Should I travel with my debit card?

Using a debit card that reimburses ATM-operator fees and doesn't charge ATM fees or foreign-exchange fees can save you money when traveling abroad. Being able to withdraw small amounts of foreign currency without having to worry about fees can be convenient, especially if you're hopping from one country to another.



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Cash is the best — and sometimes only — way to pay for bus fare, taxis, and local guides. If you'll be shopping a lot or settling bills at pricey business-class hotels, you might use your credit card more than I do — but you'll still be better off using cash for smaller purchases.

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The major disadvantage of using a debit card instead of a credit card is that if it is compromised or stolen, the money in your bank account could be in danger. If you don't have a backup credit card, your entire trip could be distorted while you wait for everything to be resolved and your finances to become available.

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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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While credit cards are accepted in most situations, currency can be more convenient for public transportation and small vendors. It's also wise to carry an emergency fund with enough cash for a few days, just in case your card gets lost or stolen.

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Accessing money while abroad
  1. Cash/Local Currency. Let's start with the most basic form of payment: cash. ...
  2. Opening a Bank Account. If you are abroad for a semester or longer, you may want to investigate the option of opening a local bank account. ...
  3. ATM/Debit Cards. ...
  4. Credit Cards. ...
  5. Apple Pay/Google Pay.


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Debit cards with a Mastercard or Visa logo are widely accepted in Europe. American Express is somewhat less common, except at tourist destinations. Most banks charge a foreign transaction fee and/or a currency conversion fee, so it is worth double-checking these costs before departure.

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Credit card companies check cardholders' accounts for any unusual or suspicious activity when a transaction occurs. If your company sees a charge from a location away from home, your issuer may think this is suspicious activity and decline the charge.

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Generally, you should tell your bank the locations you are traveling to and the dates/duration of your travels. This will allow you to continue using your credit cards and debit cards without the fraud detection on your accounts being triggered, preventing you from using your cards.

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Where is the best place to keep your passport and money while traveling? It's a good idea to get a money belt that is inconspicuous and stores money and other documents close to your body. You should also make a copy of your passport to store at your hotel, along with any extra cash.

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You'll sometimes be given this option when taking cash from an overseas ATM too. Now, although you may think it is convenient to pay in pounds because you'll know how much will be taken from your account straight away, don't do it – ALWAYS PAY IN THE LOCAL CURRENCY.

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