How to Choose the Best Digital Wallet for International Travel

Traveling abroad requires planning, and choosing the best digital wallet to use when traveling internationally It is essential to save money and ensure practicality.

In 2025, with the accelerated digitalization of finance, digital wallets have become indispensable for travelers. They offer security, competitive rates and flexibility in global transactions.

But with so many options, how do you decide which one is right for you? This guide breaks down key criteria, compares popular services, and provides practical tips to maximize your experience.

Let's explore how to turn your finances into an ally on your adventures around the world!

Imagine landing in Paris, Tokyo or New York, with the freedom to pay for a coffee, book a tour or buy souvenirs without carrying cash.

Digital wallets make this a reality, but choosing the wrong one can be costly. With exchange rates, global acceptance, and varying functionalities, the decision requires careful consideration.

This text is a map to navigate this universe, with updated insights and strategies to optimize your transactions abroad.

Why Use Digital Wallets When Traveling Internationally?

Digital wallets replace physical cash, reducing the risk of loss or theft. They allow contactless payments, instant transfers and currency conversion.

The best wallet appreciate for this. Not carrying cash reduces the impact of IOF (Tax on Financial Transactions), which, in 2025, is 3.5% for cards and exchange.

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Furthermore, digital wallets offer commercial exchange rates, which are more advantageous than tourist rates.

For example, Wise offers rates with a spread of less than 1%, compared to 5-6% for traditional banks. This means real savings on every transaction abroad.

Convenience is another advantage. Link your card to Apple Pay or Google Pay and pay with your phone. In countries like Japan, where Wise cards face problems, this integration is crucial.

Criteria for Choosing the Best Digital Wallet for International Travel

Competitive Rates and Exchange Rates

Conversion rates and spreads are crucial. Nomad, for example, charges 1% in spread, while traditional banks charge 6%. Choose wallets with an exchange rate close to the commercial rate.

Low withdrawal fees also matter. The C6 Global Account offers free withdrawals at Chase ATMs in the US, but charges $$5 at other networks. Compare costs before you decide.

Check for maintenance or issuance fees. Remessa Online, for example, does not charge for issuing the card, which is an advantage.

See more: Tips on How to Return from a Trip with Money in Your Pocket (Yes, It's Possible!)

Multi-Currency Support

Multi-currency wallets like Wise support over 40 currencies, making them ideal for frequent travelers. You can carry euros, dollars, or pounds simultaneously.

Revolut, a newcomer to Brazil, supports 30 currencies and offers automatic conversion, but may have daily transaction limits. Check flexibility for your destination.

For less common destinations, such as Thailand, choose wallets with wide acceptance, such as Nomad, which works in 180 countries with no extra fees.

See too: What to Eat in Each Country: Gastronomy Around the World

Global Acceptance and Compatibility

Card acceptance is crucial. Visa-branded Nomad is accepted in over 50 countries, but Wise cards may fail in Japan.

Integration with wallets like Apple Pay is essential. For example, linking your Nomad card to Google Pay makes it easier to pay at Asian stores.

Consider globally recognized brands. Mastercard and Visa dominate, but Nomad switched from Mastercard to Visa in 2023 for greater reach.

Extra Benefits and Security

Cashback is a differentiator. Nomad offers up to 1% on international purchases, while C6 Bank has the Átomo program, accumulating points.

Security is a priority. Digital wallets use biometrics and encryption. PayPal, for example, offers buyer protection for online transactions.

Some wallets, such as Nomad, guarantee deposits by the FDIC up to US$$250 thousand, similar to the Brazilian FGC, increasing confidence.

Comparing the Top Digital Wallets for Travel

This table, based on data from 2025, shows that Wise leads in supported currencies, but Nomad is ideal for those focused on the US.

Consider your destination. For Europe, C6 Bank is efficient with euros. For the US, Nomad shines with cashback and free withdrawals. Choose based on your travel profile.

The choice depends on the balance between fees, benefits and usability. Revolut, for example, is new in Brazil, but already attracts attention due to its automatic conversion.

Practical Tips to Maximize the Use of Your Digital Wallet

Plan Account Loading

Top up your wallet in advance via PIX to avoid rush fees. Nomad, for example, requires prior unlocking with in-person purchase.

Test the card in Brazil with a small purchase. This avoids problems abroad, where card machines may not accept initial unlocking.

Schedule automatic currency conversions. Nomad lets you set up alerts for favorable rates, ensuring you save money before you travel.

Diversify Your Options

Never rely on a single wallet. Split your funds: 60% in one, 40% in another. This avoids disruptions if one fails.

For example, combine Wise for multicurrency with Nomad for cashback. This way, you have a plan B and enjoy multiple benefits.

Consider credit cards as a backup. Some, like BTG Pactual, offer discounts on IOF, but the spread is higher.

Monitor Fees and Limits

Set limits before you travel. Wise, for example, has low initial limits, but allows you to set them through the app for greater flexibility.

Track exchange rates in real time. Apps like Passporter help you monitor fluctuations and plan conversions at the right time.

Avoid surprises by checking ATM fees at your destination. Some networks charge extra, such as US$$3 at BB Americas.

Safety and Unforeseen Events Care

Think of your digital wallet as a portable safe: convenient but requires protection. Use strong passwords and biometrics to prevent unauthorized access.

In case of loss, block the card immediately through the app. Nomad and PayPal allow this in minutes, ensuring total security.

Keep backups. Write down recovery keys in a safe place. Bitkey, for example, warns about permanent loss without up-to-date backups.

Practical Example: Trip to Europe

Imagine Anna, planning a trip to Paris. She chooses the best digital wallet to use when traveling internationally, the C6 Global Account, for supporting euros.

Ana tops up €2,000 via PIX, with a spread of 0.9%, saving R$$200 compared to traditional banks. She uses the virtual card on Apple Pay to pay for coffees and tickets to the Louvre.

When you need cash, make a free withdrawal at a Cirrus ATM, avoiding extra fees.

Now consider John, who is going to New York. He opts for Nomad, loading US$$1,500 with 1% spread. He earns 1% cash back on purchases in Times Square and uses free withdrawals on the Chase network.

Integration with Google Pay makes it easier to pay in stores. João diversifies, keeping 40% of his balance in Wise as a reserve.

Why Does the Right Choice Make a Difference?

Have you ever stopped to think how much you lose with unnecessary fees?

Choose the best digital wallet to use when traveling internationally It's like choosing the best seat on a flight: comfort and economy go hand in hand.

In 2023, 61% of Brazilians from classes A, B and C used digital wallets, according to IDC, and this number is only growing.

Wise is unbeatable for currency flexibility, but Nomad shines for cashback-rich travel to the US. C6 Bank balances fees and usability in Europe.

A best digital wallet to use when traveling internationally It depends on your destination, travel frequency and financial priorities.

Don’t stick to just one option. Diversify, plan, and monitor rates. This way, your trip will be smoother and your wallet will thank you.

A best digital wallet to use when traveling internationally is the one that aligns with your travel style and maximizes savings.

Conclusion: Travel Financially Smart

Choose the best digital wallet to use when traveling internationally It's more than a financial decision; it's investing in freedom and security.

With options like Wise, Nomad, and C6 Bank, you can reduce costs and simplify transactions. Plan ahead, diversify resources, and use technology to your advantage.

In 2025, traveling well is synonymous with traveling smart. What will be your next adventure with the ideal digital wallet?

The right choice transforms your experience. Combine low fees, benefits like cashback and robust security. Your trip deserves the best digital wallet to use when traveling internationally.

Download the app, test it in Brazil and embark with confidence. The world is waiting, and your finances are ready!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the best digital wallet for short trips?
For short trips, the C6 Global Account is practical, with low fees and support for euros and dollars.

2. Can I use digital wallets in any country?
Most, like Nomad, work in 180+ countries, but check specific acceptance, like Wise's issues in Asia.

3. How to avoid high fees abroad?
Choose wallets with low spreads like Wise (<1%) and plan on withdrawals on free networks like Chase for Nomad.

4. Are digital wallets safe?
Yes, with encryption and biometrics. PayPal and Nomad offer quick blocking in case of loss, ensuring protection.

5. Can I carry multiple currencies in the same wallet?
Yes, wallets like Wise and Revolut support 30-40 currencies, ideal for traveling to multiple destinations.

Juscilene Alves Published on June 11, 2025