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With travel restrictions lifting in many areas, the prospect of exploring new destinations is not only enticing but also feasible. Yet, as you juggle the myriad responsibilities of planning a family getaway (hi, overwhelming!), worries about managing your money during the trip may start to bubble up. What’s the safest and most efficient way to handle your finances while traveling? Are traveler’s checks still relevant? The last thing any parent wants is to find themselves in a situation where they’ve lost their funds while on vacation with the kids, leaving the entire family in a bind.
And let’s be real—stashing cash in your bra might work for quick trips to the store, but it’s not practical for extended travels. So, here are some handy tips for managing your money while traveling, without resorting to unconventional hiding spots.
What’s the Best Way to Handle Money While Traveling?
To ensure you’re covered, it’s wise to have a mix of payment methods. Here’s a closer look at the most popular forms of travel money.
Credit and Debit Cards
Credit cards are generally your best bet when it comes to payment, especially for international trips. Travel expert Alex Turner suggests carrying one main credit card and a backup for emergencies. “After returning home, check your account balances and transactions,” Turner advises. “Some travelers prefer to monitor their finances while away, but always be cautious when accessing accounts online.” He warns against using debit cards for purchases, as they withdraw directly from your account, leaving you vulnerable if fraud occurs. “For that reason, I use my debit card solely for cash withdrawals and prefer cash or credit cards for purchases,” he notes.
Credit cards also offer perks like travel rewards, points, and often come with no foreign transaction fees. Just remember to inform your bank of your travel plans! Additionally, using a chip and PIN credit card can make transactions smoother, particularly in regions like Europe and parts of Asia.
Cash
Cash remains essential. If you’re traveling abroad with more than $10,000, you’ll need to declare it at customs to avoid potential seizure due to money laundering concerns. Inside the U.S., however, there are no limits on cash carry. When traveling internationally, be prepared to exchange your U.S. dollars for local currency. Be cautious about where you exchange money—airport kiosks often have unfavorable rates. If you plan ahead, your bank or credit union can order foreign currency before your trip, or you can withdraw local currency from ATMs upon arrival.
Traveler’s Checks
Yes, they’re still around! While traveler’s checks are becoming less common, they offer a measure of safety since they can be replaced if lost or stolen. American Express still issues them, so you might want to check with your bank before your trip. If you find traveler’s checks too dated, consider prepaid travel cards as a modern alternative, though be mindful of fees.
How to Safely Carry Money While Traveling
Now that you understand the different ways to manage your money, let’s discuss how to keep it safe. Here are some essential tips:
- Keep Your Funds Separate
Combine your money sources to reduce risk. For example, you could keep your main credit card and some cash on you, while your partner holds the backup card and some additional cash. Store the rest in your hotel safe.
- Distribute Your Money
Don’t keep all your cash in one place. Divide your bills among different spots on your body, like a front pocket or a hidden money belt. Consider carrying a decoy wallet to throw off thieves.
- Use ATMs Wisely
Only use ATMs in well-lit, secure areas during banking hours. Before using, check for any skimming devices. Always shield your PIN entry from prying eyes.
- Have a Trusted Contact Back Home
If you lose your money, having someone back home who knows your account details can be invaluable. Make copies of your credit cards and share that info with your point person.
- Invest in Travel Insurance
Travel insurance can cover unexpected expenses like flight rebookings or lost luggage, providing peace of mind on your trip.
How Much Money Should You Bring?
While this varies by destination, a good rule is to prepay as many expenses as possible, then carry $50 to $100 per person per day. Adjust based on the cost of living at your travel location.
Clever Hiding Spots for Your Money
When you’re at your accommodation, keep your money secure. Consider hiding it in:
- An opaque plastic bottle
- Your socks in your suitcase
- A medicine bottle
- A random book
- Inside a coffee container
- Within a DVD case
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Summary
Planning for a holiday trip involves not just the excitement of exploring new places but also the crucial task of managing your money wisely. By using a combination of credit cards, cash, and perhaps even traveler’s checks, you can navigate your finances securely. Remember to separate your funds, use ATMs wisely, and have a backup plan should anything go awry. With these tips in mind, you can focus on enjoying your family vacation rather than stressing over money matters.
Keyphrase: Travel money management tips
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