reaches below £50.
• Debit travel cards: Some innovative digital banks, like N26 or Monzo, offer travel debit cards that have the same advantages than a Prepaid Travel Cards, except that they're debit card directly tapping into your current account balance. Like a Prepaid travel card, you can't spend more than the balance you have in your current account with N26 or Monzo, but you can activate an overdraft (between €1,000 or €10,000 for N26 or £1,000 for Monzo) if you need it, for a fee though.

Note that even if they're Prepaid or Debit cards, you can use them for Internet payments like a normal credit card.

• Credit travel cards: You can find credit cards made for international payments offering good exchange rates and low fees to withdraw money abroad, but you'll need to pay interests in your international payment if you don't pay in FULL at the end of every month and interest on your ATM withdrawals each day until you pay them back.

Why You Can Trust Monito

Our recommendations are built on rock-solid experience.

• We've reviewed 70+ digital finance apps and online banks
• We've made 100's of card transactions
• Our writers have been testing providers since 2013

Other Monito Guides and Reviews on Top Multi Currency Cards

Why Trust Monito?

You’re probably all too familiar with the often outrageous cost of sending money abroad. After facing this frustration themselves back in 2013, co-founders François, Laurent, and Pascal launched a real-time comparison engine to compare the best money transfer services across the globe. Today, Monito’s award-winning comparisons, reviews, and guides are trusted by around 8 million people each year and our recommendations are backed by millions of pricing data points and dozens of expert tests — all allowing you to make the savviest decisions with confidence.

Monito is trusted by 15+ million users across the globe.

Monito's experts spend hours researching and testing services so that you don't have to.

Our recommendations are always unbiased and independent.

• Home   ›  
• Travel Money   ›  

Get the best euro exchange rate

Compare the latest euro exchange rates from the UK's top currency providers

How to get the best euro exchange rate

If you're travelling to Europe, it's important to shop around and compare currency suppliers to maximise your chances of getting a good deal. We can help you to find the best euro exchange rate by comparing a wide range of UK travel money suppliers who have euros in stock and ready to order online now. Our comparisons automatically factor in all costs and commission, so all you need to do is tell us how much you want to spend and we'll show you the top suppliers who fit the bill.

Are you looking to get the best euro exchange rate for your next trip abroad? At Compare Holiday Money, we compare the euro rates from dozens of top UK foreign exchange providers to help you find the most competitive currency deals online and on the high street.

We continuously scan and track the latest euro rates from a wide range of currency providers to help you find the companies offering the best deals. Our clever currency comparisons automatically factor in all costs and charges like delivery fees and commission, so all you need to do is tell us how much you want to spend and we'll show you the best euro rates available to buy online right now.

Compare deals

Some of the best travel money deals are only available when you buy online. By using a comparison site, you're more likely to see the full range of deals on offer and get the best rate.

Some of the best travel money deals are only available from specialist online currency providers who offer better euro rates than high street bureaux de change.

Always place your order online, even if you plan to collect your currency in person. Most supermarkets and high street currency suppliers offer better exchange rates if you order online beforehand.

Most supermarkets and currency suppliers offer better rates if you buy or reserve your currency online. If you're planning to buy euros in store, place your order online beforehand to guarantee the online rate.

Combine orders

If you're travelling with others, consider placing one large currency order instead of buying individually. Many currency suppliers offer enhanced rates that improve as you order more.

You'll often get better rates the more you order. If you're travelling with a group, consider placing one large currency order instead of everyone buying euros individually.

Remember, exchange rates aren't the only important factor when finding the best euro deal. Delivery costs, commission and payment surcharges can all affect the amount of money you'll receive. See our comprehensive euro travel money comparisons to find the absolute best deal with all costs and charges factored in.

Online foreign exchange providers who specialise in travel money usually offer the best euro exchange rates, and you'll get the best deals when you buy online for home delivery. If waiting isn't an option, or if you'd rather buy your euros in person, supermarkets typically offer the best euro rates on the high street - but don't just walk in off the street unannounced. Reserve your euros online (ideally the day before you want to collect them) as most supermarkets offer enhanced exchange rates on their website compared to the rates they advertise in store. By ordering online you'll lock-in the better online rate and can collect your euros in person at a time that's convenient for you.

Euro rate trend

Over the past 30 days, the Euro rate is up 0.97% from 1.163 on 23 May to 1.1743 today. This means one pound will buy more Euros today than it would have a month ago. Right now, £750 is worth approximately €880.73 which is €8.47 more than you'd have got on 23 May.

These are the average Euro rates taken from our panel of UK travel money providers at the end of each day. You can explore this further on our British pound to Euro currency chart .

We found 16 foreign exchange providers offering euros today. The table below shows the results ordered by best euro rate, assuming you wanted to buy £750 worth of euros for home delivery.

Remember, exchange rates aren't the only important factor when it comes to getting a good currency deal. Delivery fees, payment surcharges and other hidden costs can all affect the amount of money you'll receive. See our euro travel money comparisons to help you find the best euro rate today.

Timing is key if you want to maximise your euros, but the best time to buy will depend on the current market conditions and your personal travel plans.

If you have a fixed travel date, you should start to monitor the euro rates as soon as possible in the period leading up to your departure so that you've got time to buy when the rate is looking favourable. For example, if the euro rate has been steadily increasing over several weeks or months, it could be a good time to buy while the rate is high.

Some people prefer to buy half of their euros as soon as they've booked their holiday, and the remaining half just before they depart. This can be a good way of maximising your holiday money if the exchange rate continues to rise after you've bought, but will also help to minimise your losses if the rate drops.

You could also consider signing up to our newsletter and we'll email the latest rates to you each month.

If you need your euros sooner and don't have time to wait for the rates to improve, you can still save money by comparing rates from a range of different providers before you buy. Online travel money suppliers usually have better euro rates than high street exchanges, but supermarkets are a good compromise if you want to collect your currency in person and still get a decent rate. Just remember to buy or reserve your euros first before you collect them from the store so you benefit from the supplier's better online rate.

Euro banknotes and coins

Over 340 million people use the euro every day according to the European Central Bank, making it the second most-traded currency in the world after US dollars. Twenty out of 27 EU Member States have adopted the euro as their official currency, and euros are used officially and unofficially in many non-EU countries and territories throughout Europe such as Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.

Euros are governed and issued by the European Central Bank which is based in Frankfurt, but the actual production of euro banknotes and coins is handled by various national banks throughout the Eurozone. Spain and Greece are responsible for printing €5 and €10 banknotes, Germany prints €100 notes, and the other EU member states are responsible for printing €20 and €50 notes.

One euro (€) can be subdivided into 100 cents (c). There are seven denominations of euro banknotes in circulation: €5, €10, €20, €50 and €100 which are frequently used, plus €200 and €500 notes which are no longer printed but are still in circulation and remain legal tender. The designs printed on each banknote are intended to be symbolic of the European Union's identity and unity, as well as highlighting the diversity and richness of different European cultures. The front of each banknote features architectural styles from different periods in Europe's history, including Classical, Gothic, Renaissance and modern, while the reverse side features bridges that represent communication and cooperation between the different countries within the European Union.

Euro coins are available in eight denominations: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1 and €2. Each EU member state is responsible for minting its own coins, and can choose their own design for the 'tails' side. For example, German coins feature the 'Bundesadler' or Federal Eagle which has been the German coat of arms since 1950, while French coins depict Marianne; an important symbol of French national identity. Next time you've got a handful of euro coins, take a look at the tails side and see if you can guess which EU country they came from!

There's no evidence to suggest that you'll get a better deal if you buy your euros in Europe. While there may be better exchange rates available in some locations, your options for shopping around may be limited once you arrive, and there's no guarantee the exchange rates will be any better than they are in the UK.

Exchange rates aside, here are some other reasons to avoid buying your euros in Europe:

• You may have to pay commission or other hidden fees to a currency exchange that you wouldn't have paid in the UK
• Your bank may charge you a foreign transaction fee if you use it to buy euros when you're abroad
• It can be harder to spot scammers and fraudulent currency exchanges in Europe

Lastly, it can be handy to have some cash on you when you arrive at your destination so you can pay for any immediate expenses like food, transport and tips. You don't want to be searching for the nearest currency exchange when you've just landed and you're desperate for a cup of tea - or a cocktail!

Twenty out of 27 EU member states have adopted the euro as their official currency. These are: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.

The following European countries and territories who are not part of the EU also use the euro as their official currency: Andorra, Kosovo, Monaco, Montenegro, San Marino and Vatican City, French Guiana and Martinique, the Azores, Canary Islands, and Madeira.

Tips for saving money while visiting Europe

The most budget-friendly destinations in Europe are generally those located in the east such as Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. In contrast: Luxembourg, Ireland and France usually top the list as some of the most expensive holiday destinations. Regardless of where you're planning to visit, you can save money during your trip by following some simple tips:

• Research your accommodation: Hotels can be expensive, so one way of saving money is to look for more budget-friendly accommodation such as hostels, holiday rentals, or even campsites. AirBnB can be an affordable option too, especially if you rent a room instead of an entire apartment; and you'll get to experience what it's like to live like a local. Salud!
• Use public transport: Make the most of any metro systems, buses, or trams to get around instead of relying on private taxis or rental cars. Many European countries also offer national and regional travel passes for public transport which can work out significantly cheaper than buying individual tickets.
• Eat like a local: Opt for local restaurants or street food vendors that offer authentic cuisine at lower prices. Avoid dining at expensive tourist restaurants, and try cooking your own meals if your accommodation has a kitchen. Not only is this a great way to save money, but it can also be a fun cultural experience to shop around in European supermarkets and cook with local ingredients.
• Plan your itinerary: Look out for free attractions such as museums, parks, churches and historical sites, and plan your itinerary around these. Many cities in Europe also offer free walking tours which can be a great way to get an overview of a new location while learning about its culture and history.
• Find discount vouchers: Many tourist attractions and activities offer discount vouchers and codes that can save you money on entry fees and other perks. Look for vouchers online; sign up to newsletters and follow the social media accounts of places you're planning to visit.
• Take cash: Using cash will help you to stick to a budget more easily than paying by card, and you'll also avoid foreign transaction fees. If you do take a card with you, look out for ATMs that are affiliated with your UK bank to avoid ATM fees, and if you're asked whether you want to pay in pounds or euros - always choose euros. If you pay in pounds the merchant can set their own exchange rate which won't be in your favour.

Choosing the right payment method

Sending money to a company you might not have heard of before can be unsettling. We routinely check all the companies that feature in our comparisons to make sure they meet our strict listing criteria, but it's still worth knowing how your money is protected in the unlikely event a company goes bust and you don't receive your order.

Bank transfer

Your money is not protected if you pay by bank transfer. If the company goes bust and you've paid by bank transfer, it's unlikely you'll get your money back. For this reason, we recommend you pay by debit or credit card wherever possible because they offer more financial protection.

Debit cards are the most popular payment method and they offer some financial protection. If you pay by debit card and the company goes bust, you can instruct your bank to make a chargeback request to recover your money from the company's bank. This isn't a legal right, and a refund isn't guaranteed, but if you make a chargeback request your bank is obliged to try and recover your money.

Credit card

Credit cards offer full financial protection, and your money is protected by law under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. Section 75 states that your card issuer must refund you in full if you don't receive your order. Be aware that many credit cards charge a cash advance fee (typically around 3%) for buying currency, so you may have to weigh up the benefits of full financial protection with the extra cost of using a credit card.

We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. Please confirm you're happy to receive these cookies in line with our Privacy & Cookie Policy .

Get the best exchange rates on your travel money

Use our comparison site, our expert tips and country guides to make your money go further

Get the best exchange rates

From Australian dollars to UAE dinars ; get the best travel money deal by comparing the exchange rates from the UK’s top currency brands.

Travel Money Tips

Follow our expert tips when travelling abroad and we guarantee to save you money

Use a travel money comparison site to buy your currency

Always take cash and cards

Check the cost of posting cash to your home vs click and collect

Always understand debit and credit card charges

Always pay in local currency

Check overseas ATM charges before pressing 'enter'

Buy your travel money before you go to the airport

Always ‘haggle’ if you go to a bureau de change

Travel Money Country Guides

If you want to know more about how travel money works for a particular country, see our travel money guides below for some of your favourite destinations.

United States

Frequently asked questions.

What you need to know about using your debit and contactless card abroad

What you need to know about using your credit card abroad

What you need to know about exchange rates

What you need to know about using a pre paid card

Automated page speed optimizations for fast site performance

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Travel Accessories

The 8 Best Travel Money Belts of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our top picks can hold your phone, passport, and more.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Money belts can be a hot topic in the travel community: to wear or not to wear one, that is the question. When it comes down to it, if having your essentials close by and on your person makes you feel more secure, or if you want a hands-free, worry-free way to carry your stuff, we say go for it — with a few caveats. Travel money belts can either be conspicuous or well-hidden. If you’re buying one for security against potential theft, you’ll want to factor in how obvious it is when you access your items. If you’re looking for more convenience, then double down on comfort and zero in on the right capacity for what you plan to carry.

We handpicked 18 travel money belts to put through a series of controlled tests in our lab. We gave a sharp eye to each money belt’s ease of use, comfort, capacity, performance, and quality. We also included a water test to mimic sweat and other water exposure. We’ll continue to test these products for the next six months to see how they stack up over time, but we’ve already got picks for this year’s best travel money belts. Whether you’re looking for a compact one for just the basics, need something while you’re off on an active adventure, or are looking for RFID protection, we’ve got a pick for you.

Best Overall

Raytix rfid money belt.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5
• Capacity 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5

It’s comfortable and easy to wear while still fitting all our travel items. 

The sizing is limited compared to other belts on the market. 

This classic-style money belt has a deceptively slim profile with five pockets. A larger main zippered pocket has two interior mesh slip pockets for stashing smaller items like coins, transit tickets, or an earbud case . There’s also a hidden back mesh pocket ideal for paper money, plus a medium front zippered pocket. We found it easy to load up all of the items on our testing list and were happy to see it fits a passport without any struggle with the zipper. The back mesh pocket is breathable and slightly padded and feels comfortable against your skin. 

The money belt has an unusual, round double-release button that seems sturdier than the typical three-prong side release buckle on most others. We didn’t feel the waist strap dig into our sides while wearing and noted the straps are easily adjustable and feel smooth. The waist strap will fit waists between 27-41 inches, and the belt comes in black as well as fun colors like bright pink and green. The slim profile did bulk up once the belt was fully loaded, though, making it easy to spot even under two layers of clothes. Still, this belt felt secure and durable, and it still looks as good as new after six months of using it for long runs.

The Details: Ripstop nylon | 11 x 5.5 x 0.04 inches | 5 pockets | RFID-blocking capabilities

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Most Versatile

Anj money belt.

It’s sweat- and water-resistant, which makes it usable for intense workouts or sightseeing in hot weather.

The largest adjustment will only fit a 41-inch waist at most. 

The ANJ Outdoors Water-resistant Money Belt has a two-layer, single-pocket design that translates to an ultra-thin and lightweight belt. At the same time, the soft lycra material provides a decent stretch that allowed us to fit all of our tester travel items inside, but not much else (and we had to squeeze in our passport). This belt is technically designed for runners, giving the water-resistant material an athleticwear level of comfort which we appreciated. However, during our three-month test, we did feel that this belt gets pretty sweaty in hot weather, so you may want to wear it under quick-dry clothing . However, after six months of use, we noticed that sweat and water don't cling to the material and cause odor. An added feature we didn’t even know we were missing is the built-in headphone jack, though it won’t make a difference for travelers sporting wireless earbuds. The adjustable waist strap has reflective strips and fits sizes 26-41 inches. And, not only did the belt not dig into our skin, it actually also felt stylish and very secure, too. 

The Details: Lycra | 7.5 x 4.5 x 0.04 inches | 1 pocket

Best Anti-theft

Peak gear hidden travel money belt.

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5

It includes theft insurance and lifetime recovery service. 

There are only two basic color options.

This Peak travel money belt comes with built-in RFID protection lining, but what makes it a standout anti-theft wallet for us is that it also comes with $250 worth of theft protection and two recovery decals for lifetime recovery services of lost or stolen items. Recovery services are available via a 24/7 phone line and work by helping to return items to you from anywhere across the globe. We also like that we could access our items without drawing attention to the fact we were wearing a money belt. We tested the “regular” size wallet and loved how it stayed slim, inconspicuous, and comfortable even when loaded with documents, money, and other items from headphones to keys to a cell phone. In fact, when we almost completely filled all five pockets, it still felt light and never dug into our waist even while sitting. The biggest drawback for us is that it only comes in beige and black. 

The Details: Nylon | 5 x 5 x 0.7 inches | 5 pockets | RFID-blocking capabilities

Best Large Capacity

Lanney rfid travel blocking money belt.

Spacious enough to fit passports, large paper bills, and credit cards, this belt can hold all of your valuables in one place.

The included RFID cards aren’t very eco-friendly. 

This money belt has a standard money belt design with five storage areas, including a main compartment with two interior mesh slip pockets, a small zippered front pocket, and the back has a breathable, open mesh-paneled sleeve that works great for stashing paper money. We liked how comfortable the belt was, and that it easily fit all items (with room to spare) and still wasn’t detectable under clothes. The strap fits waists measuring 26-50 inches but could likely stretch to fit larger sizes. During our water bottle sweat test, it provided total protection for the items inside. Also, the wallet belt has three built-in RFID-blocking layers and comes with 10 single RFID-blocking card holders (something we’ve never seen before). But, while it’s available in beige, cream, and black, we’d like to see it available in more colors to switch things up.

The Details: Ripstop nylon | 10 x 5.5 inches | 5 pockets | RFID-blocking capabilities

Best for Active Travelers

Flipbelt classic running belt.

The discreet belt is perfect for storing essentials while hiking, working out, running, or biking.

It’s not adjustable so you'll have to commit to one of seven sizes when shopping. 

This machine washable money belt is made from a light and breathable plush fabric that feels good against the skin and has a stretchy, bounceback capability. We also found it easy to move freely while wearing it without any trouble, making it an easy go-to for active travelers although, in our longterm test, we found ourselves annoyed when getting the belt on as it flips easily. There are four pockets, and we were impressed by how much we fit inside the main storage compartment (stretchy material for the win!). All-in-all, we were pleasantly surprised at how well this performed in our sweat test, the durability and quality of materials, and how well it was concealed under our clothes. This money belt comes in 13 different colors but we do wish one of the pockets had a zipper for that added security. Unfortunately, there’s no way to adjust this band-style belt as there are no clips or buckles so be sure it fits your waist size before purchasing (and it comes in seven sizes from XXS to XXL). After six months of regular use while partaking in rigorous activities, the belt has held up perfectly and hasn't shown any signs of wear and tear.

The Details: Micropoly and lycra | 8.6 x 3.2 x 0.4 inches | 4 pockets

Best Organization

Aikelida rfid blocking travel wallet.

• Capacity 4.5 /5
• Performance 4 /5

There are two separate pockets for separating money from IDs.

The buckle feels flimsy. 

This slim money belt has two main zippered pockets, two stash pockets inside the larger main pocket, and a concealed stretchy mesh pocket at the back. The number of pockets and overall design makes it a cinch to locate items without digging (especially for smaller things like coins or wired earphones). Both zippers glide smoothly and have long, nylon pulls that made it a cinch to find and grip. The exterior fabric is tear- and water-resistant and the sweat-wicking padding on the back made it comfortable to wear as we moved around. The adjustable belt is made from an elastic material that helps to get the perfect fit, though we were left wondering how the rebound stretch would hold up after many wears. The RFID-blocking capabilities are a plus. Like many travel money belts, this one is only available in solid black, making it more difficult to conceal under light clothing.

The Details: Nylon | 11.2 x 5.2 x 0.4 inches | 5 pockets | RFID-blocking capabilities

Easiest to Conceal

Stashbandz unisex travel money belt.

• Ease of Use 4 /5
• Comfort 4.5 /5
• Quality 4.5 /5

With a handy compression band, it's easy to get a snug and discreet fit.

It runs small and cannot be adjusted.

This StashBandz money belt impressed us with its waterproof compression band design, and we liked that it was available in 11 colors. The 360-degree spandex band has no clips or belts and instead fits around your hips and waist (you put it on by pulling it up or down your body). The four pockets are divided through stitched-in seams. For extra security, one has a zippered closure at the top. Accessing the two front pockets is easy enough, but getting to the back requires some flexibility. During our spray bottle “sweat test,” the belt kept items dry and completely dried in about 15 minutes. While we found the spandex to be comfortable against our skin, the belt did ride up when we sat down and even with some arm movements. Since it tends to run small, we recommend sizing up if you’re between sizes, which may also help prevent the belt from rolling up.

The Details: Spandex | 8 x 6 inches | 4 pockets

Most Compact

Molarun travel money belt.

Thinner and smaller compared to other belts we tried, this one is best for a solo traveler or light packer.

The waist strap only extends to 46 inches and may not fit larger waists. 

This smaller, lightweight money belt is a great bargain for travelers looking to carry the basics. The classic money belt look features an open, mesh slip pocket in the back, a small front-zippered pocket, and a main compartment with two open mesh pockets. The back mesh pocket is padded, making for an exceptionally comfortable wear, and we liked how easy it was to access everything we stashed inside. The 26-to-46-inch adjustable strap belt clips around your waist in the back, though the strap is attached to the front pouch toward the top, making the pouch want to flip backward. Despite being compact, it could fit all of our testing items (though it was a tight squeeze). Because it was packed so fully, it was visible through our T-shirt and sweatshirt, so may not be the right pick for someone looking to go incognito.

The Details: Ripstop nylon | 9 x 6 x 0.39 inches | 3 pockets | RFID-blocking capabilities

Other Travel Money Belts We Liked

These travel money belts didn’t make our best-of list but still deserve a shout. Take a peek, they might just be what you’re looking for.

Venture 4TH Travel Money Belt : This is a larger-capacity money belt with plenty of pockets and storage options that made it easy to access our items fairly inconspicuously. The downside is that it made the front pouch obviously bulky and the waist belt dug into our sides and back making for an occasionally uncomfortable fit.

Boxli Travel Hidden Money Belt : We were fans of the overall design of this bag, especially how well it performed in our water testing (everything stayed dry and it dried completely within 15 minutes), but we think the minimalist design worked against the belt and they struggled to feel like they had enough space for everything they needed.

Samsonite RFID Security Waist Belt : This belt had a comfortable fit, held all our items, and was easy to adjust. It also performed well in water testing, but we couldn’t quite get over feeling uneasy about the security of the belt’s thin and somewhat flimsy elastic strap.

We tested 18 travel money belts in our New York City testing lab as well as during travels over a three-month period. Each person was given a set of dummy essential items that most travelers would need or want to fit inside the money belt. This included a passport, credit cards, cash, a cell phone, a set of three keys, and earbuds. We assessed how easy it was to put on, adjust, and wear the belts, as well as how durable the components and materials of each belt appeared. We also noted how visible the belt was under one layer of clothing and then under a sweatshirt, plus how conspicuous it felt to access the items inside. Comfort was tested while standing, sitting, and moving around. Additionally, a water/sweat test was performed on any belts that claimed to be water-repellant, water-resistant, or waterproof where we used a bottle to spray the belt until it was soaked and then checked the effect on the items inside and timed how long it took for the belt to completely dry. 

P.S. — Stay tuned for an even better gauge of how well these travel money belts perform over time, as we will continue to use our top-pick money belts and collect insights for six months following the initial tests.

Tips for Buying a Travel Money Belt

Know what size you need.

Make sure you’re buying a travel belt with enough capacity for what you expect to carry in it while also being aware that the more you can fit inside, the bulkier it is likely to become (and therefore possibly harder to conceal under your clothes). When possible opt for the most minimal design for your needs. It’s also important to check the smallest and largest possible circumference of the belt, particularly for anyone with a smaller or larger waist. 

Evaluate different materials

Travel belts are made of different materials that benefit different purposes. If you’re trekking in the rainforest, finding a belt with a solid waterproof or water-resistant shell is essential, but if you’re heading out for a city trip, rip-proof or cut-proof material may take priority to avoid the belt being snatched. Similarly, if you’re planning to do more adventurous activities that require a lot of movement and possibly sweating, a money belt made from breathable, flexible material is probably your best bet. 

Look for added security features

If you’re choosing to wear a money belt as a bag-free option for security purposes, consider buying something with extra security features. Having a RFID-blocking lining in at least one pocket can provide more peace of mind when storing credit cards and IDs. We’re fans of the hidden pocket, though they can sometimes be tough to access in an item such as a money belt. Ripstop material, locking zipper fasteners, and theft insurance and recovery are also great security extras.

Travel belts are one of the safest places to keep your money and important cards and IDs, particularly in destinations known to have problems with pickpocketing. That said, the wrong type of travel belt — aka one that is too obvious under your clothes or makes you look conspicuous when trying to access your items — may call attention to you as a tourist. This is why it is important to buy the best travel belt for your body and needs. It is arguably one of the most important travel accessories you'll want to purchase.

It may be called a travel money belt, but you can usually treat these portable security pouches like a minimalist hip pack, loading in valuables and necessities from keys and cards to earbuds and your phone. If you want to carry your passport or phone, make sure your travel belt is big enough (and you may need to take the cover off either item in some cases). 

No, you must remove the travel belt when you go through security. It will be treated like a hip pack, which cannot be worn into the body scanners. If the belt is small, you may get away with holding it as you walk through. We recommend packing the belt like a wallet in your luggage while going through security and then going to the bathroom to put on the belt after security so you don’t draw attention to the fact you’re wearing this. 

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Katherine Alex Beaven combined research, T+L tester input, and her personal experiences while traveling with money belts for this list. 

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

24 Best Travel Websites and Apps to Find Deals and Save You Money

Use our guide to the best travel websites and find discounts and deals so you can vacation without breaking the bank.

• Newsletter sign up Newsletter

Whether you’re looking for a cheap last-minute vacation or planning to go home for the holidays, you’ll want to know the best travel websites to use. And if you’re tired of wondering which sites are best for each part of your trip planning, we’ve got you covered. 

Here are some of the best travel sites we’ve found to help you bag bargains on airfares, lodging, car rentals and all your other travel needs. Best of all, almost all of the travel websites are free to use. Bon voyage! 

To continue reading this article please register for free

This is different from signing in to your print subscription

Why am I seeing this? Find out more here

Best websites to save on airfare

Keeping up with airfare prices has gotten easier thanks to sites like Google Flights and Kayak . To use them, just type in your home and destination airport, pick the flights that work best for you and then set an alert to track the price. For example, Google Flights will send you an e-mail showing if your tracked flight went up or down in price. Both sites also let you see which days are cheaper to fly in that month. Airfarewatchdog also lets you search flight deals.

If you haven’t decided on where exactly you want to go,  sign up for Going (formerly known as Scott’s Cheap Flights.) Their newsletter comes straight to your inbox with deals on domestic and international locations. Or you can follow Twitter handles such as @TheFlightDeal for flights, too.

Sponsored Content

Best websites for flight information

Once your flight is booked, you’ll want to keep tabs on gate changes, layover information and more. FlightStats.com can help you plan a smooth trip by advising you on the best time of day to fly from a specific airport and which terminals to avoid when connecting flights. You can also view live updates of flight delays and sign up for free e-mail and phone alerts. Flightaware.com also tracks and predicts flight delays.

If you’re delayed by weather or some unforeseen event, it pays to act quickly. The TripIt Pro smartphone app ($49/year) will send you alerts about cancellations, delays or gate changes, sometimes even ahead of an airline announcement. Use it to locate alternate flights, find out when better seats are available, get fare refund notifications, track your rewards program points, and more.

Best websites to save on hotels

Hotels.com lets you search just one site for accommodations at hundreds of thousands of properties. Plus, its rewards program is simple: For every ten nights you spend at any combination of the program’s 500,000 member properties, you’ll earn a free night’s stay. As a member, you also unlock an average discount of 15% on select hotels. 

Similarly, HotelTonight is an app that lets users book hotels at low last-minute rates. Priceline Express Deals helps you find the best bargains, but there’s a catch. Priceline doesn’t tell you which hotel you’re booking until after you pay.

And try TripAdvisor.com for a detailed list of rated hotels (and excursions) that are close to your destination. The site links you to partner sites, such as Expedia and Travelocity for fulfillment. Click on the "check rates" button and select the site or sites you’d like to try — a new window with results will open for each partner.

Best websites to save on vacation rentals

Vacation rentals are an especially good value for groups because they generally offer more space and amenities for prices similar to or less than hotel rates, particularly if you look at it on a per-bed basis. Check out VRBO and Airbnb to find the perfect experience. For Marriott loyalists, Marriott Bonvoy lets you browse its 30-brand portfolio — which includes more than 2,000 private homes.

At the other end of the scale, if you don’t mind college-dorm-level amenities, check out Hostelworld.com , as a way to save money on vacation rental properties . The site lists 36,000 properties in 178 countries around the globe and includes reviews.

Best websites for cruises and vacation packages

At CruiseCompete.com , more than 500 travel agencies vie to give you the lowest prices for dates, ports and ships you specify, whether you’re booking well in advance or at the eleventh hour. You set up a CruiseCompete account, and they send you their best offers without ever seeing your personal information.

Kayak.com and Tripadvisor.com will also knit together vacation packages for you. Just type in your destination and travel dates to get the best prices.

Best websites to save on rental cars

Hotwire often offers the best-published deals on cars by collecting rates from its eight rental car company partners, including Alamo, Enterprise and Hertz. The site also offers "hot rates" from rental companies that aren't identified until after you’ve paid.

And while Hotwire does offer some good prepaid rental car deals, in certain international cities for the best overseas auto deals you should check out AutoEurope . It offers rentals at more than 20,000 locations worldwide, and customer service is available 24/7.

AutoSlash is also a good site to find rental deals, as it will apply the best coupons and discount codes to your rental and re-book your reservation if the system finds a better deal.

Best websites to save on international train tickets

Trains are often the fastest and cheapest way to travel within and between European countries. Our favorite for checking timetables and booking tickets on European train lines is RailEurope . But you might be able to catch better deals directly from European railways’ sites if you don’t get lost in translation — and make sure you have what you need to travel to Europe as an American!

Best websites for travel insurance

You never know when an emergency situation will spoil your travel plans. That's what travel insurance is for. But don't just go for the default options from agencies and travel providers. At Squaremouth , you can compare plans and prices from multiple insurance providers with just one search and narrow your search results by specifying the kind of coverage you need. Another option is InsureMyTrip.com .

Rivan joined Kiplinger on Leap Day 2016 as a reporter for Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine. A Michigan native, she graduated from the University of Michigan in 2014 and from there freelanced as a local copy editor and proofreader, and served as a research assistant to a local Detroit journalist. Her work has been featured in the Ann Arbor Observer and Sage Business Researcher . She is currently assistant editor, personal finance at The Washington Post.

• Erin Bendig Personal Finance Writer

The Dow Jones Industrial Average, on the other hand, closed higher thanks to strength in Salesforce.

By Karee Venema Published 20 June 24

In an uncertain market, the best consumer staples stocks provide consistency and stability to portfolios.

By Kyle Woodley Published 20 June 24

An explanation of private mortgage insurance, which has become more relevant with rising home prices and higher mortgage rates.

By Ella Vincent Published 19 June 24

Luxury homes offer eye-catching amenities and high-end décor. Double vanities, kitchen islands and heated floors are among the most sought-after details by the richest homebuyers.

By Kathryn Pomroy Published 19 June 24

Want to find the best summer travel deals? Here's a bucket list of deals and discounts on flights, hotels and car rentals from Delta, United, Hyatt, Marriott, Avis, National and more.

If you don't plan for these hidden expenses of homeownership when buying a home, you could be stuck paying more than you can afford.

By Erin Bendig Published 18 June 24

Kiplinger reviews how to find the right home health care for yourself and your situation.

By Ella Vincent Published 16 June 24

Patience helped these four investors make their portfolios work for them.

By Kim Clark Published 16 June 24

Looking for fun, free things to do on vacation? From walking tours to festivals to museums, there are all kinds of options for the budget-conscious traveler.

By Daniel Bortz Published 15 June 24

"Buy now, pay later" is a popular way to buy everything — and some loans are starting to show up on credit reports.

By Ashlyn Brooks Published 13 June 24

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Advertise with us

Kiplinger is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future US, Inc. Full 7th Floor, 130 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036.

The 11 Best Travel Money Belts of 2024

Keep your most important possessions from wandering off

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Traveling is one of life’s most rewarding experiences, but carrying valuables, such as cash and passports, can be stressful. Crowded tourist spots are inevitably prone to pickpockets , and using a conventional wallet or purse makes you a target. A money belt is, therefore, an essential travel accessory, and these days they’re less intrusive, more stylish, and more comfortable than ever.

Choices vary from fashion-forward fanny packs for wearing on top of your clothes to slimline belts that are undetectable when worn beneath them. In our selection of the best travel money belts on the market, look for RFID protection, clever compartments, moisture-wicking backing, and durable, double-stitched materials.

Final Verdict

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, venture 4th travel money belt.

Inconspicuous under normal layers

Internal division of space

Sturdy construction

On the pricier end

Some reviews mention the strap being too thin

If you’re looking for a traditional-style money belt with a mid-range price tag and thousands of positive user reviews, this belt from Venture 4th fits the bill nicely. It features a flexible, slimline profile that lets you wear it discreetly beneath your clothes. A moisture-wicking, breathable mesh backing prevents sweat buildup, even in warm weather. The exterior features water-resistant ripstop nylon with durable double-stitched seams. 

Use the zippered mesh compartments to organize your valuables. The ideally sized pockets carry cash, credit cards, tickets, and a passport. Although adding your phone may make the belt bulky, most smartphone models should fit. The belt features an RFID-blocking lining to protect your data and an adjustable, elasticated belt that fits waists up to 56 inches. It comes in 10 versatile colors, from black to turquoise.

Dimensions: 11 x 5.5 inches | Materials: 210-denier ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: Yes

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Travel flame travel money belt.

Clever interior layout

Nice attention to detail

Generous warranty

Not fully waterproof

Limited color choices

The Travel Flame money belt is another excellent choice designed along similar lines. Its slim profile contours to individual body shapes for maximum comfort, with many reviewers praising that it doesn’t shift or pinch even when sitting for long periods (on a plane, for example). Made of water-resistant ripstop nylon, it has a breathable mesh back and an adjustable, elasticated strap for waists up to 56 inches. 

Built-in RFID-blocking protection is another major perk. There are three separate compartments, one with internal pockets to aid the easy organization of your credit and loyalty cards. You should be able to fit your smartphone and several passports as well. The belt features durable YKK zippers and a carabiner clip for your keys or USB. It comes in four neutral colors: black, beige, brown, and gray. A lifetime guarantee protects your purchase. 

Dimensions: 11.3 x 5.5 inches | Materials: Ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: Yes

Best Budget

Molarun travel money belt.

Hidden back pocket

Minimalist and functional

Handles hot and humid conditions well

The strap buckle could be sturdier

Not the best choice for plus-size travelers

Coming in at just over $10, it’s difficult to beat the Molarun travel money belt on price. And with plenty of positive user reviews, it’s a reliable choice for those who want a simple but effective product for their next vacation. Made of water-resistant ripstop nylon with double-stitched seams and good-quality zippers, it features breathable mesh backing, so you can wear it comfortably against your skin without sweating. 

There are two spacious zippered compartments on the front, the larger with two internal mesh compartments. On the back, there’s a concealed compartment for your most precious belongings. According to reviewers, it fits passports and smartphones, although not necessarily together (depending on your smartphone model). The belt has built-in RFID protection and an elasticated strap that fits waists up to 46 inches. Some find the buckle a little flimsy.

Dimensions: 9 x 6 inches | Materials: 210-denier ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: Yes

Best Compact

Anj money belt.

One of the best incognito options

Works for athletic pursuits

Compatible with corded headphones

No RFID protection

If lightness and an undetectable under-the-clothes profile are your top priorities, look no further than this super-slim money belt from ANJ Outdoors. At 0.04 inches in thickness and weighing in at just 2 ounces, the soft Lycra belt is unbelievably thin—so much so that it’s easy to forget you’re wearing it. One reviewer talks about wearing it under her swimsuit; another loves it because it gives her waist a cinched look rather than adding bulk like most belts. 

Despite its slimness, the belt features a roomy 7.5 by 4.5-inch pocket with two compartments for stashing everything from money to phones and passports. It even has a hole for your headphones, doubling as a handy workout belt. A water-resistant lining prevents sweat from seeping through and damaging the contents, while reflective strips add an extra protective element. The adjustable strap fits waists from 24 to 42 inches.

Dimensions: 7.5 x 4.5 inch pocket | Materials: Polyester, spandex | RFID-Blocking: No

Best Comfort

Eagle creek money belt.

Smooth, luxurious fabric

Low maintenance

Pricier than most alternatives

For those with a bigger budget, Eagle Creek’s silk undercover money belt is well worth the extra cost. Made of soft, breathable natural silk, it feels incredible against the skin—so much so that many reviewers say they regularly sleep with theirs on. No crinkling, rubbing, or itching—and a moisture-resistant satin lining for keeping sweat to a minimum, even in 100 percent humidity. If it does need it, the belt is easy to wash and hang dry. 

It features two zippered pockets that are big enough for cash, credit cards, passports, and most smartphones. The soft elastic waistband is easily adjustable and stores neatly in a dedicated slip pocket on the back of the belt when not in use, making it also useful as an organizer for your travel purse . Available in smart black or dusky rose, the money belt is covered by Eagle Creek’s No Matter What lifetime guarantee.

Dimensions: 11.5 x 5.5 inches | Materials: Silk | RFID-Blocking: No

Best Ladies’ Style

Cxwmzy fanny pack.

Chic hues and prints

Nice accents

Extra packing space

Not designed to be concealed

Weighs more than most options on this list

The CXWMZY fanny pack comes in a choice of colors and floral patterns that will likely make it popular with fashion-forward wearers. The chunky zippers are gold-colored for added style points. Unlike most of the other money belts on this list, this one goes on top of your clothes, with a bulkier profile and two extra-large zippered compartments for cosmetics, sunglasses, car keys, and cash. 

There’s an additional concealed compartment on the back of the belt for your valuables, and the elasticated waist belt adjusts to fit all waist sizes from 24 to 55 inches. The belt is made from 100 percent polyester with reinforced stitching along the seams, guaranteeing a quality product that’s as reliable as it is attractive. The only downside (for some) is that it’s a heavier option, weighing in at 8.5 ounces.

Dimensions: 9.84 x 6.1 inches | Materials: 75-denier polyester | RFID-Blocking: No

Best Men's Style

Yoder leather company hidden money pocket travel leather belt.

Epitome of hiding in plain sight

Generous, albeit narrow, storage

High-quality materials and construction

Not suitable for larger items

Among the most expensive picks

This alternative option from the Yoder Leather Company is ideal for men who'd rather not accessorize with a traditional money belt or fanny pack. Made in the USA from genuine English bridle leather, the belt looks like a regular belt whose only purpose is to keep your pants in place—and yet, the inside conceals a 25-inch zippered pocket capable of holding up to 24 bills folded lengthwise. 

You could also store passport copies and other necessary paperwork inside, although there's no space for fitting larger documents or valuables. Nevertheless, if a simple money belt is what you're after, this one is undoubtedly a good-looking choice. It measures 1.5 inches wide and 3/16 inches thick, is finished with high-grade leather polish, and features a large, interchangeable brass or polished steel buckle. It's available in black or brown leather.

Dimensions: 34-66 x 1.5 inches | Materials: Leather | RFID-Blocking: No

Best Waterproof

Crenova waterproof fanny pack set.

Three-piece set

Suitable for water parks/sports

Can be carried several ways

No inner compartments

If you’re planning a vacation on the water , you may prefer a fully waterproof money belt. These fanny packs from Crenova are IPX8-certified for submersion in up to 32 feet of water for as long as an hour, guaranteeing protection from the elements for your cash, ID, phone, and more. Your purchase includes a phone pouch and two separate packs: one fully opaque for added secrecy and another transparent and touchscreen-friendly. 

All three feature a triple seal and heavy-duty Velcro flap. Before using them for the first time, the manufacturer recommends performing a submersion test by inserting a dry piece of tissue and then placing the pack in the sink for at least an hour. You’re good to go if the tissue’s still dry after that time. The phone pouch comes with a lanyard, while the fanny pack features adjustable webbing belts and can be worn around the waist or over the shoulder.

Dimensions: 8.66 x 5.91 inches | Materials: PVC | RFID-Blocking: No

Best Active

Flipbelt classic running belt.

Designed to stay in place while running

Smooth, non-chafe materials

Easy to clean

Pockets are not zippered

Relatively expensive

Heading off on a hiking trip? Or do you like to keep fit on vacation? The FlipBelt Classic is an innovative money belt with a seamless, tubular design that sits flat on your hips and doesn’t ride up, even during vigorous exercise. With no buckles to pinch and soft-touch, moisture-wicking micropoly and Lycra fabric, it can be worn comfortably over or under your clothes and stretches to fit everything from credit cards to smartphones in multiple pockets. 

The openings in the belt are closed by turning them inward to your body. (If you want added security, consider paying extra for the zippered version of the FlipBelt.) There’s an internal key hook for keeping keys in place, and if the belt gets a little sweaty, it’s entirely machine-washable. Choose yours in sizes XXS to XXL, and opt for one of a wide range of colors, including black, hot pink, and reflective yellow.

Dimensions: 24-40 (unstretched) x 4 inches | Materials: 92 percent polyester, 8 percent Lycra | RFID-Blocking: No

Best Alternative

Zero grid travel neck wallet with rfid blocking.

Lots of secure storage

Comes with nice-to-have extras

The neck strap is not removable

Too small for some smartphones

This well-priced option from Zero Grid includes loops for attaching it to your belt. However, it also comes with a soft, adjustable neck strap, giving you a choice of ways to wear it. Made from water-resistant ripstop nylon, it has a moisture-wicking backing and is slim enough to wear concealed against your skin. Measuring 7.5 by 5.7 inches, it’s large enough for four passports, six credit cards, and most small-to-medium-sized smartphones. 

Divide your valuables among the three zippered front pockets and rear back pouches for ultimate organization. High-quality YKK zippers and built-in RFID protection add to the wallet’s overall value, as do two included recovery tags from the world’s largest lost-and-found company, ReturnMe. Attach these to your belongings to increase the chance of them finding their way back to you if you lose them. Wallet colors range from black to desert sand.

Dimensions: 7.5 x 5.7 inches | Materials: Ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: Yes

Lanney RFID Travel Blocking Money Belt

Compact and capacious

Adjustable waistband

Multiple ways to wear

Hand wash only

May be uncomfortable on smaller frames

Sometimes (maybe all the time), you just need a little extra room. The Lanney Money Belt offers easily concealed storage for trips when you have plenty of valuable items to keep handy and secure. With no fewer than five storage areas, including two zippered compartments and a hidden mesh pocket at the back, organization lovers and those carrying documents for others will appreciate its internal design. The waterproof ripstop nylon is built to take on the wear-and-tear and occasional surprise rainfall that traveling often throws your way. This model won't break the bank and comes with 10 RFID-blocking sleeves for added digital security.

Dimensions: 10 x 5.5 inches | Materials: Ripstop nylon | RFID-Blocking: Yes

The Venture 4th Travel Money Belt won't disappoint those looking for a standard, tried-and-true model. Thin enough to go undetected under clothing, lined with RFID-blocking technology, and built with ripstop nylon, this pick is all the best of a classic. If maximizing value for money is a priority, reach for the Molarun Travel Money Belt .

What to Look For in a Travel Money Belt

Travel money belts come in several different shapes and styles, and choosing the right one depends on your required features. Some come with built-in RFID protection, while others include RFID-blocking sleeves—useful if you use them to carry sensitive data. If you want to transport bills only, a conventional belt with a concealed pocket may be sufficient, but if you want to pack your smartphone, passport, and other bulkier items, you’ll need a multi-compartment money belt or fanny pack. Other features to consider are different fastening styles and alternative ways to wear your money belt. 

The most popular material for a travel money belt is ripstop nylon—it’s lightweight, durable, and water-resistant, all qualities that make the belt comfortable to wear and up to the task of keeping your valuables secure. To prevent sweat buildup, a backing made of moisture-wicking mesh or natural silk is desirable if you wear the belt against your skin. Belts designed as style accessories often swap out ripstop nylon for more fashionable leather or polyester. In contrast, those who require a fully waterproof belt should look for one made of PVC or another soft plastic, and fitted with leakproof seals.

Travel money belts vary considerably in price, depending on factors ranging from materials and features to brand reputation. For example, a premium-grade leather or natural silk belt will inevitably cost more than one made from nylon or PVC. The travel money belts included on this list cost anywhere from under $10 to over $60; however, you should be able to find a quality, long-lasting belt to suit most travel purposes for around $20.

Depending on materials and construction, the best cleaning method will vary from belt to belt. You should always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. Some are machine-washable, while others should be wiped clean or washed by hand and hung up to dry. Before each use, you should check that the zippers and buckles are operating smoothly (if relevant) and that there is no wear and tear on the strap that could cause it to break unexpectedly.

Although it’s impossible to guarantee complete protection from thieves, using a money belt correctly can significantly reduce your chance of becoming a target. For ultimate security, choose a money belt with a slim profile that can be concealed beneath your clothes. Be aware of your surroundings when removing valuables from your money belt, too, since doing so in public could alert thieves to the fact that you’re wearing one and let them know where it is.

Depending on your money belt’s material and whether it has zippers, it may or may not set off the alarms on the airport security scanner. Nevertheless, most airports require you to remove all belts before going through security, including money belts. If you’re concerned about removing yours at the checkpoint, place it inside your carry-on luggage before you get there, and put it on in private afterward.

An RFID money belt protects its contents from the possibility of thieves scanning the RFID (radio frequency identification) chip on your passport or credit card and therefore stealing your sensitive data. RFID protection can be built-in by using fabrics capable of blocking RFID scanners, or it can come in the form of separate RFID-blocking sleeves. If your belt includes the latter, you must place your cards and passport inside the sleeves before putting them in the belt.

The short answer is whatever you want and can fit. Most people use money belts for traveling when pickpocketing is a concern. In this scenario, you'll want to go with only the essentials (think a credit card, maybe some cash, and your passport), as the more items you add, the less likely the belt will go undetected beneath clothing, which can defeat the purpose depending on the style. On the other hand, these accessories are also a great hands-free option and can function more like a fanny pack such as the CXWMZY bag , letting you pack more.

Jessica Macdonald is an experienced traveler who has used money belts to keep her valuables secure on her adventures around South America, Africa, and Europe. For this article, she compiled a list of more than 20 of the most popular products on the market, comparing price, features, and user feedback to come up with the category winners listed above. Preference was given to products with unique selling points and several hundred online reviews.

The 6 Best Passport Holders of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 14 Best Men’s Travel Pants of 2024

The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Fanny Packs of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Travel Camera Cases and Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 14 Best Backpack Brands of 2024

The 7 Best Beach Lock Boxes of 2024

The 9 Best Travelpro Luggage Items of 2024

The 11 Best Beach Blankets of 2024

The 8 Best Bags and Backpacks for Disney of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 7 Best Duffel Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 6 Best Small Coolers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 8 Best Hammocks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 9 Best Anti-Theft Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 12 Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

The 11 Best Hardside Luggage Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

• Updated Terms of Use
• New Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices
• Closed Captioning Policy

Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. Market data provided by  Factset . Powered and implemented by  FactSet Digital Solutions .  Legal Statement .

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. ©2024 FOX News Network, LLC. All rights reserved. FAQ - New Privacy Policy

10 most popular girls' trips for summer 2024 announced: See these top travel destinations

United airlines said these 10 travel destinations were the most searched among women.

Families may save money traveling by RV this summer

FOX Business' Jeff Flock test drives a state-of-the-art RV and reports on the industry's travel demand surge.

Summer officially begins on June 20 this year, but millions of Americans are already enjoying or planning warm vacation getaways and fun destination trips. 

Whether you’re heading out soon on a road trip with the family or a girls' trip to the beach, many people are looking for their next opportunity to skip town. 

United Airlines announced the most popular destinations for a girls' trip this summer — and some are a bit surprising. 

TOP SUMMER TRAVEL DESTINATIONS FOR 2024: THESE INTERNATIONAL SPOTS WERE THE MOST SEARCHED

After analyzing booking data to see which destinations had the highest number of women travelers, United said some warm vacation spots stood out as the most popular. 

A spokesperson for United Airlines told Fox News Digital the company's team of analysts compiled the list. 

United Airlines said some destinations were among the most popular among women travelers this summer.  (iStock / iStock)

"While beach and European getaways are popular for all travelers this summer, the most surprising thing in our data was the popularity of overseas destinations like Lisbon, Athens and Rome," they noted. 

10 MOST PATRIOTIC US STATES AHEAD OF JULY 4: SEE IF YOUR HOME STATE MADE THE LIST

Did your girls' trip spot make the most popular vacation destination list for summer 2024?

Or maybe this list will inspire some new getaway ideas.

Most popular girls' trip destinations of summer 2024, according to United Airlines

Counting down here …

10. Honolulu, Hawaii

The first official day of summer is June 20, 2024 — and plenty of folks are already taking off for warm-weather vacation spots. (iStock / iStock)

9. Paris, France

8. punta cana, dominican republic.

GOOGLE FLIGHTS SAYS THESE ARE THE TOP SUMMER TRAVEL DESTINATIONS OF 2024

7. Rome, Italy

6. cancun, mexico, 5. athens, greece.

The most popular spot on the list for girls' getaway trips may surprise some people.  (iStock / iStock)

4. Montego Bay, Jamaica

3. lisbon, portugal.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER

1. Tulum, Mexico

United Airlines said Tulum, Mexico, was the most searched vacation spot among women looking to travel this summer. 

Tulum, Mexico, was the most searched destination among United Airlines females, according to the company. Nearly 45% more women booked a trip to Tulum than men did.  (iStock / iStock)

The company said that nearly 45% more women booked a trip to Tulum compared to men. 

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE ON FOX BUSINESS  

The Tulum International Airport in Mexico opened to domestic flights on Dec. 1, 2023, and international flights on March 28, 2024, per the Tulum Airport. 

Prior to the opening, those looking to fly to the area had to travel to a nearby airport and then be transported to the city of Tulum. 

"Yes, Tulum may well be one of the most Instagrammed spots in Mexico, with plenty of smoothie stands and yoga retreats," said Tripadvisor about the location, "but this Riviera Maya beach town is so much more than a photo-op."

For more Lifestyle articles, visit foxbusiness.com/lifestyle

Among the top attractions in Tulum, according to the same source, are the Mayan ruins "perched atop cliffs, providing dramatic vistas of the Caribbean Sea and historical insights into ancient trade."  

Delta Air Lines also noted that Cancun, Athens, Rome and Paris were among their most popular hotspots to visit this summer. 

Best Gas Apps to Save You Money

Gas prices aren't as high as they were a couple years ago, but apps can still be helpful.

Getty Images

It's always a good idea to save on fuel, especially if you're planning on driving a lot this summer.

Key Takeaways:

• Gas prices aren't as high as they were a couple years ago, but mobile apps can still be helpful.
• If you drive a lot, you may want to consider paying for a gas app that will save you money.
• There are other ways to save on gas than buying cheap fuel; turning down the air-conditioning and inflating your tires can help keep costs lower.

While gas prices have come down from what they were a couple years ago, it's always good to save on fuel, especially if you commute a lot or have a big road trip planned this summer.

If you’re looking for the cheapest gas available, mobile apps can be a useful tool.

According to AAA , the national average of gas prices is $3.44 at the time of publishing. Two years ago, the national average was $5.01.

Consider these 10 gas apps, which are all free to download:

1. GasBuddy

GasBuddy is arguably the most well-known gas app, and it's been around since 2000. To use the app, you type in your ZIP code and gas prices pop up for various gas stations in thearea. The app relies on other users to report prices as well as data furnished by gas stations, so while it may not always be exact, it's generally on the mark.

GasBuddy offers a free card that connects to your bank account as part of a program called Pay with GasBuddy. You submit your address, driver's license information and checking account routing number . By using the card for shopping and dining purchases, users earn GasBack to spend at the pump. Currently, the card is promising savings of up to 25 cents a gallon.

If you're really a GasBuddy disciple, you could sign up for its premium service, which will save you a guaranteed 20 cents a gallon (up to 50 gallons a month) and sometimes as much as 40 cents. This option costs $9.99 a month or $99 a year.

2. Gas Guru

Gas Guru shows you gas prices in your area and you can filter by price, fuel grade and distance. The data comes from the Oil Price Information Service, or OPIS, a fuel price reporting agency. You can also see what's near the gas station, so if you need to run errands or grab a bite to eat, this app can give you suggestions on where to go.

Founded in 2008, Waze gives you directions to the gas station you're seeking and enables you to find the best priced fuel, as reported by community members. It also has a contactless payment feature at participating ExxonMobil and Shell stations. So, once you arrive at the gas station and your vehicle comes to a complete stop, you can pay for your fuel on your phone.

4. AAA TripTik Travel Planner

A paid membership to AAA means that if you get a flat tire or run out of gas on the road you have access to a tow truck or mechanic. The AAA TripTik Travel Planner is available to anyone for free.

This app shows gas stations and prices in your area, and can also help you plan road trips. The app features prices at more than 85,000 gas stations throughout the country.

5. MapQuest

While it's known for being a tool to help drivers get from here to there, the MapQuest mobile app can also find gas stations along the route, check prices and suggest the cheapest option. It offers other helpful features, like information on traffic, and you can even use it to make restaurant reservations.

Upside, formerly known as GetUpside, offers cash back on gas but also allows you to save on groceries and restaurants. Keep in mind that you may have to take a photo of your receipt in the app.

The Upside app doesn’t promise how much you’ll save, but when it was GetUpside, it gave consumers up to 25 cents off a gallon. You get your cash back through PayPal, your bank account or a digital gift card . Note that if you cash out under $15, you may pay a $1 fee.

Fuelio will help you find cheaper gas and tracks your fill-ups, plus it gives you a mileage log and enables you to manage your vehicle expenses, including trips to the mechanic, tolls and parking fees.

8. BPme Rewards

If you fill up at BP gas stations a lot, the BPme Rewards app will save you 5 cents a gallon. It used to have a minimum spend requirement, but now you just have to put some gas in your tank to start saving immediately.

9. Shell Fuel Rewards

This app will save you 5 cents per gallon at Shell stations. If you fill up 12 or more times (with at least 10 gallons each time), you'll be upgraded from gold to platinum status and get 10 cents per gallon off.

10. Speedy Rewards

The convenience store and gas station Speedway has locations throughout the country, and you can earn points through the app for stuff you buy like gas or snacks. You get 10 points per gallon of fuel and 20 points per $1 of merchandise. You can redeem the points for discounted gas or things like sandwiches or drinks.

Other Ways to Save on Gas

If you’re still struggling to find cheap gas or make the fuel in your gas tank last longer, here are some tips to save:

Inflate your tires. Every tire has a PSI (pounds per square inch) rating indicating how much air is required to fill it to the proper level. You can find the amount of PSI by referring to the door sticker or owner’s manual. Make sure your tires aren’t under the proper PSI. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, under-inflated tires lower your gas mileage by about 0.2% for every 1 PSI drop in the average pressure. It’s also safer if you’re driving on properly inflated tires.

Turn down the air conditioning.  If you have it running full blast, you will use up more energy and fuel.

You may want to switch to a more fuel-efficient car. The next time you buy a car, consider one that's fuel efficient. Or switch to an electric vehicle and never worry about gas prices again.

States With the Highest Gas Prices

Julia Haines , Elliott Davis Jr. and Chris Gilligan May 24, 2024

Tags: money , personal finance , savings , gas prices , consumers

Popular Stories

Mortgages and Advice

Family Finance

Saving and Budgeting

Credit Cards

Personal Loans

SEE TODAY'S TOP COUPONS

Kohl's Coupons

Wayfair Coupons

Lowe's Coupons

Best Buy Coupons

Walmart Promo Codes

Comparative assessments and other editorial opinions are those of U.S. News and have not been previously reviewed, approved or endorsed by any other entities, such as banks, credit card issuers or travel companies. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired.

Your Money Decisions

Advice on credit, loans, budgeting, taxes, retirement and other money matters.

You May Also Like

Best websites to make money online.

Geoff Williams June 21, 2024

Are Budget Apps Safe?

Erica Sandberg June 21, 2024

Music Festival Costs 2024

Emily Sherman June 20, 2024

15 Affordable Wedding Venue Ideas

Maryalene LaPonsie June 20, 2024

Wealthiest Generation

Erica Sandberg June 18, 2024

What to Do if Your Identity Is Stolen

Maryalene LaPonsie June 18, 2024

Budget Counseling – Do You Need It?

Erica Lamberg June 17, 2024

How Much to Buy a Boat v. a Yacht

Erica Sandberg June 14, 2024

What Is Cash Stuffing?

Geoff Williams June 13, 2024

How to Get Out of Debt

Geoff Williams June 12, 2024

10 Cheap Father's Day Gift Ideas

Jessica Walrack June 11, 2024

Grocery Receipt Apps Worth Trying

Geoff Williams June 10, 2024

Cash Wedding Gift Guidelines for 2024

Jessica Walrack June 7, 2024

Spending for a Graduation Gift

Erica Sandberg June 5, 2024

How to Save for a Wedding

Erica Sandberg and Emma Kerr June 4, 2024

Expert-Approved Thrifting Tips

Erica Lamberg June 3, 2024

How to Negotiate With Debt Collectors

Jessica Walrack May 31, 2024

10 Hobbies That Can Make You Money

Jessica Walrack May 30, 2024

What is a Cohabitation Agreement?

Erica Lamberg May 29, 2024

Four Questions to Ask on the First Date

Erica Sandberg May 29, 2024

• Twitter / X
• Readers' Choice
• Food & Drink
• Arts & Culture
• Travel Guides

USA TODAY 10Best

From dessert to donuts, treat yourself at the best places for sweets

June 19, 2024 // By 10Best Editors

By 10Best Editors June 19, 2024

Whether you want candy, donuts, ice cream, chocolate, pie, cookies, or other desserts, you can find a shop in the U.S. that specializes in satisfying your cravings. From coast to coast, there are shops that make donuts with fresh ingredients and unique flavors, and there are ice cream parlors that serve creatively flavored scoops of homemade ice cream.

If you're a chocolate lover, you can indulge in handcrafted truffles, bars, and bonbons from chocolatiers, and for those who enjoy candy, there are stores that sell everything from fudge and caramel apples to taffy and nostalgic candy. And for something quick and convenient, you can visit dessert chains that offer consistently good creations like cupcakes, ice cream, donuts, and more.

To find the top spots to indulge, a panel of experts made their selections for the best places to go for desserts and treats across seven categories. To decide the winners, our readers voted for their favorites over a period of four weeks — and the results are in.

Advertisement Advertisement

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

Best Candy Store: The Taffy Shop in Estes Park, Colorado

Since 1935, visitors have popped into The Taffy Shop to watch candymakers create the store's iconic Estes Park Salt Water Taffy. Not only can you get your favorite tried-and-true flavors such as lemon, vanilla, and peppermint, but also daily flavors such as blueberry, chocolate cherry, and orange creamsicle.

Full list of winners: Best Candy Store »

Best Chocolate Shop: Pizzelle's Confections in Huntsville, Alabama

Made with fair trade Felchlin chocolate, Pizzelle's Confections look almost too good to eat. Almost. After all, who could resist their eye-catching and uniquely flavored bonbons and chocolate bars that taste as good as they look? For a taste of Alabama, try the Steel Magnolia, crafted with chicory and coffee.

Full list of winners: Best Chocolate Shop »

Best Cookie Shop: Grandma's Cookies on Main in St. Charles, Missouri

Perched just west of the banks of the Missouri River, Grandma's Cookies on Main offers a wide array of sugary snacks to the St. Louis metro area. Visitors can dine on oatmeal raisin and coconut cookies during a visit, while dairy-free options like snickerdoodle and sugar sprinkle are up for grabs as well.

Full list of winners: Best Cookie Shop »

Best Dessert / Treat Chain: Crumbl Cookies

Two cousins tirelessly tested recipes until they created what they thought was the world’s best chocolate chip cookie, and the first Crumbl store debuted in Logan, Utah, in 2017. Expect that award-winning milk chocolate chip cookie on every menu across all 50 states as well as chilled pink sugar cookies and others inspired by desserts like brownies, cake batter, and dulce de leche.

Full list of winners: Best Dessert / Treat Chain »

Best Donut Shop: City Donut in Orange Beach, Alabama

Your taste buds will be humming when they see City Donut's freshly made doughnuts. Choose from traditional yeast or cake doughnuts that come with a variety of flavors, such as key lime-filled, Oreo-topped, maple iced, and many more. To up the decadence, grab a milkshake or boba drink to go with your sweet treat.

Full list of winners: Best Donut Shop »

Best Ice Cream Shop: An's Dry Cleaning in San Diego, California

The made-from-scratch gelato flavors at An's Dry Cleaning are named after fabrics, like taffeta and twill, as an homage to the dry cleaning business that originally inhabited the historic 1934 building. The rotating menu offers options such as mango and peaches, macadamia, and lavender with honey and oats.

Full list of winners: Best Ice Cream Shop »

Best Pie Shop: Stockholm Pie and General Store in Stockholm, Wisconsin

Stockholm Pie and General Store offers more than 20 pie flavors on weekends, drawing visitors with favorites like chocolate cream, raisin sour cream, and butterscotch pecan. Those hoping to sample a Swedish-inspired favorite can spring for the lingonberry lemon, a decadent dessert that combines citrus with one of Scandinavia's favorite fruits.

Full list of winners: Best Pie Shop »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more Readers' Choice Awards.

Personal Finance

14 cheap vacation destinations in 2024.

Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.

Even if the account you use to save your disposable income isn’t terribly impressive, it’s still possible to book a cheap vacation. It just takes a little strategy.

Let’s take a look at some of the cheapest destinations to visit in 2024, while also weighing each location’s desirability. You can also check out our guide to the best travel credit cards , which can help lower the cost of your airfare and hotel stays. Here are 14 of the most  affordable international and domestic vacation destinations to consider. 

7 Affordable places to travel internationally  

Philippines.

Exchange rate: $1 USD = 57.85 PHP

Many countries in Southeast Asia are inexpensive vacation destinations once you get there. But the Philippines is an extra-special archipelago that offers positively stunning land- and seascapes alongside some of the most hospitable and kind residents. From the “Chocolate Hills” in Bohol to the famously party-oriented Boracay, there are plenty of things to do that don’t require deep pockets. The Philippines even includes the island of Palawan—routinely voted the prettiest island in the world.

A U.S. dollar goes a long way in the Philippines. Expect to pay under $4 for a fast-food meal and less than $1.50 for a pint of domestic beer. You can also find many jaw-droppingly enormous Airbnbs for the same price as a low-end hotel in the U.S.

South Africa

Exchange rate: $1 USD = 18.07 ZAR

South Africa has long been one of the hottest destinations thanks to its wide offering of adventure activities (think cage diving with great white sharks, plenty of mountains to conquer, extreme ziplines, and more). But it’s also one of the top food and wine destinations—specifically Cape Town and nearby Stellenbosch (think Napa Valley).

South Africa’s also a bucket-list location for nature lovers. It offers many different safari opportunities—from guided jeep to balloon to even self-guided in your rental car (if you dare). The most recognized safari destination in South Africa is Kruger National Park It has more than 7,500 square miles of wilderness where you can spot the “Big Five” (African lions, rhinos, leopards, elephants, and African buffalo).

Exchange rate: $1 USD = 36.32 THB

Back to Southeast Asia, Thailand is a massive tourist hotspot that’s Instagram-famous for its glitzy five-star properties all around southern beaches of Krabi, Phuket, and Koh Samui. As far as five-star resorts go, you can find some excellent deals. But if you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of perfectly serviceable and unbelievably inexpensive  places to stay that are just footsteps away from some of the prettiest places on the planet.

For example, Chiang Mai in the north offers many solid accommodations for under $50 per night. Though farther inland, the region is filled with waterfalls, rice terraces, elephant sanctuaries, and more. It’s also the spot to go during the Loi Krathong festival (where thousands of people release floating lanterns into the sky). It’s Nov 14 to 16, in 2024.

Exchange rate: $1 USD = 16486.50 IDR

It’s not difficult to convince yourself that a trip to Indonesia is a good idea. Ancient temples in Ubud, stunning beaches and waterfalls in every direction, and plenty of five-star hotels for under $100 make this one of the best places to enjoy luxury on a budget.

The food is also quite cheap when compared to the U.S. For example, an inexpensive meal in Bali is often under $3, while a mid-range three-course meal hovers around $10, on average (expect prices to be higher if you’re eating at a popular resort restaurant).

All to say: Lodging and meals, normally two of the biggest expenses during your vacation, are extremely reasonable in Indonesia.

Yucatan, Mexico

Exchange rate: $1 USD = 16.49 MEX

Those who have been to the Yucatan before, especially recently, may not think of it as “super cheap.” That’s because many tourists tend to spend their time in Cancun’s “hotel zone,” which is essentially a town designed to quarantine tourists from local culture. Meander away from this area, and you’ll find incredible prices on some of the best food you’ve ever been privileged to ingest. Eating with the locals will stretch your money exponentially.

Venturing away from the beaches toward the Yucatan’s other features will help you to easily find cheap hotels and meals. For example, the pyramids and ruins of Chichen Itza (one of the New Seven Wonders of the World), is just a couple hours from Cancun Airport (CUN). You can get a nice room for under $40 per night  and a large meal for under $10. 

But don’t wander too far from tourism centers. The U.S. State Department’s Mexico Travel Advisory will alert you to known trouble zones, and Mexico has many.

Exchange rate: $1 USD = $1 USD

Ecuador has its share of UNESCO World Heritage sites, the most impressive being the Galapagos Islands (though a visit isn’t particularly budget-friendly). Mainland Ecuador has plenty to offer, and even houses a portion of the Amazon Rainforest. If you’ve got a thing for diverse wildlife, your mind will be blown with monkeys, jaguars, spectacled bears, pink river dolphins, and hundreds and hundreds more species.

Food and lodging in Ecuador is often very cheap, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing around $3.50. It’s also not particularly difficult to find a five-star hotel for under $100,  though you’ll typically need to stick to cities like Quito or Cuenca.

Exchange rate: $1 USD = 92.15 ALL

Europe isn’t exactly known for its affordability, though there are a few countries that offer some steals, with Albania leading the charge. This may be in large part because its tourism infrastructure isn’t as developed as most other countries in Europe. For some, that may be a deterrent, but it’s a feature for others. If you like the idea of being the only tourist within shouting distance, Albania is for you.

Sitting along the Adriatic and Ionian Seas (which are connected to the Mediterranean Sea), its coastlines may trick you into thinking you’re in Southeast Asia. But Albania's quaint towns like Gjirokastër and Himara are closer to an Italian Riviera vibe. If you’re able to spend at least $70 per night for a hotel, you’ll have no trouble securing a lovely four-star stay just about anywhere.

7 Affordable places to travel in the US (and Puerto Rico)

Washington, dc.

Washington, DC, is one of the best vacations you can have without spending a dime on activities. Most of the sights are free, such as the Library of Congress, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, National Archive museum, and National Museum of Natural History. To see everything, you’ll likely need to pay for a bike or electric scooter rental, even if you’re staying for several days.

Las Vegas, Nevada

If betting isn’t your vice, Las Vegas can be your oyster. There are plenty of fun things to see and do in Vegas, all reasonably priced to draw gamblers into town. Most stunning are the hotel prices at well-known casinos such as Excalibur and Luxor, which routinely charge $25 or less per night (though you’ll also typically pay resort fees).

Even better, Las Vegas serves as a good base camp for exploring nearby wonders. It’s close enough to sites like Death Valley (one of the best places on earth for stargazing) and Grand Canyon West for a day trip.

Rapid City, South Dakota

Rapid City has loads to offer, but it remains less touristy in demeanor. From Badlands National Park to Mount Rushmore to Custer State Park, it’s got an excellent mix of natural and manmade wonders. You may also be surprised by how well its atmosphere caters to foodies.

If your travels are during the off-season (between October and May), you can find chain hotels for as little as $60 per night.

San Juan, Puerto Rico

As a reminder, you don’t need a passport to visit Puerto Rico. And while its accommodations aren’t cheap enough to write your mother about, its beauty and architecture make it one of those places you can enjoy without the need to shell out for activities. For example, it offers some of the only bioluminescent beaches in the world. Walking through Old San Juan is itself an event. San Juan is also known for its street food and it’s generally much cheaper than eating at a restaurant.

Whitefish, Montana

Whitefish is all things to all people. It’s an excellent hiking destination in the summer, a ski destination in the winter, and a fireworks show of flora in between. With Whitefish Lake State Park a stone’s throw away, and Glacier National Park less than 30 miles away, there are lots of things to do without spending a lot of money. The area is also excellent for camping, where you can pitch a tent for under $30.

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is a popular destination for its music, cuisine, litany of annual festivals, and intriguing architecture. Similar to other locations on this list, walkability is its key money-saving attribute. The French Quarter provides its own theme music, as the narrow streets are almost always drenched jazz notes.

New Orleans is another hotspot for street food, making it a cost-effective destination. Just note that you’ll save the most money on accommodation by staying in neighborhoods not named “French Quarter.”

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is a portal to the 18th century, with cobblestones, stately moss-covered live oak trees, and English-inspired buildings and homes. It’s a great place to go if you’d like to escape the ubiquity of restaurant chains and try local diners, cafes, and other reasonably priced mom-and-pop establishments.

You won’t get much of a break when it comes to hotel accommodation. But the city is rife with Airbnbs and other vacation rental options that are relatively cheap (and more quaint than most hotels, anyway).

TIME Stamp: Vacations don’t need to be expensive 

There are a few ways to go about sharply decreasing the amount of money you spend on a vacation. You can choose a country in which you buy exponentially more for your dollar. You can eat like the locals (instead of a tourist). You can choose a destination with stunning scenery and simply explore as your primary activity.

Vacation is important to keep yourself from burnout. Don’t neglect it because you don’t think you can afford it.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the most affordable travel insurance.

Tin Leg offers an “Economy” package that covers 100% of your trip cost and $20,000 in medical expenses. At just $138, it’s one of the cheapest options among the best travel insurance companies .

What is the most affordable cruise insurance?

AIG Travel Guard offers one of the best cruise travel insurance policies for those on a budget. You’ll pay $196 for 100% of your trip cost covered in trip cancellation and interruption. You’ll also get $15,000 in medical coverage.

What is the most affordable CFAR Travel Insurance?

Cancel-for-any-reason  (CFAR) coverage can be added to many different travel insurance policies, but it’s not always cheap. John Hancock’s Bronze plan costs $396 with CFAR travel insurance and $264 without. That’s an additional $132 to cover 75% of your trip cost if you decide to cancel.

Which countries are safe to travel to?

The U.S. State Department issues travel advice for travelers throughout the world, ranking countries from 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) or 2 (Exercise Increased Caution) to 4 (Do Not Travel). Mexico, for example, is currently Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) because of crime. However, the different states within Mexico have better ratings—that’s why we recommend the Yucatan, which is rated 1. Before you book your ticket, check your prospective trip’s caution level(s) at the Learn About Your Destination site. And look at the color-coded map for quick overall information.

The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.

Need to book a last-minute trip? These 5 tips can help you save on plane tickets.

• Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be the cheapest days to fly.
• Early morning and red-eye flights are often the least popular with other travelers.
• Using online booking platforms can help you explore your options.

Sometimes, a last-minute trip pops up and it can be expensive. Airlines often raise ticket prices as the departure date draws near, so savvy travelers try to plan well ahead.

But, experts say, it doesn’t have to be that way. If you need to travel unexpectedly, there are some strategies you can use to find the best possible deals. A big part of finding the best deal is being as flexible as possible, but there are also a few best practices that can increase your odds of finding cheap tickets.

Here are five things to know if you hope to find a last-minute flight deal.

1. Fly midweek if you can

Tuesdays and Wednesdays tend to be the cheapest days to fly, so if you’re not tied to a specific day for your travel, it’s best to seek out departures on those days.

“By flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday, you can save an average of 18% or $51 per ticket on domestic airfares this summer. For trips to Europe, flying on weekdays can save you as much as $435 per ticket this summer,” Hayley Berg, lead economist at travel platform Hopper, said in a written statement.

Are Tuesdays still the best day to book flights? Here's what major travel platforms found.

2. Book the first or last flight

Early morning and red-eye flights are often the least popular with other travelers, so tickets for those departures can be cheaper.

“These flights tend to be less desirable and thus less expensive and less crowded. That means you’re likely to score a deal and be able to stretch out comfortably across empty seats,” Laura Lindsay, global travel trends expert at Skyscanner, said in a statement. 

Berg added that an early departure comes with the added benefit of being less prone to disruptions.

3. Search nearby airports

Berg and Lindsay said it’s a good idea to seek out flights from more than one nearby airport.

“Destinations with multiple airports give you more airline, itinerary, and price options,” Lindsay said. “By expanding your search to nearby airports, you expand your flight options. So, you may end up getting a better flight time and a better deal. Consider airports that are also within driving distance of your final destination. You can book a last-minute car rental and drive the rest of the way. Depending on the flight options, you may be able to get in even earlier than the quickest direct flight.”

For example, Berg said, if you’re flying to South Florida, consider Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach in addition to Miami. Or, if you’re leaving from Boston, think about looking for flights out of Providence, Rhode Island, as well.

Renew your passport online: Here's how it works.

4. Do your research

Using online booking platforms like Hopper and Skyscanner can help you explore your options. If you’re flying at the last minute, it's best not to be too wedded to one airline.

Calling a tour operator can also help you get a good deal if there are unsold seats at the last minute, and booking two one-way flights rather than a round-trip itinerary can save some cash as well in some cases.

5. Play chicken

This high-risk, high-reward strategy can pay off but also could cost more.

“Waiting until the very last second before making a move could pay off. Flight prices can drop as the departure date draws palm-sweatingly closer. Want to travel on Friday, but can’t find the right fare on Tuesday? Don’t give up just yet – try Wednesday, Thursday, and the big day itself before you throw in the towel,” Lindsay said.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .