Travel Rewards Cards Explained: How to Earn Cashback Abroad
TL;DR
- Earn cashback while travelling: Travel rewards cards give you cashback, miles or points when you spend abroad.
- Not all cards are created equal: Some, like Barclaycard, offer low cashback; others, like Revolut, charge up to 1% on weekend currency exchange.
- Curve Pay makes every card a travel card: Earn 1% cashback on international purchases (outside the UK & EEA) and avoid foreign transaction fees. Double your rewards with “double dip” functionality.
What Is a Travel Rewards Card?
A travel rewards card is a credit or debit card that gives you cashback, points, or airline miles when you make purchases abroad. These rewards can help offset the cost of your trip—from hotels and transport to everyday spending. Some cards also remove foreign transaction fees, making them even more cost-effective.
If you're looking to boldly cut costs and still enjoy perks, a travel rewards card is a key part of any smart traveller's toolkit. It's also a major component in learning how to avoid foreign FX fees when abroad.
Are Travel Rewards Cards Worth It?
In short: yes—if you travel regularly. Even cards with annual fees can pay for themselves through cashback and perks if you use them strategically.
Let’s say you spend £2,000 abroad each year. With 1% cashback, that’s £20 back—before counting any other perks. Some cards offer lounge access, no-FX fees, or hotel discounts that easily outweigh a £10–£20 monthly fee.
If you’re the kind of traveller who plans around deals, perks, or loyalty programs, travel spending tips like these can really add up to meaningful savings.
Best Travel Cashback Cards (UK 2025)
Wondering which card to choose? Here's a breakdown of popular travel cards in the UK (paid subscription) and how they stack up when it comes to cashback and fees:
|
Card |
Pros |
Cons |
|
Revolut |
- Redeem rewards on travel expenses via RevPoints - Higher FX limits before fees - Additional travel perks (e.g., lounge access on higher tiers) |
- Up to 1% currency exchange fee on weekends - FX limits still apply on some plans - Perks vary by tier; may require top-tier for best benefits |
|
Barclaycard Rewards Visa |
- No FX fees - Cashback on all purchases (0.25%) |
- Cashback rate is low compared to other cards - Credit card eligibility check required |
|
Chase Mastercard Debit Card |
- No FX fees - Free ATM withdrawals worldwide (limits vary by tier; ATM operator fees may apply) - Some tiers may include higher withdrawal limits and limited cashback |
- Cashback on international spending limited or absent on lower paid tiers - Debit, so no Section 75 protection |
|
Curve Pay |
- Every card becomes a travel card (works with Mastercard, Visa, Diners) - 1% cashback on all international & online purchases outside UK & EEA in addition to bank rewards (available on premium plans) - No FX fees, no weekend surcharges, no tiered limits - Section 75 protection even on debit-linked transactions - One-tap lock, instant fraud alerts, Go Back in Time® |
- Cashback available only with Premium plans |
Why Curve Pay Is the Smart Choice
With Curve Pay, you don’t need to choose a new card—you make the most of the ones you already have. Link your existing debit or credit cards, and instantly turn them into cashback-earning travel cards.
Here’s what sets Curve apart:
- 1% international cashback on all purchases made outside the UK and EEA (with Premium plans)
- No foreign transaction fees—no matter which linked card you use
- “Double Dip” rewards—stack Curve cashback on top of existing card rewards
- One bold, intuitive solution: a multi currency digital wallet that simplifies spending worldwide
Whether you're a frequent traveller or an occasional holidaymaker, Curve Pay helps you earn more and spend smarter abroad.
Choosing a card with these features means smoother travel and fewer financial surprises.
Travel Smarter: Make Every Card a Travel Card
Let’s face it—nobody wants to waste money on unnecessary fees when abroad. With Curve, you:
- Skip FX fees
- Earn cashback on international purchases
- Combine all your cards in one sleek digital wallet
It’s one of the easiest ways to make the most out of travel cards—without switching banks or signing up for a dozen new services. Curve turns what you already have into something better.
FAQs
Is Curve Pay accepted everywhere abroad?
Yes—Curve is accepted anywhere Mastercard is accepted, which includes millions of merchants and ATMs around the world.
Can I withdraw cash abroad using Curve?
Yes, and depending on your Curve Pay plan, you’ll get a fee-free ATM withdrawal allowance each month:
- Curve Pay: No fee-free limit
- Curve Pay X: £300/month
- Curve Pay Pro: £500/month
- Curve Pay Pro+: £1,000/month
ATM provider fees may still apply.
Does the cashback rate depend on my Curve Pay plan?
Yes. Cashback and reward options improve with Premium plans:
- Curve Pay X: 1% cashback on all international purchases
- Pro: 1% international cashback + choose 6 preferred reward brands (earn up to £25 per calendar month)
- Pro+: 1% international cashback + choose 12 preferred reward brands (earn up to £50 per calendar month)
All plans include cashback only on purchases made outside the UK and EEA. Terms and limits apply - see Fair Use Policy for details.
Explore more about Curve Pay plans.
