In this blog, we’ll compare the different ways you can take money overseas. Organising your money should be the first thing on your travel checklist. We’ll look at the pros and cons to give you the best information to takeaway with you, and to help make an informed decision on taking and accessing money overseas when travelling.
Cash
It is always useful to have a small amount of foreign cash on hand, for small purchases such as water, public transport tickets, little souvenirs and so on. Depending on where you go, some small retailers and market stalls may only accept cash. Unfortunately cash can be a safety risk so ensure it is secured on you at all times because if stolen, there’s no way to get it back as it cannot be traced. Be as prepared as you can and do your research ahead of time so you're taking the best travel money type with you.
To compare travel money, you can use our foreign exchange rate calculator to keep an eye on rate fluctuations, so you get the most out of your Australian dollar when you’re converting money.
Ordering foreign cash from us is easy and hassle-free. Order before midday to have major currencies (US Dollars, British Pounds, Euro and New Zealand Dollars) delivered to your branch the next day.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are a convenient option for taking overseas as there is no need to open a new separate account and they’re good for accessing money in emergencies. They can however be a risk for scammers and card skimming so you need to keep an eye on where you are swiping or inserting your card. Where possible, avoid swipe machines. Inserting your card to read a chip is much safer. Conversion fees may apply and could be a flat fee or percentage of your purchase.
Travellers Cheques
Are great because they never expire and they can be replaced if lost or stolen. They’re also less risky than cash as you need ID and a matching signature to cash them. However, with the rise of debit cards and travel money cards, travellers cheques are no longer widely accepted and are expensive to purchase.
Travel Money Cards
These cards are pre-loaded so you can easily stick to a budget and limit your spending. Complete a travel currency comparison to get the best value on exchange rates then load your card before you go. Check for fees on using the card in an ATM and the fee to payout the remainder on your card. Most issuers come with an app so you can top up your card using your mobile phone while you're away.
Visa Debit Cards
With a Horizon Visa debit card you’ll be spending your own money, so you can keep track of your purchases through our mobile banking app and internet banking as you would here in Australia. Visa is accepted worldwide so you won’t have trouble making purchases. Keep in mind that a currency conversion fee may apply to overseas debit card transactions and ATM withdrawals. *Tip avoid suspect ATMs by only using ATMs that are attached to a bank where possible.
Want to know more about ordering foreign cash or find out about any fees associated with international transactions? Contact us today and we’ll be happy to help you with your query.
Are you planning a trip and looking for a quote on travel insurance? Get in touch with the friendly team at Horizon today for a quick obligation free quote.
Horizon Bank has a branch network spanning the NSW South Coast and Illawarra. Horizon Bank branch locations: Albion Park, Bega, Bermagui, Berry, Merimbula, Moruya, Nowra, Thirroul, Ulladulla & Wollongong.
The content in this article has been prepared by Horizon Bank for general information only and it is not intended to be professional advice. It does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should seek your own legal, accounting, financial or other professional advice where appropriate, and consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and Terms and Conditions before deciding whether to acquire any products or services offered by Horizon Bank and/or its affiliated partners. We do not recommend any third party products or services referred to in this article unless otherwise stated and we are not liable in relation to them. Any links to third party websites are for your information and we do not endorse any content on those sites. Horizon Credit Union Ltd ABN 66 087 650 173 AFSL and Australian Credit Licence Number 240573 trading as Horizon Bank.
