Are there alternatives to credit cards for spending in multiple currencies?
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If you’re looking for an alternative to a traditional credit card and want to spend across multiple currencies without the usual currency conversion headaches – then there are a few options you can consider.
Depending on your needs (travelling, online purchases, holding multiple currencies, etc.), there are different solutions that can work better for you, including options from WorldFirst, Revolut, and Wise.
What you can use instead of a credit card
1. Multi-currency debit or prepaid cards
These cards allow you to spend in multiple currencies directly from a linked multi-currency account. You can hold money in different currencies and pay with minimal or no FX fees.
They’re ideal for:
- Cross-border business payments
- Paying suppliers in local currency
- Travel or international ecommerce spend
Examples:
- World Card (WorldFirst)
- Wise Debit Card
- Revolut Business Card
Pros:
- Avoid costly conversion fees
- Hold and spend from real currency balances
- Better control over budgets
Cons:
- Some cards require preloading; World Card does not
- ATM or transaction limits may apply
2. Smart-wallet or aggregator cards
These platforms let you link multiple debit and credit cards and choose which one to charge, sometimes even after the purchase. They’re designed to simplify wallet clutter and provide flexibility.
Example:
- Curve
Pros:
- All your cards in one app and physical card
- “Back in time” feature to switch payment sources
- Useful for managing personal and business expenses
Cons:
- FX fee caps apply (e.g. £500/month limit on free plan)
- Not all merchants or ATMs accept Curve
- Doesn’t offer local receiving accounts or dedicated multi-currency holding
3. Digital wallets and online payment services
If you frequently pay or receive funds online in different currencies, e-wallets can help streamline cross-border payments. These platforms are often used by freelancers, remote workers, and international sellers.
Examples:
- Wise
- PayPal
- Alipay+ (integrated with World Card)
Pros:
- Easy online international payments
- Receive funds in multiple currencies
- Integrated with ecommerce platforms
Cons:
- Higher fees than debit cards
- Limited physical card usage
- May lack advanced expense management tools
4. Traditional options (for context)
Cash, traveller’s cheques, and currency exchange kiosks were once the standard for international spending. Today, they’re mostly used in remote areas or for backup.
Examples:
- Forex bureaux
- Traveller’s cheques
- Local bank cash exchange
Pros:
- Useful in cash-only settings
- Immediate spending ability
Cons:
- Poor exchange rates
- No fraud protection
- Inconvenient and risky
What to look out for when choosing an alternative to credit cards for multi-currency spending
These different solutions offer very different capabilities and features. Look out for the following when choosing an option for your business:
- Fees and limits, such as FX fees, ATM withdrawal caps, and top-up costs
- Acceptance. Not all cards work in all countries or on all online stores
- Protection and security features. For instance, not all services offer chargebacks or fraud coverage
- Exchange rate timing. If you’re looking to lock-in exchange rates or benefit from real-time conversions, you’ll need to make sure these features are offered.
Comparison table: Top multi-currency spending options
| Feature | World Card (WorldFirst) | Revolut Business | Wise | Curve |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Multi-currency virtual debit card | Multi-currency account + debit card | Multi-currency account + debit card | Smart-wallet / card aggregator |
| Currencies supported | Hold: 20+ / Spend: 150+ | 30+ | 50+ | Most currencies (depends on linked cards) |
| FX fees | £0 when spending held currencies (15 major) | Free up to £1,000/month, then 0.5–2% | Mid-market rate + 0.35–2% fee | Free up to £500/month, then 2% fee |
| Monthly/account fees | £0 | Free plan available; paid plans optional | No monthly fee | Free plan; paid plans offer more perks |
| ATM withdrawals | N/A (virtual card) | Free up to £200/month, then 2% fee | Free up to £200/month, then 2% fee | Free up to £200/month, then 2% fee |
| Virtual cards | Up to 20 | Yes (limited per plan) | Yes | No (uses one card for all accounts) |
| Cashback or rewards | Up to 1.2% cashback on eligible spending | Only on premium plans | None | Cashback on some premium tiers |
| Real-time spend control | Freeze, cancel, track via app | Mobile controls | App-based management | App controls; no separate team access |
| Team-friendly features | Issue cards per team/tool with limits | Available in higher-tier plans | Individual use-focused | Limited team functionality |
| Local receiving accounts | 20+ currencies with local details | Limited currencies | 10+ currencies | Not available |
| Best for | Global SMEs, ecommerce, cross-border payments | Freelancers, startups, tech businesses | Freelancers, remote workers | Travellers, multi-card users |
World Card from WorldFirst – Best for global businesses
The World Card is designed specifically for businesses that operate across borders, whether you’re an ecommerce brand, exporter or international team.
Why it stands out:
- Zero FX fees on major currencies: Spend in 15 major currencies from your World Account without any conversion costs
- 150+ currencies: Pay globally wherever Mastercard is accepted
- 20+ local currency accounts: Receive and hold currencies like USD, EUR, GBP, SGD, AUD and more, with local bank details
- Up to 20 virtual cards: Assign cards to teams, tools or campaigns
- Instant issue: Set up and start spending within minutes
- Real-time control: Freeze, cancel or monitor cards from the WorldFirst mobile app
- No hidden costs: No setup, card, or monthly maintenance fees
- Alipay+ integration: Use for in-person payments in China
- Cashback rewards: up to 1.2% unlimited cashback on eligible business spend, paid monthly.
Best for: SMEs, online sellers, import/export businesses, teams with international expenses.
Revolut Business
Revolut offers a slick user interface, multi-currency balances, and fee-free exchange up to £1,000/month on its free plan. It’s a good fit for startups and digital-first teams.
Key features:
- Hold 30+ currencies
- Free international transfers to other Revolut accounts
- Integrated with Apple Pay and Google Pay
- Tiered pricing plans with added perks
Limitations:
- Exchange fees apply above £1,000/month
- ATM withdrawals limited to £200/month (2% after)
- Premium plans can be expensive
Best for: Freelancers, small teams, tech-savvy users who want a familiar mobile-first experience.
Wise
Wise (formerly TransferWise) is ideal for personal and business use, with great exchange rates and low fees.
Key features:
- Hold and convert 50+ currencies
- Pay with the Wise debit card or online
- Free account with no monthly charges
- Real mid-market FX rates + small fee
Limitations:
- 2% ATM fee after £200/month
- Lacks full card control features for teams
- Not ideal for scaling businesses
Best for: Freelancers, remote workers, individuals receiving payments in multiple currencies.
Curve
Curve is a card aggregator that combines all your existing cards into one. It’s perfect for keeping your wallet light and switching payment methods on the fly.
Key features:
- “Go Back in Time” lets you move a payment to a different card after the fact
- Cashback on premium plans
- Spend abroad using linked cards up to £500/month fee-free
Drawbacks:
- Limited multi-currency holding
- FX fees apply beyond free limits
- Not built for business use
Best for: Frequent travellers, entrepreneurs juggling multiple cards.
Final thoughts
If your money moves across borders, it’s time your card did too. Whether you’re paying suppliers, managing team expenses or scaling on global marketplaces, the World Card from WorldFirst gives you the clarity, control and cost savings that traditional credit cards simply can’t match.
FAQs
1. What’s the best alternative to a credit card for international business payments?
For businesses that deal in multiple currencies, the World Card from WorldFirst is a strong alternative. It lets you spend in over 150 currencies wherever Mastercard is accepted, with zero FX fees when spending from your World Account balances in 15 major currencies. You also get up to 20 virtual cards, instant card creation, cashback rewards, and real-time expense controls – without any setup or monthly fees.
2. How do multi-currency cards work?
Multi-currency cards are linked to accounts that let you hold, convert, and spend in different currencies. You top up the card with your preferred currency and then spend directly – often avoiding conversion fees. These cards are typically offered by fintech platforms like WorldFirst, Wise and Revolut, and are a more cost-effective option than traditional credit cards for cross-border transactions.
3. What are the fees I should watch out for with non-traditional cards?
Even “fee-free” cards can come with conditions. Watch for:
- FX conversion fees after a set limit (e.g. £1,000/month)
- ATM withdrawal caps (e.g. £200/month free, then 2%)
- Top-up or card issuance fees (less common, but worth checking)
- Premium plans that may charge monthly for added features
World Card stands out here, with no FX fees, no monthly charges, and transparent pricing from the start.
4. Can I still get fraud protection or chargebacks with prepaid or virtual cards?
Some alternatives to credit cards offer limited protection compared to traditional credit cards. While debit and prepaid cards often support fraud monitoring and card freezing, they may not always include chargeback rights for disputed transactions.
That’s why it’s important to choose a trusted provider with strong security features, like real-time card freezing and spend tracking, which World Card offers via the mobile app.
5. Which option is best for teams or growing businesses?
If you’re managing team expenses, advertising spend, or supplier payments in multiple currencies, the World Card is a good option. You can issue up to 20 virtual cards with custom limits, monitor spend in real time and avoid FX costs altogether when spending from held balances. It’s especially useful for ecommerce brands, international sellers, and businesses scaling globally.
Sources
https://wise.com/sg/business/card
Lawrence Bennett is UK Country Manager at WorldFirst. He brings 15+ years of experience across fintech, ventures and e-commerce.
Lawrence Bennett
Author
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