Travelers are responsible for contacting their banks and/or credit card companies to ask specific questions about the use of the cards while abroad. All travelers should have two different money options. Review the following:
Debit/Check Card From Your Bank
- Debit/check cards can be used for cash withdrawals from an ATM and can be used for in-store purchases.
- Must be from a checking account—not a savings account.
- Must have “Visa” or “MasterCard” logo to be used for purchases in a store.
- Must have “Cirrus” or “Plus” logo to be used for cash withdrawals at ATMs.
- Know your Personal Identification Number (PIN) for your card. (Your PIN should have 4 digits only.)
Before traveling, contact your bank:
- Give bank the dates/destination that the debit/check card will be used.
- Ask bank for transaction & conversion fees.
- Ask if limits for cash withdrawals can be increased.
Pre-Paid Debit Card
- Pre-paid debit cards can be used for cash withdrawals from an ATM (within limits) and for charges where the logo is accepted.
- Can only be used up to the amount which is pre-paid.
- Additional monies can be added as needed (by parents back home).
- Check your bank or credit union for pre-paid card options they may offer.
Credit Card
- Credit cards can be used for in-store purchases of larger amounts.
- Avoid withdrawing cash with a credit card. Fees are very high.
Before traveling, contact your bank:
- Give bank the dates and destination where the credit card will be used.
- Ask bank for transaction & conversion fees.
Caution:
- Gift cards, even with a Visa or MC logo, do NOT work abroad.
- Traveler’s Checks are very difficult to exchange. We do not recommend them.
Apple Pay / Google Pay
- Both Apple Pay and Google Pay are becoming more and more accepted in other countries.
- Be sure to configure your payment method before travel.
Magnetic Strip vs. Chip vs. Tap Technology on Cards
U.S. credit and debit cards have traditionally had magnetic-strip technology. Many cards now have “chip-and-signature” formats. In other countries, cards with an embedded chip used with a PIN are most common. The tap to pay options are becoming increasingly common in many countries.
- ATMs recognize all types of cards.
- Stores and restaurants can typically process any type of card.
- Ticket machines often require the Chip-and-PIN cards. You may need to stand in line to have your payment processed by a person if you do not have a Chip-and-PIN card.
Best Practices
- Withdraw larger amounts of CASH using a debit/check or pre-paid card and use the cash for purchases. You incur fewer fees this way. Cash is preferred at certain restaurants and stores, especially for smaller purchases.
- Keep most of your cash in a money belt/neck pouch and carry only a small amount of cash in your purse or wallet.
- Know the PIN for your cards. An ATM will “eat” the card if you attempt a PIN three times. Stop after two failed attempts and find out the problem!
- Check currency exchange rates online and print out a currency exchange cheat sheet to take with you on your travels.
U.S. and Foreign Cash Before Departure
- Have a small amount of foreign currency ($25-50) for the first days abroad. That way, your group can bypass the bank/ATMs and start enjoying the country. (Note that some currency is not available ahead of departure in US.)
- Have a small amount ($25) of U.S. currency for snacks or meals at airports (especially during long layovers or delayed flights).
Note: Some teachers/leaders may have other requirements regarding money.
How Much to Budget?
- A minimum of $40-$50 per day ($20 per day during family stay) is recommended for lunches, dinners, beverages, and any public transportation not included in the program.
- If dinners are included for your group (ask your teacher), you won’t need as much per day.
- Keep a separate budget for gifts, souvenirs, etc.