Most people are concerned about their money when traveling abroad. What would happen if you run out of cash in a foreign country and you can’t access your bank account? What if somebody steals your money? How would you get back home?
These are some of the major concerns that most people have when traveling overseas. Nevertheless, these concerns shouldn’t hinder you from traveling. They should also not prevent you from enjoying your trip. Simply follow these money tips for traveling abroad to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.
Check Monetary Conversion before the Trip
Check the money conversion rates before you travel. For instance, find out how much Kenyan shillings you can get for one dollar. Also, check the amount you will be charged to convert your money. Do some mathematics before the trip to determine the right amount of money to carry when traveling abroad.
Check Whether You Can Use Credit Cards Abroad
Before you travel, find out whether you can use your credit card in your destination country. Most banks have switched to chip-and-PIN technology because it’s more secure. Also, know that most businesses are no longer accepting outdated magnetic-stripe cards. Therefore, check whether you can use your credit card in your destination country before you travel.
Use an ATM or Bank in a Foreign Country
Airport conversion centers and those in the city are a major rip-off. These will charge you hefty fees to convert your money. To avoid this, use a bank or ATM to get an exact conversion rate.
Carry Local Cash
Don’t travel without cash in the local currency. This is very important because not all places accept credit cards. As such, you may want to use cash in places like buses and trains.
Call Your Credit Card Provider or Bank
Your credit card provider or bank might think that a transaction that you perform outside the country is a fraud. This can prompt the provider or bank to take security measures like turning off your credit card. To avoid this, inform your bank that you will be traveling to a foreign country and you will be using the card there.
Check the Entrance or Exit Fees
Some countries will charge you to enter or leave their boundaries. Usually, they don’t include this fee in the airline ticket. Therefore, check whether your destination country charges an entrance or exit fee. In most cases, this fee ranges between $25 and $30.
Follow these money tips for traveling abroad to have an enjoyable and comfortable trip abroad.