Pre-paid Card for both Canada and USA

Laud

Hi all,

I'm travelling for 21 days to the USA, to Toronto, and then back to the USA. What would be your advice on the best pre-paid card in terms of allowing both USD and CAD Dollars, or the smallest fees, etc? Or should I get a separate one for CAD Dollars?

Thank you!

ferf1223

is there a reason you want a pre-paid card vs the other options?

Laud

ferf1223 wrote: »

is there a reason you want a pre-paid card vs the other options?

Only me thinking it's the safest way!

NiftyDigits

Not safer than a mainstream card, such as the Halifax Clarity.

A global card, such as Kalixa Pay, Caxton Global and Fairfx Anywhere obtained via MoneySupermarket if you are looking at Prepaid cards.

Doshwaster

Laud wrote: »

Only me thinking it's the safest way!

Not really safer than a credit card as any money held on pre-paid debit card is not guaranteed by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme. The chances of the issuer going bust is very small, but it's something to be aware of.

You also need to check the costs of withdrawing any cash left on the card after your trip. With a credit card you only pay for what you spend. Also the problems of using them to pay for hotel and car hire bookings: http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/holidays/article-2710241/Find-holiday-cash-card-frozen-especially-decide-rent-car-whilst-youre-abroad.html

Pre-paid card do have their uses but you have to be aware of their limitations. I take a Caxton Global as a backup card but my main travel plastic is Halifax Clarity.