3 Best Travel Cards for Jamaica
Getting an international travel card before you travel to Jamaica can make it cheaper and more convenient when you spend in Jamaican Dollar. You'll be able to easily top up your card in SGD before you leave Singapore, to convert seamlessly to JMD for secure and flexible spending and withdrawals.
This guide walks through our picks of 3 of the best travel cards available for anyone from Singapore heading to Jamaica, like Wise or Revolut. We'll walk through a head to head comparison, and a detailed look at their features, benefits and drawbacks.
3 best travel money cards for Jamaica:
Let's kick off our roundup of the best travel cards for Jamaica with a head to head comparison on important features. Here's an overview of the providers we've picked to look at, for customers looking for ways to spend conveniently overseas when travelling from Singapore:
Wise travel card - best currencies coverage - 40+ supported currencies and mid-market exchange rate
Revolut travel card - best selection of account types - 3 different plans depending on your preferences
BigPay travel card - earn AirAsia points as you spend
| Card | Card scheme | Fees for spending | Trustpilot score | Go to provider |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | Visa / Mastercard | No fees to spend currencies you hold | 4.2 / 5 (200,000+) | Go to Wise |
| Revolut | Visa | No fees to spend currencies you hold | 4.2 / 5 (147,000+) | Go to Revolut |
| BigPay | Visa / Mastercard | Up to 1% foreign transaction fee | Not active on Trustpilot | Go to BigPay |
Each of the international travel cards we’ve picked out have their own features and fees, which may mean they suit different customer needs. Keep reading to learn more about the features, advantages and disadvantages of each - plus a look at how to order the travel card of your choice before you head off to Jamaica.
Wise travel card
Delivered in Singapore
Visa/Mastercard debit card
Virtual card available
Mid-market exchange rateOpen a Wise account online or in the Wise app, to order a Wise travel card you can use for convenient spending and withdrawals in Jamaica. Wise accounts can hold 40+ currencies, so you can top up in SGD easily from your bank or using your card. Whenever you travel, to Jamaica 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.
In either case you’ll get the mid-market exchange rate with low, transparent fees whenever you spend in JMD, plus some free ATM withdrawals every month - perfect if you’re looking for easy ways to arrange your travel cash. You can’t make local Singapore ATM withdrawals with a Wise card, although you can use your card to spend locally.
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 | 7,000 SGD a month | N/A | iOS & Android | 4.2 / 5 (200,000+) |
Wise travel card pros and cons
- Hold and exchange 40+ currencies with the mid-market rate
- Spend seamlessly in JMD 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
- 8.5 SGD delivery fee for your first card
- ATM fees apply once you've exhausted your monthly free withdrawals
- Physical cards may take 3 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 Singapore:
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 8.5 SGD fee, confirm your mailing address, and your card will be on the way, and should arrive in 3 days
Revolut travel card
Delivered in Singapore
Different account plans
Visa debit card
30+ currenciesChoose a Revolut account, from the Standard plan which has no monthly fee, to higher tier options which have monthly charges but unlock extra features and benefits. All accounts come with a smart Revolut card you can use in Jamaica, with some no fee ATM withdrawals and currency conversion monthly, depending on the plan you pick. Use your Revolut account to hold and exchange 30+ currencies, and get extras like account options for under 18s, budgeting tools and more.
You can’t make local Singapore ATM withdrawals with a Revolut card, although you can use your card to spend locally.
Revolut features
| Card | Fees for spending | ATM fees | Withdraw limit | Annual fee | App available | Trustpilot score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visa Debit Card | No fees to spend currencies you hold | Some no fee withdrawals monthly based on account tier, with low fees after that | Up to the currency equivalent of 3,000 GBP per day | N/A - monthly fees apply for some account tiers | iOS & Android | 4.2 / 5 (147,000+) |
Revolut travel card pros and cons
- Pick the Revolut account plan that suits your spending needs
- Hold and exchange 30+ currencies, and spend in 150 countries
- Accounts come with different card types, depending on which you select
- All accounts have some no fee currency exchange and some no fee ATM withdrawals monthly
- Some account tiers have travel perks like complimentary or discounted lounge access
- You need to upgrade to an account with a monthly fee to get all account features
- Delivery fees may apply for your travel card
- Fair usage limits apply once you exhaust your currency conversion and ATM no fee allowances
- Out of hours currency conversion has additional fees
How to apply for a Revolut card
Set up your Revolut account before you leave Singapore and order your travel card. Here’s how:
Download and open the Revolut app
Register by adding your personal and contact information
Upload your ID document to complete the verification step
Follow the prompts to confirm your address and order your card
Pay any required delivery fee - costs depend on your account type
BigPay travel card
Delivered in SingaporeVisa/Mastercard debit cardVirtual card availableBigPay is a super popular app and card in Singapore, which you can use for spending in Jamaica and globally.
You’ll be able to hold a balance in SGD and spend or make withdrawals in JMD, keeping track of everything in your app for convenience. There’s a low foreign transaction fee of 1% or less when you spend internationally, which can mean you save compared to using a bank card. Plus as your BigPay card isn’t connected to your bank account, it’s secure, no matter where in the world you are.
Bear in mind that you can’t make ATM withdrawals in Singapore with a Singapore issued BigPay card.
BigPay features
| Card | Fees for spending | ATM fees | Withdraw limit | Annual fee | App available | Trustpilot score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Visa or Mastercard Debit Card | Up to 1% foreign transaction fee | 1 free withdrawal, then 2% fee applies | 2,500 SGD | N/A | iOS & Android | Not active on Trustpilot |
BigPay travel card pros and cons
- Very popular local app and card, with a large user base
- Earn AirAsia points as you spend
- Get extras like ways to pay bills and send money to others
- Ways to budget and plan your money conveniently
- Manage your account from the app wherever you are
- No foreign currency balance option
- 10 SGD card order fee
- Up to 2% ATM fee
- Up to 1% foreign transaction fee
How to apply for a BigPay card
Here’s how to apply for a BigPay account and order a travel card in Singapore:
Open the BigPay website or download the app
Click Get BigPay
Complete the account application steps and get verified
Pay the card fee, and your card will be delivered by mail
What is a travel money card?
A travel money card is a card you can use for secure and convenient payments and withdrawals overseas.
You can use a travel money card to tap and pay in stores and restaurants, with a wallet like Apple Pay, or to make ATM withdrawals so you'll always have a bit of cash in your pocket when you travel.
Although there are lots of different travel money cards on the market, all of which are unique, one similarity you'll spot is that the features and fees have always been optimised for international use. That might mean you get a better exchange rate compared to using your normal card overseas, or that you run into fewer fees for common international transactions like ATM withdrawals.
Travel money cards also offer distinct benefits when it comes to security. Your travel money card isn't linked to your Singapore Dollar everyday account, so even if you were unlucky and had your card stolen, your primary bank account remains secure.
Travel money vs prepaid card vs travel credit card
It's helpful to know that you'll be able to pick from several different types of travel cards, depending on your priorities and preferences. Travel cards commonly include:
- Travel debit cards
- Travel prepaid cards
- Travel credit cards
They all have distinct benefits when you head off to Jamaica or elsewhere in the world, but they do work a bit differently.
Travel debit and prepaid cards are usually linked to an online account, and may come from specialist digital providers - like the Wise card. These cards are usually flexible and cheap to use. You'll be able to manage your account and card through an app or web.
Travel credit cards are different and may suit different customer needs. As with any other credit card, you may need to pay an annual fee or interest and penalties depending on how you manage your account - but you could also earn extra rewards when spending in a foreign currency, or travel benefits like free insurance for example. Generally using a travel credit card can be more expensive compared to a debit or prepaid card - but it does let you spread out the costs of your travel across several months if you'd like to and don't mind paying interest to do so.
What is a prepaid travel money card best for?
Let's take a look at the advantages of using a prepaid travel money card for travellers going to Jamaica. While each travel card is a little different, you'll usually find some or all of the following benefits:
- Hold and exchange foreign currencies - allowing you to lock in exchange rates and set a travel budget before you leave
- Convenient for spending in person and through mobile wallets like Apple Pay, as well as for cash withdrawals
- You may find you get a better exchange rate compared to your bank - and you'll usually be able to avoid any foreign transaction fee, too
- Travel cards are secure as they're not linked to your everyday SGD account - and because you can make ATM withdrawals when you need to, you can also avoid carrying too much cash at once
Overall, travel cards offer flexible and low cost ways to avoid bank foreign transaction and international ATM fees, while accessing decent exchange rates.
How to choose the best travel card for Jamaica
We've picked out 3 great travel cards available in Singapore - but there are also more options available, which can make choosing a daunting task. Some things to consider when picking a travel card for Jamaica include:
- What exchange rates does the card use? Choosing one with the mid-market rate or as close as possible to it is usually a smart plan
- What fees are unavoidable? For example, ATM charges or top up fees for your preferred top up methods
- Does the card support a good range of currencies? Getting a card which allows you to hold and spend in JMD can give you the most flexibility, but it's also a good idea to pick a card with lots of currency options, so you can use it again in future, too
- Are there any other charges? Check in particular for foreign transaction fees, local ATM withdrawal fees, inactivity fees and account close fees
Ultimately the right card for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
What makes a good travel card for Jamaica
The best travel debit card for Jamaica really depends on your personal preferences and how you like to manage your money.
Overall, it pays to look for a card which lets you minimise fees and access favourable exchange rates - ideally the mid-market rate. While currency exchange rates do change all the time, the mid-market rate is a good benchmark to use as it's the one available to banks when trading on wholesale markets. Getting this rate, with transparent conversion fees, makes it easier to compare costs and see exactly what you're paying when you spend in JMD.
Other features and benefits to look out for include low ATM withdrawal fees, complimentary travel insurance, airport lounge access or emergency cash if your card is stolen. It's also important to look into the security features of any travel card you might pick for Jamaica. Look for a card which uses 2 factor authentication when accessing the account app, which allows you to set instant transaction notifications, and which has easy ways to freeze, unfreeze and cancel your card with your phone.
For Jamaica in particular, choosing a card which offers contactless payments and which is compatible with mobile wallets like Apple Pay could be a good plan. Card payments are extremely popular in Jamaica - so having a card which lets you tap and pay easily can speed things up and make it more convenient during your trip.
Ways to pay in Jamaica
Cash and card payments - including contactless, mobile wallet, debit, credit and prepaid card payments - are the most popular ways to pay globally.
In Jamaica, both card payments and cash payments are common. You'll be able to make Chip and PIN or contactless payments or use your favourite mobile wallet like Apple Pay to tap and pay on the go, but it's still worth having a little cash on you just in case - and for the odd situations where cash is more convenient, such as when tipping or buying a small item in a market.
Which countries use JMD?
You'll find that JMD can only be used in Jamaica. If you don't travel to Jamaica frequently it's worth thinking carefully about how much to exchange so you're not left with extra foreign currency after your trip.
| Jamaican Dollar | |
|---|---|
| Currency name | Jamaican Dollar |
| ISO code | JMD |
| Symbol | J$ |
| JMD denominations | banknotes - $50, $100, $500, $1000, $2000 and coins - $1, $5, $10, $20 |
| Best travel cards to take to Jamaica | Wise,Revolut,BigPay |
What should you be aware of when travelling to Jamaica
You're sure to have a great time in Jamaica - but whenever you're travelling abroad it's worth putting in a little advance thought to make sure everything is organised and your trip goes smoothly. Here are a few things to think about:
1. Double check the latest entry requirements and visas - rules can change abruptly, so even if you're been to Jamaica before it's worth looking up the most recent entry requirements so you don't have any hassle on the border
2. Plan your currency exchange and payment methods - you can change SGD to JMD before you travel to Jamaica if you'd like to, but as card payments are common, and ATMs widely available, you can actually leave it until you arrive to get everything sorted as long as you have a travel money card. Top up your travel money card in SGD and either exchange to JMD in advance or at the point of payment, and make ATM withdrawals whenever you need cash. Bear in mind that currency exchange at the airport will be expensive - so hold on until you reach Jamaica to make an ATM withdrawal in JMD if you can.
3. Get clued up on any health or safety concerns - get travel insurance before you leave Singapore so you have peace of mind. It's also worth reading up on any common scams or issues experienced by tourists. These tend to change over time, but may include things like rip off taxis or tour agents which don't offer fair prices or adequate services.
Conclusion - Best travel cards for Jamaica
Ultimately the best travel card for your trip to Jamaica will depend on how you like to manage your money. Use this guide to get some insights into the most popular options out there, and to decide which may suit your specific needs.
How does a Jamaican Dollar card work?
Getting a Jamaican Dollar card can make managing your money easier when you travel to Jamaica.
Your Jamaican Dollar card will be linked to a digital account you can manage from your phone, so you'll always be able to see your balance, get transaction notifications and manage your card no matter where you are. Just add money to your account in pounds, and - depending on your preferences and the specific card you pick - you can either convert your balance to Jamaican Dollar instantly, or just let the card do the conversion when you spend or make a withdrawal.
If your card gives you the option to hold a Jamaican Dollar balance, there's not normally any extra fee to spend the Jamaican Dollar you have in your account when you're in Jamaica.
Can I withdraw Jamaican Dollar currency with my card in Jamaica?
With some cards, you'll be able to add money to your card in Singapore Dollar, and then convert to Jamaican Dollar instantly online or in your card's app.
Once you have a balance in Jamaican Dollar you can spend with your card with no extra fees - just tap and pay as you would at home. You'll also be able to make cash withdrawals whenever you need to, with no extra conversion fee to pay. Your card - or the ATM operator - may charge a withdrawal fee, but this can still be a cheap, secure and convenient option for getting cash when you need it.
With other cards, you can't hold a balance in Jamaican Dollar on your card - but you can leave your money in Singapore Dollar and let the card convert your money for you when you spend and withdraw.
Some fees may apply here - including currency conversion or foreign transaction charges - so do compare a few different cards before you sign up, to make sure you're picking the one which best suits your specific spending needs.
Bear in mind though, that not all cards support all currencies - and the range of currencies available with any given card can change from time to time. If your card doesn't let you hold a balance in Jamaican Dollar you might find that fees apply when you spend in Jamaica, so it's well worth double checking your card's terms and conditions - and comparing the options available from other providers - before you travel, just in case.
Why should I get a Jamaican Dollar card?
Getting a Jamaican Dollar card means you can spend like a local when you're in Jamaica. You'll be able to check your Jamaican Dollar balance at a glance, add and convert money on the move, and use your card for secure spending and withdrawals whenever you need to. Best of all, Jamaican Dollar cards from popular providers often offer good exchange rates and low, transparent fees, which can mean your money goes further when you're on a trip abroad.
FAQ - best travel cards for Jamaica
When you use a travel money card you may find there’s an ATM withdrawal fee from your card issuer, and there may also be a cost applied by the ATM operator. Some of our travel cards - like the Wise and Revolut card options - have some no fee ATM withdrawals every month, which can help keep down costs.
Travel money cards may be debit, prepaid or credit cards. Which is best for you will depend on your personal preferences. Debit and prepaid cards are usually pretty cheap and secure to spend with, while credit cards may have higher fees but often come with extra perks like free travel insurance and extra reward points.
There’s no single best prepaid card for international use. Look out for one which supports a large range of currencies, with good exchange rates and low fees. This guide can help you compare some popular options, including Wise and Revolut.
Yes, you can use your local debit card when you’re overseas. However, it’s common to find extra fees apply when spending in foreign currencies with a regular debit card. These can include foreign transaction fees and international ATM charges.
Usually having a selection of ways to pay - including a travel card, your credit or debit card, and some cash - is the best bet. That means that no matter what happens, you have an alternative payment method you can use conveniently.
Yes. Most travel debit cards have options to make ATM withdrawals. Check the fees that apply as card charges do vary a lot. Some cards have local and international fees on all withdrawals, while others like Wise and Revolut, let you make some no fee withdrawals monthly before a fee kicks in.
Both Visa and Mastercard are globally accepted. Look out for the logo on ATMs and payment terminals in Jamaica.
The cards you see on this page are ordered as follows:
For card providers that publish their exchange rates on their website, we used their SGD / JMD rate to calculate how much Jamaican Dollar you would receive when exchanging / spending S$5,000 SGD. The card provider offering the most JMD is displayed at the top, the next highest below that, and so on.
The rates were collected at 09:36:26 GMT on 25 May 2024.
Below this we display card providers for which we could not verify their exchange rates. These are displayed in alphabetical order.