You’ve packed your suitcase, booked your flights, and arranged your accommodation. Now comes the big question: do you need to bring cash for your holiday, or can you just rely on your card? While card payments have made travelling more convenient, there are still plenty of reasons to carry cash when you head abroad. Let’s explore why cash is still king and how you can make the most of your travel money.

Why You Should Carry Cash When Travelling

In today’s world, it might feel like you can pay with your card anywhere, but the reality can be quite different. Here are some reasons why cash is still essential for holidaymakers:

1. Not Everywhere Takes Cards
   In many countries, particularly outside of major cities, cash is still the primary form of payment. From small market stalls in Turkey to cosy cafés in rural France, not every merchant accepts card payments.
2. Avoid Card Fees
   Using your card abroad often comes with additional fees, such as foreign transaction charges or unfavourable exchange rates. These small costs can quickly add up over the course of your trip.
3. Emergency Backup
   What happens if your card is lost, stolen, or declined? Having cash on hand can be a lifesaver, especially in emergencies.
4. Better Budget Control
   Cash makes it easier to stick to a budget. Withdraw or exchange the amount you plan to spend, and you’ll avoid the temptation of overspending on your card.

Common Misconceptions About Using Cards Abroad

Many travellers believe their cards will cover every scenario, but here are a few situations where this can go wrong:

• ATMs with Hidden Costs: Some ATMs abroad charge hefty fees or offer poor exchange rates.
• Dynamic Currency Conversion: Some merchants might charge your card in GBP instead of the local currency, often at an unfavourable rate.
• Connectivity Issues: In areas with poor internet access, card machines might not work, leaving you stranded without cash.

How Much Cash Should You Bring?

The right amount of cash to carry depends on your destination and the nature of your trip. For example:

• City Breaks: You might need less cash, as cities often have widespread card acceptance.
• Beach Holidays or Rural Destinations: Bring more cash, as cards are less widely used in smaller towns and villages.
• Trips with Tipping Cultures: Countries like the US or Egypt expect tips in cash, so factor this into your budget.
• Cost of Living: You can use this handy website to check out the cost of living in different countries, to see how much a coffee  or things you may purchase will cost in that location.

How to Get the Best Exchange Rates

If cash is essential for your holiday, it’s important to get the most value for your money. Here’s how:

1. Compare Exchange Rates
   Use a comparison site like CompareTravelCash.co.uk to find the best rates for your currency. Whether you’re buying Euros or Thai Baht, shopping around can save you a significant amount.
2. Avoid Airport Exchanges
   Exchange rates at airports are notoriously poor, and fees can be high. Plan ahead to avoid last-minute expenses.
3. Order Online
   Many currency providers offer better rates online than in-store. Use CompareTravelCash.co.uk to order your travel money for delivery or collection.
4. Choose Small Denominations
   Request smaller notes, as some places may struggle to give you change for larger bills.

Cash vs. Card: A Winning Combination

While cash is essential for many aspects of travel, it’s wise to carry a card as a backup for larger purchases or emergencies. A good approach is to combine the two: use cash for everyday expenses like meals, transport, and shopping, and your card for big-ticket items or unexpected costs.

Having cash on hand during your holiday isn’t just practical—it can save you money and make your trip more enjoyable. From charming markets to hidden gems off the beaten track, having the right currency ensures you’re ready for every adventure.

Before you set off, compare exchange rates at CompareTravelCash.co.uk to get the best deal on your holiday money. A little preparation now can mean a lot more spending power when you arrive!