A trip to Europe can be one of the more memorable voyages of your life. But the last thing you want to do is sour your voyage by finding yourself unable to pay for dinner or train fare while you’re there.
If a vacation or business trip is on the horizon, here are some things to keep in mind about using credit cards and cash in Europe. Being over-prepared can help you avoid a lot of trouble—and perhaps some missed sightseeing opportunities—while you’re traveling.
key takeaways
- European travelers should always have some cash on hand; getting it from an ATM abroad is usually the easiest, most advantageous way.
- Credit cards are generally accepted, especially in cities; but check with your card issuer about foreign transaction fees and currency exchange fees.
- Contactless pay systems like Apple Pay are increasingly common.
Don’t Expect to Get Too Far WithoutCash
There’s a lot that you can buy with a credit card in Europe, so bring at least one. But don’t expect to get very far without a little cash, too—especially if you’re a tourist. Transportation services, such as taxis and buses, often require local currency. The same is true if you hire a guide to help you navigate the unfamiliar surroundings.
Don’t bother to load up on cash euros, before your flight. You can simply visit an ATM once you arrive and withdraw euros—the currency of 19European countries—or pounds if you’re visiting the United Kingdom. With a conversion fee between 1% and 3%, and sometimes a nominal transaction charge, ATMs can be one of the least expensive and most convenient ways to get cash overseas—though you might want to check out local currency exchange bureaus, just to compare rates.
If you have more than one bank account, you may want to compare the different international ATM fees beforehand and of course, go with the one that’s more economical.
Using a Credit Card Abroad
Many businesses, particularly those that cater to travelers or are in cities, accept credit cards. Carrying plastic also cuts down on how much cash you have to carry, which eliminates some of the pain if your wallet is lost or stolen. Pickpockets are not uncommon in most European cities, and they know how to identify tourists.
If you’re planning to bring a credit card, there are a couple of things to remember. First, bear in mind that some cards are more widely accepted than others. MasterCardand Visaare among the most commonly used payment networks in Great Britain and the Continent. American Express,Discoverand Diners Club are less widespread, though some merchants will take them.
You can use your credit card to get cash at an ATM, of course (and you may have to, if your bank card doesn't participate in an overseas network). Whether for cash or purchases, do check with the card issuer (or dig out your terms and conditions paperwork, if you can find it) to see if there's a transaction fee for foreign purchases or a currency conversion fee (or both!). They add up.
Some merchants now give you the option to pay with your card in either the local currency or in your own home currency (dollars or whatever). Paying in your own currency is a way to get around that foreign transaction fee. If your card doesn't charge one, you might as well pay in the local currency.
How to Ensure Your Card Will Work
It’s also important to realize that Europe's credit card technology is far more advanced, often using chip-and-PIN software. This means their cards have an embedded chip that helps validate the card's physical presence and legitimacy. Rather than signing a receipt, cardholders often enter their four-digit PIN code to complete the transaction. American banks have rapidly rolled out cards that have the chip due to changes in fraud liability laws, but the PIN portion is often still not the norm.
You may still get away with a standard American card, as long it has a chip. If it doesn't, the merchant will likely ask for your PIN. If you don’t know it—after all,PINsare rarely used for U.S. credit card transactions—it’s a good idea to get the four-digit number from your bank before embarking, or re-set it via telephone or computer to something easy to remember.
Also, remember to notify your bank that you will be traveling overseas. Many banks have enhanced their fraud detection protocols, and if they notice suspicious activity, such as an ATM withdrawal in Venice when you've never been there before, they could deactivate your card out of an abundance of caution.
Using Traveler’s Checks
If you’re worried about carrying a lot of cash, another option is to purchase traveler’s checks. The nice thing about these checks is that, as long as you record the number on each one and store it in a secure location, the issuer can usuallyreplace them for free if they’re stolen.
However, traveler's checks are a dying breed; many places don't take them anymore. Even if a merchant accepts traveler’s checks, it’s often with a poor exchange rate. And they're costly: Banks may charge a fee worth 1% to 2%of the face value to purchase the checks.
One alternative is to carry a modest amount of emergency cash with you in a location pickpockets can’t easily get to—in other words, not in backpacks or an unsealed pocket. Few retailers or hotels accept personal checks, so you may as well leave those at home.
Going Digital
Increasingly, merchants throughout Europe accept Apple Pay and other digital "contactless" payment systems; Apple pay is accepted in over 60 countries as of July 2021. Doing it all with a tap of your phone can alleviate security concerns about having pockets picked and cash-filled wallets stolen.
If you use Apple Pay to pay with a card overseas, that card's same overseas charges, as discussed above, will apply. If you're using the Apple Pay Cash card to pay (it's accepted wherever Discover cards are), there's a 3% across the board fee for international transactions.
The Bottom Line
As the saying goes, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” These days, that means carrying a chip-enabled credit card and a little cash, just in case. Also, pack your bank debit card for ATMs to keep yourself supplied with additional coin, as needed.
Disclosure: At the time of publication, the author did not have holdings in any of the companies mentioned in this article.
FAQs
Key Takeaways. European travelers should always have some cash on hand; getting it from an ATM abroad is usually the easiest, most advantageous way. If you need cash from an ATM, it's usually better to use a debit card, because credit cards often charge a high interest rate for a cash advance.
Should you travel with cash to Europe? ›
For example, you might want to make sure you have cash before visiting local markets. And it could be nice to have cash for tips after a meal or when you're taking a tour. But remember: You don't have to travel with cash. You can visit a bank when you get to Europe and withdraw money from an ATM using your debit card.
Is it better to use credit or cash abroad? ›
The main advantage of using a debit or credit card overseas is that you won't pay foreign transaction fees every time you spend. While many also won't charge fees for cash withdrawals, you will still usually be charged interest from the date of the transaction if you use a credit card.
What is the best way to get euros before traveling to Europe? ›
- Before your trip, exchange money at your bank or credit union.
- Once you're abroad, use your financial institution's ATMs, if possible.
- After you're home, see if your bank or credit union will buy back the foreign currency.
Consider carrying between $50 and $100 a day on average, but remember that cash can bring fees and thieves along with it. Payment cards often have lower fees and are far easier to carry with you while travelling.
Is it better to get euros in US bank or in Europe? ›
The short answer is: Always pay in the local currency (Euros), which allows your bank to set the exchange rate, and it will always be a better option. If you choose to pay in dollars, you get the worst exchange rate from the merchant.
Is it better to bring euros or use ATM? ›
In almost every case, euros you can get abroad from an ATM will be cheaper than those you can get back in the States. When buying in advance, get just enough to give you a comfortable cushion and get you through a day's worth of emergency expenses.
What is the best way to pay when traveling in Europe? ›
Should You Use Cash or Credit When Traveling to Europe? Most international travelers will end up using a combination of cash and cards when visiting Europe. While credit cards are accepted in most situations, currency can be more convenient for public transportation and small vendors.
What is the best form of money to travel with? ›
Cash and credit cards are the ideal way to pay when you are travelling. Speak with an expert to determine which currency to bring with you. It is not uncommon for travellers to bring US Dollars, as they are widely accepted all over the world.
Can I use my US credit card in Europe? ›
Despite some differences between European and US cards, there's little to worry about: US credit cards (Visa and MasterCard) generally work fine in Europe.
Is It Cheaper To Exchange Money at the Bank or Airport? It is cheaper to exchange money at the bank (or by using an ATM) than the airport. That's because currency exchange stores and kiosks at the airports mark up the exchange rate to make a profit.
How many euros should I bring to Europe? ›
A good budget would be between 40 – 70 Euros for food in a day if eating all your meals out (and how much you eat). You should also have some leftover for gelato. Drinking is a favourite past time for many of us, and for those coming from Australia, the good news is that alcohol is MUCH cheaper in Europe.
How many euros do I need for 3 weeks in Europe? ›
If you plan a more extended vacation and need to know how 3 weeks in Europe budget look like, we'd say you're looking at spending about 850 per week, making it 2,550 euros total. To quickly recap, if you are traveling to Europe, you are looking at spending around 120 euros per day on average.
Is $100 a day enough for Europe? ›
Backpackers should expect to spend between $40 – $70 USD/day in Eastern Europe, $70 – $100/day in Western Europe, and $150 – $200/day in the Nordic countries.
Can I use my cell phone in Europe? ›
The general rule is that as long as you spend more time at home than abroad, or you use your mobile phone more at home than abroad, you can pay your standard domestic prices for your calls, texts and data services when you travel in the EU. This is considered a fair use of roaming services.
Do US debit cards work in Europe? ›
Debit cards from any major US bank will work in any standard European bank's ATM (ideally, use a debit card with a Visa or MasterCard logo). As for credit cards, Visa and MasterCard are universal, American Express is less common, and Discover is unknown in Europe. Check your cards' expiration dates.
Where should I get euros in the US? ›
Available in most areas.
- Bank. You can buy euros with dollars at major banks like Wells Fargo and Bank of America. You will need to be a bank customer already and can order euros online easily. ...
- Foreign Currency Exchange. Money changers can be the cheapest way to buy euros. ...
- Airport. Yes, you can buy currency at the airport.
Don't Use International ATMs Without Checking Fees First
These fees can be avoided by choosing a bank account that doesn't charge fees and reimburses out-of-network ATM fees and by always withdrawing local currency from ATMs.
Is it smart to buy euros now? ›
'Now is a good time to buy foreign currency'
The euro — the official currency for 19 of the 27 European Union members — has been falling in value over the last year or so and hit parity with the U.S. dollar on July 13, for the first time since 2002. Parity means the two currencies had a 1:1 exchange rate.
Should I pay in euros on my debit card? ›
10 tips for traveling with debit and credit cards
If you can pay in euro and in local currency when abroad, choose the latter. The exchange rates for converting to euro are usually very unfavorable. Set the settings for your debit card to 'on' for payments outside Europe.
You can use your card to withdraw foreign currency (e.g. Euro, US Dollar) at some LINK ATMs. To find your nearest foreign currency dispensing ATM you can check the Cash Locator and do an advanced search for ATMs dispensing foreign currency.
Is it best to pay in euros on card? ›
Avoid additional fees and charges
Although opting to pay in local currency will save you money on the exchange rate, you are likely to still be charged a fee for using your card abroad. By looking for a credit card that doesn't charge a foreign transaction fee, you can save up to 3% per transaction when abroad.
What is the safest form of payment when traveling? ›
The key is knowing where you're going and how you'll be using your money when you get there.
- Cash. Cash is easy to use, but the least secure option. ...
- Credit card. Credit cards are one of the most secure options for international travel. ...
- Debit cards. ...
- Traveler's Checks. ...
- Prepaid card.
You can purchase or withdraw local currency with a credit card, but just be aware that fees and interest may apply, including a cash transaction fee.
How much cash should you travel with internationally? ›
The general consensus is that you should have $50 to $100 in cash per day for each traveler. However, this amount could vary considerably depending on where you are vacationing. Some destinations are more cash-friendly than others.
Is it smart to travel with cash? ›
While credit cards are easy to carry and more secure than cash, you should always have some local cash on you when traveling. It's just good sense. Besides the fact that some local shops and vendors won't accept credit cards, having some cash provides a safety net in case your bank shuts off your card for any reason.
Should you travel abroad with cash? ›
Bringing foreign cash, and how much to bring, is as important as making sure your credit card providers know you are traveling internationally. Foreign currency enables you to pay like a local, provides an important backup payment method, and is the most common payment for small transactions.
Should I bring cash on a trip? ›
The general consensus is that you should have $50 to $100 in cash per day for each traveler. However, this amount could vary considerably depending on where you are vacationing. Some destinations are more cash-friendly than others.
Is it better to exchange currency or use credit card? ›
Credit cards typically provide better exchange rates than what you'll get from ATM machines and currency stands. Depending on your card issuer, your purchases might automatically qualify for insurance. This coverage doesn't simply apply to consumer goods — it also covers travel delays and lost luggage.
Do I need cash in Paris? ›
You can use your card in France for most things, but if you want to shop at the street markets, you'll need cash — ATMs are typically onsite. Places like Porte de Clignancourt and Les Puces de Montreuil in Paris have some amazing deals for things you never thought you'd find.
First, understand that Italy is a very cash-oriented society, so make sure you never end up with zero cash in your wallet. To buy small things, like coffee, you'll need cash. You'll also need cash at all outdoor markets, for most taxis, and at many restaurants.
How many euros should I take to Italy for a week? ›
Budget to spend around €450 for two for a week in Italy. This assumes you're cooking some of the time and drinking some alcohol. If you enjoy eating out, you can expect to pay around €65 for a nice dinner for two, including an alcoholic drink.
Should I pay in local currency or USD for international travel? ›
While there are some situations where it may make sense to use DCCs, it's usually better to pay in the local currency – especially if you use a credit card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees.
How to buy euros from Bank of America? ›
Customers with Bank of America checking and savings accounts can order foreign currency through Online Banking or the Mobile Banking App. Customers with credit cards only can order currency at a financial center. Find out how much foreign currency you need for your trip and look up cash exchange rates.
Is it better to use cash or credit card in Europe? ›
Because merchants pay commissions to credit-card companies, small European businesses (B&Bs, mom-and-pop cafés, gift shops, and more) often prefer that you pay in cash. Vendors might offer you a discount for paying with cash, or they might not accept credit cards at all.
How many euros should I take to Europe for 1 week? ›
This is so entirely dependent on your own travel preferences that it's tough to estimate but we recommend putting aside roughly €350 to €1000 for spending money for one week in Europe.
What is the cheapest way to buy euros? ›
The cheapest places to buy Euros abroad are usually banks. European banks will take foreign cash and change it to Euros using the most current exchange rate. Most banks do not charge a transaction fee for the service; if they do, it will usually be smaller than an ATM's or a currency exchange's.
Should I get euros before I leave for Europe? ›
Resist the urge to buy foreign currency before your trip.
Some tourists feel like they just have to have euros or British pounds in their pockets when they step off the airplane, but they pay the price in bad stateside exchange rates. Wait until you arrive to withdraw money.
Is 500 euros enough for a week? ›
Re: Are 500 Euros enough for food and fun? Yes. Although some can blow that much on one meal!! Others can somehow make the same amount last a week. As long as you don't get caught up in 'designer' shopping - you should be able to have quite a bit of fun on 500 euros.
How much is a meal in Europe? ›
An average estimate is also about 20 Euros per meal. Lunch and breakfast are usually cheaper than dinner, especially if drinks are involved. In Western Europe, you'll easily spend 20 Euros on just breakfast or lunch with a coffee or drink. Dinner could be 30 or 40 Euros with wines and co*cktails.
As a rough estimation, budget $50-100 per person for each day that you will be away. This should cover your accommodation, food, drink and transportation costs. Of course, this number can vary according to the destination and your style of traveling.
What is the cheapest time to travel to Europe? ›
Key Takeaways. The late fall and winter months—from mid to late October through mid-to-late March—are often the cheapest time to fly to Europe (though fares can spike in December).
How much money do you need for food in Europe per day? ›
Overall, you should spend $40 to $50 per day.
France, Germany, Austria, the Netherlands and Belgium are all similarly priced in terms of food and drink, whereas Switzerland gets a bit more expensive (thanks to the Swiss Franc).
How can I avoid phone charges in Europe? ›
Tips on avoiding roaming charges
- What are roaming charges?
- Check your network's roaming rules before you leave.
- Check your destination abides by EU roaming rules.
- Download media and files at home.
- Don't opt out of data roaming spend caps.
- Look into local SIMs.
- Take particular care on cruises.
- Keep an eye out for free Wi-Fi.
Strategies to help you connect in other countries without paying a bundle
- Put your phone in airplane mode. Only use it (besides features such as the camera) when you can connect to Wi-Fi. ...
- Get an international plan. Every phone carrier offers its customers international plans, which vary. ...
- Buy a prepaid SIM card.
Turn off Data Roaming or prepare for a trip. Need to avoid roaming charges because you arrived at your destination without an international data plan? Check your Cellular Data options and turn off Data Roaming. In the Settings app, tap Cellular, or Cellular Data, or Mobile Data.
Is it better to get euros in US or Europe? ›
If you use a US credit card in France, Italy, Spain, or another European country, you may be wondering whether to pay in euros or dollars on an American credit card. The short answer is: Always pay in the local currency (Euros), which allows your bank to set the exchange rate, and it will always be a better option.
Which debit card is best for international travel? ›
- SBI Global International Debit Card. With SBI Global International Debit Card, you can access your fund whenever and wherever you want. ...
- ICICI Bank Sapphiro International Debit Card. ...
- Axis Bank Burgundy Debit Card. ...
- HDFC EasyShop Platinum Debit Card. ...
- HSBC Premier Platinum Debit Card. ...
- Yes World Debit Card.
Banks. You can often buy Euros and other foreign currencies from your bank, although be aware that they may not offer the most competitive exchange rates. The exchange rate makes more difference to the overall cost of buying travel money than you might think.
Should you bring cash when traveling internationally? ›
You should bring cash in USD (or your home currency) with you on your trip as backup currency in case you wind up with a malfunctioning credit card or ATM card.
Bring a wallet or change purse that can handle more coins
Both the euro as well as the 2 euro are coins, so I recommend bringing a coin purse at minimum ! You'll be surprised how heavy your wallet can get if you are dealing with euros as well as several other currencies within Europe (especially in the Czech Republic).
How much cash should I carry for international travel? ›
The general consensus is that you should have $50 to $100 in cash per day for each traveler. However, this amount could vary considerably depending on where you are vacationing. Some destinations are more cash-friendly than others.
How much euros should I bring for 1 week? ›
This is so entirely dependent on your own travel preferences that it's tough to estimate but we recommend putting aside roughly €350 to €1000 for spending money for one week in Europe.
How many Euros should you bring to Europe? ›
A good budget would be between 40 – 70 Euros for food in a day if eating all your meals out (and how much you eat). You should also have some leftover for gelato. Drinking is a favourite past time for many of us, and for those coming from Australia, the good news is that alcohol is MUCH cheaper in Europe.
Where do you put your money when going through airport security? ›
Ultimately, TSA uses the money to maintain and improve security operations. Travel Tip: To keep from leaving your money behind at the checkpoint, place it in a zip top plastic bag, pouch or favorite fanny-pack and store in your carry-on bag for X-ray screening.
Is it safe to put cash in checked luggage? ›
Never put your cash, financial instruments, or precious metals in a checked bag. Keep your cash and other valuables out of public view. Keep your baggage and belongings in sight when passing through a security checkpoint. If your carry on baggage must be searched, insist on keeping your bag in sight.
What are the disadvantages of cash when Travelling? ›
If you go for an all-cash approach, it's likely you'll start to accumulate an assortment of small bills and coins as your trip goes on. And while there isn't really anything wrong with that, it can become quite unwieldy to have pockets overflowing with loose change and a wallet crammed full of small bills.
