Best Banks for Traveling Internationally [2025]: Low Fees and Travel Perks

Travel enthusiasts know that managing money abroad can be stressful without the right banking tools. That's why we've done the research to help you find bank accounts that eliminate common travel headaches like foreign transaction fees and international ATM charges.

To find the best banks for traveling internationally, we reviewed multiple bank accounts to identify those with low or no foreign transaction and ATM fees, an annual percentage yield (APY), and other perks and services beneficial to travelers.

What makes a bank good for international travel?

When you're traveling internationally, worrying about how you'll access your money can be stressful. However, with a bit of planning, you can find a bank with features that make international traveling a little easier.

Banks that are good for travelers often have features like:

• Worldwide in-network ATM access (or ATM fee rebates)
• No or low foreign transaction fees
• Competitive currency exchange rates
• Perks like lounge access, travel rewards, travel insurance, or concierge services

Additionally, you should look for a bank with:

• No minimum balance requirements or monthly maintenance fees
• A competitive APY
• Good security, including two-factor authentication
• Robust online banking features
• 24/7 customer service

Best bank for traveling internationally

Account	Best for …	Features
Betterment Checking	ATM fee reimbursement	Unlimited ATM fee reimbursement worldwide No monthly maintenance fees or overdraft fees Reimburses Visa's 1% foreign transaction fee
Alliant Credit Union High-Rate Checking	Credit union users	Earns a 0.25% APY1 <p>APY=Annual Percentage Yield. The High Rate Checking Dividend provides an Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 0.25% APY. The APY is accurate as of the 6/26/2025 dividend declaration date. Checking dividend may change after account is opened and is subject to change at any time. There is no minimum balance requirement to earn the stated APY. Checking Dividends are paid on the last day of each month to checking accountholders who have opted out of receiving paper statements (receive eStatements only) and have a recurring monthly electronic deposit to their Alliant checking account each month (e.g., a direct deposit, payroll deposit, ATM deposit, mobile check deposit or transfer from another financial institution). Otherwise, Alliant checking accounts do not earn a dividend. Alliant checking charges no monthly maintenance or service fees; however, if incurred, other fees may reduce earnings on the account. Please refer to the Alliant <a href="https://www.alliantcreditunion.org/images/uploads/files/FeeSchedule.pdf">Fee Schedule</a> for a list of these types of fees. Dividend applies to Checking and Teen Checking Accounts. Account is subject to approval. We may not open checking for you if you do not meet Alliant criteria.</p> No monthly maintenance fees2 <p>Alliant checking charges no monthly maintenance or service fees. Please refer to the Alliant <a href="https://www.alliantcreditunion.org/images/uploads/files/FeeSchedule.pdf">Fee Schedule</a> for a list of fees.</p> 1% fee on all international debit card purchases
HSBC Premier Checking3 <p>Qualifying direct deposits are electronic deposits of regular periodic payments (such as salary, pension, Social Security, or other regular monthly income) deposited through the Automated Clearing House (ACH) network to this account by your employer or an outside agency (please check with your employer or outside agency to determine if they use the ACH network). Direct deposits that do not qualify include but are not limited to transfers from one account to another, mobile deposits, or deposits made at a Wealth Center or ATM.</p>	People living abroad	No foreign transaction fees Transfer between HSBC accounts in other countries Up to $10,000 in emergency cash for Premier account holders in some locations
Citibank Regular Checking	International wires	ATMs in more than 20 countries Waivable $15 monthly service fee Free international wires to another Citibank account
Capital One 360 Checking	No fees	Earns a 0.10% (as of 09/15/25) APY No monthly maintenance fees or foreign transaction fees No ATM fees, though out-of-network operator fees may apply
Charles Schwab Investor Checking	International ATM access	Earns a 0.05% (as of 12/23/24) APY Unlimited ATM fee reimbursement worldwide No foreign transaction fees or monthly maintenance fees

Betterment Checking

Betterment Checking stands out as an excellent option for international travelers, particularly those who already use Betterment for investing. The account's standout feature is its comprehensive fee reimbursement policy. It reimburses all ATM fees worldwide at any ATM where Visa is accepted, and it also reimburses the 1% foreign transaction fee that Visa charges on international purchases and ATM withdrawals.

While the account doesn't offer an APY like some competitors on this list, it makes up for this with its no-fee structure. There are no monthly maintenance fees, no overdraft fees, and no minimum balance requirements. The account is FDIC-insured up to $250,000 per depositor through nbkc bank.

The main drawback for travelers is that you should notify Betterment before traveling internationally to ensure your debit card will work in your destination countries.

While Betterment is primarily known as an investment platform, its checking account integrates with its investment and cash reserve savings accounts, making it appealing if you prefer to manage all your finances in one place.

Read our Betterment Checking review

Alliant Credit Union High-Rate Checking

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Alliant Credit Union High-Rate Checking

Alliant Credit Union High-Rate Checking - 0.25% APY¹ <p>APY=Annual Percentage Yield. The High Rate Checking Dividend provides an Annual Percentage Yield (APY) of 0.25% APY. The APY is accurate as of the 6/26/2025 dividend declaration date. Checking dividend may change after account is opened and is subject to change at any time. There is no minimum balance requirement to earn the stated APY. Checking Dividends are paid on the last day of each month to checking accountholders who have opted out of receiving paper statements (receive eStatements only) and have a recurring monthly electronic deposit to their Alliant checking account each month (e.g., a direct deposit, payroll deposit, ATM deposit, mobile check deposit or transfer from another financial institution). Otherwise, Alliant checking accounts do not earn a dividend. Alliant checking charges no monthly maintenance or service fees; however, if incurred, other fees may reduce earnings on the account. Please refer to the Alliant <a href="https://www.alliantcreditunion.org/images/uploads/files/FeeSchedule.pdf">Fee Schedule</a> for a list of these types of fees. Dividend applies to Checking and Teen Checking Accounts. Account is subject to approval. We may not open checking for you if you do not meet Alliant criteria.</p>

No monthly service or overdraft fees⁴ <p>Overdraft protection is optional. You must opt in to benefit from this free service and you can unenroll at any time. Alliant's overdraft protection program honors your overdrafts on your checking account when you don't have enough money in your Alliant checking account to cover a transaction, provided you have enough money in your Alliant Savings or Supplemental Savings Account. To do so, we automatically transfer funds from your Alliant Savings or Supplemental Savings Account to your Alliant checking account to cover your overdrafts. Overdraft protection does not cover ATM transactions.</p><p>Courtesy Pay is a discretionary "courtesy" overdraft service. There is no fee to enroll in or use the Courtesy Pay service and you can unenroll at any time. To be eligible for Courtesy Pay, members must be in good standing and have an Alliant checking account that has been open for at least six months. Other eligibility factors are risk-based and determined by Alliant using internal and confidential information, including your account history. To qualify to use Courtesy Pay, eligible members must have qualifying deposits totaling at least $600 into their Alliant checking account in the previous 30 days. Standard Courtesy Pay may pay checks and ACH electronic items that would not have not cleared otherwise due to insufficient funds, up to an approved limit. The full amount of the overdraft balance will be due immediately but in no event more than 30 days from the date of the occurrence at which time Courtesy Pay privileges will be suspended and possibly terminated. If you opt in for extended coverage, Courtesy Pay may also cover everyday debit transactions on your Alliant Visa debit card that would not have cleared otherwise due to insufficient funds, up to an approved limit. See the Alliant Account Agreement and Disclosures and the Courtesy Pay Disclosure for details and the Fee Schedule for a list of fees. Courtesy Pay does not cover ATM transactions.</p> and no monthly minimum balance requirement.⁵ <p>There is no minimum balance requirement to maintain a High-Rate Checking account. However, there is a minimum opening deposit requirement of $25 for new and existing Alliant members that open a High-Rate Checking account online via open.alliantcreditunion.com, and for new Alliant members that open a High-Rate Checking account by telephone (see the Truth-in-Savings Disclosure Chart in the <a href="https://www.alliantcreditunion.org/images/uploads/files/AccountAgreementAndDisclosures.pdf">Account Agreement and Disclosures</a> for more information regarding minimum opening deposit requirements). Any funds that are deposited at account opening to satisfy a minimum opening deposit requirement may be withdrawn at any time. High-Rate Checking accounts that are opened via a paper application, online banking, or in connection with obtaining an Alliant loan (whether originated directly by Alliant or through an indirect lending channel) do not have a minimum opening deposit requirement.</p> NCUA Insured

Learn how it works >

Alliant is the only credit union on this list. It has various banking products, including the High-Rate Checking account with a debit card that you can use internationally.

However, Alliant charges a 1% international service assessment fee (ISA) for all transactions where the merchant country is different from that of the card issuer, and it doesn't reimburse for international ATM usage. However, if you use your debit card in the U.S., the credit union will reimburse up to $20 in ATM fees each month.

If you prefer a credit union to a traditional bank, Alliant is a good option. However, consider using a credit card with travel perks, like no foreign transaction fees or currency exchange fees, instead of your Alliant debit card.

The High-Rate Checking account earns a 0.25% APY with no minimum balance requirements or fees. You can pair it with Alliant's High-Rate Savings account, which earns a much higher 3.10% APY and has a low $100 minimum balance requirement.

Visit Alliant Credit Union High-Rate Checking | Learn more in our Alliant Credit Union review

HSBC Premier Checking

HSBC Premier

Earn up to a $3,500 Bonus With This Checking Account

Open a new HSBC Premier checking account by December 31, 2025. Add New Deposits to your Premier checking account, Premier Savings account and/or Premier Relationship Savings account by December 31, 2025, and maintain the New Deposits through March 31, 2026.³ <p>Qualifying direct deposits are electronic deposits of regular periodic payments (such as salary, pension, Social Security, or other regular monthly income) deposited through the Automated Clearing House (ACH) network to this account by your employer or an outside agency (please check with your employer or outside agency to determine if they use the ACH network). Direct deposits that do not qualify include but are not limited to transfers from one account to another, mobile deposits, or deposits made at a Wealth Center or ATM.</p>

Open Account

HSBC is generally not ideal for casual travelers due to its high qualifying deposit requirements, but it's a good option for those who need to consistently bank outside the U.S.

To qualify for an HSBC Premier Checking account, you'll need to have at least $100,000 in total deposits and investments or meet other criteria like having an HSBC-serviced U.S. residential mortgage or receiving at least $5,000 in monthly direct deposits.

HSBC Premier Checking allows no-fee transfers between HSBC accounts in the U.S. to other countries and offers a debit card with no foreign transaction fees. I also appreciate that HSBC Premier accounts provide up to $10,000 in emergency funds or emergency credit card replacement in two working days in some locations.

The Premier Checking Account only offers a 0.01% APY with a $5 minimum balance. In general, the best savings accounts — and even some other checking accounts — offer much higher APYs. Plus, the account has a hefty $50 monthly fee unless you meet certain criteria.

Visit HSBC Premier

Citibank Regular Checking

While Citibank's Regular Checking account may not be the best for in-country banking, it offers free domestic and international wires through Citibank Global Transfer as long as you send them to another Citibank account. You can wire up to $50,000 per business day as a standard limit with higher limits for Citi Priority, Citigold, and Citigold Private Client Relationship Tier members.

I like that Citibank offers fee-free ATMs in over 20 countries. However, if you need to use an out-of-network ATM, Citibank will charge you a $2.50 fee unless you're a Citi Relationship Tier member. The ATM owner will also likely charge you a fee, so research the available options before you travel.

If you're not a Relationship Tier member, Citibank's Regular Checking account charges a 3% foreign exchange fee for using your debit card to make purchases. The account doesn't have a minimum opening deposit requirement or overdraft fees, but it does have a $15 monthly account maintenance fee. However, Citibank will generally waive the monthly fee if you're a Relationship Tier member or you have at least $250 in qualified monthly direct deposits.

Capital One 360 Checking

I have a Capital One 360 Checking account and find it to be one of the best checking accounts for travel. It doesn't have monthly fees or minimum balance requirements. I also like that it doesn't charge foreign transaction fees when you use your debit card outside the U.S.

One of my favorite features is that it offers a 0.10% APY on your balance. While that's not a lot, it's more than many banks offer on checking accounts. If you use the 360 Checking account with a 360 Performance Savings account, which earns a 3.50% APY, you can earn a competitive APY and still easily transfer and access your money abroad.

However, you must visit a U.S. branch location to send international wire transfers, and you'll pay a $40 fee. Also, while Capital One doesn't charge a fee for using an out-of-network ATM outside of the U.S, the ATM owner might charge you one.

Learn more in our Capital One 360 review

Charles Schwab Investor Checking

Charles Schwab is primarily known as an investment firm, but it offers a checking account linked to a Schwab brokerage account. You can transfer money between your brokerage account and checking account almost immediately. However, unlike some banks with no credit check requirements, Schwab will check your credit when you apply.

It's particularly beneficial for travelers who already have a Schwab brokerage account. The Investor Checking account doesn't have monthly service or overdraft fees, and it doesn't charge foreign transaction fees. It even pays a 0.45% APY on your checking balance.

My favorite feature is that Schwab will reimburse an unlimited amount of ATM fees worldwide when you withdraw cash using the Schwab Visa debit card.

Learn more in our Charles Schwab review

How to find the best bank for international travel

Finding the right bank for your international travel can take some research. While many banks offer attractive features for travelers, only you know what will work best for your travel situation.

As you search for the best bank account before your trip, consider the following.

• Your traveling needs: The bank and type of account you need to access can vary based on where you're going or what you'll be doing. People on a business trip will likely have different account needs than those backpacking through Europe.

• Identify the features you want: Frequent travelers should look for banks without international ATM fees, no foreign transaction fees, strong mobile banking features, and good customer service, among other features.

• Research and compare options: Don't just sign up with the first bank account you find. Research your options and pay close attention to customer reviews, especially those mentioning how the bank handled issues during travel.
• Security: Traveling comes with potential security risks, so look for a bank with robust fraud protection features, such as the ability to lock or unlock your card through its mobile app and multi-factor authentication.
• Diversify: Consider carrying a combination of debit and credit cards so that if you have a problem with one card or account, you aren't stranded without a way to pay for food or lodging.

In general, it's smart to call your bank before your trip and let it know where you're going, which cards you intend to use, and that you may use your debit card at a foreign ATM. This can help you avoid problems on the road, and it helps your bank better monitor your account for fraud.

FAQs

Bottom line

Traveling internationally is exciting, but it's also crucial to set yourself up for success by choosing a bank account that supports your travel needs. In general, good banks for travelers offer no foreign transaction fees for debit or credit card usage, and many don't charge ATM fees or will reimburse you for them. Additionally, look for a bank that has no monthly maintenance or overdraft fees and offers a high APY on your balances.

Besides considering the travel-friendly bank accounts discussed here, you can check out our list of easy bank accounts to learn about more options.

Reach Your Savings Goals Faster

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2025 award winner Best Checking and Savings Combo

SoFi Checking and Savings Benefits

• Limited-Time Offer: Earn up to a $300 bonus and up to 4.50% APY on Savings (3.80% APY⁶ <p>New and existing Checking and Savings members who have not previously enrolled in Direct Deposit with SoFi are eligible to earn a cash bonus of either $50 (with at least $1,000 total Eligible Direct Deposits received during the Direct Deposit Bonus Period) OR $300 (with at least $5,000 total Eligible Direct Deposits received during the Direct Deposit Bonus Period). Cash bonus will be based on the total amount of Eligible Direct Deposit. If you have satisfied the Eligible Direct Deposit requirements but have not received a cash bonus in your Checking account, please contact us at 855-456-7634 with the details of your Eligible Direct Deposit. Direct Deposit Promotion begins on 12/7/2023 and will be available through 1/31/2026. Full terms at <a href="https://www.sofi.com/banking/">sofi.com/banking</a>. SoFi Checking and Savings is offered through SoFi Bank, N.A., Member FDIC.</p><p>SoFi members with Eligible Direct Deposit can earn 3.80% annual percentage yield (APY) on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. There is no minimum Eligible Direct Deposit amount required to qualify for the 3.80% APY for savings (including Vaults). Members without Eligible Direct Deposit will earn 1.00% APY on savings balances (including Vaults) and 0.50% APY on checking balances. Interest rates are variable and subject to change at any time. These rates are current as of 1/24/25. There is no minimum balance requirement.&nbsp;Additional information can be found at <a href="http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet" >http://www.sofi.com/legal/banking-rate-sheet</a>.</p> with +0.70% APY Boost) for 6 Months on new accounts with eligible direct deposit. Terms Apply.⁷ <p>Earn up to 4.50% Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on SoFi Savings with a 0.70% APY Boost (added to the 3.80% APY as of 8/5/25) for up to 6 months. Open a new SoFi Checking &amp; Savings account with Eligible Direct Deposit by 1/31/26. Rates variable, subject to change. Terms apply at <a href="https://www.sofi.com/banking/#2">sofi.com/banking#2</a>. SoFi Bank, N.A. Member&nbsp;FDIC.</p>
• No account, overdraft, or monthly fees⁸ <p>We do not charge any account, service or maintenance fees for SoFi Checking and Savings. We do charge a transaction fee to process each outgoing wire transfer. SoFi does not charge a fee for incoming wire transfers, however the sending bank may charge a fee. Our fee policy is subject to change at any time. See the SoFi Checking & Savings Fee Sheet for details at <a href="http://sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/">sofi.com/legal/banking-fees/</a></p>
• Get your paycheck up to two days early⁹ <p>Early access to direct deposit funds is based on the timing in which we receive notice of impending payment from the Federal Reserve, which is typically up to two days before the scheduled payment date, but may vary.</p>
• Access additional FDIC insurance up to $3 million¹⁰ <p><b style="font-family: Rubik, -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, Roboto, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, sans-serif;">SoFi Bank is a member FDIC and does not provide more than $250,000 of FDIC insurance per depositor per legal category of account ownership, as described in the FDIC’s regulations.&nbsp;Any additional FDIC insurance is provided by the SoFi Insured Deposit Program. Deposits may be insured up to $3M through participation in the program. See full terms at&nbsp;<a href="http://sofi.com/banking/fdic/sidpterms">SoFi.com/banking/fdic/sidpterms</a>. See list of participating banks at <a href="http://sofi.com/banking/fdic/participatingbanks">SoFi.com/banking/fdic/participatingbanks</a>.</b></p>

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