The ICS Go Card was a popular option for people in the Netherlands who didn’t apply for traditional credit cards.
While it offered some benefits, sustainability issues and a lack of safety meant International Card Services, leading issuer of Dutch credit cards, closed the program in May 2024.
The good news is that plenty of alternatives are available, offering low fees, rewards, and better ways to manage your finances.
In this guide, we’ll explore some excellent alternatives to the ICS Go Card so you can spend safely and securely.
But first…
What is the ICS GO Card?
The ICS GO Credit Card was a prepaid VISA card, popular in the Netherlands for people who either didn’t qualify for – or want – a regular credit card. The one-time fee of €65, covered three years of usage, and holders would load the card with funds before using it.
With a €10,000 annual limit, users could load up the card and spend money, without worrying about getting into debt.
The cards main benefits were:
- Purchase protection: It offered insurance against theft and damage for purchases made within 180 days.
- Fraud prevention: ICS provided 24/7 fraud prevention services.
- Accessibility: Individuals didn’t have to go through a credit check to order the card.
- Global acceptance: It’s accepted for global payments, making it a convenient solution for travellers.
So, the ICS Go Card did have some benefits, but the reliance on plastic and lack of safety features highlight its weaknesses. Let’s investigate some excellent alternatives.
What to look for in an ICS GO credit card alternative
When looking for an alternative to the ICS GO credit card, consider the following criteria:
- Security features: Look for cards with robust fraud prevention measures.
- Costs and fees: Compare the costs, including any annual fees, transaction fees, and currency exchange fees.
- Global acceptance: Ensure the card is widely accepted worldwide. Is it compatible with Google Pay or Apple Pay?
- Additional benefits: Check for perks like purchase protection, rewards programmes, and travel insurance.
Top 5 alternatives to ICS GO Credit Card
1. Revolut Mastercard
Revolut is a digital banking app that offers a Mastercard with several advantages. It’s perfect for those who travel frequently as it negates currency exchange fees.
Additionally, Revolut offers a 62-day interest-free period for those who repay their balances on time. The app provides comprehensive control over your card, allowing you to set spending limits and save towards short-term goals with features like Revolut Vault.
Key features:
- No currency exchange fees
- 62-day interest-free period
- Spending limits and savings goals
- Family-friendly features with Revolut Junior
Benefits:
- Ideal for travellers
- Extensive app control
- Helps manage and save money efficiently
2. N26 Prepaid Mastercard
N26 is another great option, especially for those who prefer a digital-first banking experience. This prepaid Mastercard offers no foreign transaction fees, robust security features, and an easy-to-use app.
N26 also allows for seamless money management, making it a strong competitor to ICS GO.
Key features:
- No foreign transaction fees
- Strong security features
- User-friendly app
Benefits:
- Great for international use
- Easy budgeting and money management
- Digital-first approach
3. bunq Easy Card
The bunq Easy Card is designed for frequent travellers, providing the convenience of no foreign exchange fees and support for multiple currencies. It’s designed to simplify your travel expenses and help you manage your funds effectively while abroad.
Key features:
- No foreign exchange fees
- Supports multiple currencies
- Easy budgeting tools
Benefits:
- Excellent for travellers
- Simplifies expense management
- Convenient for international transactions
4. Getsby Green Card
The Getsby Green Card offers competitive fees and extensive purchase protection. It’s a strong alternative for those seeking similar benefits to the ICS GO card but with additional perks. Getsby also provides robust customer service and a variety of card options tailored to different needs.
Key features:
- Sustainable virtual card – No carbon footprint and support reforestation projects
- Competitive fees – € 0,99 monthly fee
- Spend worldwide using Google Pay Wallet or Apple Pay
- 10,000 EUR monthly spend limit
Benefits:
- Segregated account with IBAN
- Instant access – No need to wait for the plastic to arrive
- Application without a credit check
- Various card choices to suit different needs
5. Monese Prepaid Card
The Monese Prepaid Card is a quick and easy-to-use prepaid debit card. Known for its travel-friendly features and easy-to-use app, opting for a Monese card could give you access to stress-free spending. Users can also take advantage of three different plans, suitable for all budgets.
Key features:
- Free mobile app and account
- Some plans come with free ATM withdrawals
- Multiple currencies accepted
Benefits:
- Link the card to Google Pay Wallet and Apple Pay
- Use the card abroad and incur lower fees
- View transactions in the app
Other viable alternatives
Debit cards
Debit cards are a straightforward alternative to credit cards. They link directly to your current account, allowing you to spend up to the limit of the money you have. While they don’t offer the same protections or benefits as credit cards, they help you avoid debt by using your own money, they have no interest charges, and they’re available even with a poor credit score.
Prepaid debit cards
Prepaid debit cards like the Virtual Green Card work similarly to the ICS GO card. You load them with funds and use them like a credit or debit card. They are useful for budgeting and avoiding debt, as you can only spend what you’ve loaded onto the card.
Overdrafts
Overdrafts allow you to withdraw more money than you have in your account, up to an agreed borrowing limit. This can be useful for temporary additional funding. However, they come with high-interest rates and fees, making them less suitable for long-term use.
Personal loans
Personal loans let you borrow a larger sum of money over a fixed term. They can be used for debt consolidation, large purchases, or improving your credit rating. Personal loans often come with lower interest rates than credit cards, making them a cost-effective alternative for major expenses.
Peer-to-peer lending
Peer-to-peer lending matches borrowers with individual lenders through online platforms. This can be a flexible and often more affordable alternative to traditional loans, with varying interest rates depending on your creditworthiness.
PayPal credit
PayPal Credit offers a line of credit for online purchases. It provides convenience similar to a credit card, with added protections against fraudulent transactions and faulty goods. PayPal Credit can be a quick and easy way to finance online purchases without the need for a traditional credit card. Do bear in mind though, it has high-interest rates if not repaid promptly
How to choose the best ICS credit card alternative
When choosing an ICS credit card alternative, consider your personal or business needs. For example:
- Evaluate your needs: Determine what features are most important to you, such as travel perks, membership reward points, low fees, or cryptocurrency support.
- Read reviews: Check user reviews to see what others are saying about the card.
- Apply: Once you’ve chosen the best credit card for you, follow the application process to get started.
Discover a better credit card alternative
In summary, choosing the right financial product depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Whether you prefer the flexibility of a Revolut Mastercard, the tech-savvy approach of N26, or the travel-friendly bunq Easy Card, there’s an alternative to the ICS GO Credit Card that can suit your lifestyle.
If you’re not looking to apply for a full fledged bank account with Revolut, N26 or Bunq, and want to keep it simple, Getsby is the way to go.
To explore more about Getsby and see how it fits into your financial plans, sign up today and take control of your finances with confidence.
Order your Virtual Cards online
Apply for a digital prepaid card online and receive the activation code via email within 2 minutes.
