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Travel

Travel money cards and eSIMS

Travel smarter and safer with the convenience of eSIMs and travel money cards.

Heading overseas? Whether you’re chasing summer in Europe or ticking off your bucket list in Japan, a little tech-savvy travel prep can save you time, money, and stress. That’s where eSIMs and travel money cards come in, here's what you need to know before you go.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a tiny digital SIM card built into your smartphone. It works just like a regular SIM, but without the need to physically insert or swap one. That means you can activate a mobile plan from overseas or at home, in just a few steps.

Benefits of using an eSIM while travelling:

  • Instant activation: Set it up before you fly, or download a local plan the moment you land

  • Keep your Australian number: Dual SIM phones let you keep your home number for SMS or emergencies while using the eSIM for data overseas

  • Avoid roaming charges: eSIM plans often use local networks at local rates

  • No need to physically handle or store SIMs: Reduces the risk of losing your original SIM

Popular eSIM providers:

There are a range of eSIM providers available, some popular picks include:

  • Airalo

  • Holafly

  • Ubigi

  • Nomad

  • Sim Local

Before switching to an eSIM, it’s important to check that your phone is compatible, most newer models like iPhones, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixels support eSIM technology, but not all devices do. Also, keep in mind that some eSIM plans are data-only, meaning you won’t receive a local number for calls or texts.

What's a travel money card?

Travel money cards (also called prepaid currency cards) let you load foreign currencies onto a physical or digital card before you travel. They're widely accepted anywhere that takes Visa or Mastercard and are a way to lock in exchange rates before you go.

Travel card perks:

  • Avoid fluctuating exchange rates by locking in rates when you load funds

  • Separate from your main bank account, offering a buffer if the card is lost or compromised

  • No international transaction fees on most purchases, unlike some debit or credit cards

  • Some cards allow you to hold multiple currencies, switching between them as you travel

Popular options available to Australians include the Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card, ANZ Travel Card, Qantas Travel Money, Wise (formerly TransferWise) multi-current card and Revolut and Up Bank cards with travel features.

Handy tips for travel money cards:

  • Great for daily spend: Use your travel card for everyday costs like meals and transport

  • Still pack a credit card: Ideal as a useful backup for car hire, hotels or emergencies

  • Check for fees: Watch out for reload charges or ATM withdrawal fees

  • Exchange rates: Are usually locked in at the time of loading

  • Less risks: By not being linked to your bank account

Final tips before you fly

  • Do a little research: Compare eSIM and travel card providers. Look closely at data limits, fees, and supported countries

  • Test your tech: If you can, set up and test your eSIM before you leave

  • Download the apps: Manage your data and money on the go with provider apps

  • Have a backup plan: Whether it’s a credit card, second travel card or some local currency

Whether you’re a frequent flyer or taking a once-in-a-lifetime trip, eSIMs and travel money cards are simple tools that can make your journey smoother and more secure. With a little prep, you can avoid bill shock, stay connected, and enjoy more of what your destination has to offer.