You spend months planning a trip, dreaming of new experiences, and then – bam – you realise your wallet is missing. Whether it’s pickpockets, card fraud or simply misplacing your cash, losing money while travelling can ruin any adventure.
Stay one step ahead with these travel money tips to keep your funds safe and your trip on track.
Keep cash secure
Carrying cash is essential in some countries, but stuffing it all in one place is a disaster waiting to happen. Instead of keeping everything in your wallet or bum bag, split it up.
Keep a small amount to hand for minor expenses, while stashing the rest in a money belt, an inside jacket pocket or even a hidden pouch in your bag.
Don’t carry more than you need for the day when leaving your accommodation. If you’re staying in a hotel or rental with a safe, use it to store extra cash securely. Without a safe, you might need to get creative – tuck cash inside a sock in your luggage or zip it into a toiletries bag.
Bring multiple payment methods
Relying solely on cash or a single bank card is risky. If it gets lost, stolen or blocked due to suspicious activity, you could be stranded without access to money.
Instead, carry cash and at least two different cards from separate banks or providers. A debit card is useful for quick cash withdrawals, while a credit card offers better fraud protection for purchases.
A prepaid travel card could be useful as an extra safeguard. These aren’t linked to your main bank account, meaning less damage can be done if they’re compromised.
Store your backups away from your main one. If your wallet is in your daypack, keep the spares in a secure pocket inside your luggage.
Carefully choose ATMs
Withdrawing money abroad is relatively easy, but using the wrong ATM can leave you vulnerable to fraud. Always opt for machines in or around banks or in well-lit, public areas.
ATMs in convenience stores or near tourist hotspots are more vulnerable to tampering. Card skimmers and hidden cameras aren’t uncommon. Before using the machine, check for anything unusual. If the keypad looks loose or the card slot seems tampered with, find another option.
When entering your PIN, cover the keypad with your hand. If an ATM swallows your card, contact your bank immediately rather than assuming it’s a temporary glitch.
Secure your cards and devices
Most banks now offer quick and easy freeze or block functions and the ability to disable contactless payments – use them if you need to.
Security for your phone is just as important. Set strong passwords for your devices and enable biometric authentication where possible. Avoid leaving it exposed in accessible pockets when you’re out and about.
Always keep your card in sight when paying. And be wary of public Wi-Fi when logging into your banking apps – it’s worth using a VPN or waiting until you’re back on a secure network.
