Media Blog
Ways to Use Local Currency When Traveling Abroad
Before you head out on any trip, you’ll want to buy currency online for the country that you are traveling to for a wide range of different expenses. From street foods, to tips, to transportation to entertainment, there are a variety of different uses for currency that you might need. Be sure to buy a sufficient amount of currency before you travel and it will allow you to enjoy the top attractions of whichever destination you end up visiting. Here are some of the many ways that you might use the local currency that you purchase.
Street Foods
Many street vendors in underdeveloped or even developed countries will only accept cash as a form of payment. This may be the result of a lack of payment processing technology or simple preference – cash payments don’t have the credit card processing fees and are often more convenient for these merchants. If you don’t have local cash with you, it can end up being a problem when you want to purchase street foods or other items from vendors who only accept cash as a form of payment. Always have anywhere from the equivalent of $50 to $100 USD in local currency in cash.
For Tipping
From doormen to restaurant workers, and other service providers, tipping is often highly appreciated in many destinations, as service workers may partially depend on tips or it can simply supplement their income. You don’t necessarily have to tip for poor service but when you find someone who is particularly helpful or courteous, it’s always a good idea to have cash with you to reward them for being hospitable. In some destinations tipping is considered rude, so you will want to determine this before you visit, but in most cases it is welcome depending on where you visit.
For Transportation
Ridesharing apps may not be available when you travel, and thus you might have to take a local bus, trolley or taxi, many of which operate on local currency. Those that accept coins or cash for example are not likely to accept your native currency, and if you try to pay with it, you might run into complications or simply be denied. You can avoid this by simply having cash with you – this way you’ll be able to get around in the country that you visit and can get change whenever needed.
For Souvenirs or Items
Just like street food vendors, you will also probably find several vendors selling handmade crafts, art, jewelry and other souvenirs. This is another circumstance where having cash can be very handy – just like food vendors they may prefer payment in their local currency. You can often get discounts as well by paying in cash and haggle on the price a little – many will sell you items for a lower price if you only have a certain amount of cash with you. Don’t be afraid to bargain a little, but be sure that you have local currency before you travel, which is easy to find when you use Xchange of America.