FairFX Currency Card Suspended

bagand96

Donnakou said:

Flip @eDicky ... I didn't realise Wirecard has all these cards, I did look at Starling Bank, there were a few negatives reviews if I remember, but then nothing is perfect I guess.  I am thinking to change my current account as I have a Santander account which don't really offer much these days, but was going to sort this after my trip. Happy days !

Whilst you say Starling Bank had a few negative reviews, they are at least a proper UK bank, so you get a proper current account and all the regulation and protections that brings with it.

Rather than these currency cards, where you are handing over your cash for them to hold it as e-cash, then they don't issue cards themselves, they use a 3rd party card issuer (Wirecard) and you're stuck in limbo when the whole thing goes wrong.

There's so many better alternatives, I'm surprised these currency cards haven't become totally obsolete. The following are all current accounts which offer fee-free foreign withdrawals and spending:

- Starling Bank (no restrictions)
- Virgin Money (no restrictions, and even 2% interest on the first £1000 in the account)
- Metro Bank (Europe only)
- Monzo (Free in Europe, outside Europe £200 ATM withdrawal limit per month, then 3%)
- Nationwide FlexPlus (packaged bank account / £13 a month)

You don't even need to switch your main banking to them, just open it up and put some money in when needed.  Couple it with a decent travel credit card and you are sorted and never have to faff around with currency cards again.

Donnakou

I have used the ATM in france for the pre paid card and I think I was charged £2.50 each transaction. I have only used the Santander for purchases and was charged a fee if I remember.

Donnakou

Thanks for this, ideal I will check out Starling again. You are right, pre paid cards are rubbish ! Will definitely sort this.