Here’s how kids can use their GoHenry card abroad this summer

Here’s how kids can use their GoHenry card abroad this summer

Summer is here—and for many families, that means sun, sea, and some well-earned freedom! If you're heading abroad, don’t forget to pack your GoHenry cards. With safe spending tools and no overseas fees, they’re an easy way to give kids a taste of independence without losing peace of mind.

Summer spending made simple

Whether your child wants to shop for a holiday wardrobe, grab an ice cream on the beach, or pick out souvenirs for friends, their GoHenry card is ready to go. It works anywhere Visa is accepted—and it's designed to keep them safe while they spend.

 

GoHenry automatically blocks spending at retailers that classify themselves as “adult merchants” (like gambling and tobacco establishments), giving you extra reassurance while they explore new places and experiences.

 

No overseas fees

Yes, really! GoHenry doesn’t charge commission or ATM withdrawal fees abroad.* That means your child can use their money freely, without worrying about extra charges.


💡 Top tip: Always choose to pay in the local currency, not pounds. It ensures you get the best exchange rate via Visa, and avoids hidden markups—up to 7% in some cases!


Your child’s card works abroad exactly as it does at home. Every transaction shows in the GoHenry app in pounds, with the original currency and exchange rate clearly displayed underneath—helping kids understand exactly what they’re spending and where.


*Some ATMs may charge their own fees, so always check first.

Fast and secure payments with Apple Pay

Remember, teens aged 13+ can link their GoHenry card to Apple Pay for secure, contactless payments—no PIN needed. Whether they’re at a café, a market stall, or browsing airport shops, they can pay with confidence while keeping their card safely in their pocket.

Travel lessons that last

Holiday spending is full of teachable moments. There are opportunities to show your child how different currencies work, explain exchange rates, and talk about the cost of living in other countries.

 
In the US, for instance, sales tax is added at the checkout—so what they see on the price tag isn’t always what they pay. These real-life experiences build confidence and awareness that goes far beyond the summer break.


To give your kids a quick intro before you jet off, ask them to log in and find these Money Missions in the Learn section of the app:

  • Level 1 spending – “How to spend in other countries”
  • Level 2 spending – “Using a foreign currency”

There’s still time to save!

If you still have a few weeks before you head off, it’s the perfect time to help your child set up a holiday savings goal. In 2024, one of the most popular savings goals in the GoHenry app was “holiday”, showing that when kids are excited about what they’re saving for, they’re more than happy to put the money aside!

 

If your kids need a little encouragement to save, talk about what they might like to spend their holiday money on, from souvenirs to gifts for friends—even giant inflatables for the pool. Older teens may want new headphones, holiday clothes, or just their own holiday cash to be a little bit more independent when they're away.

Help with using GoHenry abroad

Here are the answers to the most commonly asked questions:

 

 1. What should I do if their GoHenry card is lost or stolen?

Please block the card immediately through the app or website. You can then order a replacement card for when you get home.

 

 2. How much can my child spend or withdraw while abroad?

You can check and change their card limits anytime by going to their Card screen and then tapping Limits. If your child uses their card more than usual on holiday, please be aware of these additional GoHenry limits:

  • Maximum 10 transactions a day

  • Maximum 20 transactions over 4 days

  • Maximum 3 ATM withdrawals per day

 

3. Can older teens buy whatever they want when they’re away?

The GoHenry card applies the same protections abroad as in the UK. If a transaction is declined, it may be due to our spending blocks which prevent purchases from gambling, tobacco and other adult-only merchants. 

 

4. What happens if my child’s GoHenry card is blocked because they entered the wrong PIN?

If your child enters the incorrect PIN three or more times, their card will be automatically blocked for security purposes. When this happens, please contact us via Live Chat and we’ll be happy to help. Remember, you can always find your child’s PIN on the Card screen of the parent app.

A holiday full of freedom (and financial confidence)

With GoHenry in their pocket, kids can enjoy the freedom of spending abroad—safely and independently. And you get the comfort of knowing they’re learning real-world money skills along the way.

 

 🏖 Happy holidaying! 🏖

 

 

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Written by Amy Austen Published Apr 29, 2025 ● 3 min read