Best Way to Access Your Money Abroad

When you are planning a trip, you will likely be far away from your own personal bank. So how will you access your money? How do you get money when you are so far away from home?

Don’t worry- there are plenty of ways to access your money when abroad and here is how.

Bring Some Cash

Before you start thinking about where to get money on vacation, it is a good idea to plan on traveling with a little cash in your pocket. You do not need to bring much, but having some cash can be a lifesaver. Especially if you are going somewhere remote.

Go to your local bank or credit union and ask to exchange some cash for the local currency of the country you will be visiting. You can check sites online to find the best NAB exchange rates and order your money before you go! 

ATM Card

Utilizing your ATM card when overseas is one of the best ways to access your money. ATM machines will be able to instantly check your account balance, tell you how much you can withdraw, and give you money right away.

On top of that, ATMs tend to have some of the best rates as they are tied to the current bank rate. So, the NAB exchange rate will be the same at an ATM or inside the bank (but clearly, the ATM is more convenient!).

ATMs will charge you a flat rate service fee so, in order to reduce these fees, take out as much cash as possible to reduce the number of times you need to use the ATM.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are now accepted worldwide and a great option when traveling abroad. Not only are they accepted in most places, but they are also easy to carry.

Many cards even have safety features to prevent theft. Before you travel, look into getting a credit card that does not charge a fine for using the card abroad.

You can swipe and pay as needed!

Access Your Money Through Wire Transfers

If you need instant cash and do not have it readily accessible in your account, you can always choose to do an international money transfer. Find a money transfer center or bank and have someone from home send you money through an electronic wire transfer.

You will need to show proof of ID when accepting the money and the fees may be high but at least you will get the cash you need while abroad!

Banking Partners Can Access Your Money

Your hometown bank likely has international partners. Before you travel, find out what banks yours is affiliated with and see if there are any in the area where you will be traveling.

Using these banks will be much easier than trying to navigate a foreign bank.

In addition, when you are already a member, they are likely to give you better rates and fees on transactions.