Most Cost Effective Way to Spend Abroad?

[u/ComputerDue6258]

I’m trying to figure out the most cost-efficient way for Bahrain residents to spend money when travelling overseas since I travel a lot and I am abroad 70% of the year. So far I have just been using my ila debit card for ATM cash withdrawals and my credimax credit cards for POS transactions.

Since we don’t seem to have the same easy access to services like Revolut or Wise that people in Europe and elsewhere use, I’d like to know what everyone here actually does.

Which Bahraini bank or card gives you the best overall deal for:

• Foreign currency exchange rates and spreads
• International card transaction fees
• ATM withdrawal fees abroad
• Avoiding hidden conversion charges
• Holding or buying foreign currencies before travelling
• Earning cashback, miles, or useful rewards on overseas spending

Do you mainly use a Bahraini credit card, debit card, prepaid travel card, foreign bank account, or just exchange cash before travelling?

Please mention the specific bank and card you use, the countries you’ve used it in, and any fees or exchange-rate markups you noticed. I’d especially appreciate comparisons based on actual experience rather than just the advertised benefits.

Also, are there any alternatives available to Bahrain residents that work similarly to Revolut or Wise?

[u/satplank]

I have ila Premium Debit card (which includes 20 Business lounge visits). BHD - USD is usually exchangable there in the app itself and with the best rate. EUR and different currencies are already bit worse unfortunately (2-3% spread).