8 simple ways to look after your currency when you’re overseas

1. Don’t keep it all in one place

Separate your cash and make sure you’ve got some stashed somewhere other than your wallet. That way, if it’s lost or stolen, you won’t lose absolutely everything. Budget at the start of every day, and only take out what you‘ll need – leave the rest in the hotel safe, or hidden securely in your suitcase.

If you don’t feel right about leaving your cash behind, carry it with you but think about storing it in at least a few different places: in your wallet, in a secure pocket of your bag, or somewhere hidden on your person.

2. Get the right kit

Carrying cash in money belts is still common, but there are plenty of other options that will do the trick as well, such as shirts with built-in pockets and anti-theft bags.

If your holiday involves a lot of exploring and spending on the go, especially in busy areas like city centres or marketplaces, check your local travel store or look online to find a piece of kit that suits what you like to wear and offers a secure place to keep your cash.

3. Think about the notes you’ll need

When purchasing your foreign cash with Travelex, you’ll receive a mixture of high and low denominations, so you’ll have notes to cover both big and small purchases.

Based on what you’re doing that day, plan which notes to put in your wallet. After all, you won’t want to break a large note on a coffee or cheap souvenir, potentially drawing attention to yourself or giving you a lot of change to juggle. Try to make sure you have smaller denominations, so you can match your payment to your circumstances.

4. Consider using a currency card

Instead of relying solely on cash, consider using a prepaid currency card to make purchases during your travels. Secure an exchange rate that you’re happy with before you go so you can enjoy a good deal on the purchases you make while you’re overseas.

The Travelex Money Card is accepted at millions of locations and ATMs wherever Mastercard is accepted around the world, so you can use it like a credit or debit card without incurring the same high fees associated with using cards internationally. If you find you need a bit more money while travelling, you can load additional currency online on the go. If you run into any trouble, we provide 24/7 assistance if your card is lost, stolen, or damaged.

5. Get yourself insured

If the worst-case scenario happens and your cash is stolen, travel insurance provides a safety net you can fall back on. Some policies will cover a certain amount of cash, and others can be upgraded to include cash protection.

While it might cost you a little upfront, the peace of mind that travel insurance will give you may be worth it. Check your policy details and speak to your insurance provider before you travel to find out if you can get covered.

6. Prep your wallet

Reduce the risks associated with misplacing money by emptying your wallet before you start your travels. If it goes missing, you want to keep the inconvenience to a minimum and not lose other important items you keep in there.

We doubt you’ll miss your gym membership or library card when you’re miles away from home, so clear out anything you won’t use before you set off.

Make sure to write down the emergency contact numbers normally on the back of your currency card, debit card, and credit card, and keep them in a separate place. That way, you’ll know who to call if your wallet is lost or stolen and you need to tell your bank or currency provider.

7. Keep track of your cash

These days, modern technology can alleviate the headache of losing your items, especially when travelling. By attaching mini GPS tracking devices to your wallet, bag or other personal belongings, you can pinpoint their exact geographical location from your smartphone or laptop.

8. Use your common sense

If there’s one thing you should hold on tight to while you’re away, it’s your common sense. It’s easy to get swept up in the thrill of a new place, but don’t get so distracted by the excitement that you forget to look after your belongings.

You already know not to leave your bag unattended, so make sure to keep a good hold on it during spur-of-the-moment selfies or when you’re drifting off for an impromptu train nap. It’s the moments you’re off guard that the unexpected can happen!