Keep a Little Local Currency in Your Wallet

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Arriving in a new country with no local cash can be surprisingly inconvenient. You may expect to use your bank card everywhere, only to discover that the airport shuttle accepts cash, the taxi driver does not take cards, or the small café near your hotel has no card machine.

You don’t need to arrive carrying a large amount of foreign currency. Having enough local cash for your first few essentials is usually the more sensible approach. Think about transport from the airport, a meal, a drink, and a small unexpected expense.

Before you travel, find out what payment methods are commonly accepted at your destination. Some countries are heavily reliant on cards and contactless payments, while smaller businesses, markets, rural areas, and local transport may still prefer cash.

It is also useful to think about denominations. A handful of very large notes isn’t necessarily helpful when you need to pay for a small purchase. If you’re obtaining foreign currency before leaving New Zealand, ask whether you can get a mixture of smaller notes.

Don’t keep all your cash in one place, either. Carrying a small amount in your wallet while keeping the rest somewhere secure in your luggage can reduce the inconvenience if your wallet goes missing.

If you’re planning to withdraw cash when you arrive, check how you’ll access an ATM at the airport. Some airports have ATMs inside the terminal, but fees and exchange rates can vary. Your bank may also charge an overseas withdrawal fee, so understanding your card’s conditions before travelling can prevent surprises.

There is no need to abandon cards altogether. In fact, using a card for larger purchases can be more convenient and may give you a useful record of your spending. Cash simply gives you another option when a card isn’t accepted or technology isn’t cooperating.

The amount you need will depend entirely on your destination and plans. The important thing is to avoid making your first task after a long flight a frantic search for somewhere that accepts your payment method.

A little local currency in your wallet won’t transform your holiday, but it can make those first few hours considerably easier.