Back to Blog
Csilla Dali
evyssa vacations

Tips for cash and credit card handling abroad

International travel often brings about questions regarding money management. How much cash should you carry? Where can you exchange currency? Do you need cash or can you rely on credit cards? In this blog post, I'll share my favorite strategies for effectively managing your finances when traveling abroad.

Favorite App

When it comes to managing my finances while traveling, the Revolut App is my top choice. This virtual banking solution simplifies currency exchange, cash withdrawals, and card payments, providing a hassle-free experience wherever you go.

Signing up for Revolut is as easy as with any other bank, but it's all done virtually. Simply download the free app and enter your personal information. Once you're set up, you can manage all your finances in one place.

How to Manage your Money on International Vacations?

Travel Smarter with Revolut: Your All-in-One Solution for Currency Exchange, Spending, and Budgeting

Revolut: The Traveler's Secret to Stress-Free Spending and Smarter Currency Exchange

With Revolut, you can instantly exchange currencies within the app, enjoying better rates than those offered by ATMs. You can also order a debit card to withdraw cash from ATMs abroad or make purchases in stores and online. For added security during online transactions, you can request a virtual credit card.

The beauty of Revolut is that you can load as much or as little cash as you need for your trip, reducing the need to access your personal checking accounts or worry about foreign exchange fees imposed by regular credit card companies.

The app provides easy access to all your transactions, regardless of the currency used in the country you're traveling in. You have complete control over your expenses, and you can add money to your account by linking a checking account or conducting ACH transactions from your personal accounts.

If you're interested in trying the Revolut App, you can use my referral code by clicking on the following link: https://www.revolut.com/referral/?referral-code=csilla739!JUN1-23-AR-L1

How to Manage your Money on International Vacations?

Using Credit Cards Abroad: Tips for Smart Spending and Avoiding Fees

Navigating International Transactions, Currency Exchange, and Cash Withdrawals

What About the Credit Cards You Already Own?

Now, let's talk about using existing credit cards. If you plan to rely on your personal credit cards, it's advisable to choose ones that don't charge international transaction fees.  

Additionally, remember to inform your credit card company about your travel plans to avoid any unexpected card blocks while you're abroad.

Major credit cards like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted at most hotels and restaurants. However, smaller shops and local vendors usually prefer cash transactions only. 

When it comes to exchanging money into local currencies, if you're not using Revolut, it's recommended to withdraw cash from a local bank ATM. Be mindful of any cash advance charges if you use your credit card, and pay attention to daily withdrawal limits if you use your debit card.

If you need to exchange cash, it's better to do so at a bank or even the post office, as currency exchange shops typically offer unfavorable rates and higher fees.

Mastering Your Travel Finances: Essential Tips for Currency Exchange and Smart Spending

Travel Smarter, Not Harder

Here's an important tip: When using a US credit card in an international country, always opt to pay in the local currency. This allows your bank to set the exchange rate, giving you a better deal. Paying in dollars gives the merchant the opportunity to set the exchange rate, often resulting in a less favorable rate.

The same principle applies to cash withdrawals from bank terminals. Always choose the local currency option, as the amount displayed in dollars tends to be higher due to the exchange rate set by the payment processor, rather than your bank.

Remember, conducting all financial transactions in the local currency is the best way to avoid unfavorable exchange rates and unnecessary transaction fees.

 

With the Revolut App or careful planning with your existing credit cards, you can navigate your travel finances with ease, ensuring a smooth and cost-effective experience throughout your journey.

I hope the tips and strategies shared in this blog post will prove valuable in your future adventures. Remember, smart money handling allows you to focus on immersing yourself in new cultures, exploring breathtaking landscapes, and creating cherished memories.

If you have other favorite apps or additional travel tips related to managing money while traveling, I encourage you to share them in the comments below. Your insights may help others navigate their own financial endeavors. Thank you.

How to Manage your Money on International Vacations?

How to Manage your Money on International Vacations?

How to Manage your Money on International Vacations?

How to Manage your Money on International Vacations?

How to Manage your Money on International Vacations?

How to Manage your Money on International Vacations?

Ready to Make Your Travel Dreams a Reality (Without Breaking the Bank)?

Managing your money on international vacations is key to enjoying a stress-free and rewarding experience. With a bit of planning and these smart strategies, you can focus on creating unforgettable memories without financial worries.

Let Evyssa Vacations help you plan a trip that aligns with your budget and travel style.

Follow Us

Hire Your Luxury Travel Agent!

To ensure we provide you with the most accurate and timely information, please let us know a convenient day and the best time for us to contact you. This way, we can ensure that our response reaches you directly, avoiding the clutter of the digital realm. Whether it's through a call, email or text message, we want to make sure our communication is received!

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Latest Stories

Bucket-List Worthy Exotic Stays in Africa That Will Take Your Breath Away

Bucket-List Worthy Exotic Stays in Africa That Will Take Your Breath Away

Think Africa is all about safaris and savannahs? There’s so much more waiting to be discovered. Experience treehouses in ancient baobabs, glass suites with elephants nearby, and luxury lodges in wild landscapes that completely change how you see travel across this incredible continent.

How to Plan a Stress-Free Luxury Group Vacation: Tips and Tricks

How to Plan a Stress-Free Luxury Group Vacation: Tips and Tricks

Planning a luxury group vacation shouldn’t feel like herding cats. With Evyssa’s expertise, your trip transforms into a seamless, joy-filled experience crafted for connection and indulgence.

Beyond the Icons: Discovering Australia Through Aboriginal Eyes

Beyond the Icons: Discovering Australia Through Aboriginal Eyes

I’ve been planning trips for my clients for two decades now, and Australia has always been one of those destinations I felt I needed to understand more deeply. The sheer size of the country makes travel logistics tricky - especially because most U.S. travelers making the long journey want to experience as much as possible, in a very limited timeframe. What do we include? What do we leave out? It’s always a balancing act.

Luxury Bachelor/Bachelorette Trips: Celebrate in Style with Evyssa Vacations

Luxury Bachelor/Bachelorette Trips: Celebrate in Style with Evyssa Vacations

Celebrate your last fling before the ring in unforgettable style, whether it’s island serenity, a private yacht adventure, or a chic cruise party, we design bachelor & bachelorette getaways with flair and ease.

Luxury Group Travel - Culinary Tours and Private Gourmet Experiences

Luxury Group Travel - Culinary Tours and Private Gourmet Experiences

This curated guide explores the art of luxury group travel through the lens of food. From truffle hunts in Tuscany to beachfront seafood feasts in French Polynesia, it highlights how shared gourmet experiences, from cooking classes to private tastings, can deepen connections and turn every destination into a flavorful memory. Perfect for those who believe travel should be both indulgent and meaningful.

What You Need to Know About the Swiss Train System - And How We Can Help You Make the Most of It

What You Need to Know About the Swiss Train System - And How We Can Help You Make the Most of It

Switzerland is known for many things, dazzling Alpine views, charming lakeside towns, efficient public transportation, and at the heart of it all is the legendary Swiss Rail System. Whether you're planning a scenic adventure through the mountains or just want a stress-free way to get around, understanding how the Swiss trains work can make a big difference.