How to Spend with DeCard Abroad: Fees, ATMs, and Travel Tips

Travelling with a stablecoin card is largely the same experience as using any other card abroad. There are a few things worth knowing upfront though, from how FX fees work to ATM limits and what to sort before you fly.

DeCard's FX Fee for International Spending

Every time you spend in a foreign currency, a foreign exchange (FX) fee applies. With DeCard, this is a flat 1.8% on the transaction amount. No hidden spread, no markup on the exchange rate.

Traditional bank cards typically charge 2–3% in foreign transaction fees, plus a separate FX spread built into the exchange rate. Together, those can reach 3–6% per transaction without you realising it. With DeCard, the 1.8% is the full cost of converting your balance into local currency at the point of sale.

One thing to watch at the payment terminal: when asked whether to pay in your home currency or the local currency, always choose local currency. Paying in your home currency activates Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), which lets the merchant's bank apply their own exchange rate, typically 5–13% worse than the standard rate.

Using Your DeCard at ATMs Abroad

DeCard works at ATMs worldwide. Here's what to know before you withdraw.

ATM fees

Both DeCard and DeCard Luminaries charge a fee of 1% of the withdrawal amount, or US$5, whichever is greater, per withdrawal. ATM operators may also impose their own service charges, which will be displayed at the machine before you confirm your transaction.

To keep costs down, withdraw larger amounts less often. With a minimum fee of US$5 per transaction, fewer withdrawals means lower total fees.

ATM withdrawal limits

Both DeCard and DeCard Luminaries have ATM withdrawal limits in place. DeCard Luminaries comes with higher limits, making it a more suitable option for those who need regular access to cash while travelling. For a full breakdown, visit the FAQ page for DeCard or DeCard Luminaries.

Choosing the right ATM

Bank-operated ATMs generally offer better rates and lower third-party fees than standalone machines in airports, convenience stores, or tourist areas. Where possible, use ATMs attached to established local banks.

Travel Perks with DeCard Luminaries

For frequent travelers, DeCard Luminaries includes benefits that go beyond the card itself.

Airport lounge access

DeCard Luminaries gives you entry to 1,400+ lounges worldwide through Dragonpass, with 2 complimentary visits included. Instead of waiting at the gate, you have a dedicated space to rest, eat, and recharge before your flight.

Complimentary travel insurance

Up to US$1,000,000 is activated automatically whenever your airfare is charged to the card, covering unexpected events so you can travel with peace of mind.

For a full breakdown of what DeCard Luminaries includes for travel, see How DeCard Luminaries Enhances Your Travel Experience.

Before You Fly: A Quick Checklist

Top up in advance

Stablecoin transfers are fast, but load your card before you fly rather than at the airport. Having your balance ready means one less thing to think about on departure day.

Add your card to Apple Pay or Google Pay

Contactless payments are widely accepted globally and reduce the risk of card skimming. Having DeCard on your phone means you're covered even if your physical card stays in your bag.

Carry a backup card

Card acceptance varies by region and some merchants may only accept local payment methods or cash. A second card is a sensible precaution, especially on longer trips.

Use Scan-and-Pay where available

In markets where the feature is live, including Thailand, Hong Kong, Cambodia, Philippines, Laos, and Mongolia, you can pay by scanning a merchant's QR code directly from the DeCard app. Learn how Scan-and-Pay works.

Ready to use DeCard on your next trip? Sign up today.