For international travelers, crypto cards are often marketed as having "Zero FX Fees." While some cards like MetaMask Metal do offer 0% foreign transaction fees, the real cost often lies in the "Conversion Spread."
The Visa/Mastercard Base Rate
Most cards use the standard Visa or Mastercard exchange rates. These are highly competitive but usually carry a small 0.2% to 0.5% margin above the "mid-market" rate.
The Conversion Spread: The Silent Fee
Even if a card has 0% FX fees, you must convert your crypto to fiat. Issuers often charge a "spread" (the difference between the buy and sell price).
- Example: If Bitcoin is trading at $40,000, the issuer might sell yours at $39,800 to cover the transaction. This hidden 0.5% cost functions as a fee (Source: Issuer Fee Schedules).
Best Cards for International Travelers
When evaluating cards for travel, prioritize those with 0% Cross-Border Fees and Low Liquidation Spreads on stablecoins like USDC.