Why Carry Local Cash When You Travel?
When traveling internationally, there are a few good reasons to keep cash on hand upon arrival and throughout your visit.
Plan Ahead to De-stress Your Arrival
Incidental expenses such as snacks, tips, fares for subways and taxis and pay toilets pop up almost immediately. A small supply of local currency can mean the difference between long waits and unfavorable rates at ATMs or exchange bureaus and a quick transfer from baggage claim to a taxi.
Merchants May Require Minimal Purchases
Small cafes and restaurants may only accept credit cards with a minimum charge of around $10. They may also charge an additional 3 to 4 percent foreign exchange fee if you pay by credit card.
Cash Is Still King in Some Locations
In some popular destinations, merchants demand cash and not every card works with local ATMs. Even in countries where credit-card use is widespread, such as Ireland, that charming rural B&B insists on cash – as will cab drivers in Barcelona. If you want to haggle with a street vendor in Lisbon, explore the Spice Market in Morocco or buy handcrafted goods at Munich’s Christmas Market, shop with cash.
Share Your Plans with Your Bank
Let your bank know your travel plans so you don’t risk having your credit card charges declined. Record the bank number to call if your card is lost or stolen. If you intend to use a debit card, research your destination. Access to a debit card gives thieves access to your entire account. Banks block the use of debit cards in countries where card fraud is common, such as China.
Know the Risks Associated with Cash Machines
Cash machines in other countries may require personal identification numbers (PINs) that differ from the format of your number, and access can be limited. Some small airports or train stations may not offer ATMs, particularly in less developed countries.
The most common risk is that transaction fees add up. Your credit card may charge a flat fee of about 3 percent when you use a foreign ATM. The foreign bank may charge an additional fee.
If the ATM offers you the option of “dynamic currency conversion,” choose payment in local currency rather than U.S. dollars. Otherwise, you could be charged a conversion fee and find yourself on the wrong end of the exchange rate.
Diversify Your Depart-folio
Incorporating cash, prepaid and credit cards into your travel wallet optimizes convenience and minimizes vacation aftershocks when statements arrive. It pays to know what you want to spend. It also pays to know when you need cash and when to use plastic.
AAA provides cash in more than 80 denominations through its partnership with Travelex. Order currency as cash or on a prepaid Travelex Money Card. Delivery options include pickup at your AAA office or home delivery as early as the next day, nationwide. Visit AAA.com/ForeignCurrency or your local AAA office to purchase.
