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How to Carry Money Abroad
As Americans, we are used to using our credit cards everywhere we go. Carrying cash has become unnecessary in our society, and we’re used to our banks keeping track of everything for us, while we spend with little to no worry at nearly every type of retailer. However, when we decide to hit the road, paying for our expenses becomes slightly trickier. We can’t simply take out our plastic and use it wherever we want, because we then need to consider traveling fees, exchange rates, and much more. When we’re traveling abroad, we literally have to carry cash to avoid trouble with our banks. Paying for our trip depends on where our travels take us.
Traveling Through the UK, Much of Europe, New Zealand, and Australia
These areas follow many of the same guidelines as the U.S. It’s smart to buy foreign currency before leaving home, as it might be necessary for items such as the taxi ride between the airport and the hotel. Additionally, those cute shops or bars might only take local currency, so you’ll want to be sure to have some on hand to make your trip as enjoyable as possible. Remember that American Express isn’t as accepted around the world as other cards, so check on these options while you’re buying foreign currency through a company such as XchangeforAmerica. It’s advisable to take both a Visa and a Mastercard, keeping one hidden in the hotel as a backup to the other, preferably in the hotel safe or lock box.
Canada
When you’re traveling to our neighbors to the North, it’s important to research the area you’re visiting. Canada has a universal currency, and cash-on-hand is essential here. Similar to home, it is expected that you will tip everyone, from wait staff, to porters, to taxi drivers. Make sure you grab some Canadian currency in small bills, specifically for tipping purposes, because you will be able to use your debit or credit card with ease while visiting. Contact XchangeforAmerica to buy foreign currency before leaving home so you are ready to tip that first cab driver when you arrive in the country. Consider the fact that porters expect a dollar per bag, and valets expect the standard five dollars. Don’t forget to tell your bank you’re traveling to avoid any blocks on your cards.
North and South Africa, South Korea, and Japan
These areas require a traveler to plan ahead. You’ll see a number of ATM’s in these areas, however, many businesses may not accept credit cards. This means that you’ll be paying higher fees for using the ATM’s in these countries. Additionally, smaller towns may not have any access to money machines, so you’ll need to know where you’re going before getting on the plane. It’s best to organize cash ahead of your trip, buying foreign currency online, to be ready for these smaller shops or towns.
No matter where you plan to travel, let XchangeforAmerica help you get your currency to any country before your trip.