Managing your money while overseas
When travelling internationally, you can use your standard Commonwealth Bank debit or credit cards for purchases and ATM withdrawals at merchants that accept Mastercard or Visa. The bank no longer issues a dedicated "travel money card" product, as modern debit and credit cards are designed to function globally, allowing you to access your funds directly from your linked accounts.
It is important to understand how currency conversion and international transaction fees work before you leave. While your cards will function globally, transactions made in a foreign currency may incur conversion fees, and withdrawing cash from an ATM may also attract specific charges depending on your account type.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Management Methods | CommBank app, NetBank, or phone support |
| Processing Time | Transactions post once processed by the merchant |
| Eligibility | Active personal debit and credit cards |
| Key Requirements | Active NetBank access to manage card settings |
Steps to prepare your cards for travel
To ensure your cards work correctly and you stay in control of your spending while away, follow this sequence:
- Check your account: Log in to the CommBank app and ensure your cards are active and your contact details are current.
- Notify the bank: While Commonwealth Bank systems typically detect travel automatically, you can check if your card requires any specific travel notices in the "Cards" section of the app.
- Review fees: Familiarize yourself with the international transaction fees associated with your specific card type by viewing your account summary in NetBank.
- Update security: Ensure your app notifications are enabled so you can monitor your transactions in real-time while you are abroad.
- Keep backups: Carry an alternative card if possible, and ensure you have the emergency international contact number for the bank saved in a secure location.
Troubleshooting common issues
- MFA or Login Issues: If you cannot access the CommBank app due to network restrictions, ensure you have a stable connection. If your access remains blocked, check if your NetBank password needs updating before your trip.
- Browser or App Errors: If the app fails to load card settings while overseas, try clearing your app cache. If you still have trouble, access your account via the NetBank web portal using a secure Wi-Fi or mobile network.
- Locked Account or ID Access: If your card is declined, it may be due to a security hold triggered by unusual activity. Call the international support number provided by the bank to verify your identity and restore access.
Pro-Tip: Before you pay, choose the "local currency" option on the merchant's payment terminal. Choosing "Australian Dollars" at a foreign terminal often triggers a dynamic currency conversion fee, which can be significantly more expensive than the bank's own exchange rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will my card work in any country?
Your CommBank card should work anywhere that accepts Mastercard or Visa. However, some regions or specific merchants may have restricted access due to local banking regulations. Always carry a secondary payment method, such as a different card or a small amount of local cash, to avoid being stranded if a terminal doesn't accept your primary card.
Q: Why was I charged an international transaction fee?
This fee is generally applied when you make a purchase in a currency other than Australian Dollars. The bank converts the amount into AUD using the applicable exchange rate, and a transaction fee is added as per your account's fee structure. To minimize these costs, consider using a card product that specifically offers low or no international transaction fees if you are a frequent traveller.
