Travel Expenses

Bank Cards

Cash is a classic fashion way to pay expenses, and it is convenient; if you are travelling in your native country, actually you don’t require to find banks or ATMs, but if you are visiting another country, you will probably pay less to exchange cash for the local currency than you would pay using another form of payment.

The downside is that it can be stolen easily and cannot be replaced, it is bulky and awkward to carry. You’ll need to wear a money belt or pouch and visit banks to exchange your cash to the local currency, thus will consume your valuable time.

Many travellers choose a combination of two or three travel money options. Before deciding, call your bank and ask about transaction fees and currency conversion charges. If your bank’s prices are high, reconsider getting a new credit and debit card for your trip.

Inform your bank where you are going and for how long, otherwise they may block your cards. Provide them with your trip itinerary and duration. Changing physical notes into local currency is also going to be more cost-effective than withdrawing local money from ATMs, where you’re likely to get slammed with high foreign transaction fees and reduced exchange rates.

Taking enough of US Dollars cash with you, it is going to make your journey a whole lot easier when you are crossing between different countries each with their currency, often in rapid succession. It means they are easily changed and, in some cases, even used to pay for goods and services within the countries themselves.

Another useful tip before your travel is to download a currency conversion application into your phone. You will enable to check how you are paying, as it can get confusing when you are moving between countries that have similar currencies, with different values. Also, it will give you awareness when changing in cash. I found it is useful to take with you more than one credit or debit card.

Cards are well protected, cannot be stolen as quickly as cash. As long cards are part of a significant network in many countries, you can visit an ATM and use your card to draw local currency automatically.

The advantage of using credit or debit card is that you are able in advance to reserve hotels, rental car or other online payments, your reservation will be guaranteed, even if you arrive late. Cards are small and easy to carry safely. You can get cash advances from ATMs, for a small fee.

People use credit and debit cards everywhere, and with a bit of research, you can save money on your travel needs. The best travel credit cards offer reward points you get to use your card.

You must be aware that credit cards are only accepted at some places mostly larger cities and throughout Eastern and Southern Africa countries.

Additional credit card surcharges from 5% to 8% can be charged when using your card. It is best to use it only in case of emergency. Most Africa countries are accepting US Dollars. You will be able to pay for food, taxi, accommodation, and optional activities.

Ask your local bank or foreign exchange office to provide you with new and clear US Dollars cash notes. No notes pre-dated 2012 accepted due to fraudulent notes rife in East Africa. It is best to bring with you a combination of larger denominations USD100 and USD50 to pay for your local payment and smaller notes of USD50, USD20, USD10 and USD5 for spending money and optional activities.

For backup; register your details to Western Union, just in case you need money wiring to you. Western Union branches everywhere. It is possible during your journey you may lose, or thieves may steal your cards and cash.