Best ways to take money to the Netherlands - 2024
Preparing a trip to the Netherlands? Planning how to manage your travel money before you leave the UK can help you save time, money, and hassle. Join us as we compare the best ways to spend in Euro, including travel money cards and cash. Whether you prefer to spend with a card, or need to know if the Netherlands is great for cash, this guide shows you the best money solution when you travel overseas.
Best ways to take money to the Netherlands - an overview
Let’s kick off with a quick summary of the travel money options we’ll cover in this full guide - click to check out the providers we’ve highlighted, or read on for more detail.
| Provider | Card type | Spending fees | Go to provider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wise travel card | Visa debit card | No fees to spend currencies you hold | Go to Wise |
| Post Office prepaid card | Mastercard prepaid | No fees to spend currencies you hold | Go to Post Office |
| Barclays Rewards credit card | Visa credit card | No foreign transaction fee | Go to Barclay |
Debit cards for the Netherlands
Debit cards can be issued by a bank or specialist provider. Your card will be linked to an account you need to top up before you can spend.
Spending and making cash withdrawals with a travel debit card in the Netherlands can be convenient, and if you pick a low cost provider, it could be cheap too. Generally using a debit card cuts out a few common fees compared to using credit cards, but you’ll need to have money in your account before you travel as there’s no credit facility with this option.
Ideal for: Low cost spending and withdrawals when you’re in the Netherlands, particularly if you choose a flexible card which has good exchange rates when you spend in EUR
Wise travel card
Delivered in the UK
Visa/Mastercard debit card
Mid-market exchange rate
40+ currenciesOpen a Wise account online or in the Wise app, to order a Wise travel card you can use for convenient spending and withdrawals in the Netherlands. Wise accounts can hold 40+ currencies, so you can top up in GBP easily from your bank or using your card. Whenever you travel, to the Netherlands or beyond, you’ll have the option to convert to the currency you need in advance if it’s supported for holding a balance, or simply let the card do the conversion at the point of payment.
With the Wise money card you’ll get the mid-market exchange rate with low, transparent fees whenever you spend in EUR, plus some free ATM withdrawals every month - perfect if you’re looking for easy ways to arrange your travel cash.
Wise features
Card | Fees for spending | ATM fees | Withdraw limit | Annual fee | App available | Trustpilot score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Visa or Mastercard Debit Card | No fees to spend currencies you hold | Some fee free withdrawals monthly, with low fees after that | 4,000 GBP a month | N/A | iOS & Android | 4.3 / 5 (200,000+) |
Wise travel card pros and cons
- Hold and exchange 40+ currencies with the mid-market rate
- Spend seamlessly in EUR when you travel
- Some free ATM withdrawals every month, for those times only cash will do
- Ways to receive payments to your Wise account conveniently
- Manage your account and card from your phone
- 7 GBP delivery fee for your first card
- ATM fees apply once you've exhausted your monthly free withdrawals
- Physical cards may take 2 - 6 days to arrive (you can use your virtual card right away)
How to apply for a Wise card
Here’s how to apply for a Wise account and order a Wise travel card in the UK:
Open the Wise app or desktop site
Select Register and confirm you want to open a personal account
Register with your email, Facebook, Apple or Google ID
Upload your ID document to complete the verification step
Tap the Cards tab to order your card
Pay the one time 7 GBP fee, confirm your mailing address, and your card will be on the way, and should arrive in 2 - 6 days
How much does a debit card cost?
Debit cards are usually relatively cheap to use. It’s worth checking if your bank debit card can be used in the Netherlands, and if any foreign transaction fees or international ATM fees will apply. Compare your bank debit cards against a specialist alternative like the Wise debit card, which is optimised for international use, to see which is cheaper.
Advantages and disadvantages for taking a debit card to the Netherlands
| Travel debit cards are good if | Consider alternatives to cards if |
|---|---|
✅ You want low cost spending and withdrawals ✅ Your bank or specialist card has low or no foreign transaction fees ✅ You need ways to both spend on card and get cash from ATMs ✅ You’re happy to top up your account in advance to set your travel money budget | ❌ You’d prefer to spread the cost of your trip over a few months ❌ You need a card you can use as payment guarantee when checking into a hotel or hiring a vehicle |
Prepaid cards for the Netherlands
Prepaid cards are often issued by specialist providers, although some banks do also offer this facility.
With a prepaid card you’ll need to add money to a digital account before you can spend. The features and fees of prepaid cards can vary quite widely - some are designed for overseas use, while others may have pretty high fees when you’re overseas. Comparing a few will help you pick.
Ideal for: Setting your travel budget in advance, and then spending and making withdrawals as you travel in the Netherlands
Post Office travel card
Delivered in the UK
Mastercard debit card22 currencies
In-store/online collectionIf you want a travel card you can collect in person instantly, and then use to spend when you visit the Netherlands, you might be interested in the Post Office travel card. You’ll be able to get your card by popping into a Post Office branch - online ordering is also available. Remember to take your ID document when you go to pick up your card, for verification.
You’ll be able to pay in GBP to top up your card, and then convert to any of the 22 supported currencies. It’s then free to spend if you have the currency you need on your card, although a 3% fee applies if you use your card to spend or make a withdrawal in a currency you’ve not topped up yet. Double check the latest details online to see if EUR is supported for holding a balance - and what the associated fees will be for currency conversion and withdrawals, as these vary by currency.
Post Office features
| Card | Fees for spending | ATM fees | Withdraw limit | Annual fee | App available | Trustpilot score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mastercard Debit Card | No fees to spend currencies you hold 3% conversion fee to spend currencies you don't have | Varied by currency, around 1.5 GBP or the currency equivalent | 300 GBP a day or the currency equivalent | N/A | iOS & Android | Not active on Trustpilot |
Post Office travel card pros and cons
- 22 supported currencies
- Collect your card in person at a Post Office if you need it in a hurry
- Manage your card through the Post Office app
- Use your card for this trip - and hold in to it for the next time you travel
- Reliable service, with a card that's accepted globally
- 3% fee to spend a currency you don't hold
- 4.1% exchange rate markup on average when loading supported currencies
- ATM fees apply which vary by currency
- Low daily ATM limits at the equivalent of 300 GBP
How to apply for a Post Office card
Get your Post Office travel card before you leave the UK, simply by calling into your local Post Office. It’s also possible to order your card online, although in this case you’ll need to wait a couple of days for it to arrive by post, and activate it once you have your card in your hand.
How much does a prepaid card cost?
Prepaid cards which are designed for international use can offer flexibility and low international fees. It’s worth shopping around to find an option which supports low or no cost spending and withdrawals - if you’re eligible, getting a Post Office card could be a smart move, as a prepaid card with great travel features.
Advantages and disadvantages for taking a prepaid card to the Netherlands
| Travel prepaid cards are good if | Consider alternatives to prepaid cards if |
✅ You want to add money to your account in advance for overseas spending ✅ You need to make cash withdrawals as well as pay by card ✅ You’ve picked a card with flexible international features and low or no cost overseas spending | ❌ You want to earn rewards or cash back on your spending ❌ You need to be able to pay off your travel costs over a few months |
Credit cards for the Netherlands
With a credit card you’ll be able to spend to your credit limit and then repay your bill later - fees apply if you don’t pay in full and on time.
Credit cards can come with a few extra fees compared to debit and prepaid cards, such as interest, penalties and cash advance costs. However, they’re still an attractive option if you have a travel optimised card which lets you earn rewards as you spend, or if you need a card to act as a payment guarantee when you hire a car or check into a hotel.
Ideal for: Spending now and paying back later - you may also earn rewards or cash back spending on the card you pick
Barclaycard Rewards Visa travel card
Visa network card for global acceptance
No foreign transaction feeNo cash usage fee
Check eligibility onlineThe Barclaycard Rewards Visa offers 0.25% cash back on spending and has no annual fee. There’s not usually a foreign transaction fee or any cash usage fee to pay - although it’s well worth checking the card’s terms and conditions carefully for any other important fees that may apply, based on how you spend. You can check your eligibility for this card online before you make an application - credit checks apply when you submit your application.
Barclaycard Rewards Visa features
| Card | Fees for spending | ATM fees | Annual fee | App available |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visa credit card | No foreign transaction fees | No cash transaction fee - but interest may be higher compared to purchases | No annual fee | On Android and Apple |
Barclaycard Rewards Visa pros and cons
- 0.25% cash back on spending
- No foreign transaction fees
- No annual fee
- Check eligibility online before applying
- Visa card for broad global acceptance
- Variable interest applies
- Penalty fees if you’re late to repay
- Cash withdrawals may have a higher rate of interest
Apply online on the Barclays UK website - you can check your eligibility before you apply, which will allow you to check if the card is suitable for you.
How much does a credit card cost?
Generally, using a credit card can be more expensive than using a debit or prepaid card. There are various fees to consider, including an annual fee, interest and penalties, depending on how you use your card. Plus for international use you might find foreign transaction fees and hefty cash advance charges for ATM use. Check your card’s terms and conditions carefully before you use it overseas.
Advantages and disadvantages for taking a credit card to the Netherlands
| Travel credit cards are good if | Consider alternatives to credit cards if |
|---|---|
✅ You want to earn rewards or cash back on spending ✅ You want to spread the costs of your purchases over months ✅ You want a card you can use as a payment guarantee ✅ You can find a card with low or no foreign transaction fees | ❌ You’re concerned about interest or penalty fees ❌ Your card has high cash advance costs for ATM use |
Taking cash to the Netherlands
There are likely to be times in the Netherlands when cash is handy - for smaller purchases, tipping and taxis for example. Having some cash in your pocket is also reassuring in case your preferred payment card isn’t available or can't be accepted for some reason. Carrying too much cash is a security risk, so do be careful as tourists are often prey to opportunist thieves - in the Netherlands and the world over. Take out cash from ATMs little and often if you can.
Ideal for: Those times when only cash will do - market purchases, tipping and taxis for example
How much cash should I bring to the Netherlands?
The budget you need to set for your trip depends a lot on what type of trip you’re expecting – you may be travelling or a shoestring, or you might be all up for a big blow out, with the very best of everything available in the Netherlands. In either case you can avoid spending money unnecessarily with a bit of advance planning, booking accommodation online before you travel, and looking out for deals and offers.
How much money do I need per day in the Netherlands?
While the amount of money you need depends a lot on the type of trip you’re taking, there are some things pretty much all travellers need to consider, including:
Accommodation
Meals
Transportation
Entry to tourist locations
Activities and entertainment
Tips and discretionary spend
Any tourist taxes or visas that apply
You can start to set your budget for different spending types long before you travel - it’s also worth taking into consideration less obvious costs like the fees you’ll pay for currency conversion.
The exchange rate between the British Pound and Euro changes all the time, but getting a better rate means your money goes further when you’re in the Netherlands. Right now, 1 GBP/EUR = 1.20292. Get familiar with the exchange rate by using a reputable online currency converter, so you know what to expect.
In the Netherlands, the average accommodation typically costs around 160 GBP per night, offering a wide range of options from cozy hostels to luxurious resorts, ensuring there's something to suit every traveler's budget. Local transportation, like buses, trains, and trams, provides convenient and affordable ways to explore the cities and other areas, with an average price of 23 GBP.
Dining experiences in the Netherlands offer many options, from fresh seafood to multicultural cuisines, with meals averaging around 40 GBP. For people seeking hassle-free adventures, organized tour packages are readily available, showcasing the country's iconic landmarks, wildlife encounters, and cultural highlights, with prices starting from 22 GBP.
| Outgoings average for one day | Costs in the Netherlands |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 160 GBP |
| Public transportation | 23 GBP |
| Meal | 40 GBP |
| Entertainment | 22 GBP |
Is the Netherlands expensive?
The amount of money you’ll spend in the Netherlands depends a lot on the type of travel you like - whether that’s low cost or luxury. You can always make sure you stick to your planned budget by booking accommodation well in advance, and looking for great local places to eat rather than sticking to tourist hotspots where the prices tend to be cranked up. There are loads of great, and up to date, online resources to help you plan your trip to the Netherlands which include hot tips and ways to save - do some research before you go to make your money go further.
What is the best way to pay in the Netherlands?
Card payments are common - and often preferred - in the Netherlands. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted and in most places you can make contactless payments with your physical card or a wallet like Apple Pay. Having some cash in your pocket can be reassuring, but it’s not necessary to carry a lot in most cases.
Can I use my bank card in the Netherlands?
Generally you can use your bank card in the Netherlands wherever the network is accepted. However you might find you can get a better deal with a specialist provider like Wise. Using a bank card issued in the UK for spending in the Netherlands may come with a few headaches. You might need to inform your bank of your travel plans in advance, you could run into fees such as foreign transaction fees - and there’s a good chance you won’t get the very best exchange rate available either.
Is it better to exchange money in the UK or in the Netherlands?
There’s no strict right and wrong when it comes to exchanging currency in the UK versus the Netherlands. Ultimately, the best option comes down to the exchange rates and fees you can find both here and on arrival - and the convenience. Changing money on arrival means wasting precious time looking for a good deal, but carrying too much with you when you travel might not be the safest option.
Having some cash on hand can be very useful and reassuring, as you know you’ll always be able to pay for immediate expenses, or for emergencies. It’s also a handy back up if your preferred card isn’t accepted.
Because carrying lots of cash can make you a target of thieves, be sure to use the safety box in the hotel where you can, and split funds between a few different spots in your baggage as well. No matter whether you exchange at home or abroad, it’s also a smart idea to keep an eye on exchange rates so you’ll know you’re getting the best available deal on currency exchange.
How to buy EUR on arrival in the Netherlands?
If you plan on changing your money on arrival in the Netherlands you’ll want to research currency exchange options in advance to avoid wasting time on your trip. In many cases physical exchange offices are clustered in one area of a city, such as the CBD or financial area. Compare your options based on fees and rates available before you hand over any money. It’s also worth stressing the importance of using a licensed money changer to avoid scams.
If you don’t want to waste time changing your money to Euro on arrival, consider an alternative like the Wise card. With the Wise card you can add money in GBP and tap to pay in EUR without needing to do a manual exchange. Your money is changed using the mid-market rate and low, transparent fee - with no extra foreign transaction fee to worry about.
Does the Netherlands accept British Pounds?
Generally it’s not possible to pay in GBP anywhere except in the UK. The official currency in the Netherlands is Euro - and in most cases this is the only currency you can use to pay.
Conclusion - Best ways to take money to the Netherlands
There’s no single best way to spend in the Netherlands - and for most people, having a blend of payment options gives flexibility and reassurance. Consider getting a low cost debit card from an international provider like Wise, alongside your regular bank debit or credit card, and some cash in EUR. That way you’re prepared no matter what happens.
FAQ - Best ways to take money to the Netherlands
What is the best way to take money internationally?
The best way to take money with you when you travel depends on your personal preferences and where you’re headed - usually having an international debit or prepaid card, alongside your bank debit or credit card and a little cash is a smart plan.
Should I exchange money before I travel to the Netherlands?
While you can exchange money before you travel, it’s not necessary and can eat up your precious planning time. If you don’t want to change your money in advance you can get a low cost international card from a provider like Wise or Revolut, to make ATM withdrawals with low or no fees when you arrive in your destination.
Can I withdraw EUR from a local ATM?
You can’t withdraw Euro from a local ATM in the UK. You’ll need to wait until you arrive to make a cash withdrawal - ATMs are often found in airports, train stations and other travel hubs to make this easier.
Are debit travel cards a good way to take money to the Netherlands?
Generally debit travel cards are cheap and flexible for international spending and withdrawal. Pick a low cost international card from a provider like Wise or Revolut, to get flexible international services and low overall fees.
Can I use cash in the Netherlands?
You can often use cash, but carrying a lot of cash isn’t a smart move for safety. Using a mix of cards and cash, and making ATM withdrawals as and when you need to can give you the best of all worlds when it comes to your travel spending.
Data sources & references
Data on the cost of accommodation, meals, travel and entertainment is kindly provided by BudgetYourTrip. The information is correct as of April 2024.
Note: “accommodation” refers to the cost of a double-occupancy hotel room and “entertainment” refers to outgoings on shows, excursions, etc.
According to the 2024 WorldPay Global Payments Report, the most popular point-of-sale payment method in the Netherlands is debit cards.
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