Compared to local travel, going abroad often requires more planning and preparation. For one, you’ll need to prepare more travel documents such as your passport, travel visa, and other special requirements such as a medical clearance, if needed. There’s also the matter of packing enough and appropriate clothing to last you throughout the trip. You may even need to research ahead of time to know the cultural do’s and don’ts of the country you’re visiting.
The 5 Most Reliable Payment Options for When You Travel Abroad
Another crucial aspect of any travel plans is deciding how you’ll pay for your expenses during your stay. Since you’ll be in a different country that uses a different currency, it’s essential that you have a reliable payment option on hand—whether that be a credit card, a card connected to your e-wallet such as the Maya Card, or a local payment app—that will allow you to complete transactions abroad with no fuss. While cash is always an ideal option, having to carry a large amount with you while travelling can be inconvenient and risky. To save yourself from financial stress in your next trip, here are some reliable payment options you can use.
1. Debit Cards
For times when you need cash on hand, you can rely on debit cards to withdraw cash at ATMs in local currency. This provides you with a more convenient way to acquire foreign currency without needing to locate a money changer each time. Moreover, since most debit cards already come with Visa or Mastercard features, they can also often be used in places where credit cards are accepted. Another advantage of using a debit card is that it can help you manage your budget better; after all, you can only spend what you have in your account. For instance, if you’re using your Maya card abroad, then you can only use whatever is available in your Maya wallet. So, to control your spending, simply cash in your travel budget to your Maya wallet before your trip so you can enjoy the convenience of cashless payments through your debit card with more peace of mind. Last but certainly not least, you can use your Maya debit card anywhere as long as the merchant accepts Visa or Mastercard. This allows you to pay conveniently, as well as to maximize promotions and other offers of these payment networks.
2. Credit Cards
Credit cards are often considered a traveller’s best friend due to their global acceptance and added benefits such as rewards points. They can be the perfect payment option when booking flights and accommodations, too, as these often require a card. With a credit card on hand, you can simply hand over your card during purchases instead of having to worry about going to money changers during your stay. There are also travel-focused credit cards that offer extra perks for travellers, some of which include travel insurance, airport lounge access, and boosted reward points for international spending. Just make sure that you notify your bank about your travel dates and destinations in advance to avoid unnecessary card blocks while you’re abroad.
3. Mobile Payment Apps
Mobile wallets such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay allow you to make contactless payments without needing a physical card. These apps are ideal for quick purchases and public transport systems, especially in urban areas with tap-to-pay infrastructure. It also eliminates the need to carry multiple cards,since you can just tap your smartphone or smartwatch to complete the transaction. However, don’t forget to double-check ahead of time whether your app of choice is accepted in your destination, as some countries may have their own dominant or preferred mobile payment platforms.
4. PayPal and Other Online Payment Platforms
PayPal is another versatile option for making online payments or transferring funds while travelling. It’s widely accepted by global merchants and can be especially useful if you need to book tours, activities, or accommodations online. If a merchant accepts PayPal QR codes, you can also use it for in-person payments. Do make sure that your account is verified and linked to a funding source for hassle-free use. In addition, be on the lookout for similar options such as Wise or other emerging payment platforms to see if they’re also secure and compatible for international transactions.
5. Local Payment Platforms
Many countries already have their own local payment platforms that are widely used and trusted. For instance, Alipay and WeChat Pay dominate in China, PayPay and LINE Pay are popular in Japan, and Paytm and UPI are more commonly used in India. It’s always possible to encounter establishments or vendors that don’t accept international cards during your travels, so local payment platforms can be your back-up to ensure seamless transactions. You may consider downloading the local payment app in advance and researching online how to set up your own account so you can enjoy hassle-free payments once you land at your destination.
Wrap Up: Enjoy Convenient Transactions While Abroad
For times when cash isn’t a viable option, it’s important to have reliable payment options to use for your travel expenses. To maximize payment efficiency while abroad, be sure to diversify your payment methods. For instance, it wouldn’t hurt to carry a debit card such as your Maya card while also having a local payment app set up in your phone. This allows you to adapt to multiple scenarios, thus lessening your stress should one payment method refuse to work.
By mixing the payment options discussed above, you can travel with confidence knowing you’re prepared for any situation while managing your finances effectively!
ABOUTME
We overland. We eat plants and fungi. We live outside as much as possible. We are all connected. A female travel blogger overlanding and writing about ecotourism, ethical and sustainable travel, socially conscious travel and housesitting. An online travel magazine since 2015.
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