Revolut
Multi-currency wallet with great FX rates. Useful in Europe, UK, US.
What Revolut is
Revolut is a mobile financial app that holds and converts multiple currencies and pairs with a physical or virtual card, letting travelers spend abroad at competitive exchange rates. Travelers use it to avoid the markups that traditional banks add to foreign transactions and to track spending in real time as they move between countries.
What it does for travelers
- ✓Holds and exchanges multiple currencies inside one account
- ✓Card payments and ATM withdrawals abroad at interbank-style FX rates
- ✓Instant spending notifications and category breakdowns for budgeting
- ✓Virtual cards you can freeze or replace if a card is compromised
- ✓Free in-app transfers between Revolut users, useful for splitting trip costs
Good to know
- Weekend FX and some ATM withdrawals can carry fees or markups, especially beyond free monthly limits on lower tiers
- Free and paid subscription tiers exist, with limits that vary by plan and region
- Availability and the exact features differ by country; it's strongest in Europe, the UK, and the US
- Setup requires identity verification, so register and fund the account before you leave home
Tips from the road
- Top up or convert currency mid-week rather than on weekends to dodge weekend exchange markups
- Carry a backup bank card, as some merchants and machines occasionally reject app-based cards
- Use the freeze function instantly if your phone or card goes missing, then unfreeze when found
- Withdraw larger amounts less often to stay within free ATM limits and avoid per-withdrawal fees
When to reach for it
Choose Revolut when you're crossing currencies and want fair exchange rates plus tight control over spending, rather than relying on a home bank that charges foreign-transaction fees. It's most valuable on multi-country trips through its well-supported regions.
Travelers use Revolut in
Revolut — frequently asked
Does Revolut charge for spending abroad?
Card spending in foreign currencies is generally at near-market rates, but fees can apply for weekend exchanges and for ATM withdrawals or currency conversions beyond your plan's free limits.
Can I set up Revolut while traveling?
It's best to register and verify your identity before departure, since onboarding requires document checks and account funding that are easier on a stable connection at home.
Is Revolut a full bank account?
Its banking status and deposit protection vary by country and tier, so check the terms for your region; many travelers use it alongside, not instead of, a traditional bank.