Why Every Dad’s Favorite Travel Tip Is Still Worth Following

Key Takeaways

Cash helps you avoid pesky ATM fees, especially when you're far from your bank or abroad.

Tipping drivers, housekeepers, and local servers is easier and more gracious when you have small bills on hand.

Carrying cash supports small, local businesses that may not accept cards or prefer the simplicity of cash payments.

In today's economy, you almost always need to carry a credit card. This is especially true when you travel on vacation and don't know where the nearest ATM is. But you should always travel with cash in your wallet, too. There are certain expenses where cash still comes in handy. We'll explain why cash is necessary when you go on a trip and how much money to bring with you.

Why Travel With Cash?

Avoid ATM Fees

You know which ATMs don't have fees in your hometown. But when you're traveling, you may not be able to find a local branch for your bank, especially if you use a credit union or are traveling out of the country. Obtaining cash before your trip allows you to avoid getting hit up with fees at out-of-network ATMs.

Have Money For Tips

Cash is still king when it comes to tipping drivers and hotel housekeepers. And in some countries, gratuities aren't usually included with credit card charges. Keep small change and bills on hand so you can tip your servers, bartenders, and more.

Support Small Businesses

Local mom-and-pop businesses don't always have credit card machines. Even if they do, small businesses often appreciate cash. Carry enough cash to make small purchases that support the local economy.

What To Know About Carrying Cash

Though we recommend taking cash on your trip, there are some things to watch out for:

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Keep a close eye on your cash; there's no replacing it if it disappears. Use a money belt or carry a theft-proof bag when wandering through busy, public spaces. If you leave cash in your hotel room, use the safe.

Check out exchange fees before leaving for an international trip. You may be able to save on fees by exchanging money at your local bank instead of at your destination.

Have some small bills handy for tips. While you can ask for change when tipping, it can lead to misunderstandings.

Don't expect to pay all of your vacation expenses in cash. Carrying that much money can be risky, and any amount over $10,000 must be reported when you travel internationally.

How Much Cash Should You Carry?

Plan to carry around $50-$100 per day for your trip. This may not make sense for a long vacation, however. If you'll have easy access to ATMs and don't expect exorbitant fees, you can limit the amount of cash you carry to an amount you are comfortable with. Bringing $200 or $300 is a lot less risky than carrying thousands of dollars. On the other hand, you'll need to carry more cash if you're traveling to a place where businesses don't often take credit cards.

Read the original article on Southern Living