A payment instrument offered through AAA (American Automobile Association) that is pre-loaded with a specific amount of funds and designed for use while traveling, functions similarly to a debit card but is not linked to a personal bank account. For example, a traveler might load $500 onto one before a trip to cover expenses like meals or transportation.
This type of financial product can provide security and convenience, protecting against theft or loss of funds associated with traditional credit or debit cards, and may offer features such as currency conversion and reload options. Historically, these cards have emerged as a practical alternative to carrying large amounts of cash or incurring international transaction fees.