Using your debit card abroad

Can I use my debit card abroad?

Yes, you can use your debit card abroad but you should let your bank know before you travel. This way their security measures won’t block your card and cause you any problems.  

Although you can withdraw cash and make card payments overseas, using a debit card abroad isn’t always straightforward as you’ll often be charged additional fees. These are called non-sterling transaction fees.

On top of this, you may also be charged cash machine charges when withdrawing money too – but this is dependent on the cash machine used. 

Will I be charged to use my debit card abroad?

While most banks now allow you to use your debit card abroad, you may be charged a small non-sterling transaction fee. This is a fee applied to purchases or financial transactions made in any currency other than Pounds Sterling. The non-sterling transaction fee for debit cards ranges from 2.75-3% per transaction, depending on your bank. 

Tips for taking your debit card abroad

Take a mixture of cash and card

Although debit cards are accepted in lots of places abroad, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash as well. Taxis, markets and other small vendors might not accept debit cards, so carrying travel money can help you have a stress-free and enjoyable holiday.

It can also be a good idea to carry a credit card when travelling abroad. That way you’ve got a backup payment method in case of emergencies – whether that’s extending your stay unexpectedly, needing a last-minute flight home, or if your other payment methods are lost or stolen.

How to report a lost, stolen or damaged debit card

You can report a lost, stolen or damaged debit card to your bank. You can also freeze or cancel your card through your banking app or online banking.

You should report the loss or theft as soon as possible to prevent any unwanted activity in your account.

How to avoid your card getting blocked when travelling abroad

It’s best to let your bank know of your travel plans before you go, to prevent your account from being blocked or frozen. Unusual activity on your account – such as large transactions abroad – may concern your bank and cause them to pause activity until they know it’s really you.

You should be able to use your mobile banking app to inform your bank of your travel plans. You can input the destination and dates you’ll be visiting.

However, most banks have a 90-day limit for travel plans. If you plan to be abroad for longer, it’s best to call them and speak to an advisor.

Advantages of taking a travel card abroad

As an alternative to using your debit card abroad, you can use a Sainsbury’s Bank Travel Money Card.

With a travel card you avoid paying any of the non-sterling transaction fees, so it can be a more cost-effective way of spending and keeping track of money while you’re on holiday.

Make transactions in local currency

With a Sainsbury’s Bank Travel Money Card, you can pay for goods in the local currency instead of pounds. This can save you money in exchange and transaction fees.

No non-sterling transaction fees

Avoid paying 2.75-3% transaction fees when you load money onto your travel card and pay in the local currency.

Pay your way

Pay by contactless, chip and PIN, swipe, or withdraw cash – it’s up to you how you want to spend with our Sainsbury’s Bank Travel Money Card.

Easy to manage

Keep track of your balance and spending on the app, so you never go over budget on holiday again.

Make transaction in over 50 currencies

With over 50 currencies to choose from with your Sainsbury’s Bank Travel Card, you can use it for all your foreign holidays, work trips and family visits abroad.

Check exchange rates

You can check exchange rates for a wide range of currencies in the app, so you always know how much you’re spending.

No need to inform your bank of your travel plans

Travel Money cards are pre-paid debit cards, so there’s no need to inform your bank of your travel plans.

Looking to take some cash with you too?

Having a small amount of local currency for your trip can help you out in a pinch. Whether you need a taxi, a snack, or a one-of-a-kind piece from a craft market, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash.

Buy foreign currency for your next trip at our travel bureaux. We sell over 50 foreign currencies at great exchange rates.

If you’re a Nectar member, you can get an even better exchange rate when you buy currency from us*.

It doesn’t matter whether you buy instore or online. All you have to do is tell us your Nectar account number when you buy.

Not a Nectar member? Just download the Nectar app or register at nectar.com.