Travel Warning: Don’t Rely Only on Card Payments Abroad

As millions of holidaymakers head abroad, many are unwittingly falling into a common trap: relying solely on card payments for their travel expenses. New research has shown that a significant number of travelers find themselves unprepared for situations where physical cash is essential. According to a recent survey by Be Clever With Your Cash, 39% of travelers encountered situations where cash was needed but they had none on hand. For tourists and business travelers alike, relying exclusively on cards abroad can present unforeseen challenges, especially in remote areas or rural locations where card acceptance is limited. Although prepaid and specialist travel cards offer convenience, experts caution that failing to plan for cash needs could result in higher costs and unnecessary stress during your travels. The Be Clever With Your Cash survey, carried out by Opinium among 2,000 UK travelers, reveals that many people fail to anticipate the need for cash in certain situations, despite the widespread use of card payments. When relying on cards, travelers may face unexpected extra costs. Some travelers have reported turning to exchange desks at airports for last-minute cash, often receiving poor exchange rates, which results in spending more than necessary. For business and leisure travelers, not preparing with a small cash cushion can lead to costly consequences. Unexpected expenses, such as tipping, local transportation, or even purchases at small shops, may not be possible to complete with cards alone. In particular, areas outside major cities may still operate on a cash-only basis, leaving travelers scrambling for physical money when they are least prepared.