Planning a trip to France with your family is exciting—from choosing the perfect gîte to dreaming about buttery croissants and sunny café terraces. But one important thing to think about before you set off is how you’ll spend money while you’re there.

In today’s travel world, gone are the days of carrying around thick wads of traveller’s cheques or bundles of euros. Now, smart travellers are turning to currency cards and multi-currency accounts like Revolut, Wise, and Currensea to help make spending abroad simpler, safer, and often cheaper.

Let’s explore how they work, the benefits, and how they compare with good old-fashioned cash.

What Is a Currency Card (and How Does It Work)?

Currency cards are pre-paid or digital bank cards that you load up with money in your home currency and then use to spend abroad—just like a regular debit card. Some allow you to convert money into euros ahead of time, while others automatically convert at the time of purchase using the real exchange rate (usually much better than your high street bank offers).

Popular options include:

Revolut: An app-based bank offering great exchange rates, budgeting tools, and virtual cards.

Wise (formerly TransferWise): Fantastic for managing multiple currencies and making international transfers with low fees.

Currensea: A travel debit card that links to your existing bank account with no need to top up separately.

Why Use a Currency Card in France?

Better Exchange Rates

Currency cards often give you the mid-market rate, which is the fairest rate available. That means more euros in your pocket for ice creams, baguettes, and family outings.

Lower Fees  

Most currency cards avoid the 3–5% foreign transaction fee your UK bank might charge for card purchases abroad. Some even offer fee-free ATM withdrawals up to a certain limit.

Safety and Security  

Losing a travel card is far less stressful than losing cash. Most cards let you freeze them instantly from an app. Some, like Revolut, let you use a virtual card for online bookings, too.

Budget-Friendly  

Pre-loading a set amount of euros helps you manage your spending. Many apps even break down where your money’s going, from meals to motorway tolls.

What About the Downsides?

• ATM withdrawal limits – Cards like Revolut and Wise offer free ATM withdrawals only up to €200–€250/month. After that, there’s a small fee (usually around 2%).
• Requires internet access – To top up or check balances, you’ll need Wi-Fi or data roaming access.
• Exchange rate changes – If you’re converting currencies manually, rates can fluctuate. It’s worth keeping an eye on when the euro is strong to get the best value.

And What About Using Cash in France?

Cash is still useful, especially in rural areas, markets, or small cafés that may have a €10 card minimum. Toll roads, bakeries, and even some family-friendly attractions may prefer cash for quick transactions.

Pros of carrying cash:

– No risk of card being declined.

– Teaches children how to manage real money (and count in euros!).

– Handy for tipping or buying treats at local markets.

Cons of carrying cash:

– If lost or stolen, it’s gone.

– Not as trackable as card spending.

– You’ll need to find the best place to exchange it (avoid airport kiosks—they’re rarely a good deal).

Tip: If you’re planning to carry cash, exchange a small amount before you travel or withdraw from a French ATM using your currency card for a better rate.

Helping Children Learn About Currency and Exchange Rates

Travelling is a brilliant opportunity for children to understand real-world money matters. In France, they’ll see prices in euros, learn about coins and notes, and even work out value-for-money when buying their own pain au chocolat!

Fun ways to help kids learn:

– Give them a small euro budget and let them choose souvenirs.

– Show them how exchange rates work using your currency card app.

– Challenge them to “shop smart” and compare prices in local shops.

– Use price tags in euros as maths practice—converting prices back to pounds.

Currency cards can help here too. Revolut, for example, offers junior accounts where children can have their own card and learn to manage money in a safe, parent-controlled way.

Final Thoughts: Which Option is Best for Families?

– For tech-savvy families, Revolut or Wise offer flexibility, safety, and savings.

– If you prefer something simpler, Currensea works well without needing to pre-load funds.

– A mix of card and cash is ideal – use the card for everyday spending and keep some euros on hand for small or rural purchases, such as ice-creams.

– Involve your kids in spending decisions to help them learn and engage with the culture!

Bon voyage, and happy spending!