💬 Should I Take Cash When Traveling Abroad?

Things People Wanna Know Before They Go!

One of the questions we get all the time—especially from first-time international travelers—is this:

"Should I take cash with me when I travel abroad?"

And the short answer is: Yes—just a little! 💸

Here’s what we recommend at Lindsey Adventures, plus a few expert-backed tips to help you feel confident and prepared.

💵 Our Go-To Strategy

Before any trip, we head to our local bank and order about $200 in the currency of the country we’re visiting. This gives us a small cushion for:

• Taxis or tips when we land

• Small purchases like coffee, water, or souvenirs

• Markets or shops that don’t take cards

Most banks can order foreign currency for you—and it’s often cheaper than waiting until you’re at the airport or trying to convert at an overseas exchange counter.

✅ Tip: Order currency 2–3 weeks before your trip so your bank has time to get it in.

💳 What the Experts Say

In addition to bringing some local cash, here are two smart tips from travel finance experts:

1. Use Credit Cards That Don’t Charge Foreign Transaction Fees

Many major credit cards (like Capital One, Chase Sapphire, or travel rewards cards) let you make purchases abroad without extra fees. This is often the best way to get the exchange rate closest to market value.

✅ Pro Tip: Let your bank or credit card company know you’re traveling so your card isn’t flagged for fraud.

2. Use ATMs—Strategically

If you need more cash while abroad, use bank-affiliated ATMs in secure locations (like inside a bank or airport) for fair exchange rates and added safety. Avoid stand-alone currency exchange kiosks—they often come with high fees or poor rates.

✅ Pro Tip: Withdraw larger amounts at once to minimize ATM fees, and keep most of it safely tucked away at your hotel or in a money belt.

🧳 Final Thoughts:

You don’t need to carry a wallet full of cash across borders, but having a little on hand can make those first few hours (and a few small moments) a lot smoother. Combine it with smart card use, and you’re set for a stress-free financial experience abroad!