The Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card is a decent card for travel use, because it doesn't charge FX fees on non-sterling purchases. Plus you get 0.25% cashback on all your spend. But how do the rewards compare? Read our review to find out, and to learn about what not to do with the card overseas.

Barclaycard Rewards Credit Card Review

The Barclaycard Rewards card is one of a growing number of credit cards on the market that doesn't charge FX fees on non-sterling transactions. And it pays cashback rewards, making for an interesting combination of travel and rewards card. Let's look at how the rewards compare and how it really works overseas.

What is the rewards rate?

Cardholders earn 0.25% cashback on all purchases. Compared to the best UK rewards credit cards, this rate is on the lower end — free cards paying 2x as much or more do exist (e.g. Amex Cashback Everyday Credit Card), though most of them charge a non-sterling FX fee, which this card avoids.

Using the card abroad

You can use the Barclaycard Rewards card for purchases abroad without any non-sterling transaction fees. This means you can use the card to pay for hotels, in shops and at bars and restaurants without added fees.

Pay in Pounds or Local Currency? As with all purchases made abroad, you'll typically save on the currency exchange rates by opting to pay in the local currency. This means, when you're asked if you want to "pay in Pounds or Euros," for instance, you should say "Euros." Why? Credit cards are known for giving a good exchange rate so you're better off taking this than letting the local retailer do the exchange.

Should you withdraw cash abroad?

The Barclaycard Rewards Card summary box shows that there are no foreign transaction fees on cash withdrawals.

While cash is usually charged at a higher interest rate than purchases, the additional good news is that this card charges the same variable APR for purchases and cash. But note that unlike purchases, cash withdrawals don't get a grace period — interest accrues from the day of the withdrawal, even if you clear your balance in full at the next statement.

Bottom Line: Those planning a trip abroad can use this card for purchases and cash while on holiday without incurring additional fees, and can earn some rewards along the way.

Barclaycard Rewards Card Benefits & Features

Representative example: Representative 28.9% APR variable. Based on an assumed credit limit of £1,200 at a purchase rate of 28.9% p.a. (variable) with no annual fee.

Card details correct as of August 2026.

ClearScore is a credit broker, not a lender.