Unlock Global Travel: 6 Banks With Zero International ATM Fees!
Traveling internationally? Using an ATM to withdraw cash while abroad is often the easiest way to get your hands on local currency. However, depending on your bank, this convenience can come with some hefty fees—like ATM usage charges and foreign transaction fees that can take a significant chunk out of your travel budget.
But here’s the silver lining: there are financial institutions that don’t hit you with these extra charges! Some even reimburse foreign ATM fees, making your global adventures much more budget-friendly. If you’re a frequent flyer keen on finding a bank that minimizes fees when using your debit card outside the U.S., you’ve hit the jackpot with our curated list. Get ready to travel smarter without breaking the bank!
How we evaluate products
Managing your finances effectively hinges on your checking and savings accounts—these are your go-to tools for everyday transactions. That’s why it’s crucial to evaluate bank features meticulously.
We delve into aspects like the annual percentage yield (APY), account features, minimum balance requirements, and customer service to determine the best options. A well-rounded bank will not only meet your everyday needs but also help you maximize your savings.
Our evaluations are backed by extensive research and real-world testing of various financial products. Our rankings are grounded in objective metrics and insights from our expert team.
Banks With No International ATM Fees
Discover the top-performing banks and checking accounts that won’t burden you with ATM fees while traveling:
- Discover
- Betterment
- Charles Schwab
- Capital One
- Fidelity
- USAA
Discover Cashback Debit
The ultimate choice for cash back on your purchases!
4.5
Discover® Cashback Debit
Discover®️ Cashback Checking
See website for details.
No minimum deposit or balance. FDIC Insured.The Discover Cashback Debit card is perfect for both domestic and international use. You earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases monthly2 Conditions apply. See Deposit Account Agreement for details.
On the ATM front, Discover waives all fees, giving you access to over 60,000 fee-free ATMs across the U.S. While they don’t charge their own fees for using an international ATM, be aware that the ATM operator may still apply their own fees.
Tip: Consider Using a Credit Card Instead
Before you dive deeper into your options, consider this: you might not even need to rely on an ATM during your travels. Gone are the days when cash was king—today, credit cards are widely accepted, and they often provide better perks and protections than carrying cash around.
When choosing a credit card for your adventures, make sure it’s one that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. If your card has these fees, you could be looking at an additional 3-5% surcharge every time you swipe it overseas.
Capital One 360 Checking Account
The ultimate one-stop banking solution!
The Capital One 360 Checking Account provides seamless debit card usage abroad without foreign transaction or currency conversion fees. Just keep in mind that they won’t reimburse fees from out-of-network ATM providers.
This account is ideal if you want a comprehensive banking experience that includes various accounts, credit cards, and loans—all in one place. However, unlike the Discover Cashback Debit card, you won’t earn cash back on your purchases.
With the Capital One 360 Checking Account, you also enjoy:
- No monthly maintenance fees or minimum balance requirements
- Access to over 70,000 ATMs without fees nationwide
- An APY of 0.10% (as of 10/28/24)
Check out our Capital One 360 review for more details.
Betterment Checking
The best choice for ATM fee reimbursements!
The Betterment no-fee checking account delivers on its promise by reimbursing any ATM fees worldwide, along with the 1% currency conversion fee that Visa applies on foreign transactions. With Betterment, you can access ATMs anywhere in the world without worry.
Other appealing features of the Betterment Checking account include:
- A robust mobile app for managing your finances
- Cash back rewards for purchases from favorite brands
- No minimum deposit required to open an account
Learn more in our detailed Betterment Checking review.
Schwab Bank Visa Platinum Debit Card
Ideal for investors!
The Schwab Bank Investor Checking™ account offers unlimited ATM fee reimbursements worldwide when you use the Schwab Bank Visa Platinum Debit Card—perfect for travelers looking to save on fees.
It also comes with no foreign transaction fees when using your debit card abroad.
These perks make Schwab one of the top choices for both U.S. residents and foreigners. Additional benefits of the Schwab Bank Investor Checking™ account include:
- No monthly maintenance fees or minimum balance requirements when linked with a Schwab One brokerage account
- An APY of 0.1% (as of 12/10/24)
- A full-featured mobile app for account management on the go
Fidelity Cash Management Account
Best for accessing a vast ATM network!
Fidelity’s Cash Management Account offers ATM reimbursements, allowing you to withdraw cash from over 1 million ATMs worldwide that display a Visa, Plus, or Star logo. However, note that they charge a 1% foreign transaction fee for international purchases, making it less ideal for everyday use abroad.
Other notable features of the Fidelity Cash Management account include:
- No account fees or minimum deposit requirements
- Automatic transfers to aid in reaching your savings goals
- Real-time spending insights to help keep you on track
USAA Classic Checking
The premier choice for military members!
USAA’s Classic Checking account is accessible only to eligible military members, veterans, and their families. If you’re eligible, you can take advantage of 100,000 USAA-preferred ATMs nationwide without fees. Plus, if you withdraw cash from an international ATM, they’ll refund up to $10 in fees each month.
Be aware that USAA charges a 1% foreign transaction fee for withdrawals made outside the U.S.
Other features of USAA’s Classic Checking account include:
- No monthly service fees or minimum balance requirements
- Early access to direct deposits
- Access to USAA spending plan tools
Featured Checking Account
Discover®️ Cashback Checking
Earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases each month.1 See website for details.
FAQs
How can you avoid international ATM fees?
There are a few straightforward methods to dodge those pesky international ATM fees. The easiest? Choose a bank account that offers free worldwide ATM access or reimburses fees. If that’s not an option, consider exchanging currency before you travel and rely on a credit card with no foreign transaction fees for your spending abroad.
Which bank debit card is best to use abroad?
The best debit card to use internationally is one that provides easy ATM access without fees for withdrawals or purchases. Some great options include:
- Discover Cashback Debit
- Capital One 360 Checking
- Betterment Checking
Can I use my debit card internationally?
Yes, you can typically use your debit card internationally, but it depends on your travel destination and your bank’s network compatibility with foreign ATMs. If you have a Visa or Mastercard debit card, you’ll likely be in good shape.
Before embarking on your journey, contact your bank to inform them of your travel plans. Inquire about ATM usage abroad and any potential fees, so you can factor them into your travel budget and travel with peace of mind.
Bottom line
Traveling can be pricey, and international ATM fees can add up quickly. If you’re a frequent traveler, it’s wise to look for banks that offer no international fees or at least reimburse a portion of foreign transaction fees each month. And don’t forget to keep a credit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees handy during your travels. Instead of throwing your vacation dollars at ATM withdrawal charges, why not invest them in experiences that will make your trip unforgettable?
