Black Friday is just around the corner, and the lure of international deals is impossible to resist. There are many deals during this period. I already have my eye on a couple of gadgets and some fashion must-haves. The prices are just too good to pass up.
If you’re like me and have already mapped out your Black Friday journey, I’ll be taking it one step further by teaching you how to pay for the things you want to buy.
With the right approach, paying for international Black Friday deals from Egypt is easier, safer, and more cost-effective than you might think. Here’s how.
What challenges do Egyptians face when making international payments?
Before diving into solutions, it helps to understand the main hurdles:
- Limited access to international payment methods: Not all Egyptian debit or credit cards are accepted abroad.
- High foreign exchange fees: Converting EGP to USD, EUR, or GBP can be expensive if your payment method isn’t cost-effective.
- Bank restrictions: Some banks block international transactions or flag them as suspicious, causing delays or failed payments.
- Security concerns: Paying on foreign sites carries a risk of fraud, especially during busy sales periods.
Knowing these challenges helps you plan ahead and shop confidently.
Also read: How to pay for subscriptions in US dollars from Egypt
What are the payment options for international Black Friday deals
Here’s a detailed look at the best ways Egyptians can pay for international Black Friday purchases:
1. International credit & debit cards
Most global retailers accept Visa, Mastercard, and sometimes American Express.
Pros:
- Direct and convenient.
- It can be used on almost any e-commerce platform.
Tips:
- Use a card with low foreign transaction fees.
- Ensure 3D Secure or OTP verification is enabled for extra security.
- Sometimes, it helps to notify your bank about upcoming international transactions to avoid declined payments.
Cons:
- FX conversion rates charged by Egyptian banks can be high.
- Some smaller international stores may not accept Egyptian cards.
2. Online payment platforms
Platforms like PayPal, Wise, Payoneer, and Grey make international payments easier and safer.
How they help:
- You can hold multiple currencies, so you can pay in USD, EUR, or GBP without worrying about EGP conversion at checkout.
- They provide faster transactions and higher security than directly using your bank card.
Tips:
- You can even create a virtual USD card on Grey, which you can then use to make purchases.
- Always check transaction fees before completing a purchase.
Pros:
- It can be an extra layer of security if you’re not sharing your bank card directly with international retailers.
- Some platforms offer better exchange rates than traditional banks.
Cons:
- Certain merchants may not accept PayPal or similar services.
- The account verification may take 1-2 business days if it has not already been completed.
3. Bank wire transfers
For large purchases, international wire transfers via your bank can be an option.
Pros:
- Secure and suitable for high-value items.
- Some banks offer competitive rates for larger amounts.
Cons:
- Transfers may take several days.
- Banks charge fees, which can make small purchases impractical.
- Not all online stores accept wire transfers for e-commerce purchases.
Also read: How to get paid as a creator on social media from anywhere in the world
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Tips to save on payments and avoid issues
- Check FX rates before paying: You can save significantly by converting funds at the right time. Grey’s currency converter is perfect for checking the rates.
- Use secure payment gateways: Look for HTTPS sites and trusted payment methods.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi: Always use secure networks to prevent fraud and avoid using public wifi when opening bank apps.
- Set transaction alerts: This helps you monitor spending in real-time.
Popular international stores that Egyptians can shop from
Some of the most sought-after Black Friday destinations include:
- Amazon: Global shipping with multiple currency options.
- eBay: Great for electronics and fashion deals.
- AliExpress: Budget-friendly options for gadgets and accessories.
- ASOS, Zara, and H&M for fashion lovers, often with international shipping.
Check each store’s accepted payment methods before planning your purchases.
See you this Black Friday
Black Friday is a golden opportunity to snag international deals, but the right payment method is key. By using multi-currency accounts, trusted online payment platforms, virtual cards, or low-fee international cards, Egyptians can shop globally with confidence, save on fees, and avoid payment frustrations.
Set up your payment solution before sales begin, so you can check out quickly when the best deals are available.
Also, don't forget to open a free Grey account or download the app to start paying internationally smarter, safer, and faster.
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