No matter when or where you are heading off on holiday, it is a known fact that we Aussies love spending money overseas when it comes to traveling abroad. But what method works out the best cash or card?
Foreignxchange.com.au is an online currency exchange platform that has been providing services all over Australia and has been helping people exchange currency in Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide. We deliver currency Australia wide making it easier for you to get the best travel exchange rates, delivered directly to your doorstep.
A lot of credit, debit and travel cards can earn you loyalty points when it comes to spending money overseas. While on the other hand, cash can give you a sense of security as well as it acting as a safety net if you’re worried your card won’t be accepted. At the end of the day though, it’s worth noting what works out best from a money-saving point of view, as every transaction you make could incur varying fees in one way or another.
Currency exchange fees, insurance costs, ATM charges are just a few points that could sting you. Getting your head around all of them can be a bit of a nightmare. Luckily for you, here at Foreignxchange.com.au, we’ve made it easier for you to weigh up all the costs, without having to spend hours searching for what way works best.
Debit, Credit Or Travel Card?
You should always be aware of transaction fees when spending money abroad. You can call up your bank or pop-in to your local branch to find out. Simply tell them where you are heading off to and ask them what the fees for using your card abroad will be.
Debit cards can incur percentage charge for every transaction that you make. Travel specific debit cards can also have small outlay charges that you may have to pay to either set-up the account or receive the card in the post. Travel cards such as Revolut or the borderless account offered by TransferWise do have very useful mobile apps to help control and keep track of your spending. However, whilst abroad it can sometimes be difficult to get WiFi or data coverage to check-in on your spending. As most of us know, data roaming charges overseas can lead to expensive phone bills which would cancel out any money that you save by using one of these travel cards.
Not only that, there is no way of telling whether your travel card will work overseas and once you arrive at your travel destination.
Credit cards can be a great way to manage your overseas spending, however, we would only recommend using these for emergency purchases. If you find your flight is delayed, canceled or you miss it, using your credit card to sort out a new way of travel would be a great way to pay for something that is high-cost. You may even end up being reimbursed for by your insurance company. Credit cards can also be beneficial to be used for unexpected overseas medical costs, high-value excursions, accommodation extensions or impulse buys of expensive gifts.
Cash Is Still Number One
Having cold hard cash in the currency of the destination you are traveling to provides peace of mind and is the safest security net. Nothing is worse than arriving on holiday to find out that your debit, credit or travel card is rejected or stops working when you try to make your first purchase. Although it may take 24 hours to get your head around the note denominations, carrying cash overseas is the most efficient way to pay for food, goods, and services as you can be confident that when it comes to paying for something, the transaction works seamlessly.
Top 5 Tips For Carrying Cash Overseas
1. Split your cash up between carry-on and your check-in luggage.
2. For larger sums carry securely on your person using a money belt.
3. Check with the destination you are going to about cash limits and allowances.
4. Search for the best rate online and get your cash at least a fortnight before you travel.
5. Familiarise yourself with the currency as soon as you can to avoid getting short-changed or overpaying for things.
Who Has The Best Currency Exchange Rate For Cash?
Here at Foreignxchange.com.au we have simplified the process for you to get your hands on the best exchange rates with minimal hassle. Our online platform combines the best currency exchange rates with an easy to use process. We can deliver your travel money directly to your doorstep no matter where you are in Australia. With many years of experience and repeat customers, we are certain you won’t be able to find a better platform to get the best currency exchange rate with minimal fuss.