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Wise Vs CommBank Travel Money Card Comparison

Updated: Jun 20, 2024, 8:55am

Editorial note: Forbes Advisor Australia may earn revenue from this story in the manner disclosed here . Read our advice disclaimer here .

Table of Contents

Featured partners, wise vs commbank: what’s the difference, which is better: wise debit card or commbank travel card, wise vs revolut: summary of services and pricing, bottom line: wise vs commbank travel card, frequently asked questions (faqs).

If you’ve been searching for a travel card to take away on your next holiday abroad, chances are you’ve come across Wise (previously known as TransferWise) and Commonwealth Bank’s Travel Money Card.

So how do you decide which one is best for you? Forbes Advisor Australia took a close look at each of the bank’s offerings to help you decide, including their pros and cons, as well as the stand-out features of each.

Related: Wise vs Revolut 2024 Comparison

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Research from consultancy group EY shows that 79% of Australian respondents are still primarily tied to a traditional bank.

That’s why it’s no surprise that Commonwealth Bank, the biggest of the Big Four , is offering its own travel card in a bid to shoulder their way into the travel card sector.

The banking and capital markets leader for EY , Tim Dring, says Covid-19 “significantly accelerated what was an already growing appetite for digital banking solutions and more personalised online product and service offerings”.

That’s where Wise comes in. While it’s only been around since 2011 (launching in Australia in 2016), it has already gained more than 10 million customers worldwide thanks to its versatility and ease of use.

Both Wise and Commonwealth Bank are also regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).

Related: How To Buy Shares In Commonwealth Bank

There are a number of factors to consider when looking at a travel card. For sake of clarity, Forbes Advisor Australia has chosen to compare each of the offerings based on the following factors:

• Ease of use, including eligibility;
• Cost of card and replacement card costs;
• Any associated account-keeping fees;
• Number of currencies available;
• Currency conversion fees;
• ATM fees and limits;
• Exchange rates; and
• Availability of overseas bank details.

Our side-by-side comparison of the offerings provided by the Wise Debit Card and the CommBank Travel Card are shown in the table below.

There are a range of differences between the two travel cards. To begin with, the Wise card can be used both as a banking card (with international bank accounts that can send money seamlessly to other international bank accounts), while the CommBank Travel Card is specifically related to travel.

The CommBank Travel Card also has a limited number of currencies, while Wise has more than 40. However, the CommBank Travel Card is available to Australians aged 14 and over, which can make it a great option for teenagers heading abroad and wanting to take care of their own finances—whether the holiday is with family or on a school trip.

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of each card:

Pros and Cons of Wise

• Local accounts in different currencies
• Ability to spend in 40+ currencies
• Mid-market exchange rate
• Immediate transfers from AU bank accounts can be more costly
• Cost for card and card replacements
• Only available to 18+

Pros and Cons of CommBank Travel Card

• Available to those aged 14 and over
• Immediate and free transfers from Commonwealth Bank accounts
• No card ordering fee nor replacement card fee
• Limited currencies
• Can’t send money overseas
• $3.50 AUD charge for every ATM withdrawal, plus any applicable ATM fees

While both products received low average scores on ProductReview, there were also some positive individual reviews of both Wise and CommBank. Wise users called the card a “must have travel accessory” and noted that it offers “the best FX fees by a margin”.

For CommBank Travel Card customers, many said it was “exactly what they needed” while travelling, and that transfers between Commonwealth Bank accounts to the CommBank Travel Card were “seamless”.

It’s important to note that these ratings were not from a large number of reviews, and therefore should be weighed up among a range of other factors.

Overall, the Wise card may be better for those looking to be paid in different currencies or send money abroad while travelling, while the CommBank Travel Card may be more convenient for those needing a safe option to spend their funds abroad, especially when they are under 18 years old.

Are both Wise and CommBank Travel Cards available in Australia?

Yes, both cards are available in Australia and can be ordered to Australian residential addresses. The banks are also both regulated by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC).

How many currencies can you have on the CommBank Travel Money Card?

There are 13 currencies that you can load onto your CommBank Travel Money Card:

• Australian Dollars (AUD)
• Canadian Dollars (CAD)
• Chinese Renminbi (CNY)
• Emirati Dirham (AED)
• Euros (EUR)
• Great British Pounds (GBP)
• Hong Kong Dollars (HKD)
• Japanese Yen (JPY)
• New Zealand Dollars (NZD)
• Singapore Dollars (SGD)
• Thai Baht (THB)
• United States Dollars (USD)
• Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Is Wise or CommBank better for travelling Europe?

When it comes to travelling through Europe, both Wise and CommBank can be great options: after all, CommBank’s Money Travel Card includes both the Euro and GBP. However, there are many countries in Europe that don’t use the Euro, such as Croatia, Poland, Denmark, Czechia and more.

With Wise, you are able to load all of the currencies of the above countries onto your Wise card, therefore making it a more seamless travel card for trips in Europe that are outside the Eurozone.

Revolut is a direct competitor of Wise and a popular choice for those looking to travel Europe (and/or receive money to international bank accounts). You can read our comparison of Wise vs Revolut here .

Which is cheaper for travelling: Wise or CommBank?

Whether Wise or CommBank turns out to be “cheaper” for your holiday will largely depend on where you are going and how you will be spending your money. For example, if you plan to only visit the United States and won’t be taking cash out, the CommBank Money Travel Card could be more suitable for you seeing as it has USD as an available currency and doesn’t cost any money to order.

On the other hand, if you were needing to make frequent withdrawals, the $3.50 AUD charge at every ATM (plus any applicable ATM charges) could quickly add up—as could the changing interest rate determined independently by Commonwealth Bank. Plus, if you were then to travel to South or Central America where other currencies are used, you’d be charged a high currency conversion fee.

Alternatively, for those travelling to a wide range of destinations, and looking to both send and receive money in different currencies, Wise could end up being a more cost efficient option despite the $10 fee for the card. It has more currency options and therefore allows for more flexibility, and its mid-market exchange rate means you know you are getting a fair deal based on what the major banks are offering.

Related: Wise Personal Account Review

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In this guide

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Your reviews, ask a question, commbank travel money card review.

Enjoy the safety and convenience of a CommBank Travel Money Card that lets you load 13 currencies at the same time.

The CommBank Travel Money Card is a prepaid Visa card that lets you load up to 13 foreign currencies and lock in exchange rates. You can manage your account online, save on loading fees and enjoy peace of mind thanks to chip and PIN-protection.

Compare more travel money options on finder now

What currencies can I load on the CommBank Travel Money Card?

The CommBank Travel Money Card supports 13 major currencies including:

• United States dollar
• Great British pound
• Australian dollar
• Japanese yen
• New Zealand dollar
• Hong Kong dollar
• Canadian dollar
• Singapore dollar
• Vietnamese dong
• Chinese renminbi
• Emirati dirham

There are no fees involved when you load funds into a foreign currency wallet, transfer funds between currency wallets on the card, or spend money in a currency that isn't loaded or supported by your card. Instead, a retail foreign exchange rate determined by CommBank is applied at the time of conversion. You can find the foreign exchange rates on the CommBank website or on the CommBank app under "Tools & Calculators" and "Foreign Exchange Toolkit".

Your currencies will be locked in at the bank's retail foreign exchange rate applicable on the day your transfer or payment is processed. When loading or reloading, the money will be available the same day for transfers from CommBank transaction accounts and up to two business days for BPAY transactions.

What if I want to spend money in a different currency to the ones loaded on my card?

When spending money in a currency that is unsupported or insufficiently loaded on your card, the next available currency balance in your currency order will be used. You may customise your currency order through NetBank or by calling +61 1300 660 700. Otherwise, the following default currency order applies.

Default currency order:

To illustrate, when paying for a US$50 lunch in Los Angeles, it turns out that you only have US$21 in your US dollar wallet. Instead of declining the transaction, your card is debited in Euros instead, since you have sufficient Euros in your account. CommBank's prevailing retail foreign exchange rate is applied to convert your Euros into US dollars.

Where can I use my Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card

The CommBank Travel Money Card enjoys the worldwide acceptance of the Visa network and can be used in-store, at ATMs, online, over the phone and by mail order. However certain merchants and financial institutions may not accept the card, including stores where Visa prepaid cards are not accepted or where merchants process transactions manually.

Features of the CommBank Travel Money Card

When you apply for a CommBank Travel Money Card, you can look forward to the following benefits and features:

• Locked-in exchange rates. When you load funds on your card, they'll be locked in at the exchange rate you got when you loaded your card. This will give you peace of mind and help you manage your budget since you don't have to deal with fluctuating exchange rates. Foreign exchange rates are available on the CommBank website or in the CommBank app by following "Tools & calculators" to the "Foreign Exchange Toolkit".
• Additional card. Your free backup card ensures that you'll still be able to access your money should the first card be lost, damaged or stolen.
• Smartphone app. Enjoy the modern convenience of currency planning from your smartphone with the CommBank app. Monitor your expenses, convert currencies and reload funds while on the go.
• Worldwide ATM alliance. The robust Visa alliance ensures that you will be able to access cash almost anywhere in the world.
• Concierge service. Enjoy the luxury of personal concierge services when you need dinner reservations, air tickets, accommodation or concert tickets booked for you.
• Purchase security insurance. If an item purchased on your card gets lost, stolen or damaged in the first 90 days, your card insurance coverage ensures that it will be repaired or replaced for free.

How much does the CommBank Travel Money Card cost?

This table lists the costs associated with this card and when you'll be charged them.

How to use the CommBank Travel Money Card

Follow these simple steps to start using your CommBank Travel Money Card:

• Activating the card. For cards purchased in-branch, your two cards have already been automatically activated. For cards purchased online via NetBank, including replacement or reissued cards, you will need to activate your cards online. In any case, you should set up a PIN for each card by logging in to NetBank, going to a CommBank branch or calling the Travel Money Customer Service Centre at 1300 660 700, or +61 2 9374 0609 from overseas.
• Loading funds on the card. Different currencies can be loaded on your card at the time of purchase, which will be subject to the bank's foreign exchange rates at that time. When reloading the card, funds will be accepted in Australian dollars and converted into your primary currency according to your currency order. The applicable exchange rate is taken on the day your payment is processed, which is instant when paying cash in-branch or transferring funds via NetBank from a CommBank transaction account and up to two business days when using BPAY.When reloading via BPAY, you may only load one currency at a time. You will need to wait for your first BPAY transaction to be completed before changing your currency order and making another transfer to that primary currency. Each load and reload must be more than the equivalent of AUD$1 and less than AUD$100,000.
• Managing your online account. You can manage your account online at NetBank or on your smartphone's CommBank app. You can view your balances and transaction history, transfer currencies within the account, reload funds, and make real-time fund transfers to and from eligible CommBank accounts. You can also change your PIN and currency order, set up SMS alerts and lock or unlock your card for security reasons when necessary.

What do I do if I return home with foreign currency remaining on the card?

Who do i contact if my card is lost, stolen or damaged.

Report loss or theft immediately by calling 1300 660 700 or +61 2 9374 0609 when overseas. Similarly, if you suspect your card has been subject to unauthorised use, notify the bank immediately by calling 13 22 21 or +61 2 9374 0609 when overseas.

How to apply for a CommBank Travel Money Card

For existing CommBank customers with NetBank accounts, ordering is a simple online process which involves logging into NetBank. Your card will then arrive in the mail in under six business days. If you are not an existing CommBank customer, you may get your card straight away by heading into any CommBank branch. Bring your Australian passport or driver's licence for identification purposes.

Are there any eligibility requirements?

While you do not need to be an existing Commonwealth bank customer, you must be more than 14 years old and satisfy customer identification requirements. You will have to register with NetBank when purchasing the card. Also, you are limited to only having five active Travel Money Cards at any one time.

The CommBank Travel Money Card offers up to 13 major currencies and fee-free loads and reloads. Make sure to factor the card issue, replacement fees and ATM withdrawal fees when comparing your options. When deciding which travel card to get, use our travel money comparison table to compare your available options and find the right card for your spending needs.

• CommBank Travel Money Card information PDF
• CommBank Travel Money Card TMD

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May 20, 2024

How do we transfer a balance from a travel money card which expired more than three months ago?

Sarah Megginson Finder

May 24, 2024

Hi Richard, We’re a review and comparison site and we’re seperate from CBA, so we can’t provide customer support. There should be an easy way to transfer the funds to your bank account, but we recommend you contact them directly to find out how to get access to your funds: you can call them 1300 660 700.

April 15, 2024

Can I use my travel card in bali? It isn’t a listed currency. Thanks

July 03, 2024

Hi Vincent,

This Travel Money Card can be accepted all over the world wherever Visa is accepted. If the currency of your travel destination (ie Bali) isn’t listed, you can still load and use Australian Dollars, but you will pay currency conversion fees. They use the CommBank Foreign Exchange Rate, which includes a profit margin, when calculating this fee.

Hope this helps!

February 26, 2024

When useing my travel card is it credit i push to withdraw cash from it at the atm ? Thanks

Elizabeth Barry Finder

April 05, 2024

You should select “Credit” when using this card.

I hope this helps,

December 02, 2019

Can I use this card for everyday purchases within australia, and will there be a fee if I do so?

Nikki Angco

December 04, 2019

Thanks for your comment and I hope you are doing well. You can use the travel money card in Australia. The card can be used everywhere Mastercard is accepted. There can be a fee if you are paying in a currency not loaded onto your card so be sure to nominate AUD as your preferred currency when making purchases and do cash withdrawals at CommBank ATMs.

Hope this helps and feel free to reach out to us again for further assistance.

Best, Nikki

October 21, 2019

I’m in USA. I’m drawing cash from ATM. Do I draw it as Credit or Savings?

October 24, 2019

Hi Marlene,

Thanks for reaching out to Finder. When using the Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card review, you would select the credit option. As added information, the maximum value of purchases per day is AUD 7,500 or its foreign currency equivalent. The maximum amount you can withdraw from ATMs per day is AUD 2,500 or its foreign currency equivalent. However, most ATM operators have a limit on how much you can withdraw from an ATM per transaction which may be less than the Commonwealth Bank’s maximum. You may want to check out that specific information before withdrawing.

Hope this helps and feel free to write back, we’re here to help.

Cheers, Nikki

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Travel money cards with the lowest fees

We look at seven travel money cards from the big banks and airlines..

Prepaid travel money cards are offered by major banks, airlines and foreign exchange retailers like Travelex. Before travelling overseas, you load money into the card account, which locks in the exchange rate for foreign currencies at that time. 

You can then use the card for purchases and cash withdrawals just like a debit or credit card, usually wherever Visa and Mastercard are accepted. 

You can reload money on-the-go via an app or website, and if the card is lost or stolen, it can be replaced (usually at no cost to you).

Prepaid travel money cards also give you assurance that you're not handing the details of your everyday banking account to merchants you're not familiar with, and they provide easy access to cash when you want some, says Peter Marshall, head of research at money comparison website Mozo .

CHOICE tip: Travel money cards are best for longer trips. They're usually not worth your while if you're only taking a short trip, as some have closure, cash out and inactivity fees.

Travel money card fees

A major difference between prepaid travel cards and debit or credit cards is their fees. Some costs aren't immediately apparent, such as hefty margins built into the exchange rates.

And although fees have come down since we looked at these cards two years ago, you still need to watch out for:

• fees to load the card – either a percentage of the total or a flat fee
• ATM withdrawal fees
• a cross currency fee or margin when you use the card in a currency you haven't preloaded
• further fees if you close the account or haven't used the card for a period of time.

Travel money card with the lowest fees and best exchange rate

Westpac worldwide wallet.

Westpac closed its Global Currency Card in July 2021 and offers its new card in partnership with Mastercard.  It's also available from Bank of Melbourne and BankSA.

Currencies: AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, ZAR.

Key features:

• No loading, reloading, closing or inactivity fees.
• Free to use it in network ATMs in Australia and partner ATMs overseas in a range of countries including the UK, US and New Zealand.
• A charge applies at non-Westpac and non-partner ATMs in Australia and overseas.
• Best exchange rates for the US dollar, the Euro and GBP in our comparison.*
• The only card that lets you preload the South African rand.

Other travel money cards

Next to the Westpac Worldwide Wallet, there are six other travel money cards available.

Australia Post Travel Platinum Mastercard

Available online or at post offices.

Currencies : AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, AED.

• Fee to reload the card via BPay, debit card or instore, but free via online bank transfer.
• Closure fee.
• Fees for ATM withdrawals in Australia and overseas.

Cash Passport Platinum Mastercard

It's issued by Heritage Bank and is available online and from a number of smaller banks and credit unions (like Bendigo Bank and Bank of Queensland) as well as travel agents. 

• Fee to reload with a debit card or instore, but free via BPay.

CommBank Travel Money Card

CommBank Travel Money Card (Visa)

As NAB and ANZ have closed their travel money cards, this is the only other travel money card available from a major bank. This card has the largest variety of currencies that can be preloaded.

Currencies : AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD, AED, VND, CNY.

• Fee if you make a purchase with currencies not preloaded.
• Fee for withdrawals at overseas ATMs.

Qantas Travel Money Card

Qantas Travel Money Card (Mastercard)

The only travel money card offering from an airline. It can be added as a feature to your Qantas Frequent Flyer card, so you don't need a dedicated card, and you can earn points using it.

• Free to reload via bank transfer or BPay, but there's a reload fee if using debit card.

Travelex Money Card

Travelex Money Card (Mastercard)

Travelex is an international foreign exchange retailer. In Australia, it operates more than 140 stores at major airports and shopping centres, across CBDs and in the suburbs. It was the card with the best exchange rate for New Zealand dollars.*

Currencies : AUD, USD, NZD, EUR, GBP, SGD, THB, JPY, HKD, CAD.

Fees : 

• Load fee instore, but free via Travelex website or app.
• Reload fee instore or via BPay, but free via Travelex website or app.
• Closure fee and monthly inactivity fee (if not used for 12 months).

Travel Money Oz Currency Pass

Travel Money Oz Currency Pass (Mastercard)

The Travel Money Group is owned by Flight Centre and is a foreign exchange retailer. 

• Reloading the card via an online bank transfer or instore is free, but there's a fee if you reload via BPay, debit card or credit card. 
• Cash out (closure) fee. 

Travel money card tips

• Make sure the card allows the currencies you'll need, and also consider stopovers. For example, the South African rand is only supported by the Westpac card.
• Try to load your card with the right currencies and amounts on days with good exchange rates. 
• Make sure you know how to reload your card if you run out of funds while overseas.
• It may be more convenient to choose a card that has an app that can be linked to your bank account.
• Avoid loading more money than you'll need as there may be fees and exchange rate margins to get the unused money back.
• Remember to cancel the card once you're finished your trip, especially if it has inactivity fees.
• Be mindful that you still may need a credit card, as travel money cards may not be accepted as security for hotels and car rental agencies. 

Stock images:  Getty, unless otherwise stated.

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Wise Card vs Commbank Travel Card: A Full Comparison 2024

If you’re looking for a travel card which can help you conveniently and cheaply spend in foreign currencies – either when you travel or when you shop online with international retailers – you may have heard of the Wise card and the Commbank travel card.

Both options offer Australian customers easy ways to hold and exchange currencies, for spending and withdrawals at home and abroad. However, how they work is a bit different. The Wise card has a one time order fee of 10 AUD, with 40+ supported currencies and mid-market exchange rates, while the Commbank card is free to pick up, supports 13 currencies, and has rates set by Commbank, including a 3% fee to spend a currency you don’t hold.

Read on to learn more, and pick which option works best for you: Wise card vs Commbank Travel card.

Key points:

Wise card vs commbank travel card in australia: side by side.

Before we get into details: an overview.

Which card works best for you might depend on your preferences and how you’ll spend with your card.

Wise has a broader range of currencies, and uses the mid-market rate for currency conversion with low fees from 0.42%. You’ll get a couple of free ATM withdrawals monthly – but there’s an initial cost of 10 AUD to get the card in the first place.

You can pick up a Commbank Travel card in your local branch or order in Netbank if you’re already a customer, and hold 13 currencies. There’s no fee to get your card in the first place, but you pay 3% if you spend a currency you don’t hold in your account, or a currency that the card can’t support.

Go to Wise Go to Commbank  

Pros and cons

Wise card vs commbank travel card: the verdict.

The Wise card and the Commbank Travel card have similar features, including a multi-currency account option, and easy ways to spend and withdraw overseas. However, their focus is a little different which may make one more suited to you than another.

The Wise card has a fee to order – but then no ongoing charges, and can support 40+ currencies with mid-market exchange rate conversion. Fees are low and there are also other features like ways to send and receive global payments with low costs. This may make it a winner for customers looking for a long term solution to manage money across currencies with low fees.

The Commbank Travel card has no upfront fee, and no ongoing charges. It supports 13 currencies, but if the currency in your destination is not supported – or you forget to convert your balance – there’s a 3% fee. Flat ATM fees apply. This card can be handy for customers looking for a solution from an Australian bank, where you can walk into a branch to order a card and talk through your options with a team member.

How do they work?

To get a Wise card you’ll need to register a Wise account online or in the Wise app. You can then order a Wise card in a few clicks, for delivery to your home address. Your Wise card is linked to a multi-currency Wise account which can hold 40+ currencies and which you can view and manage using your phone or laptop.

Just add money in AUD or the currency of your choice, and switch to the currency you need for spending in your destination. If you’d prefer, you can also leave your money in dollars and let the card switch at the point of payment with no extra fee to pay. Currency exchange uses the mid-market rate with low fees from 0.42%.

You can order a Commbank card in Netbank if you’re a customer already, or visit a branch. Once you have your card you can add money with BPay, and switch to one of 13 supported currencies. It’s free to spend a currency you hold, but there’s a 3% fee to spend an unsupported currency or if you’ve not exchanged to the required currency already.

Commbank cards have no upfront fee and no ongoing charges.

Go to Wise Go to Commbank

Wise card limits

Generally there’s no limit to how much you can hold in your Wise account, which is linked to your Wise card. There are a few limits attached to the Wise card for security. When you get your card, the limits are set to a default amount per month. However, you can also set yourself daily limits within the Wise app if you’d prefer to control your cash flow differently.

Here are the Wise card limits for Australia:

• Minimum load: No minimum
• Maximum load: No maximum
• Maximum balance: No maximum
• Maximum spend amount: 52,500 AUD a month
• Maximum ATM withdrawal amount: 7,000 AUD a month

Commbank card limits

Commbank’s travel card limits work in a slightly different way to the limits of a Wise card – here’s a rundown:

• Minimum load: 50 AUD for first load, 1 AUD after that
• Maximum load: 10,000 AUD per day, to 100,000 AUD a year
• Maximum balance: 50,000 AUD
• Maximum ATM withdrawal amount: 2,500 AUD a day

What type of cards are they?

The Wise travel card is an international debit card, and can be issued on either the Visa or Mastercard networks. Both networks have excellent global coverage.

The Commbank Travel card is a Visa debit card, also globally accepted.

Are Wise and Commbank Travel cards available in Australia?

Yes. The Wise card is available to people living in Australia and most other countries globally – you can order your card using your local ID and proof of address more or less wherever you call home. The Commbank Travel card is available for Australian residents.

Wise vs Commbank Travel card: Fees

Getting a travel card for spending in foreign currencies can be a smart way to cut the costs of travel. However, as different providers have very different fee structures, shopping around is still important. Here’s an overview of the key fees you’ll pay with both Wise and Commbank:

*Correct at time of writing – 22nd February 2024

The costs of using your card overseas can vary depending on your spending patterns. One thing that’s worth checking is whether or not the Commbank card covers all of the destinations you’ll go to. If you don’t have the currency you need in your account you can still use your card – but there’s an extra 3% to pay, which can push up your costs overall. With 40+ currencies supported, the Wise card has a broader range, and may also have a lower currency conversion cost. Compare both to see which works best for you.

Which card is cheaper?

So, given they have somewhat different pricing schemes, which is cheaper: Wise or Commbank?

The answer is that it depends on the way you want to spend, and where you’ll be travelling to.

There’s a one time fee for the Wise card, of 10 AUD. Once you have your card, you’ll get a new one for free when your original one expires, and you can use your card all around the world for spending with the mid-market exchange rate. The one time fee might mean that the Wise card is a better choice for people looking for a card they can use for spending in foreign currencies over a longer period of time – there’s no ongoing fee to pay, so you can order your card and use it whenever you travel or spend online with foreign retailers, with low fees and the mid-market rate. Wise accounts also offer extras like ways to be paid in foreign currencies and easy options to send money to 160+ countries.

The Commbank Travel card has no initial fee to pay, which might make it a good option for a one time trip overseas. Make sure the currency you want is supported, as extra fees apply when you spend a currency you don’t hold.

Are Wise and Commbank Travel cards safe to use?

Yes. Both are safe to use with normal precautions.

Wise is a globally regulated business, which holds an Australian Financial Services licence (AFSL) and which is overseen by authorities globally. The Wise card comes with a handy app you can use to manage your money, check your balance, receive transaction notifications, and freeze or cancel your card if you have to. You’ll also get a Wise virtual card you can use for safer online shopping.

Commbank is a large and safe Australian bank, which is fully licensed – it also has the advantage of a branch network so you can always get face to face advice if you need it.

Ease of use

• Creating an account: Register with Wise online or in the Wise app. Creating an account with Commbank can vary depending on your specific needs – if you’re already a customer you can easily order a travel card in the app
• Ordering a card: Order a Wise card online or in the Wise app. You can order the Commbank Travel card in Netbank or your local branch.
• Where can be used: Both cards can be used globally
• Replacement: Your Wise card will be replaced for free when it expires – you’ll be reminded of the expiry date so you can check your shipping address. The Commbank Travel card is free to order – just pick up a new one when your old one expires.
• Visa or Mastercard: The Wise travel card is issued on either the Visa or Mastercard networks.The Commbank Travel card is a Visa debit card.
• Limits: Wise cards can hold an unlimited balance, with monthly limits on spending and ATM withdrawals which you can adjust in the Wise app.The Commbank Travel card has limits on the amount you can load and hold, including annual limits, as well as daily ATM limits.

Can I use the Wise and Commbank Travel cards abroad?

Yes. Both cards are optimised for international use. Use your card wherever the network is accepted – bear in mind that fees apply when spending a currency you don’t hold in the account. Commbank has a 3% fee, while Wise currency conversion starts from 0.42%.

Supported currencies on Wise and Commbank Travel cards

The Wise card supports 40+ currencies for holding and exchange. The Commbank Travel card can hold 13 major currencies.

You can use your card pretty much globally in both cases. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that there are costs if you spend a currency you don’t hold in your account. Commbank converts your balance using the Visa exchange rate and adds a 3% fee, while Wise uses the mid-market rate and fees from 0.42%.

Alternative cards

There are a few different options on the market in Australia if you’re looking for a travel card you can use for overseas and foreign currency spending. If you’re not sure about Wise and Commbank, you may want to consider:

Revolut: Open an account with no ongoing fees, or upgrade to one with monthly charges and more features. Hold 30 currencies, and get some no fee weekday currency conversion with all account tiers. Out of house conversion fees apply

Travelex: Pick up card in person or order online, with no ATM fees when you make a withdrawal. Cards are on the Mastercard network for global acceptance – bear in mind there are inactivity and account close fees

The Wise card and the Commbank travel card are both strong options for Australians looking for an easy and low cost way to spend in foreign currencies. Which works for you will depend a lot on how you’d like to use your card, where you’re travelling to, and what other account features you might want.

The Wise card has a one time fee – but once you have your card there are no ongoing costs and it’ll be replaced for free when it expires. You can hold 40+ currencies in your account and all currency conversion uses the mid-market rate with low fees from 0.42%. Accounts also come with extras like easy ways to send money to others in 160+ countries, and to receive payments with local bank details from a selection of countries.

The Commbank Travel card has no initial fee, and lets you hold 13 currencies. There’s no fee to spend a currency you hold, and no ongoing charges to worry about.

Use this guide to compare both options and see which will suit you best.

FAQ – Wise vs Commbank Travel cards

What is the difference between Wise and Commbank Travel cards?

Both cards are intended for foreign currency spending, and both offer great solutions for convenient currency exchange when you travel. The key differences include the fact that Wise cards support 40+ currencies, while Commbank only has 13, and that the Wise card has a one time order fee of 10 AUD, while Commbank has no charge initially.

Is the Commbank Travel card a Visa debit card?

The Commbank Travel card is a Visa debit card.

What type of card is a Wise card?

The Wise travel card is a debit card issued on either the Visa or Mastercard networks.

Money blog: TV chef closes last branch of restaurant after cost pressures

TV chef Simon Rimmer has closed his last remaining Greens restaurant with "immediate effect" just two years after it opened. Read this and the rest of today's consumer and personal finance news below in the Money blog.

Monday 23 September 2024 13:05, UK

• Fuel prices falling faster than they have all year - and could reach three-year low
• The market moves driving fuel prices down
• Sunday Brunch chef closes last branch of restaurant
• Shopping at a convenience store could be costing you

Essential reads

• 'My neighbour's CCTV faces directly into my home'
• How AI decides online prices

Tips and advice

• All benefits and entitlements available to pensioners
• How you could minimise impact of budget tax rises

Ask a question or make a comment

Every Monday we, with the help of industry experts, answer your Money Problems - anything from queries about your mortgage or savings to a consumer dispute or a question about your rights.

The feature is not intended as financial advice - the aim is to give an overview of the things you should think about. 

You can submit your dilemma or consumer dispute via:

• WhatsApp us  here
• The form above - you need to leave a phone number or email address so we can contact you for further details

 Nurses have rejected the government's offer of a 5.5% pay rise, the Royal College of Nursing has said.

Two thirds of nursing staff voted against the current year's pay award, with a record high 145,000 members of the union casting a vote.

In a letter to Health Secretary Wes Streeting MP, RCN general secretary Professor Nicola Ranger said: "We are witnessing a fundamental shift in the determination of nursing staff to stand up for themselves, their patients and the NHS they believe in."

Read the full story here ...

Nationwide has announced it will now offer first-time buyers up to six times their salary in a move aimed at helping more people onto the property ladder.

The boosted Helping Hand mortgage, available from tomorrow, will let prospective buyers borrow the enhanced amount when taking out a five or 10-year fixed-rate mortgage, with up to 95% loan-to-value (LTV).

It marks a significant boost from Nationwide's standard lending at 4.5 times income, and means a couple buying a home for the first time with a joint income of £50,000 could potentially borrow up to £300,000 - compared with around £225,000 without the Helping Hand mortgage.

Late last month, Lloyds Bank announced it would offer first-time mortgages for up to 5.5 times salary in a similar move.

Nationwide has also announced it will slash first-time buyer mortgage rates by up to 0.31 percentage points, offering some sub-5% rates on its standard mortgage range.

Debbie Crosbie, Nationwide chief executive, said: "Helping Hand has supported around 40,000 people onto the property ladder since we launched it three years ago. We want to do more and are boosting the scheme to six times income and increasing the maximum loan size. 

"This, alongside our most recent rate cuts, further strengthens our market-leading position and demonstrates that, as one of the UK's largest lenders, Nationwide continues to put first-time buyers first."

TV chef Simon Rimmer has closed his last remaining Greens restaurant with "immediate effect" just two years after it opened.

The restaurant said its board of directors and shareholders decided to permanently close the site in Sale, Greater Manchester, last week.

Sunday Brunch star Rimmer had launched the site in 2022 with business partner Simon Connolly.

In a post to Instagram, Greens said it had done "everything possible" to make the business work, but it was clear it had become "untenable".

"We'd like to thank everyone, team members and guests, who have been on the Greens journey with us," the post read.

Rimmer closed another Greens restaurant in Didsbury eight months ago after 33 years of trading.

He's not the only high-profile chef to announce closures of late, with Marcus Wareing at the Berkeley, Michel Roux at Le Gavroche, Marco Pierre White at Mr White's and Monica Galetti at Mere all disappearing.

Santander has apologised after its customers reported issues logging into their online banking this morning.

Outage site Downdetector had received around 2,100 reports of issues with Santander UK services as of 7am.

The vast majority related to mobile banking, with the rest about payments and online banking.

Many users complained on social media about being unable to get into the app.

"I cannot access my mobile banking to check my account before work. I keep on getting an error message. Please sort it out!" one person posted on X.

Another messaged the bank saying: "I cannot access your app. It just says loading and then defaults to 'due to security issue, we cannot log you on'. Please help."

Santander's official UK help account replied to people saying it was "quickly alerted to the issue" and was "working urgently to restore service".

A Santander spokesperson told the Money blog: "We can confirm that the mobile banking app is now working as usual. 

"We are sorry for any inconvenience caused by the earlier issue."

By Sarah Taaffe-Maguire , business reporter

As you will have seen below, UK petrol and diesel prices are falling at the fastest rate this year. It's thanks to the fallen global price of oil.

Earlier this month the cost dropped to $70, a level not seen since 2021.

While that low wasn't maintained and has ticked upwards, the price is still comparatively low at $74.59 for a barrel of Brent crude, the benchmark oil price.

For most of the last year, a barrel has cost over $80. The price has fallen over weak demand and expectations that demand will continue to be depressed due to a slowed global economy. 

A monthly report by the OPEC+ group of major oil-producing nations said demand in 2024 and 2025 will be cut. It signalled too much oil could be produced.

Elsewhere, after the Friday sell-off hit to stocks, the benchmark UK index, the FTSE 100, was down by the most in six weeks. But there's been a 0.12% rise this morning, led by UK property website Rightmove. The company received a third offer from the Murdoch-backed REA Group, valuing it at £6.1bn.

The larger and more UK-focused FTSE 250 was down 0.11%.

The pound continued to perform well against the euro and the US dollar. One pound buys €1.1957, a high not seen since August 2022. Sterling remained more than $1.33 at $1.3319, a high last recorded in March 2022.

Prices at the pumps are now falling more quickly than at any other point this year, according to the RAC - and they could drop further in the coming weeks.

Analysis of its Fuel Watch data shows both unleaded petrol and diesel are nearly 7p cheaper than a month ago and at their lowest price in almost three years.

As of last Thursday, a litre of unleaded was being sold for 136.15p on average – down 5p since the start of September and almost 7p lower than a month ago.

There's been a similar drop in the cost of diesel, with prices down to 140.87p from 147.74p a month ago.

And drivers can fill up their cars for even less, the RAC said, with supermarkets charging 133.23p for unleaded on average, and 137.69p for diesel.

The RAC says falling pump prices - brought about by relatively low oil prices combined with a stronger pound - could dip as low as 132p for petrol and 138p for diesel within a fortnight.

RAC fuel spokesperson Simon Williams said: "It's really encouraging to see pump prices coming down so rapidly, which we know is as good for drivers' wallets as it is for keeping the headline level of inflation in check.

"Based on wholesale pump prices, which is what retailers pay to buy the fuel in the first place, we know there's scope for further price cuts so we very much hope that within the next few weeks we'll see pump prices reach their lowest levels in three years."

Every Monday we get an expert to answer your money problems or consumer disputes. Find out how to submit yours at the bottom of this post. Today's question is...

My neighbour has installed CCTV and has faced it directly on my kitchen wall and dining room window? Is there anything I can do? Thank you in advance Rb

Serena Amani, managing partner at Monarch Solicitors , says homeowners do have the right to install a CCTV system at their house and position the cameras within their property boundary.

But she adds: "However, surveillance cameras that capture images beyond the boundaries of the property owner's home and garden, including public spaces or neighbouring properties, are subject to general data protection regulation and the Data Protection Act 2018, as it is may be processing your personal data. 

"Photographs or moving images of people qualify as 'personal data' for the purposes of the act."

In essence, these laws state:

• The CCTV operator must have a legitimate reason for the surveillance;
• There should be clear signs indicating that CCTV is in operation and who is responsible for it;
• The operator must respect the privacy rights of individuals captured on the footage, including providing access to the footage upon request and ensuring it is not used for inappropriate purposes.

Approach it sensibly

When you have a domestic CCTV dispute with your neighbour, the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO), an independent supervisory authority for data protection in the UK, recommends the following approach:

• Contact the person in person or in writing;
• Ask them why they are using the CCTV, as the reason for doing so may alleviate your concerns;
• If you still have concerns, explain your worries to them and try to come to an agreement - for example, request that they adjust the angle of the camera so that it points away from your kitchen wall and dining room window;
• You could also ask to see what is being recorded as it may not be as intrusive as you think.

Serena says many CCTV cameras can put a privacy mask over your property, which blacks out that specific section of the CCTV footage. 

"This mask would allow your neighbour to keep their property secure whilst allow allowing you to maintain your privacy," she says.

"Even if their camera doesn't have a privacy mask, you could ask them to add physical privacy blocks on the side of the camera that blocks your private property out. This is a good compromise if you and your neighbour are struggling to come up with a solution."

If your friendly discussion doesn't work

If having a friendly conversation with your neighbour doesn't help, Serena suggests checking how compliant their CCTV is by verifying they've put up appropriate signage and ensuring there's a legitimate reason for it to be there, as well as making sure they're handling the footage according to data protection principles.

"If you believe the CCTV setup breaches data protection laws, you can file a complaint with the ICO," Serena adds. "They can investigate and take action if necessary."

"You can also report the issue to your local council or police, especially if you feel that the surveillance is intrusive or harassing."

Serena also recommends documenting your communication with your neighbour and the steps you've taken to address the issue, including taking photos or videos showing the camera's position relative to your home. This can be useful if you involve authorities or legal advisers further down the line.

Your rights in regards to your personal data

When your neighbour's CCTV goes beyond the property boundaries and it holds your personal data, you have a right to request a copy of that data and the erasure of it, Serena says.

"You are also well within your rights to request they do not record you again. However, your neighbour can refuse your request under certain circumstances," she adds.

Possible other legal issues

There is a possibility that the CCTV, along with other elements of the case, could give rise to a harassment case.

Serena says: "In October 2021, Oxford County Court upheld claims in a case for nuisance, harassment and breach of data processing arising out of the defendant's use of a video doorbell and security cameras and subsequent dispute with the claimant regarding those devices. 

"However, this is very case specific and a recording does not automatically amount to harassment.  

"Ultimately, each case will turn on its facts and you should seek independent legal advice, if you cannot resolve the dispute with your neighbour."

This feature is not intended as financial advice - the aim is to give an overview of the things you should think about.  Submit your dilemma or consumer dispute via:

• Email [email protected] with the subject line "Money blog"

People who shop at convenience stores face paying up to a fifth more than at larger branches of the same supermarket, new research has found.

Which? compared the cost of popular grocery items on three occasions in June and July 2024 at the largest supermarket-branded convenience chains and their full-sized counterparts: Morrisons and Morrisons Daily, Sainsbury's and Sainsbury’s Local, and Tesco and Tesco Express.

Researchers' baskets contained 42 branded and own-label products all commonly available in convenience stores - from cheese and pasta to blueberries and ice cream.

Discounts to loyalty scheme members (such as Sainsbury's Nectar and Tesco Clubcard) were also checked.

The biggest price difference was at Morrisons, where consumers pay an average of 21% more at the Daily versions compared to the big supermarkets.

A 400g tin of own-label chickpeas was 104% more expensive at the convenience store - £1 in comparison to 49p at the supermarket. 

Meanwhile, a 165g tub of Philadelphia soft cheese cost 63% more (£2.58 compared to £1.58).

If consumers bought the same products every week, it could set them back an extra £832.

While Sainsbury's and Tesco had fewer variations in their prices, Nectar members could still be paying an average of 14% more at a Sainsbury's Local, while Clubcard holders could be paying 11% more at Tesco Express.

For those forced to shop regularly in smaller supermarket branches, essentials such as milk, bread and butter all had a big markup. All three supermarket convenience stores charged 8% more for two pints of own-label, semi-skimmed milk - with or without a loyalty card.

Some products were cheaper

A handful of products – Doritos, Robinson's orange squash and Kenco instant coffee – were all cheaper at convenience stores, averaging between 15% and 32% less.

Ele Clark, Which? retail editor, said: "Unfortunately, many people are without easy access to transport or online deliveries which leaves them reliant on smaller nearby stores. 

"Convenience stores may often be easier to travel to and handy for shoppers who need to stock up on a few essentials, but people who have to use them regularly will be spending significantly more over the course of a year than those with access to larger supermarkets."

Tesco told Which? that customers make different shopper journeys at Express stores than at larger ones and so they tailor Clubcard offers to suit customer shopping habits.

They added that Tesco Express stores are mainly in built-up areas where rents, rates and operating costs are higher. The difference in prices of some products reflects these increased costs, but their prices remain competitive as they strive to offer great value to their customers.

Morrisons and Sainsbury's declined to comment. 

Pubs outperformed restaurants and bars in August, data shows.

Bar sales dropped 9% over the last year and restaurant sales edged up 0.8%, while pubs saw growth of 2.9%, according to the latest edition of the CGA RSM Hospitality Business Tracker.

The tracker, which looks at 100 hospitality groups (such as Azurri Group, MJMK Restaurants and Youngs) found the industry as a whole saw 1% growth - below inflation.

"August's figures complete a modest summer for hospitality groups, and with the weather and consumers' confidence both underwhelming, real-terms growth has been elusive," said Karl Chessell, director of hospitality operators and food, EMEA at CGA by NIQ.

"While some bars and restaurants have found it hard to sustain footfall, the picture has been brighter at pubs, especially given the impact of the cool temperatures on beer gardens and terraces."

Big nights out on the town are an undeniable part of British culture - but are they about to be consigned to the memories of those of us born before the turn of the century?

You can more about this from news reporter Emily Mee here:

And as pubs around the UK shutter their doors, we also looked at the future of the Great British pub.

You can read more here:

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Two drones crashed into a fuel station in Livny, a town in Russia's Oryol region, overnight on May 27, according to the local governor.

Oryol Oblast Governor Andrei Klychkov said that part of the building facade was damaged .

First responders have been dispatched to the scene when another drone reportedly crashed at the same station. A driver of the local fire station was killed in the attack, according to Klychkov, and three other rescuers were injured.

The Kyiv Independent can't immediately verify those claims.

In recent months, Ukrainian forces have launched a series of drone strikes aimed at damaging Russia's oil industry , which is crucial to sustain Moscow's war efforts, as well as its military hardware.

Oryol Oblast is located in western Russia, and borders Kursk region to the southwest, Bryansk region to the northwest, and Tula region to the east.

Read also: Russian media: Oil refinery in Russia’s Krasnodar Krai damaged after drone attack

We’ve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent .

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Best way to take money overseas

Before you take off on your next overseas trip, it’s essential to plan how you’ll pay for things when you’re away.

There’s no single right or wrong way – but a combination of a few methods is usually best, both for convenience and security.

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Taking cash overseas

Ideal for:  Your day-to-day expenses, such as food, transport, tipping and shopping at markets.

Try to have a useful amount with you when you arrive to avoid being stung by international ATM fees at airports – it will help you with that first train or taxi to your hotel.

For security, avoid carrying large amounts of cash on you, but try to keep a bit of spare cash handy at all times just in case you find yourself without access to an ATM or in a place that doesn’t accept cards.

You can purchase a selection of foreign cash on the spot at designated branches. Once you’re overseas, you can also withdraw cash (fees apply) using your credit or debit cards, or a pre-paid travel card.

Using prepaid travel cards

Ideal for:   Withdrawing cash, locking in exchange rates, controlling your spend and travelling through multiple countries.

Re-loadable prepaid cards (such as our  Travel Money Card ) are a secure and convenient way to pay for things. Simply buy one before you go, load funds in foreign currency to lock in an exchange rate (you’ll know exactly how much you have to spend), then use it like you would a debit card to withdraw cash, pay in person or over the phone, all without transaction fees.

With our Travel Money Card, you’ll automatically receive two cards that are smart chip, PIN and signature protected. This is so you have a spare in case one is lost or stolen. The cards have different card numbers and separate PINs. The spare is only a back-up card and shouldn’t be given to anyone else to use.

As soon as you receive both cards make sure you sign the back of them.

You can reload and view your balance and transaction history in NetBank and the CommBank app. They’re also a handy option if you’re travelling through different countries because you can load up to 13 currencies on your card at any one time.

Find out more about the  Travel Money Card, including fees and charges .

Using credit cards overseas

Ideal for:  Big expenses such as accommodation (particularly when you have to pay a ‘holding’ fee), large purchases or for online bookings.

A convenient and secure option when travelling, they are widely accepted, allow you to make cash withdrawals at ATMs and you can link them to a debit account so you can transfer funds.

They have some other handy features, for example some come with  international travel insurance  included, and you can also earn points as you spend if you have an  awards credit card .

Make sure you learn about  international fees  before you go, such as conversion fees for purchases and the costs involved if you use credit cards to withdraw cash. These fees can start to add up over time so it’s worth considering credit cards that don’t charge international transaction fees.

Remember to keep a close eye on your account for any unusual transactions while you’re away – credit cards can be more prone to fraud when used overseas.

Learn more about our range of  credit cards .

Using debit cards overseas

Ideal for:  Controlling your spend, paying for things without cash and withdrawing cash from ATMs.

Debit cards are ideal for controlling your cash flow, to avoid coming home to a nasty credit card bill.

They are widely accepted. Use your debit cards to pay in-store and withdraw cash using your Debit Mastercard (look for the Mastercard symbol) or Keycard (look for the Cirrus symbol) to withdraw up to the equivalent of $2,000 AUD a day in local currency. Keep in mind that  international ATM and EFTPOS  fees may apply.

Learn more about our Debit Mastercard  and Keycard.

Top travel money tips

• Get organised early, particularly if you need to pre-order cash, or order prepaid cards. It helps your budgeting too - you can monitor the exchange rate and if you have a travel card, lock in your foreign currency when the exchange rate is strong.
• Don’t forget to notify us before you travel. You can conveniently do this in  NetBank  or the  CommBank app . That way we won’t be surprised by foreign transactions on your account and we can keep an eye out for anything unusual.
• Carry your cash and a mix of credit/debit/travel cards in a few places throughout your luggage, for example, a spare card safely hidden in your suitcase just in case you lose your main travel wallet.
• Some countries only accept PIN for card payments, so make sure you set yours before you go.
• Control your security and spending – you can instantly lock international payments, block ATM cash advances and limit your spending through either the CommBank app or NetBank 1
• Have any leftover currency? You can sell it back to us at selected CommBank branches.

What to do in an emergency

• Lock, Block, Limit  your CommBank credit card or lock your Travel Money Card for added security
• Cancel and order replacement CommBank cards in NetBank or the CommBank app
• Call us on +61 2 9999 3283 to report lost or stolen CommBank cards

For 24-hour travel insurance emergency assistance, call Cover-More in Australia direct and toll free on +61 2 8907 5641. You can also call from:

• Canada on 1844 345 1662
• New Zealand on 0800 632 031
• UK on 0808 234 3737
• USA on 1844 345 1662

Charges apply if calling from a pay phone or a mobile phone.

Things you should know

1 Excludes transaction flagged as recurring (e.g. direct debits) and transactions not sent to us for authorisation. Please refer to our Electronic Banking Conditions of use and CommBank app Terms and Conditions for details.

This article is intended to provide general information of an educational nature only. It does not have regard to the financial situation or needs of any reader and must not be relied upon as financial product advice. As this information has been prepared without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should, before acting on this, consider the appropriateness to your circumstances.