How-to

Money abroad: cash, cards and currency exchange

How much cash to take, how to pay by card and how not to lose out on exchange.

Cards

An international card: Domestic cards usually do not work abroad. Get a card on an international payment network and check the terms with your bank.
Tell your bank: Before you travel, check that payments abroad are switched on and what your daily limit is.
Pay in the local currency: If the terminal asks which currency to charge, choose the country's own: it is usually cheaper.

Cash

How much to take: Take enough for the first days: taxis, small shops and markets may not accept cards.
Clean banknotes: Old, torn or written-on dollar and euro notes are refused in many places.
Customs rules: Large amounts of cash must be declared. Check the limit on the customs website beforehand.

Exchange

Where to change money: At banks and official exchange offices. Do not change money with people on the street.
Airport rates: Rates at the airport are usually poor. Change only enough there for your first expenses.
Small notes: You will need small notes for tips, transport and markets.

Precautions

Cash machines: Use machines inside bank branches and cover the keypad with your hand when you enter your PIN.
A reserve: Keep a second card and some cash apart from your main wallet.
Your bank's number: Write down your bank's helpline so you can block a lost card at once.

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