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CommBank support / Overseas travel

Overseas travel support

We can help you prepare for your overseas trip and if the unexpected happens while you’re away.

Before you go

Get the latest information on coronavirus and travel  .

Keep up-to-date with the latest travel advice and information from Smart Traveller.

Visit Smartraveller

Let us know you're travelling

Tell where and when you're travelling overseas so we can keep an eye out for any suspicious activity on your accounts and credit cards while you’re away.

Notify us in NetBank

Activate travel insurance

If you're a CommBank Gold, Platinum, Diamond, Smart or Ultimate Awards credit card customer or have a World Debit Mastercard, you're eligible for included international travel insurance.

Activate in NetBank

Sanctioned countries

Some online services like the  app and NetBank may not be available in a sanctioned country. Make sure you're prepared in the event that you're unable to access your accounts online. 

See sanctioned countries

Lost or stolen cards

Debit, key or credit card.

• If you misplace your card, you can  temporarily lock it in NetBank  or the CommBank app
• If your card is lost, stolen or damaged, you can  cancel it in NetBank  or the CommBank app
• We can send a replacement card to you (and your other cardholder), wherever you are in the world, at a cost of $20. Call us 24/7 on +61 2 9999 3283 from overseas.
• When calling from overseas using your mobile, standard roaming charges may apply. To avoid roaming charges, call the international operator in the country you’re in from a land line and provide them our reverse charges number  +61 2 9999 3283 .

Travel Money Card

• If your card’s misplaced, lost or stolen, you can place a temporary lock on it via Netbank. Select your Travel Money Card from the accounts menu to apply your lock.
• If you’ve lost your Travel Money card, or you think it might’ve been stolen, we can have an emergency replacement card sent to you anywhere in the world.
• You may also be eligible for an Emergency Cash Advance, giving you access to cash within 24-48 hours (often on the same day).
• If you’re unable to get online to lock or cancel your card, call  1300 660 700  from Australia, or +61 2 9999 3283 from overseas.

Make a claim, get emergency medical assistance

Make a claim online or call Cover-More, 8am-5pm Mon - Fri and 9am-4pm Sat (Sydney/Melbourne time):

• Within Australia: call Cover-More on 1300 467 951
• From overseas: call Cover-More on +612 8907 5060  (call charges may apply)

In an emergency call Cover-More:

• Within Australia: call Cover-More on 02 8907 5641 (24/7)
• From overseas: call Cover-More on +61 2 8907 5641 (24/7)

Tools and calculators

See the latest money exchange rates and convert currencies with our foreign exchange calculator.

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Foreign exchange rates

Find the latest exchange rates for Foreign Cash, Travel Money Card, Foreign Cheques or International Money Transfers.

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Frequently asked questions 

Money transfers.

• Which details should I provide to receive an international money transfer?
• What are SWIFT and BIC codes?
• What is a BSB number and where do I find the BSB number of a CommBank branch?
• What's an International Bank Account Number?
• Will my Keycard or Debit Mastercard work overseas?
• How do I reload my Travel Money Card?
• What can I do if my Travel Money Card is not working?
• Can I receive NetCode SMS when travelling or living abroad?
• Transaction disputes & fraud

Travel Money Card: Managing multiple currencies

How to load multiple currencies on your Travel Money Card.

Show me how

Online banking while overseas

Travelling internationally? There's a good chance you'll need to do some banking while you're away.

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You Can Now Tell Commonwealth Bank You’re Heading Overseas Online

Telling your bank you’re going to be travelling is a sensible move, since otherwise transactions from overseas are likely to be flagged as suspicious. Too many of them and your card may be suspended altogether, which is a massive nuisance.

You can notify banks of your travel plans by phone or by visiting a branch, but doing it online is much simpler. I suspect it may also be more reliable. I once informed the Commonwealth in person and then still had my transactions flagged anyway.

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4 responses to “You Can Now Tell Commonwealth Bank You’re Heading Overseas Online”

St George (and so presumably Westpac as well) have had this for some time, at least a year I’d guess. I’ve used it on numerous occasions.

It would be even cooler if they then auto converted all your currency to the country advised for free 😉

This isn’t really necessary these days. Whilst I cringe at the mis/over-use of “big data” terminology these days, data mining for fraud detection is one of the things that has benefited most from modern data science and practice. It’s pretty good at determining what is a legit overseas holiday and what is a skimmed card. (Flights+Travel Insurance+Airport transaction+Overseas ATM+Giant spending spree at a Bangkok Mall looks very different to Local ATM+Local ATM+Local Dominos Delivery+Petrol Station in Tuscon, Texas+Giant Shopping spree in Texas)

I lol’ed at this article. I thought all banks had this. I’ve been able to do this on ANZ online since 2009 when I told them I was off to Tokyo.

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CommBank Travel Insurance

Our verdict: commbank travel insurance is a budget-friendly option for younger travellers, but excludes most claims related to covid-19..

In this guide

Summary of CBA Travel Insurance Comprehensive policy

How does commbank travel insurance cover covid-19, what policies does commbank offer, here's a breakdown of commbank travel insurance features, standard features, optional add-ons, how to make a commbank travel insurance claim, here's the bottom line about commbank travel insurance, frequently asked questions, request travel insurance quotes and compare policies.

Destinations

• CBA's travel insurance policies are cheaper than many others in the market, offering a budget-friendly option for travellers.
• With four international options and one domestic, travellers have a range of policies, cover levels and price points to choose from.
• Cover for claims related to COVID-19 are completely excluded, with the exception of overseas medical expenses. This does leave travellers exposed to extra risk.
• There's an age limit on some policies including Essentials and Inbound travel insurance (up to 69yrs old).

Compare other options

Table updated August 2023

CommBank has limited cover for COVID-19. All claims are excluded, with the exception of overseas medical expenses.

You won't be covered for:

• Cancellation or amendment costs if you're diagnosed with COVID-19
• Additional accommodation and travel expenses incurred due to COVID-19
• Mandatory quarantine or isolation expenses imposed by the government9

If you need more comprehensive COVID-19 cover, we've compared all the providers that offer cover for COVID-19 .

CBA offers six different policies - Comprehensive, Essentials, Medical Only, Cancellation Only, Inbound and Domestic.

Only CBA's International Comprehensive & Domestic policies can be purchased for a single trip or multiple trips. All other policies can only be purchased for single trips.

International Comprehensive (Single & Multi-Trip)

International Essentials

International Medical Only

International Cancellation

Domestic (Single & Multi-Trip)

The insurer of this product is Zurich Australian Insurance Limited. It comes with a cooling-off period of 21 days.

These are some of the main insured events that CommBank will cover. Some of these benefits are only available for certain levels of cover (e.g. the comprehensive policy versus the essentials policy).

• Accidental death or disability
• Additional accommodation and transportation expenses
• Amendment or cancellation costs
• Delayed luggage allowance
• Loss of income
• Luggage and personal effects
• Overseas medical expenses
• Theft of money
• Travel delay
• Rental car insurance excess

CommBank also offers optional add-ons that provide cover for a wider range of risks. Generally, these will cost more but they do strengthen your policy.

• Existing medical conditions. Cover that includes your existing medical conditions. You will likely have to take an online medical assessment.
• Adventure activities. Cover for riskier activities, including triathlons, outdoor rock climbing, and skydiving.
• Cruise cover. Extra protection for a range of cruise-specific risks including sea sickness, missed ports, and marine rescue.
• Motorcycle/moped riding. Cover if you're planning to ride a motorcycle or moped either as a driver or pillion. Specific criteria must be met, including having a valid Australian licence, wearing a helmet, and not racing.
• Snow sports. Cover if you're hitting the slopes , specifically for skiing, snowboarding or snowmobiling.
• Increased luggage item limits. If you're travelling with expensive items (PDS), you can increase your luggage cover for that item. You may be asked to provide proof of value.
• Electronic gadgets. Increase the individual limits of a variety of tech items, including laptops, headphones, and cameras, up to a maximum of $5,000.
• Increased rental vehicle excess. Get a higher limit for rental car excess, increasing the $6,000 on a Comprehensive policy by a maximum of $3,500..

Unfortunately, insurance policies don't cover everything. Generally, CommBank will not pay your claim if it relates to:

• Unlawful, wreckless or unreasonably unsafe behaviour by you
• Behaviour while you were drunk or under the influence of drugs
• Non-medical claims related to COVID-19
• An act of war, invasion or revolution
• Insolvency of a travel agent , tour operator or accommodation provider
• Mandatory quarantines or isolations
• You being unfit to travel or travelling against medical advic
• Childbirth or pregnancy complications after the 24th week of gestation or if you have had previous pregnancy complications
• A multiple pregnancy or one where the conception was medically assisted
• An elective medical or dental treatment , cosmetic procedure or body modification (including tattoos or piercing)
• Self-inflicted injury or illness, suicide or attempted suicide

Make sure you review CommBank's PDS for a detailed breakdown of what won't be covered, found under its list of general exclusions .

You can claim online or via post. Start by downloading a claim form then either post it to following address below or follow the steps to submit online.

Commonwealth Bank Travel Insurance C/o Cover-More PO Box 2027 North Sydney NSW 2059 Australia

Alternatively, you can submit a claim online by following these steps:

• Head to https://claims.covermore.com.au/CBA/TravelClaims
• Download the claim form
• Fill in your details, describe the incident and provide expenses
• Email your form along with any supporting evidence to [email protected]. Alternatively you can post it to the address above.
• Once your claim has been received you will get a confirmation email and should hear back within 10 working days., and you should hear back within 10 working days

CommBank offers a decent range of travel insurance policies at a good price point. It has multiple options to tailor cover, so you can create a policy which matches most of your needs, including expensive items, riskier holiday activities, and pre-existing medical conditions.

However, it doesn't offer any cover for cancellations, amendments, or general expenses related to COVID-1, other than medical. Older travellers are also excluded, with an age limit of 69 - significantly lower than many other providers in the market.

How long do I have to make a travel insurance claim?

You have 60 days from your return date to submit your travel insurance claim. If you're still waiting on documentation to support your claim but worried you won't make the deadline, you can start the process and submit the additional documentation later.

Can I take out a policy with CommBank if I'm already overseas?

If you are a non-Australian resident travelling to Australia, you can take out Commbank's Inbound policy while overseas. However, Australian residents can't get travel insurance from CommBank while overseas. For other options, you can read our guide on Travel insurance for Australians already overseas .

What is the phone number for CommBank Travel Insurance?

Cover-More supplies CommBank Travel Insurance. You can contact Cover-More on 1300 467 951 if you're in Australia or +612 8907 5060 if you're outside of Australia.

Use a comma or space to separate ages. Add kids under the age of 1 by typing a “0” 0 traveller(s)

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Nicola Middlemiss

Nicola Middlemiss is a contributing writer at Finder, with a special interest in personal finance and insurance. Formerly a business and finance journalist, Nicola has written thousands of articles helping Australians better understand insurance and grow their personal wealth. She has contributed to a wide range of publications, including Domain, the Educator, Financy, Fundraising and Philanthropy, Insurance Business, MoneyMag, Mortgage Professional, Yahoo Finance, Your Investment Property, and Wealth Professional. Nicola has a Tier 1 General Insurance (General Advice) certification and a Bachelor's degree from the University of Leeds.

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8 Responses

I am 80 and would like to travel to Mauritius. Does the Commonwealth Credit Card or Visa cover me for travelling to Mauritius. I noticed that Westpac age is up to 81 for travel insurance

There are several conditions and restrictions that apply to people aged 80 or over when considering credit card insurance through CommBank. These may include no cover for overseas emergency medical expenses or assistance.

You can find the full details of what you are and are not covered for by reviewing the Product Disclosure Statement on CommBank’s website.

For more travel insurance options, please have a look at our Travel insurance for seniors over 80s page.

Regards, James

Is it possible to add two adult children on insurance included with eligible CBA credit cards?

Thank you for getting in touch with finder.

Yes that is possible. As long as they are unmarried children, from 19 years of age up to and including 21 years of age, who are full-time students attending an accredited institution of higher learning in Australia and who the cardholder has/had sole or shared custody, and who are dependent upon the cardholder for their maintenance and financial support then they can be covered.

I suggest that you also check Commbank credit card travel insurance PDS or contact Commbank directly on this matter.

I hope this helps.

Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any other enquiries.

Thank you and have a wonderful day!

Cheers, Jeni

My husband has type 2 Diabetes. How do I get cover for him?

Hello Silvana,

Please feel free to read through our travel insurance for diabetics guide and learn more about how you can get the right policy for you. While looking for insurers, please make sure you read the terms and conditions of the policy to learn more and know if it is the right policy for you or not.

Hope this helps.

Cheers, Jonathan

I have a gold credit card and are entitled to travel insurance for an overseas trip.Going to Canada and Alaska in June this year: is a 8day cruise included in the insurance? Thanks for your prompt replay. Ursula

Thanks for your question.

Yes, the complimentary travel insurance covers cruising. But if you want to include the benefits provided in the Cruise Pack (which is detailed in the PDS I sent to your email), you will need to upgrade your policy, this is in addition, to cover provided in the Base International Travel Insurance and Activated Policy for cruising. Please contact Allianz Australia Insurance to upgrade.

Cheers, May

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6 low-fee debit cards to use overseas

Debit cards from anz, westpac, nab and commbank charge travellers high fees..

Fact-checked

Checked for accuracy by our qualified fact-checkers and verifiers. Find out more about fact-checking at CHOICE .

Need to know

• Fee-free debit cards are a good choice for overseas purchases and travel
• Watch out for overseas ATM fees and currency conversion fees before using your debit card
• Westpac, ANZ, CommBank and NAB also have debit cards you can use overseas or online, but they charge high fees

What could be easier than using your bank card when travelling overseas? Many everyday debit cards are now on the Visa or Mastercard network, which means they're accepted at multiple retailers and ATMs in most countries. 

If you have a low-fee debit card that doesn't charge a currency conversion fee, the exchange rate you get is set by Visa or Mastercard and is usually better than the high exchange rate margins set by travel money cards . 

But use your standard debit card (especially if it's from the Commonwealth Bank, ANZ, Westpac or NAB) and you could be in for some high fees and exchange rate margins.

On this page:

Should you use your regular debit card overseas?

Low-fee travel debit cards, debit cards from anz, commbank, nab and westpac, foreign currency accounts.

While it may be convenient to just use your normal debit card from one of the major banks for online shopping and travel, you can be up for high fees, including:

• fees from your bank for using overseas ATMs
• ATM fees from an international bank
• currency conversion fees.

There are now a handful of fee-free debit card accounts with no account keeping fees. Therefore you could open one just for travel and online shopping purposes, so you don't have to switch your everyday transaction account if you don't want to. 

CHOICE tip: When withdrawing cash from an overseas ATM using your debit card, always check the screen before making the transaction to see what fees you're in for. Also be aware that your bank may also charge you a fee if you just check your balance without making a withdrawal.

If you have a debit card with high fees and you don't want to open a new bank account just for travel, it's a good idea to use a low-fee travel credit card that you can use for overseas travel purchases and online shopping to avoid currency conversion fees.

The debit cards on these accounts are a good option to use when getting money from overseas ATMs, making purchases overseas such as hotel bookings, or for international online purchases. They have:

• no monthly account fee 
• no fee for the debit card and debit card purchases 
• no foreign exchange fee 
• no fee for getting money from an overseas ATM (the operator of the foreign ATM may charge you a fee though). 

Here are six low-fee travel debit card accounts:

• Bankwest Easy (Platinum)
• Macquarie (Platinum) 
• Suncorp Carbon Insights
• Suncorp Everyday Options
• Ubank Spend 
• Up Everyday.

The major banks have some accounts that don't charge account keeping fees or waive them if you make a monthly deposit of a few thousand dollars (such as your salary). But they're not a good option for using overseas or for international purchases as they charge overseas ATM fees and exchange rate fees.

• No monthly account fee.
• Free at overseas ANZ ATMs ($5 at other banks' ATMs). 
• 3% foreign exchange fee applies to all transactions, including purchase and ATM withdrawals in a foreign currency.

ANZ Access Advantage

• $5 monthly account fee (can be waived if you deposit at least $2000 a month, for example).
• 3% foreign exchange fee applies to all transactions, including purchases and ATM withdrawals in a foreign currency.

CommBank Everyday Account Smart Access

• $4 monthly account fee (can be waived if you deposit at least $2000 a month, for example).
• $2 at overseas CommBank and ASB Bank ATMs ($5 plus 3% of transaction at other banks' ATMs).
• 3% foreign exchange fee applies to all other transactions, including purchases in a foreign currency.

NAB Classic Banking Account with Visa Debit Card

• $5 at overseas ATMs. 

Westpac Choice

• Free at overseas Westpac Global ATM Alliance ATMs ($5 at other banks' ATMs).
• If you or the merchant or financial institution are located overseas, a 3% foreign exchange fee applies to all transactions, including purchases and ATM withdrawals.
• If you're shopping online with a merchant or financial institution located in Australia but they're charging you in a foreign currency, a 2.2% foreign currency exchange fee applies.  

These accounts allow you to buy, hold and spend money in a range of foreign currencies and have no monthly account fee.

They're a good alternative to travel money cards and can also be useful if you frequently transfer money to family and friends overseas or earn money in another currency.

HSBC Everyday Global Account

While not a traditional foreign currency account, this account allows you to hold ten currencies in the one account.

Currencies: AUD, USD, GBP, EUR, HKD, CAD, JPY, NZD, SGD, CNY (currency restrictions apply to CNY).

• $0 at overseas HSBC ATMs. Non-HSBC branded ATMs and HSBC Group ATMs in Argentina, France, Greece, Malta, Mexico and Turkey may charge an ATM operator fee for withdrawals or balance enquiries at their ATMs.

Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Wise allows you to hold money in 40 currencies in your account.

• Two international ATM withdrawals of up to $350 in total fee-free every 30 days. After that, a fee of 1.75% of the amount and $1.50 per additional withdrawal applies.
• $10 debit card fee for your first Visa or Mastercard.
• Foreign exchange fees start at 0.43% depending on the currency.

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Commonwealth Travel Card Review – [2023]

The Commonwealth Travel Money Card is a prepaid Visa debit card you can top up in 13 different currencies, for global spending and ATM withdrawals. That can be handy for managing your budget when you’re overseas, as you can lock in exchange rates in advance so you know exactly what you have to spend.

This guide covers the Commonwealth travel card in detail, including how the card works and the fees that you’ll pay to use it. We’ll also touch on a couple of Commonwealth travel card alternatives from Wise and Revolut , which support more currencies and may come with lower fees.

Commonwealth travel card: key features

The Commonwealth Travel Money Card has a good selection of supported currencies, and is globally accepted wherever you see the Visa logo. However, there are currency conversion fees to pay when you use the card to spend unsupported currencies, or when you don’t have enough balance to cover the cost of your purchase in a particular currency. Plus, you’ll pay an ATM fee at home and abroad.

This guide walks through the Commonwealth Travel Money Card in detail – to kick off, here’s a quick look at the key pros and cons of using the card on your travels.

Travel money cards can be handy when you’re away. They let you convert funds to the currency you need in advance, so you know your budget before you leave – plus, they’re not linked to your normal bank account which can increase security and offer peace of mind when you travel. However, the features and fees you find in travel money cards from different banks and providers can vary pretty widely. Shopping around is essential to make sure you get the best deal for your specific needs – this guide should tell you all you’ll need to know to help you pick.

Who is the Commonwealth travel card for?

The Commonwealth travel card supports 13 currencies including those used in popular holiday destinations like Thailand, Japan, Vietnam and New Zealand, plus major global currencies like US dollars, euros and British pounds. That can mean it’s a handy card to have for people travelling for business or pleasure, or for anyone shopping online with overseas retailers.

What is the Commonwealth travel card?

The Commonwealth Travel Money Card is a Visa debit card you can load in advance in AUD or any of the other supported currencies, for international spending and withdrawals. You can use your Commonwealth travel card when you travel, and also for online shopping in foreign currencies.

Is the Commonwealth Travel Money Card a multi-currency card?

Yes. You can add AUD to your Commonwealth card, and convert to any of the following supported foreign currencies:

• United States dollars (USD)
• Euros (EUR)
• Great British pounds (GBP)
• Japanese yen (JPY)
• New Zealand dollars (NZD)
• Hong Kong dollars (HKD)
• Canadian dollars (CAD)
• Singapore dollars (SGD)
• Thai baht (THB)
• Vietnamese dong (VND)
• Chinese renminbi (CNY)
• Emirati dirham (AED)

There is a fee – in the form of an exchange rate markup – added when you switch to the currency you need from AUD. However, it’s then usually free to spend the currencies you hold in your account.

If you’re looking for different currencies – or you’re planning on travelling more widely – you can also consider a travel card from a specialist service like Wise or Revolut. Wise supports 50+ currencies, while Revolut covers 25+ – more on that, including some other important features of Wise and Revolut, next.

Alternatives to Commonwealth travel card

The Commonwealth travel card has some handy features, but there are also some fees you’ll need to think about before you order one. One important cost is rolled into the price of switching from one currency to another. There’s a markup added to the exchange rate used when you initially switch from AUD to the currency you need, and if you use your card to spend an unsupported currency, or if you run low on the currency you need while you’re away, extra fees of 3% kick in too.

To weigh up whether the Commonwealth card is best for you, take a look at our comparison against alternative providers Wise and Revolut:

Information taken from CommBank Travel Money Card desktop site and Fees , Wise pricing page , Revolut international transfer fees and Revolut Australia ; correct at time of writing, 24th May 2023

As you can see, Wise and Revolut both support a broader selection of currencies compared to the Commbank card, which can be helpful if you’re travelling more widely. Plus, you may find you get lower overall currency conversion costs with a specialist service. Revolut has some fee free currency conversion which uses the mid-market rate for all account holders – even if you’re using a standard account plan with no monthly fees. And Wise has mid-market rates for all currency exchange, with low fees based on the currencies you need, starting at 0.41%.

There’s a quick introduction to Wise and Revolut next, to help you decide if either may suit your needs.

Read a full Wise review here

Wise accounts can hold and exchange 50+ currencies, and come with an optional linked Wise card to spend with the mid-market rate and low fees from 0.41%, in 170+ countries. You can apply, and manage your account, from your smartphone, and get extra perks like fast payments to 70+ countries, and local bank details for 9 currencies, to get paid easily from 30+ countries.

Get a Wise travel card

Revolut accounts come with linked debit cards, and can hold 25+ currencies. You can either get a standard plan which has no monthly fees, or pay a monthly charge to access extra features and perks. Revolut currency exchange uses the mid-market exchange rate to plan limits, with fair usage fees after that. Out of hours fees may also apply if you switch currencies when the global markets are shut.

Go to Revolut

Commonwealth travel card fees & spending limits

Let’s take a look at the fees and limits that apply to the Commbank travel card. First, here are some important limits to know in advance:

And what about the charges involved with using a Commonwealth Bank Travel Money Card? Here’s a rundown of the key costs:

Information correct at time of writing – 24th May 2023

Exchange rates

When you top up your card in AUD and convert to a foreign currency for overseas spending, the Commbank retail exchange rate applies. This rate can be found online, but it’s handy to know it won’t be the same as the mid-market rate you find using a Google search or currency conversion tool, as it includes a margin – which is a fee. The margin used by Commonwealth Bank can vary depending on the currencies in question, so you’ll need to take a look on their website to see the rate for your currency pair, and then compare it back to the rate you get from a conversion tool, to spot the margin that’s been added.

If you’re spending a currency you don’t hold in your account, the exchange rate applied is set by Visa, and there’s then an extra 3% fee to pay. That doesn’t sound like a lot, but it can mount up quickly if you’re travelling for a while.

As an alternative, you might want to check out prepaid international debit cards which offer the mid-market exchange rate – like those from Wise and Revolut.

How to get Commonwealth travel card

You can order a Commonwealth Travel Money Card if you fulfil the eligibility criteria:

• You must be at least 14 years old
• You must be a Commonwealth Bank customer, registered to use NetBank
• You’ll need an Australian residential address

Assuming you fit these criteria you can order in a Commonwealth Bank branch, or online. Once you have your card in your hands, you then need to activate it in NetBank or the Commbank app. You can also set a PIN for security.

What documents you’ll need

To open a Commonwealth Travel Money Card account you’ll need to be registered with NetBank. That means you’ll also need a valid Commbank account and card to get started. If you already have a Commonwealth Bank account you can open your travel card account with no new documents – just log into NetBank or visit a branch to get started.

If you don’t have a Commbank account yet, the process is a bit more involved as you’ll have to first select and open a bank account. This normally means you also need to provide proof of ID and address, which you can upload online or show in a branch.

What happens when the card expires?

The Commonwealth Travel money Card is valid for 4 years. Once it expires it’s not automatically replaced with a new card. You’ll need to request a new card in NetBank. If you don’t do this within 3 months of the card expiry date, you’ll lose access to your account – so make sure you open a new card in time, or remove any remaining funds from the account to avoid extra hassle.

How to use a Commonwealth travel card?

The Commonwealth travel card is a Visa debit card you can use online and in person for spending and withdrawals. You can also send money from the card account to other Commbank cards and accounts, although fees may apply for this service if you’re switching currencies as part of the transfer.

How to withdraw cash with a Commonwealth travel card?

Once you have funds on your Commbank card you can make withdrawals around the world, just as you would with your regular debit card. There’s a Commonwealth ATM limit of 2,500 AUD per day – although most ATMs have their own limits which are likely to be lower than this. You’ll also pay a fee of 3.5 AUD or the currency equivalent when you make a cash withdrawal, plus any applicable currency conversion fee if you’re withdrawing in a currency you don’t hold in your account.

Is the card safe?

Yes. Commonwealth Bank is a trusted and regulated bank, making it a safe provider to use. Plus, using a prepaid travel card when you’re abroad can be safer than using your normal card. As it’s not linked to your main day to day account, even if you’re unlucky enough to have your travel card stolen, thieves don’t have access to your primary account balance.

How to use the Commonwealth travel card overseas?

The Commbank travel card is issued on the Visa network, which means you can use it in millions of ATMs and with merchants worldwide. If you’ve got a balance in the currency you need, there’s no extra fee for paying at a merchant abroad. However, it’s useful to know that a 3% fee applies if you spend in a currency you don’t hold in your account, or if the balance you have in that currency isn’t enough to cover the purchase. This can push up costs significantly, so it’s worth keeping an eye on your balance in the Commbank app, so you don’t run low without realising.

Conclusion: is the Commonwealth travel card worth it?

The Commonwealth Travel Money Card is a helpful card for travel to any of the countries and regions covered by the 13 supported currencies. Using a prepaid card can help you set your travel budget in advance as you’ve locked in exchange rates before you leave. However, the Commbank card isn’t free to use. There’s a fee to switch currencies – either a 3% conversion cost for direct spending, or a margin added to the exchange rate when you convert within your account. Plus, there’s a 3.5 AUD fee for ATM withdrawals overseas.

Compare the costs and flexibility of the Commbank travel card against alternatives like the international debit cards from Wise and Revolut. Both offer a broader selection of currencies, and use the mid-market exchange rate to switch over your funds from AUD to the currency you need. This can cut the costs overall, and it’s more transparent as you can easily see all the fees involved in currency exchange.

Commonwealth travel card review FAQ

How does the Commonwealth travel card work?

The Commonwealth Travel Money Card is a prepaid international Visa card you can use for spending and withdrawals around the world. You’ll need to add money in AUD and can then convert to any of the 13 supported currencies within NetBank.

Is the Commonwealth travel card an international card?

Yes. The Commonwealth Travel Money Card can hold 13 different currencies, and as it’s issued on the Visa network you can use it more or less anywhere in the world. There’s a 3% fee to spend currencies you don’t hold in your account though – so if your currency isn’t supported by the Commbank card you might be better off with an alternative like the multi-currency cards from Wise and Revolut.

Are there any alternatives to the Commonwealth travel card?

Commonwealth Travel Money Card alternatives are available from banks and specialist digital providers. Compare the options from Wise and revolut as an example – both offer dozens of supported currencies, with low, transparent fees and great global acceptance.

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Moscow extends a warm welcome to Indian travellers with enhanced infrastructure and hidden gems

Russia actively promoting moscow as a tourist destination for indian travellers, improving infrastructure and visa process..

Russia is making an active bid to attract Indian travellers to visit Moscow -- a huge megalopolis and the historical, political and spiritual heart of the Russian Federation. The Moscow City Tourism Committee is promoting the city not only as a cultural capital but also as a business hub as it plans to onboard trade partners, tourists and vacationers. Moscow has also strengthened cooperation with the tourism sectors of allied nations, hosting familiarization tours for delegates and arranging business trips to showcase the city's tourism potential.

To accommodate visitors, Moscow is improving its infrastructure: signs are now available in English and Chinese, all announcements on public transport are repeated in English, and hotels are also adapting to cater to the needs of guests from various countries and ensure a comfortable stay. "We are still on our way to restore the flow of Indian tourists in Moscow like it used to be before the pandemic," said Bulat Nurmukhanov, Head of International Cooperation Division of Moscow City Tourism Committee.

Bulat further said that before the pandemic, there was a steady growth of 12-15 per cent on a year-on-year basis. In the first half of the year, Moscow received about 20,000 Indians, compared to the same period a year ago, it is about 56 per cent higher. In a bid to make Moscow a must-visit destination, the committee is actively working on improving the infrastructure for international travellers. Moscow is spearheading the development of innovative standards in catering to the needs of foreign travellers.

Tourists arriving in the capital can stay in hotels of various price segments. They can savour traditional Russian cuisine, and can also indulge in a diverse culinary experience, with options ranging from authentic Indian delicacies to continental dishes prepared to the highest standards. In 2022, the number of foreign tourists who visited Moscow increased by 6.3 per cent compared to 2021, reaching a total of 1.7 million.

Travelling to Moscow has now become easier as tourists from India and 54 other countries can apply for an electronic visa to enter Russia from August 1, 2023. The impact of e-visa rollout would be available by October this year after the quarterly data from the Russian border control agencies is analysed, Bulat said.

Moreover, the Russian government is planning to come out with a virtual 'Foreign Tourist Card' that will enable cashless payments for various services. "The idea behind this card is, a person back home in India can remotely apply for this card and then he/she can transfer money from the personal bank account to this bank account," Bulat added.

Meanwhile, sources in the Indian Embassy in Moscow told reporters that the Indian tourism ministry as well as the governments of Goa and Kerala are slated to participate in roundtable discussions this month. There are also plans to engage social media influencers to improve the inward traffic to India. Before the pandemic, around 3 lakh Russian tourists visited India annually. The numbers are down to around 80,000-90,000 of late.

To facilitate easy visitor movement across the city, there is "Discover Moscow" -- a navigation and travel web portal about Moscow and "RUSSPASS travel service" -- a digital platform designed for planning trips across Russia. The Discover Moscow portal features descriptions of over 1,200 architectural landmarks in Moscow. The site provides news, digests with festival and event information and curated lists of exhibition venues.

By availing the RUSSPASS travel service, tourists can access all essential information for a trip to Moscow on the site, including visa and currency matters, accommodation and transportation options in the capital. The site also offers a trip builder feature, allowing tourists to select pre-designed city routes or create their own itinerary from their favourite locations. There are versions of the site in Russian, English, Spanish and Arabic.

On the cultural scene, Moscow boasts 10,000 cultural venues including theaters, museums, libraries, parks, cinemas, concert halls, and more. In the last decade, around 900 parks and green spaces have been renovated.

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• Tourist Spot
• Tourist Destination

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Can I Keep My Bank Account if I Move Abroad?

• BY GlobalBanks Team
• Updated Nov 22, 2023

If you’re planning to relocate, you’re probably wondering, “Can I keep my bank account if I move abroad?”

The answer to this depends on several factors. First of all, is the move temporary or long-term?

Next, where are you moving to? Do you plan on returning? Do you need to notify your bank of the move? Does your current bank have regulations on using your account internationally?

As you can see, this is a complex question to answer.

But, with the right information, you’ll be able to answer this question with confidence.

Read on for everything you need to know to determine whether or not it’s the right move to keep your bank account when you move abroad.

Note: if you choose to open a bank account while living abroad, you will need to understand the process of how to open a bank account as a non-resident.

Feel free to use the table of contents to jump ahead to the sections most relevant to you.

Table of Contents

Can I Keep My Bank Account if I Move Overseas?

What are the benefits of keeping your bank account when living abroad, what are the challenges of keeping accounts when moving abroad.

• Should I Keep My Account if I Move Abroad?
• Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Want Help Opening Bank Accounts?

It is possible to keep your bank account if you move abroad. However, you may face restrictions and higher fees when using your account internationally. Read on for what you need to be aware of and the best banking strategy for those who are moving abroad. 

Do You Want to Explore All Your Offshore Banking Options?

There are many benefits to keeping your bank account when moving abroad.

Unfortunately, some banks may not allow you to keep your account active while living in a different country. In fact, there could be the risk of experiencing a blocked account due to a lack of transactions.

With that in mind, when you move abroad you may be better served by opening an account elsewhere.

We cover this in more detail below. But for now, let’s look at the benefits of keeping your bank account when moving abroad. That way you can make an informed decision on whether or not it’s the right decision for you.

Benefits of Keeping Your Bank Account When Moving Abroad

• Enables you to manage any financial obligations in your home country
• Reduces the difficulty of re-opening an account if you’re to return from abroad
• Makes it easier to send money to family in your home country
• Keeps your credit history active
• Reduces transaction fees when paying bills in your home country
• Provides diversification away from local-country currencies and economies

As you can see, keeping your bank account when moving abroad can make sense. And, can be beneficial, especially if you’re only moving temporarily.

If you’re receiving income, have a family to support, or intend to keep assets (such as property) in your home country, keeping your bank account when you move abroad can be very useful.

In addition, you avoid hurting your credit score and facing the difficult process of re-opening a bank account if you return to your home country.

However, there are some cases where keeping your bank account when you move abroad isn’t a good idea. Here are some of the potential issues you can run into if you decide to keep your bank account while living abroad.

Managing your bank account from abroad can often be very frustrating. This is especially true if you’re unaware of the restrictions your bank has on your account.

Generally, this information is not publicly known. In fact, often only people on the inside are aware of the specific bank account regulations that need to be followed.

With that in mind, here are three potential issues you may face if you choose to keep your bank account when moving abroad.

Potential Issues of Keeping Your Account When Moving Abroad

• Bank does not support non-residents
• Account access restrictions
• Higher fees

There may not be many issues on the list, but they can be a huge headache if you don’t properly know how to navigate them.

So, with that in mind, let’s look at each of these issues in further detail…

Not All Banks Support Non-Residents

If you choose to keep your account when you move abroad but change your address to a different country, you’ll likely run into a few issues. This is because not all banks support non-resident clients.

If your particular bank does not accept non-residents and notices a foreign address they will freeze your account. Or worse, close the account completely. Usually without any advance notice.

Note that some banking software will not even give you an option to put an international address on file.

In both situations, you may need to use the address of a friend or family member who you trust to receive your bank correspondence to maintain the account.

Account Access Restrictions

Certain banks may restrict access to your account based on the location that you are accessing your account from.

For instance, if you move to Asia from the US and try to access the account while you’re abroad, the bank may note a foreign IP address and decide to freeze your bank account for security purposes. With some banks, a physical visit will then be required to unfreeze your account.

You can just imagine how much of a headache that would be.

So, to avoid this from happening to you when moving abroad, it’s important to understand your bank’s regulations on accessing accounts from abroad.

Higher Fees May Apply

Most domestic bank accounts are not properly equipped to support international lifestyles.

In fact, they frequently charge significantly higher foreign transaction fees and foreign currency fees when used abroad.

So, when you ask yourself “can I keep my bank account if I move abroad?” it’s important to first verify with your bank whether or not your account is a good choice to support your lifestyle abroad.

Taking the time to contact your bank and ask them about these items, can save you hundreds of dollars in unnecessary fees and help you avoid the possibility of a frozen bank account.

Bottom line: Yes, you can keep your bank account if you move abroad. But, you need to check first with your bank to make sure that you aren’t blindsided by account restrictions or unexpected fees when you do.

That said, relying on your home bank account may not be the best option when living abroad. Here’s what you should do instead.

Should I Keep My Account When I Move Abroad?

While it may be a good idea to keep your bank account when you move abroad for any financial obligations you might have back home, it’s highly advisable to also open a new account abroad.

You can generally do this with traditional banks in the new country that you’re residing in, but another option is to open an international bank account that caters specifically to expats, non-residents, and foreign businesses that will support your banking needs while living abroad.

Of course, the best solution for you will depend on where you currently live and where you’re moving to.

But, generally speaking, the following banking jurisdictions are excellent options to open accounts with no matter where you go.

Isle of Man

The Isle of Man is a popular banking destination for many foreign non-residents, expats, and digital nomads.

In fact, the country has a robust banking system specifically focused on catering to foreign non-residents that are looking for a stable banking jurisdiction while living outside of their home country.

Best of all, you don’t have to step foot in the country to open an account. This is because most banks in the Isle of Man offer remote account opening to non-resident individuals.

If you’re interested in learning more about opening a non-resident bank account in the Isle of Man, we’ve got you covered.

Our premium members-only report “ Banking in the Isle of Man: Expat Banking Goes Mainstream ” covers everything you need to know on how to choose the best bank that’s right for you.

You can access this report immediately when you join GlobalBanks IQ.

Similar to the Isle of Man, Jersey is highly populated with non-resident banking clients. In fact, banks here offer specific services designed to support non-resident banking. Including non-residents looking to open accounts while living abroad.

Of course, like banking anywhere, you’ll still need to overcome a strict onboarding process in order to open an account.

With that said, opening an account here can offer many benefits to the right non-resident client.

To find out more about how to open a bank account in Jersey and which client profiles can benefit from banking here, check out our free article: Jersey Bank Account Opening [Start Here] .

Another excellent alternative banking option is Singapore.

Singapore is known for being one of the best banking jurisdictions in the world, thanks to its stable, well-managed, and conservative banking system.

With that in mind, being one of the best means strict account opening requirements . And, for many non-residents, if you don’t know which bank, branch, or banker to open with directly, you may find it impossible to open an account in the country.

But, if you do know where to go, Singapore is a great option for non-residents to open bank accounts when living abroad. You do not need to have any ties to the country in order to open an account and you’ll get access to a number of top-notch banking benefits and services.

We detail the entire account opening process for foreign non-residents, including why you should consider opening here, the benefits you can unlock, and how to get started in our premium members-only report “ Banking in Singapore: Global Banking at Its Best (and How to Get In) ”.

Next is Panama, which is a great banking option for non-residents looking to open an international bank account when living abroad.

In fact, for many foreign non-residents, Panama is one of the most attractive banking hubs out there given that the country uses the US dollar, has a stable economy, and has smaller deposit requirements.

Another great perk is that bank accounts here can be opened 100% remotely . If you know which banks to approach.

But, like banking anywhere, opening an account in Panama can be difficult. Not to mention, time-consuming and frustrating due to language barriers and inexperienced customer service.

That said, most account opening challenges can often be completely avoided by knowing which bank to contact directly.

So, if you’re interested in learning more about how you can open a non-resident bank account in Panama when you move abroad, look no further.

We outline everything you need to know, including which Panamian banks accept foreign non-residents, how to apply for accounts remotely, and which banks are best suited to different client types, in our premium members-only report “ Panama Offshore Banking: Ultimate Guide to Account Opening ”.

Frequently Asked Banking Questions

Below are three of the most common questions we receive from people exploring if they can keep their bank account if they move abroad. If you have further questions you would like answered, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly.

Should I Close My Bank Account if I Am Moving Abroad?

Whether or not you should close your bank account if you are moving abroad will depend on if you are moving abroad permanently or temporarily. But also, it will depend on the bank you have the account with and whether or not the bank will allow you to hold the account while living abroad.

What Happens to My Bank Account if I Move to Another Country?

If you are moving to another country, it’s important to understand the regulations and restrictions the bank may have on your account. These restrictions can impact whether or not you should close or keep open your bank account.

Do You Need to Tell Your Bank if You Are Moving Abroad?

Yes, you should tell your bank if you are moving abroad because you may not be aware of the banking restrictions your account has. In other words, you might end up being charged outrageous banking fees when using your account internationally. Or worse, the bank may freeze (or close) your account due to suspicious activity they were not warned about.

If so, you can get access to GlobalBanks IQ in just a few clicks.

GlobalBanks IQ is our flagship international account opening solution. It gives you instant access to the…

+ Expert insights on which banks to choose & why

+ Step-by-step reports to open accounts in the best banking hubs

+ GlobalBanks international bank database & detailed bank profiles

+ Tried & tested banks for high-risk, offshore, & non-resident clients

+ Plus, get YOUR most pressing account opening questions answered by our team!

And “yes!” GlobalBanks IQ helps foreigners and non-resident individuals open a bank account.

In fact, GlobalBanks IQ even helps non-resident, foreign & offshore entities open a bank account.

To learn more about opening accounts with GlobalBanks IQ , just click here now. Or, contact us directly with any questions!

GlobalBanks Team

The GlobalBanks editorial team comprises a group of subject-matter experts from across the banking world, including former bankers, analysts, investors, and entrepreneurs. All have in-depth knowledge and experience in various aspects of international banking. In particular, they have expertise in banking for foreigners, non-residents, and both foreign and offshore companies.

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The journalists on the editorial team at Forbes Advisor Australia base their research and opinions on objective, independent information-gathering.

When covering investment and personal finance stories, we aim to inform our readers rather than recommend specific financial product or asset classes. While we may highlight certain positives of a financial product or asset class, there is no guarantee that readers will benefit from the product or investment approach and may, in fact, make a loss if they acquire the product or adopt the approach.

To the extent any recommendations or statements of opinion or fact made in a story may constitute financial advice, they constitute general information and not personal financial advice in any form. As such, any recommendations or statements do not take into account the financial circumstances, investment objectives, tax implications, or any specific requirements of readers.

Readers of our stories should not act on any recommendation without first taking appropriate steps to verify the information in the stories consulting their independent financial adviser in order to ascertain whether the recommendation (if any) is appropriate, having regard to their investment objectives, financial situation and particular needs. Providing access to our stories should not be construed as investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or product, or to engage in or refrain from engaging in any transaction by Forbes Advisor Australia. In comparing various financial products and services, we are unable to compare every provider in the market so our rankings do not constitute a comprehensive review of a particular sector. While we do go to great lengths to ensure our ranking criteria matches the concerns of consumers, we cannot guarantee that every relevant feature of a financial product will be reviewed. We make every effort to provide accurate and up-to-date information. However, Forbes Advisor Australia cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of this website. Forbes Advisor Australia accepts no responsibility to update any person regarding any inaccuracy, omission or change in information in our stories or any other information made available to a person, nor any obligation to furnish the person with any further information.

Travel Insurance For Canada: What You Need To Know Before You Go

Updated: Apr 30, 2024, 1:13pm

Table of Contents

Do you need travel insurance for canada, what type of travel insurance do you need, what does travel insurance for canada cover, what does travel insurance exclude, best travel insurance for canada, frequently asked questions (faqs).

From hiking trails in Ontario to traversing the slopes of the famous ski resort town of Whistler, there is no shortage of places to visit in Canada.

The vast North American country is a popular destination for travel-loving Aussies. In addition to a growing share of business travelers, more than 350,000 Australian tourists typically visit Canada each year.

While visitor numbers faded during the Covid-19 pandemic, the multitude of Australians heading to the Great White North has picked up in the last two years, particularly to experience the country’s stunning landscape.

Fast Cover Travel Insurance

On Fast Cover’s Secure Website

Medical cover

Unlimited, 24/7 Emergency Assistance

Cancellations

Unlimited, (Trip Disruption $50,000)

Key Features

25-Day Cooling Off Period, Australian Based Call Centre, 4.6 Star Product Review Rating

Cover-More Travel Insurance

On Cover-more’s secure website

Unlimited, with a $2000 limit to dental

Yes, amount chosen by customer

Southern Cross Travel Insurance

Medical Cover

Including medical treatment, doctors’ visits, prescribed medication, specialist treatment & medical transport costs

$2,500 with option to increase to unlimited

Travel insurance for Canada isn’t compulsory, but it’s highly recommended to cover for any lost or stolen baggage, the possibility of your trip getting cancelled due to an emergency, illness such as Covid-19 or bereavement, and to cover medical expenses.

The Australian Government’s Smartraveller website recommends that travellers purchase travel insurance before any overseas trip.

As in any foreign country, medical care in Canada can be expensive for visitors, with a visit to a doctor potentially setting you back by hundreds of dollars.

The Australian government won’t cover these costs, and there is no reciprocal healthcare agreement between Australia and Canada, so you aren’t covered by Australian Medicare either.

In addition, given the large geography of the country covering a variety of destinations from beaches to mountains to national parks, it is wise to hold insurance cover for a multitude of events and a variety of potential risks including natural disasters, crime or other types of emergencies.

International travel cover for Canada is generally available in the following ways:

Basic travel insurance

This type of policy is broadly focused on cover for unlimited overseas emergency medical expenses, but also includes insurance for luggage, personal liability and other essential benefits. It is usually the cheapest option available and is suitable for those traveling on a budget or for single trips.

Comprehensive travel insurance

This type of insurance typically includes higher amounts of cover for the essentials benefits such as medical expenses, luggage, personal liability, and so on. In addition, it includes cover for travel delays, rental vehicle excess, loss of passports and credit cards, hijacking, disability, accidental death, and more, depending on your policy.

Some insurers offer variations of the comprehensive policy that are suitable for multiple trips within a 12-month period.

Optional add-on policies

Given the growing number of Australians heading to Canada for cruises, road trips or to the ski slopes, some insurers have come up with add-on policies specifically tailored for a variety of adventure sports and transport options available. These include cruise packs, winter sports packs and even higher cover for rental vehicles.

Related: How Much Does Travel Insurance Cost?

Most international travel insurance policies will cover medical and hospital expenses, ambulance transportation, repatriation flights, as well as personal liability if you injure someone, or damage property while you’re in the country.

Policies will also cover, within limits, lost or delayed luggage and possessions, the costs of trip delays, interruptions or cancellations, and lost or stolen travel documents.

Comprehensive policies usually offer a broader cover to include personal accident cover in case of an injury during your trip that leads to permanent disability or death, and insurance excess payment if your rental car meets with an accident.

If you are planning to take advantage of Canada’s vast offering of adventure sports and activities, make sure these are covered by your policy—or that there is an option to add it on.

Most comprehensive policies will include popular sporting and leisure activities such as hiking, surfing, kayaking, and so on. However, more extreme activities such as skydiving, scuba diving, snow skiing or snowboarding will generally require an additional adventure sports cover at extra cost.

Most travel insurance policies to Canada will not provide cover in the following cases:

• Illegal activities: Insurers will reject any claims arising if you knowingly act illegally or dangerously.
• If you are under the influence: Insurance cover is specifically void if you cause a disturbance through drunken behaviour or under the influence of drugs.
• Unattended luggage: Insurers will ignore any claim for loss if your luggage is stolen while it was left unattended in public.
• Pre-existing medical conditions: Insurers can avoid claims for any major medical conditions, if they have not been made aware of these before taking out a policy.
• Extreme sports: International travel insurance policies generally don’t provide automatic coverage for things like extreme sports, snowboarding or surfing. An optional add-on cover is required for these activities.

Most travel insurers in Australia offer insurance policies for travel to Canada. What policy suits you best will depend on your requirements including duration, age, and the type of cover.

It will also be determined by your specific needs, such as whether you are taking part in snow sports or other adventure activities.

An easy way to compare travel insurance policies is to use an online comparison tool, or read through our leading picks of travel insurance policies for Australians . However, always consider whether or not they include the extras you will require for your trip, and any pre-existing medical conditions you would require cover for.

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Do I need travel insurance to travel to Canada?

Travel insurance for Canada isn’t mandatory, but is highly recommended.

The Australian Government urges travellers to purchase travel insurance before any overseas trip, especially for medical cover.

Medical costs can be extremely expensive in a foreign country, especially if you have to visit a doctor, dentist or hospital in an emergency, so travel insurance is very handy.

Does my visa card have travel insurance?

Not every credit card comes with travel insurance. Complimentary travel insurance is typically offered on premium credit or rewards cards that have higher annual fees. In addition, this may not cover all circumstances or emergencies. By comparison, a travel insurance policy will offer more comprehensive coverage that includes emergency medical expenses.

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Prashant Mehra is a freelance journalist based in Sydney. He has more than 20 years of international experience covering financial news, including with Reuters and the Australian Associated Press (AAP). He writes about business, markets, the economy and investing.

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If you're an avid traveler at heart, then your bank account should help make your experiences abroad easier. Depending on what you need more help with — planning or on-site spending — we've found options for you.

Best Bank Accounts for International Travel Benefits

• Ally Savings Account

Bask Bank Mileage Savings Account

• Capital One 360 Checking

Schwab Bank High Yield Investor Checking® Account

• SoFi Checking and Savings

Revolut Account

We picked the top savings, checking, and all-in-one accounts for travel, to help you save or manage your money. 

Compare the Top Bank Accounts for International Travel

The top bank accounts for international travel help make planning and spending for trips easier. We looked for the accounts that can help you save for travel and top checking accounts that allow you to access your money with ease when you're on the road and overseas.

Below, you'll see our top picks for international travel. All of the financial institutions on our list are protected by FDIC or NCUA insurance. Money is safe at a federally insured financial institution. When an institution is federally insured, up to $250,000 per depositor is secure in a bank account.

Best Savings Accounts for International Travel: Ally Savings Account

The Ally High Yield Savings Account provides easy tools to set savings goals for your next trip, and you'll earn interest without having to take on any risk. 

You can also set up a checking account through Ally . When you need access to your savings, just transfer money from the savings account to the checking account through the online portal, and you'll be able to spend the money almost instantly.

Ally also offers an easy-to-use mobile app and 24/7 customer support, making it simple to access your account while you're on the road.

You won't be able to deposit cash directly into your bank account. Instead, you'll have to transfer money from another bank account. 

Ally Savings Account Review

You might find the Bask Bank Mileage Savings Account appealing if you are a frequent American Airlines flyer. This savings account lets you earn earn 2.5 American Airlines AAdvantage miles for every $1 saved annually on a Bask Bank Mileage Savings Account. You can redeem miles for booking flights or hotels, upgrading flights, renting transportation, or planning vacation activities.

Bask Bank is also offering a savings account bonus for new customers: earn up to 10,000 bonus AAdvantage® miles for new Bask Mileage Savings Account customers who open and fund their account within 15 business days from account opening and maintain a minimum daily balance of $50,000 for 90 consecutive days out of the first 120 days (open account by May 31, 2024)

AAdvantage miles earned through the Bask Bank Mileage Savings Account will not go toward boosting your AAdvantage status.

Bask Bank also doesn't have a checking account, ATM cards, or debit cards, so you'll have limited access to your account. You'll need to link an external bank account and initiate a bank transfer to deposit or withdraw money.

Bask Bank Review

Best Checking Accounts for International Travel: Capital One 360 Checking

Capital One 360 Checking might be a solid choice if you're most comfortable with a well-known retail bank and want no-fee cash withdrawals at home and in select countries abroad. 

You can withdraw up to $1,000 a day at any ATM worldwide using your MasterCard and Capital One won't charge a fee, though the ATM operator may. The bank ranks No. 1 on J.D. Power's US National Banking Satisfaction Study , and it made Business Insider's list of the best checking accounts.

Capital One also offers a solid high-yield savings account, which is a good choice if you want to keep your savings at the same bank as your checking. 

If you travel to Europe, Asia, or any other place where Capital One and AllPoint don't have ATMs, you may have to pay third-party ATM operator fees to take cash out (Capital One will never charge you an additional fee). 

As for branch access, the bank only operates about 280 branches in seven US states, though Capital One Cafés are in some big cities around the US.

Capital One 360 Review

Charles Schwab is an investment platform, but it also has banking products. The Schwab Bank High Yield Investor Checking® Account is a great choice if you'd like a fee-free international spending bank account. It notably offers unlimited refunds for ATM fees worldwide, and it doesn't charge foreign transaction fees. 

You must open a brokerage account with Charles Schwab before opening a checking account, though.

Charles Schwab Bank Review

Best All-in-One Accounts for International Travel: SoFi Checking and Savings

SoFi Checking and Savings offers the best of both worlds. It's a hybrid savings/checking account with a competitive interest rate and a MasterCard debit card for easy access to your cash. 

SoFi is part of the Allpoint ATM network, so you have free access to 50,000 ATMs worldwide, and SoFi doesn't charge a foreign transaction fee when you make a purchase with your debit card abroad.

Again, SoFi is completely online — you'll need to call customer service when you want help with your account rather than walking into a physical location.

While SoFi doesn't charge any foreign transaction fees when you withdraw cash at an international bank or ATM, MasterCard will charge 0.20%, and SoFi won't reimburse you.

SoFi Checking and Savings Review

You might like the Revolut Account if you're looking for an alternative to traditional banking.

Revolut is a British fintech company with an international finance and investing app. You can open accounts from anywhere in the US. 

The Revolut Account is a prepaid debit card linked to a bank account. You can easily spend money internationally in over 150 types of currency. The account also allows you to make one fee-free international or domestic wire transfer per month with the Standard plan, three with the Premium plan, and five with the Metal plan.

The account also has budgeting features that let you round up prepaid debit card purchases or set up individual savings goals through Vaults. The Revolut Account and Savings Vault are  FDIC-insured by Metropolitan Commercial Bank and Sutton Bank. 

Revolut has three plans: Standard (Free), Premium ($9.99 per month), or Metal ($16.99 per month). Access to certain app features will depend on your monthly plan.

Revolut Review

Bank Account Alternatives for Travelers

• Chase Total Checking® : This account appeared on our best checking accounts list, but it charges $3 fee per withdrawal at a non-Chase ATM in the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Surcharge Fees from the ATM owner/network still apply. $5 fee per withdrawal at a non-Chase ATM outside of the U.S., Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Surcharge Fees from the ATM owner/network still apply.
• Discover® Cashback Debit Account: Discover's checking account has no monthly service fees and allows you to earn 1% cash back on up to $3,000 in debit card purchases every month (see website for details), but its use is limited to the US, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
• Citi Regular Checking : A fine checking account with options to waive the $15 monthly service fee and branch locations abroad, but customer satisfaction is below average, according to J.D. Power's US National Banking Satisfaction Study .
• HSBC Premier Checking : HSBC (Member FDIC) offers a good variety of checking accounts, although only those with high minimum balance or deposit requirements get ATM fees reimbursed.
• Wealthfront Cash Account : Although this account operates similarly to a high-yield savings account, it's technically a cash management account. You might like this option if you already invest with Wealthfront and want to earn a high interest rate on your savings. However, keep in mind Wealthfront doesn't offer other types of accounts like CDs or checking accounts.
• Betterment Checking Account : Betterment reimburses all foreign transaction fees and ATM fees worldwide, and the app is easy to use. However, our top picks for checking accounts may also offer more banking options, such as CDs or brokered CDs.
• Marcus High Yield Online Savings Account : Marcus has a good high-yield savings account; Marcus savings rates current pays 4.40% APY. However, the high-yield savings account doesn't have as many goal-setting features as Ally, if that's important to you. 
• American Express® High Yield Savings Account (Member FDIC): With a solid savings rate, this high-yield savings account is a good option if you don't mind not having mobile access.

Introduction to Banking for International Travel

When you're traveling abroad, bear in mind many financial institutions have fees for using a debit card internationally.

For example, if you use an ATM provider to withdraw money that isn't in your network, you may have to pay out-of-network ATM fees from the provider and your financial institution. 

Many banks also have foreign transaction fees. A foreign transaction fee is a debit or credit card charge that can happen when you buy something internationally and it needs to be processed through a foreign financial institution. 

There are many financial institutions that can help you avoid common international bank fees, though. 

Key Features of Ideal Banks for International Travel

The right bank can make saving for travel goals easier. It can also help you avoid common bank fees, like out-of-network ATM and foreign transaction fees. Below, we've highlighted key features among the top banks for multi-country travel.

Competitive Savings Rates

One key feature to look for in a bank is a competitive savings rate. High-yield savings accounts, in particular, can be strong banking options because they offer better rates than traditional savings accounts. These bank accounts might also be a good choice if you want to set savings goals for specific travel trips. Money in a high-yield savings account can deposited at any time, so you can contribute to a travel goal in stages. If you open a high-yield savings account at an online bank, you also usually won't have to worry about dealing with monthly service fees.

Exchange Rates

If you want to have cash on hand during a trip, it may be beneficial to bank with a financial institution or platform that offers straightforward foreign exchange services. Banking institutions usually offer better exchange rates than airport exchange services or on-site travel spots.

Low Foreign Transaction Fees

If you plan on using a debit card or credit card frequently, make sure to look for a bank that has low foreign transaction fees. That way, you won't have to worry about fees piling up when you use your card to buy things abroad. 

Some financial institutions on our list, like SoFi, do not charge foreign transaction fees.

Wide Global ATM Network Accessibility

If you want to use an ATM abroad, the best option is to find a national bank with a global ATM network or one that provides reimbursements for out-of-network ATM fees. Charles Schwab, for example, offers unlimited worldwide ATM fee reimbursements.

Additional Services and Tips for International Banking

If you're planning on traveling abroad soon, it's best to be prepared beforehand so you can avoid unnecessary stress. Sometimes, credit or debit cards may not work if you don't give your bank notice that you're traveling. This is done as a measure to protect you against fraudulent activity. To avoid having your card declined internationally, make sure to call your financial institution before traveling so you can make sure it works during the time you're abroad.

It's also helpful to have cash on hand when traveling in case you need it for an emergency situation. Experts recommend getting foreign currency before you begin travel because airports and on-site currency exchange locations tend to involve more costly service fees and unsatisfactory exchange rates.

Bank Trustworthiness and BBB Ratings

The Better Business Bureau assesses companies based on responses to customer complaints, honesty in advertising, and transparency about business practices. Here are the BBB grades for our favorite travel accounts:

Revolut has an F rating from the BBB due to a high volume of customer complaints filed against the business, and Revolut hasn't responded to or resolved some of the complaints.

Bask Bank received a B grade from the BBB because of its volume of customer complaints. However, its parent company, Texas Capital Bank, has an A+ rating  from the BBB. 

A great BBB score doesn't guarantee your relationship with a company will be perfect. You'll also want to speak with current customers or read online customer reviews.

Capital One is the only bank on our list that has been involved in a recent public controversy. Capital One used to have an account called 360 Savings. In 2019, the bank launched the new 360 Performance Savings Account, which paid a much a higher interest rate. Many customers thought their old savings accounts would transition into this new one, but in reality, they had to manually open a new 360 Performance Savings Account to earn the higher rate. So some customers have been earning a significantly lower savings rate for years.

In the lawsuit, the plaintiffs' lawyers allege that Capital One didn't inform 360 Savings customers that these were two distinct accounts, or that 360 Performance Savings paid a higher rate. However,  Capital One wants this case dismissed  because it claims people had every opportunity to learn these facts on their own. This case is still ongoing.

Which banks offer the best international ATM access?

Charles Schwab is our top pick for international ATM access. It offers unlimited refunds for ATM fees worldwide.

How can I minimize fees when using my bank card abroad?

To minimize fees when using a bank card abroad, you want to limit making ATM withdrawals unless you find an ATM that's in your network. Some debit cards also have foreign transaction fees, so it's best to use cash or one of the best credit cards with no foreign transaction fees .

Are there banks that automatically convert currency at favorable rates?

Yes. Many banks and credit unions pay good rates to exchange foreign currency. Most financial institutions will require you to have a bank account with them in order to exchange currency , though.

Can I get travel insurance through my bank?

Yes. Some banks offer travel insurance if you get a credit card with features like travel accident insurance and trip delay reimbursements.

Should I inform my bank before traveling internationally?

Yes. You should call your bank before traveling so you're well prepared. If you forget to contact your bank, your debit card may be denied when you make purchases to protect you from potential fraudulent activity.

Can I open a bank account internationally? 

Yes. You may open a bank account in another country. However, make sure that you report your bank account information to the IRS annually .

Why You Should Trust Us: Our Expert Panel for the Best Banks for International Travel

We consulted banking and financial planning experts to inform these picks and provide their advice on finding the best accounts for your needs.

Here's what they had to say about banking for travel. (Some text may be lightly edited for clarity.)

How can someone determine whether a bank is the right fit for them?

Tania Brown, certified financial planner and vice president of coaching strategy at  OfColor :

"Obviously, you want to make sure it's FDIC insured. Also, your banking experience — do you like walking into a bank? Well, then you need someone local. Do you just not care if you ever see your bank? Then you're okay online. Do you write checks? Do you not write checks? So it's thinking through how your experience with it is going to be before you make that decision."

Sophia Acevedo, banking editor,  Business Insider : 

"I would create a list of what I prioritize most in a bank account. For example, some banks have accounts that charge monthly service fees. I would look to see what the requirements are for waiving the monthly service fee and whether I think I could feasibly meet those requirements each month. If I'm searching for an interest-earning bank account I'll pay attention to interest rates. I would make sure the account pays a higher interest rate than the  average bank account ."

What should someone look for in an online bank?

Roger Ma, certified financial planner with  lifelaidout®  and author of  "Work Your Money, Not Your Life" :

"How onerous the transfer process is, transferring money in and transferring money out. Is it same day, next day? Is it pretty easy to sync a brick-and-mortar checking account to this particular high-yield savings account?"

Mykail James, MBA, certified financial education instructor,  BoujieBudgets.com :

"When it comes to online banks, you want to be a little bit more strict about what type of interest rates they're providing. That's the biggest thing, because online banks are supposed to have the higher interest rate because they don't have the overhead of the brick-and-mortar. You want to make sure that it's well above the national average.

"What types of securities do they provide? Do they have two-factor identification? If it's an online bank, they should definitely have — at the bare minimum — two-factor authentication in how easy it is to change your passwords and things like that, because you want to be a little more hypersensitive about the cyber security for a strictly online bank."

What should someone look for in a bank account if they travel frequently?

Sophia Acevedo:

"You'll want to be mindful of bank account limits and fees. You might be charged fees if you use an ATM from another bank. Banks and credit unions also have limits on how much you can withdraw from your ATM each day. When you're looking for a bank account, see if your bank provides refunds for out-of-network ATMs and what the ATM withdrawal limits are."

Methodology: How Did We Choose the Best Bank Accounts for International Travel?

At Business Insider, we strive to help smart people make the best decisions with their money. We spent hours comparing and contrasting the features and fine print of savings accounts and checking accounts so you don't have to. You can read more about how we review and rate product on our editorial standards page .

We understand that "best" is often subjective, however, so in addition to highlighting the clear benefits of an account — a high APY, for example — we outline the limitations, too. 

Generally, bank accounts are designated either savings or checking. When you're saving up for a big trip, a high-yield savings account is appropriate because you'll be able to earn some interest on your money, but still be able to access it when you need to.

A checking account may be more appropriate to use while traveling, as you'll be provided with a debit card to use at shops, restaurants, and ATMs. You may also consider using a credit card , which could provide rewards and other travel-related benefits.

That said, the best bank accounts to use for international travel expenses should be appropriate for your everyday life too, with low fees, good earning potential, and easy access. 

See our full ratings methodology for checking, business checking, savings, and money market accounts »

If you enjoyed this story, be sure to follow Business Insider on Microsoft Start.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

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Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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