Avoid Cost Traps: How to Pay Safely on Vacation

"Especially outside the Eurozone, it can quickly become expensive if you pay with a card or withdraw money unprepared," warns ÖAMTC travel expert Dagmar Redel. The mobility club has published recommendations on how travelers can protect their finances and avoid additional costs.

Compare fees – Card or cash?

In the Eurozone, paying with a debit or credit card is usually free of charge. Outside, however, costs are incurred with each use. Redel advises: "Compare debit and credit cards and choose the payment method that incurs the lower fees."

It is also important to always settle withdrawals and payments in the local currency. The offered immediate conversion to euros is convenient but comes with worse rates.

Cash remains indispensable on vacation

A small amount of cash for travel, tips, or initial expenses is sensible. Withdrawals on-site are usually cheaper than exchanging at home. Since fees are charged per withdrawal, larger amounts at once are worthwhile.

For security reasons, the ÖAMTC recommends distributing cash across multiple storage locations. Especially outside of tourist centers, cash is still necessary as many smaller shops and restaurants do not accept cards.

Mobile Payments Not Reliable Everywhere

Paying by smartphone is convenient, but it does not work smoothly in all countries. "A stable internet connection is a prerequisite for many payment apps – in regions with poor network coverage, this can become problematic," says Redel. Travelers should check in advance whether their device supports NFC and if the app works internationally.

Differences by Country

In Scandinavia, the Netherlands, or Canada, card and smartphone payments are almost universally common. In Asia, South America, or North Africa, however, cash often remains the first choice.

In countries with unstable currencies like Turkey, Egypt, or Argentina, it is sometimes common to pay in euros or US dollars. The ÖAMTC recommends informing oneself about country-specific customs in the Country Info or the "My Trip" App.

(Red)

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