8 Currency Exchange Tips to Get the Best Rates and Save Money

6. Choose the Right Payment Method Abroad

Cards and cash each have places in travel budgets, but selecting the right card matters. Some debit and credit cards charge no foreign transaction fees and use near-market rates, which can beat cash in many cases. Research recommends checking your current card providers for per-purchase fees, ATM withdrawal charges, and cash-advance penalties. Fintech or travel-focused cards often offer near-mid-market rates and low or no ATM fees, making them strong go-to options for most purchases. At the same time, cash remains essential where cards aren’t accepted—local markets, small taxis, and some family-run stalls. A sensible mix is to carry a fee-friendly card for most spending, a prepaid or forex card for locked-rate transactions, and a small amount of local currency for low-tech purchases. Register travel cards and notify your bank to avoid fraud flags, and keep a backup card in a separate place in case one is lost or blocked.