How do you keep money safe when traveling abroad?

11 tips to keep money safe while abroad.
  1. #1 Photograph important documents and debit and credit cards. ...
  2. #2 Password-protect your devices. ...
  3. #3 Use cash sparingly. ...
  4. #4 Avoid isolated ATMs and use ones inside banks. ...
  5. #5 Spread your money. ...
  6. #6 Use the safe in your hotel room. ...
  7. #7 Be discreet with money in public.




To keep your money safe when traveling in 2026, the most effective strategy is diversification and layered security. First, never carry all your cash and cards in one place; split your funds between a RFID-blocking money belt (worn under your clothes), a small daily-use wallet, and your hotel safe. Use an "anti-theft" crossbody bag with slash-proof straps and locking zippers for your day-to-day exploring. Secondly, rely primarily on contactless digital wallets (like Apple or Google Pay) on your smartphone, as they use encrypted tokens and don't expose your actual card details to potential "skimming" devices. Always notify your bank of your travel dates to prevent your cards from being blocked for suspicious activity. Finally, carry a "back-up" credit card from a different bank entirely, and keep a digital photo of your passport and emergency bank contact numbers in a secure cloud-based folder.

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By implementing these tips, travelers will be able to enhance the safety of their funds and travel with peace of mind.
  1. Notify Financial Institutions. ...
  2. Create Account Alerts. ...
  3. Exchange Currency Ahead of Time. ...
  4. Bring a Fake Wallet. ...
  5. Avoid Frequent ATM Visits. ...
  6. Use a Credit Card When Possible. ...
  7. Carry Bags in Front of You.


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Although using a credit card to pay for travel is more convenient and safer than using other methods, you still have various options available to you that you can use to book your travel. PayPal, cash, gift cards and debit cards all make it possible to pay for travel without a credit card.

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Advantages of using cash If your spending discipline breaks down when you use credit cards, cash may be a better choice while you let loose on vacation. No foreign transaction fees: Many credit cards charge an extra fee of up to 3% on purchases made outside the country, although you can find cards that don't.

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Speaking of cash, getting some in advance of your trip is a good idea. Not only will the exchange rate likely be better upfront, but it also will mean fewer visits to ATMs and other places where your debit or credit cards may be compromised — and therefore less risk of falling victim to scammers.

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You can fly with any amount of cash. No law prohibits you from bringing any amount of money on a flight. Likewise, TSA has no rules that limit how much money you can bring through security. In other words, TSA has no cash limit per person.

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It's always wise to carry a small amount of cash for smaller cafes and restaurants, some public transport options, and taxis who may not accept credit card payments. We once visited the same restaurant 5 years in a row, only to discover each time that their card machine was out of order!

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You can wear the pouch over your stomach for ease of access, but if you find it more comfortable, slide it around to the small of your back.

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When it comes time to walk through the checkpoint screening equipment, travelers need to remove all items from their pockets. When doing so, put those items (keys, wallet, cell phone, lip balm, etc.)

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