If you are planning to go on vacation soon, there are a few rules you should know regarding online banking. For instance, do you have the right insurance? Does your neobank offer zero fees on foreign transactions? Here is everything you need to know before packing your bags.
There is nothing more unpleasant than returning from vacation only to find "surprise" fees on your statement. Generally, this happens because your account does not include fee-free banking. Your bank may apply charges to withdrawals and payments, and the bill can skyrocket quickly.
*Revolut: One of the Best Online Banks for International Travel
Revolut offers one of the best ranges of services for traveling abroad. For travelers, it becomes particularly interesting starting with the **Premium plan at €9.99 per month**. This includes unlimited fee-free payments abroad and up to €400 in fee-free ATM withdrawals per month, after which a 2% fee applies. One major constraint: on weekends, all currency transactions are subject to a 1% tax.
Naturally, the higher the plan, the better the benefits. The **Ultra** plan, for example, offers a comprehensive insurance package, fee-free international transfers, and up to €2,000 in monthly ATM withdrawals worldwide.
Exchanging currency without fees and enjoying discounted airport lounge access are real perks, not to mention the **RevPoints** rewards system for discounts on hotels and activities. Finally, Revolut offers eSIM services in over 100 countries.
**Regarding insurance, Revolut offers:**
* Up to €5,000 in coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions.
* Up to €500 for delayed trips or lost documents.
* Up to €10 million in emergency medical expense reimbursement abroad.
* Sports coverage and rental car excess (deductible) reimbursement up to €2,000.
N26: The Best Alternative to Revolut
The German neobank was one of the first to disrupt the market. For travelers, the **N26 You (€9.90/month)** and **N26 Metal (€16.90/month)** plans are the most appealing.
**Travel benefits:**
* Unlimited fee-free payments abroad in any currency.
* Unlimited fee-free ATM withdrawals worldwide for You and Metal customers.
* Full emergency medical coverage up to €1 million.
* Up to €10,000 in compensation for trip cancellations or modifications.
* Up to €500,000 in personal liability coverage abroad.
Unlike Revolut, N26’s paid accounts feature a dedicated phone line to reach an advisor in case of issues.
Bunq: The Online Bank for Frequent Travelers
The Dutch neobank Bunq stands out for its eco-friendly identity. Its paid accounts (from €3.99 to €18.99/month) allow unlimited payments and withdrawals in foreign currencies.
However, travel insurance is reserved for **bunq Elite** account holders. It covers:
* Up to €2.5 million for emergency medical expenses.
* 100% of the rental car excess (theft or damage).
* An eSIM to save on roaming and a currency conversion tool.
BoursoBank: The Efficient Traditional Option
BoursoBank is the favorite online bank of the French. For vacations, the **BoursoBank Metal card at €9.90 per month** is the most practical.
**Its strengths:**
* The only card from this bank to offer unlimited fee-free payments AND withdrawals in foreign currencies.
* Up to €1 million in medical expenses abroad.
* Up to €50,000 for rental car excess reimbursement.
* Compatible with Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, Garmin Pay, and Wero.
Fortuneo: The Free Premium Alternative
Fortuneo remains a very solid option, particularly with its **Fosfo** (free) or **Gold Mastercard**.
The big advantage:** All Fortuneo cards allow card payments and withdrawals worldwide with zero bank fees.
Insurance:** The Gold Mastercard (free subject to income requirements) offers comprehensive insurance and assistance for your trips (cancellation, interruption, repatriation), identical to a traditional Gold card.
Hello bank!: The International BNP Paribas Network
With the **Hello Prime** offer (€5/month), you benefit from fee-free payments and withdrawals worldwide.
The little extra:** Access to the BNP Paribas "Global Alliance" network, which allows you to withdraw money fee-free from partner bank ATMs in over 50 countries.
Essential Advice Before You Leave
Beyond choosing a bank, here are a few golden rules to avoid bad surprises:
1. Notify your bank: Even if it seems old-fashioned, many banks appreciate it if you signal your destination via the app. This prevents security algorithms from blocking your card on your first purchase abroad due to fraud concerns.
2. Always choose the local currency: When using a payment terminal or ATM, you will often be asked to choose between paying in **Euros** or the **Local Currency**.
* **Golden Rule:** ALWAYS choose the local currency. If you choose the Euro, the local bank sets the exchange rate, which is almost always much less favorable than your own bank’s rate.
3. Check your limits: Before departure, temporarily increase your payment and withdrawal limits. Between hotels, restaurants, and activities, you can hit weekly limits faster than expected.
4. Travel with two cards: Never travel with just one card. Theft, loss, or an ATM "eating" your card can turn your vacation into a nightmare. Ideally, have a primary card and a backup card stored in a different location.