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Using your revolut card in the usa: what you need to know

Revolut in the USA | User Experiences and Expenses

By

Amina Noor

Jul 4, 2025, 11:44 AM

Edited By

Olivia Smith

2 minutes reading time

A person paying at a bar in the USA with a Revolut card, showcasing a digital payment process
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As travelers gear up for international trips, concerns about payment methods loom large. A recent thread on forums highlights user's experiences with Revolut in the U.S., sparking a debate around reliance on digital banking, especially during vacations.

Navigating Payments with Revolut

A visitor planning to come to the U.S. in March expressed their uncertainty about relying solely on a Revolut card for transactions at bars and shops. This led to a conversation among users about their own experiences and recommendations.

Key Insights from Users

  • Multiple Cards Recommended: Many people advised against relying on just one card. After all, โ€œyou should bring another bank card as well.โ€

  • Functionality Across Locations: Users reported that the Revolut card generally works well in the U.S. One commenter stated they had no issues during their travels, adding, โ€œI usually use it when Iโ€™m overseas.โ€

  • Set Up Local Accounts: For smoother transactions, some suggested setting up a USD account to avoid exchange fees. A user mentioned, โ€œDonโ€™t forget to set up your USD account!โ€ before traveling.

Mixed Sentiments Around Digital Payments

While some shared favorable experiences using their Revolut cards for various purchases, others remained cautious. A user emphasized, โ€œNever, ever rely on one method of paymentโ€ฆโ€ especially in places known for having unreliable payment systems.

User Experiences

  • Easier Transactions with Apple Pay: Several users reported successful experiences after linking their Revolut accounts to Apple Pay for convenience.

  • Exchange Rates Matter: Others highlighted that they prefer using Revolut for its attractive exchange rates when converting currencies abroad.

  • Adapting to Local Restrictions: Some users warned of occasional hiccups, like parking meters in NYC not accepting certain cards, suggesting travelers stay prepared.

Key Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ’ณ Most users recommend having at least two bank cards for redundancy.

  • โœˆ๏ธ Using a Revolut card appears favorable when traveling, particularly for international transactions.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Setting up a local currency account is seen as advantageous for avoiding unexpected fees.

As the trend of digital banking grows, decisions like these will play a pivotal role for travelers. What happens when technology meets real-world usage? Only time will tell.

Future Financial Landscapes

There's a strong chance that reliance on digital banking, including services like Revolut, will only increase among travelers. As more people opt for online banking solutions, experts estimate around 60% of international travelers may switch to digital means for managing expenses by 2030. This shift can be attributed to the growing convenience of tech-driven finance and the need for instant transactions while abroad. However, as digital payment systems increase, so too may the risks associated with them, compelling users to adopt backup payment options to bolster their financial security.

A Lesson from Time's Tides

Consider the transition from cash to credit in the late 20th century. Despite initial hesitations, consumers soon found credit cards indispensable for everyday purchases, mirroring current trends with digital banking. Just as people navigated the learning curve around credit while adjusting their spending habits, travelers today are adapting to a new world of virtual currencies and apps. This historical echo serves as a reminder that every leap in payment methods brings both convenience and unexpected challenges.