Travel Credit Cards

At the till

Should you pay in pounds or the local currency?

If a merchant terminal or cash machine offers to convert the amount into pounds for you, that is often dynamic currency conversion. The rate is typically set by the merchant or ATM operator rather than your card’s usual conversion process.

Paying in the local currency on a competitive travel card usually avoids that conversion — though outcomes can vary by merchant, location and card terms. This is general guidance, not a guarantee for every transaction.

Conversion

What exchange rate will you get?

Currency conversion on card purchases is typically based on the card, payment network or provider process set out in the product terms. Exact rates vary by transaction and are not something we can quote as a fixed figure on this page.