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It is that time when football lovers from across the continent and beyond gather for one of the most incredible football competitions in the World. But the African Cup of Nations isn’t just a gathering of football fans; it is an expression of continental cultural diversity, an opportunity to explore new countries, and a chance to participate in fun activities.

This year, the AFCON tournament will be held in Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, and for first-time visitors, budgeting for this trip can be challenging. From accommodation and transportation to meals, match tickets, and activities, budgeting can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. To make matters worse, prices are likely to surge around the tournament period.

If you are a first-time visitor to Morocco or at an AFCON, we’ve got you covered with this AFCON 2025 travel budgeting guide for first-time visitors.

Also read: AFCON 2025: The best tourist sites to visit in Morocco

Visa requirements if you are visiting Morocco

Most visitors can enter Morocco visa-free for up to 90 days for tourism, as it has visa-exempt agreements with over 70 countries. This includes citizens of the US, EU countries, the UK, Canada, Australia, and many African countries, including South Africa. An Electronic Travel Authorization (AEVM) is mandatory for citizens of some African countries. If you’re required to get a visa, then apply for an eVisa online. The processing time is typically under 5 days, and the cost ranges from $20 to $ 50.  Citizens of certain countries may obtain a visa upon arrival.

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay. However, it is better to have at least 6 months left just to be safe. There are currently no COVID-19 restrictions in place, but you should have proof of onward travel and sufficient funds.

You may also like: How to obtain a Morocco business visa

Booking your flights

This usually depends on how early you book, the airline, the class of service, and your departure airport. It is generally cheaper to book months in advance to secure the best prices. Major entry points are Casablanca Mohammed V Airport (CMN), Marrakech Menara (RAK), and Rabat-Salé (RBA). With Grey’s USD debit card, you can easily pay for your flight and other travel expenses at low and transparent fees.

Here is  an estimate of round-trip fares depending on your origin:

• Europe: $300 - $400
• US/Canada: $600 – $900
• Africa: $300 – $600

Here are some tips to help when booking your flight:

• It is often cheaper to fly to Tangier, Agadir, and Fes than to Casablanca or Marrakech.
• Book your flight as early as possible.
• Use Google Flights and Skyscanner to compare prices across airlines and dates.
• While you should watch out for the layovers, indirect flights are usually cheaper but longer.
• Budget about $50 for airport transport via taxi or shared shuttles.

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Affordable transportation in Morocco for AFCON 2025

Morocco is well connected by high-speed trains (ONCF), which efficiently and affordably link major cities.

• Trains: The Casablanca-Marrakech route is a 3-hour ride and costs around $10-$20. The high-speed Al Boraq train from Rabat to Tangier typically takes between 1 hour 20 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes. Prices vary by class and booking window, but it usually range from $15 to $20. You can book via the ONCF app.
• Buses: CTM or Supratours operate intercity routes, such as Marrakech to Agadir, which is a comfortable, air-conditioned 3–4-hour ride, usually under $15.
• Taxis: Petit taxis within the city cost $1–5 per ride. The grand taxis for intercity might cost $5–10. Ride-hailing apps like InDrive or Heetch help avoid haggling.
• Domestic flights: The Royal Air Maroc is an affordable option for local travel.
• Car rental: A car rental should cost approximately $30–50 per day. It is not advisable if you aren’t used to driving abroad. The traffic in major cities can be frustrating.

Here are some local transportation tips to help you save money on fares:

• Booking your train and bus tickets a few days early can be cheaper.
• Using apps like InDrive can help you estimate taxi fares.
• Keep small change for local buses and markets. Don't rely on cards.
• Using a metered petit taxi might be better.
• If you are visiting multiple cities during your stay, you can opt for an ONCF rechargeable card for discounts.

Accommodation options you should look into for AFCON 2025

By now, you can expect accommodation prices to be rising, especially in host cities. Book early via Booking.com or Airbnb. If you’d like some cultural experience, then you can look into riads (traditional guesthouses). There are hotels in cities across the country with varying prices. The closer you are to the stadium, the more you are likely to pay.

Accommodation is relatively cheaper in Tangier, Agadir, Fes and Rabat, ranging from $30 to $60 per night. Casablanca and Marrakech might be a little pricier.

Here are some tips for lowering accommodation costs:

• Stay slightly outside city centres. It is cheaper and often quieter.
• Book your accommodation early.
• Share apartments with friends to split costs.
• Choose accommodation near tram/bus lines to reduce taxi costs.
• Paying in advance with Grey’s virtual USD debit card is cheaper and easier.

Planning for your feeding at AFCON 2025

Visiting Morocco for AFCON 2025 might be the perfect opportunity to try local cuisine, which is generally cheaper than international dishes and fine-dining options. Here’s what you should expect in terms of pricing

• Street food: $2–$5
• Local restaurants: $5–$10
• Mid-range dining: $15–$25

Here’s how to cut down on your feeding cost:

• Eat at Medina stalls or local cafés.
• Buy fruits, snacks, and water from supermarkets.
• Breakfast is usually included in riads and hostels.

How much AFCON 2025 match tickets cost

Tickets are sold through the official CAF site and are affordable to encourage purchase. The prices vary by match type and seat. Here is the general breakdown.

• Group stage - $10–50
• Opening match - $15–50
• Quarterfinals - $20–60
• Semifinals - $30–80
• Final - $40–90

If possible, avoid resale sites, as they often add markups to prices.

Also read: How to exchange currency safely when visiting Morocco

AFCON 2025 travel budgeting guide for first-time visitors

Now that we have covered all major expenses, you should set aside funds for miscellaneous and gift/merchandise purchases. If you plan to try other activities as well, budget for them. You can reduce costs by using hostels, street food, and buses. With around $1,200 to $2,200, you can have a seamless experience in Morocco. Here is what your budget should look like if you are staying for 10 days:

• Flights (round-trip) - $300–700
• Accommodation - $500–900
• Food - $120–200
• Transportation (trains/taxis) - $100–150
• Match Tickets (3 games) - $100–200
• Visa/SIM/ Misc (entry fees, souvenirs) - $50–100

Another way to reduce your expenses is to use a reliable payment solution. Travelling for an international tournament involves managing multiple expenses across different currencies. Unfavourable currency conversion rates, high international transaction fees, and payment declines can make your trip frustrating. This is where Grey comes in. With multi-currency accounts supporting USD, EUR, and GBP, you can easily convert to MAD at low fees and competitive rates. Grey has a transparent fee structure, so you know how much each transaction or conversion will cost before you proceed. You also get a virtual USD debit card for affordable and seamless digital payments.

Sign up on Grey or download the mobile app to get started today.

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Travelling to Morocco this December for the 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON)? Then you need a currency conversion service to convert your home currency to Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) with ease. While you can easily use exchange services at airports and hotels, you will be paying significant markups on exchange rates and high conversion fees. Traditional banks can be dramatic with their paperwork and delays. If you are wondering how you can get the best deal and how you can convert money for AFCON trips, let’s give you a rundown of your options.

What to consider before choosing an exchange service

Before you opt for an exchange service in Morocco, here are some things you should consider:

• Transparency and fees: Some exchanges offer amazing rates but include hidden fees and high markups. Look for clear exchange rates (mid-market rate), hidden charges, and low transaction fees to avoid unnecessary losses.
• Security: Use licensed, regulated financial services to avoid scams, counterfeit money, and secure your funds. Review their security features and regulatory authorities.
• Convenience: Consider online platforms with mobile apps, doorstep delivery, or multi-currency accounts like Grey for seamless travel.
• Currency support: Choose a service that lets you manage multiple currencies in one place and allows you to withdraw to MAD at any time. This means you can hold money in other currencies till the exchange rate is favourable or you need MAD.
• Customer support: Check reviews for reliability, fast service, and responsiveness.
• Payment options: Use international cards for online purchases like tickets; your bank handles conversion automatically.

How to convert money for AFCON trips

Here are various currency exchange options for your AFCON trips.

Using bureaux de change (Exchange offices) to convert money for AFCON trips

You will need some cash for your AFCON trips, and exchange offices are your safest option. You can find them in cities like Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech, and Tangier, where AFCON matches will be held. Look for the official ones, as they offer rates close to mid-market. They offer immediate access to cash, which is useful for last-minute needs or upon arrival in Morocco. You may be required to provide identification, such as a valid passport or driver's licence, for the transaction.

Using ATMs for currency conversion at AFCON 2025

ATMs are generally a reliable way to get the local currency wherever available. You might be able to withdraw cash at international ATMs at the airport. However, you should note the fees and exchange rate. It is usually better to be charged in the local currency to get the best exchange rate to avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), which  is usually more expensive. Your home bank may have partnerships with foreign banks that allow you to use their ATMs with reduced or waived fees. Check with your bank before travelling to find a locator for partner ATMs in Morocco.

Hotels and airports’ currency exchange services for AFCON trips

Avoid airports and hotels for converting large sums because the rates are usually poor, even when convenient. Instead, exchange a small amount at the airport if you have urgent needs, then access better rates at ATMs, official exchange bureaus, and reliable fintech apps like Grey.

Using digital payment services for converting money on AFCON trips

Fintech companies offer a range of solutions that simplify and reduce the cost of currency conversion for events such as the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), whether for travellers, businesses, or fans. They typically offer transparent, low fees, mid-range conversion rates, and access to international accounts (USD, EUR, and GBP), while also supporting withdrawals to MAD accounts.

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Tips when converting money at AFCON

• Check multiple providers and compare rates.
• Locate reliable exchange points via Morocco’s OC CONNECT app.
• Avoid temporary stands or street corners for cash exchange.
• Always count your money carefully before leaving the counter.

Converting money for AFCON trips with Grey

Managing currency exchange on AFCON trips can be tricky without the right tools. Grey offers a flexible and reliable currency conversion solution. With swift payouts, low conversion fees, and a transparent fee structure, users can hold USD, EUR, and GBP and seamlessly withdraw to MAD accounts. Grey also offers versatile virtual USD debit cards to simplify your online payments in Morocco. Here’s how to convert money on Grey:

• Log in to your Grey account on the mobile app or website. If you don’t have one, you can sign up and complete your verification within minutes.
• Go to the "Accounts".
• Select the currency you want to convert from (e.g., USD, EUR, GBP).
• Click the "convert" icon.
• Choose Moroccan Dirham (MAD) as the currency you want to receive.
• Input the amount you wish to convert and the local MAD account details you are paying into.
• Check real-time exchange rate and fees, then follow the prompts to complete the conversion.

Attending an AFCON with Grey makes the experience even more exciting. Enjoy the thrill of the games, without payment concerns.

Sign up on Grey’s website or download the app today to get started.

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Your first international trip comes with two guarantees: you’ll take way too many photos, and you’ll quickly realise that money works very differently once you leave home. Suddenly, the price of a bottle of water can feel like a personal attack, your card decides to take unscheduled holidays, and every airport currency exchange booth looks like it’s plotting against your bank account, and fees appear out of nowhere.

A bit of preparation goes a long way here, turning those confusing moments into small, manageable details instead of major travel stress.

Know exactly how much you will spend before you fly

Spontaneity is great, but not when it comes to foreign expenses. Before your trip, take time to research the average cost of meals, transportation, data plans and accommodation in your destination. A quick look at real traveller reviews or cost-of-living websites can help you build a realistic daily budget. Knowing what things usually cost abroad prevents overpaying and helps you avoid returning home with a maxed-out card.

Also read: Best online banks for non-residents and global travellers

Understand the currency before you arrive

Foreign currency can feel confusing at first. Numbers may look bigger or smaller than what you are used to. Spend a few minutes converting basic items like coffee, metro rides or snacks. This helps you develop a sense of what is expensive and what is normal in that country. Also, check whether the destination mainly uses cash, cards or digital wallets so you can prepare the right mix.

Avoid exchanging money at airports

Airport exchange counters are convenient, but they usually offer poor exchange rates and extra fees. If you need cash immediately, withdraw only a small amount and exchange the rest in the city at reputable exchange offices or by using a reliable digital service. It is always better to have multiple ways to access money instead of relying on expensive airport counters.

Use travel-friendly banking options

Traditional banks often charge high fees on foreign card transactions. Some even decline payments if you forget to set your travel notice. This is where smart digital solutions such as Grey become useful. With a Grey account, you can hold money in multiple currencies, convert funds at competitive rates and pay or withdraw without the usual international charges. It keeps your travel money organised and makes it easier to control how much you spend in each currency.

You may also like: The best virtual dollar cards for freelancers and frequent travellers

Never rely on only one payment method

Cards can get lost, cash can finish quickly, and sometimes terminals simply do not work. Make sure you have a mix of payment options. For example, keep one debit card in your wallet, another in your luggage and a small amount of cash for emergencies. Having backups gives you peace of mind and keeps your trip running smoothly even if something unexpected happens.

Turn off data roaming and buy a local SIM

International roaming charges can become shockingly expensive. Before you leave the airport, buy a local SIM or an eSIM so you can access the internet at local prices. Having mobile data also helps you check exchange rates, confirm prices, find ATMs, or call for help if needed. It is one of the simplest ways to avoid unnecessary spending.

Double check your accommodation payments

Some hotels and rentals charge additional fees at check-in, such as deposits or cleaning costs. Read the fine print before booking and take screenshots of everything. This helps you avoid surprises and protects you from accidental double charges. Always keep confirmation emails and receipts stored in your phone.

Also read: How to travel the world without quitting your job

Track your daily spending

It is easy to overspend during your first international trip, especially when everything feels new and exciting. Use your phone’s notes, a budgeting app or Grey’s balance view to track your spending each day. Seeing the numbers helps you stay on budget while still enjoying yourself comfortably. It also helps you adjust quickly if you realise you spent more than planned on a particular day.

Learn basic negotiation skills

In many countries, especially in markets and tourist areas, prices can be flexible. Observing how locals negotiate can save you a lot of money. You do not need to be aggressive. A simple, friendly question like “Is this your best price?” can make a big difference. It is also part of the fun of experiencing local culture.

Keep emergency money safely stored

Always have a small amount of money that you do not touch unless it is truly necessary. Store it in a separate pocket or bag. It could help you pay for a taxi if your card stops working or purchase essentials if you lose your wallet. A little preparation goes a long way.

Using Grey to make your travel money easier

Grey helps you manage your international spending more confidently. You can open a multi-currency account, hold USD, EUR or GBP and convert your money when the rates are favourable. You can also receive payments if you are working remotely while travelling. It is a convenient and affordable way to keep your travel finances organised.

Ready to travel smarter

Your first international trip should be joyful, memorable and stress-free. When you plan your money well, everything else becomes smoother. If you want an easier way to manage currency, track spending and avoid expensive bank fees, Grey can make your travel experience simpler from day one.

Create your free Grey account today or download the app and travel with confidence wherever you go.

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Is it just me who always knows there is something I am forgetting before a trip, and usually don’t remember until I am on the trip? It got so frustrating that I eventually had to create a travel checklist containing the most common things I forget, especially my glasses case. Very often, these things aren’t even the most important things to the trip, but they could make your experience a little less comfortable.

Travelling during the holidays is exciting, but many Kenyans focus so much on tickets and accommodation that they overlook small but important details. These missed steps often lead to delays, extra costs, or unnecessary stress. This simple guide highlights the things most people forget to plan for, so your holiday trip goes smoothly from start to finish.

Also read: Best ways to send money to Kenya for Christmas and New Year celebrations

Health and safety

May the universe forbid you from catching a bug on your holiday trip. But until that happens, you will not truly understand how relevant it is to plan for your health and safety.

• Get necessary vaccinations and prophylaxis: Before travelling, consult a doctor about recommended vaccinations such as Typhoid, Hepatitis A, and Yellow Fever, and consider malaria prevention, especially in safari areas or coastal regions.
• Secure appropriate travel insurance: Ensure it covers potential medical needs in your destination, including emergency evacuation.
• Be aware of security risks: Stay informed about the general safety and security situation in your destination and take necessary precautions.
• Don’t forget your medications and reports: Pack your routine medications, as well as relevant OTC medications such as pain relievers, antihistamines, and motion-sickness tablets.

Also read: How Kenyan freelancers are building global careers from home

Bookings

I am the type of trip planner who tends to underestimate the late-minute rush during the festive seasons. I often put off booking for transport and stays until later, and I pay dearly for it.

• Book early: Especially for popular destinations like safari lodges, booking well in advance can secure better accommodation and prices.
• Consider local logistics: Plan for local transport, which can be costly and logistically challenging, particularly in rural areas.
• Book direct flights: If possible, book direct flights to minimise layovers and potential disruptions.
• Activity tickets: Beat the queue for your planned activities by booking earlier. There might be a lot of rush during the peak holiday season, and tickets can sell out early.

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Road safety measures

This is not to scare you. But if you are travelling by road, note that festive periods see a surge in road accidents due to speeding, overloading, and drunk driving. Amidst all of the mishaps you can or cannot avoid, don’t forget basic safety checks. Inspect tyres, brakes, and lights before long drives. Insist on belts for all passengers and avoid night travel to reduce risks. Download emergency apps like NTSA for real-time alerts if you are travelling within Kenya.

Packing the essentials

One more thing about me: I end up packing the things I don’t need and leaving out the things I need. You might find yourself overpacking for a trip while not packing what you’ll really need, especially people like me who pack more books than they’ll ever read on a trip. Have a checklist of weeks including your bodycare products, chargers, power banks, cameras, etc. Choose weather and activity-appropriate gear, e.g swimming trunks.

Plan for connectivity and documentation

Staying online is very crucial to your trip.

• Internet connectivity: Find out how you can access the internet before you set out. Some embassies provide e-Sims. Roaming is usually too expensive. Buy a local SIM or eSIM at the airport.
• Documents: Pack your valid IDs, accommodation bookings, international passports, and other relevant travel documents. It is advisable to have digital copies of tickets and IDs on cloud storage.]

Also read: Grey vs. local banks: The best currency exchange method in Kenya

Payment plans

You might set yourself up for a frustrating experience if you do not plan for payment when you arrive at your destination. It is advisable to know which payment options are available so you can plan accordingly. Relying on international ATMs and airport and hotel exchange services might be too expensive. Your local Kenyan card might also not work in other countries. While carrying some cash can be great, you cannot carry too much cash because of local restrictions and safety reasons. This is why a multi-currency account that lets you hold USD, GBP, and EUR in one place is your best bet for holiday travel.

Travel anywhere with Grey

One thing you must not forget on your holiday trips is travelling Grey. Users enjoy seamless international transactions at low charges and competitive exchange rates. Grey’s virtual USD debit card also makes it easy to pay for online services and purchases. You can also link the card to Google or Apple Pay for swift, contactless payments where available.

Get started with Grey today to complete your travel checklist.

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As the world gears up for one of the greatest football tournaments, a common concern for visitors of the host nation is: how do we make payments? From paying for a visa to booking a flight and match tickets, paying for accommodations, and buying things online, everyone needs a reliable and affordable payment option before hopping on that flight to Morocco for the 2025 AFCON.

While you can easily spend cash in the market, at local food stalls, and on taxis, using a card for pretty much every other thing makes your life easier. Paying with a debit card from your home country may incur high fees or experience transaction declines. You might be unable to open a local account in Morocco before you arrive or even during your stay. Even then, traditional banks are often very expensive and slow. The tournament might be over before the bank finishes processing your payment. This is why getting a prepaid or virtual card is a great option for AFCON travellers. Let’s look at some of the best prepaid and virtual cards for AFCON travellers.

Also read: AFCON 2025 travel budgeting guide for first-time visitors

Using the Grey virtual USD debit card on your AFCON trip

A Grey virtual card can be used to pay for AFCON tickets online and manage tournament expenses, enabling seamless international transactions and currency conversion. It is a virtual USD Mastercard accepted anywhere Mastercard is accepted, and that’s virtually everywhere. You top up the virtual card with funds from your local bank account, and Grey handles currency conversion to USD at competitive rates. Grey issues multi-currency accounts that support transactions in USD, EUR, and GBP. You can also fund your account in these currencies and withdraw funds to local MAD accounts when paying locally.

How to get it:

• Sign up on the Grey app
• Verify your account with a valid ID, proof of residence, and a selfie.
• Request for your bank details
• Fund your account via bank transfer or mobile money
• Generate the USD card and fund. You will be charged a one-time fee of $4.

Also read: How fans abroad can pay for AFCON tickets and match passes

Wise virtual card for AFCON travellers

Wise offers multi-currency accounts with low conversion fees and virtual cards for online payments. Wise’s mid-market exchange rates are often cheaper than those of traditional banks for card spending and currency conversion. You can withdraw up to £200/€200 (or equivalent) per month for free at ATMs in Morocco.

How to get it:

• Sign up for a Wise account on the Wise website or in the Wise mobile app.
• You will need to order a physical debit card to unlock the virtual card feature. This costs $9 USD.
• Go to the "Cards" tab in the app, slide to the purple card option, and select "Get a digital card".
• Fund your Wise account to start using the card instantly.

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Using Payz prepaid cards for AFCON

Payz prepaid cards can be used for expenses related to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), such as purchasing tickets or managing travel funds, because they function as global Mastercards and are accepted wherever Mastercard is accepted. Payz offers globally accepted physical and virtual, including in online ticketing platforms and point-of-sale systems in the host country. You can hold and manage funds in up to eight currencies within your Payz account (including EUR, GBP, and USD with the Payz Plus card), helping you manage exchange rates and avoid currency issues when paying for tickets or local expenses.

As prepaid cards, they let you top up funds in advance, giving you control over your spending and helping you stay within a set budget for your AFCON trip. It also limits loss if your card is stolen.

Getting a Payz card:

• Create an account on the Payz website.
• Navigate to the "Payz cards" section and select the "Payz Mastercard" tab.
• Order a physical card or instantly generate a virtual card for immediate online use.

Also read: AFCON 2025: The best tourist sites to visit in Morocco

Revolut virtual cards and disposable virtual cards for AFCON travellers

Revolut’s app makes it simple to create virtual cards, set spending limits, and use disposable cards for extra security. Disposable cards provide an extra layer of security: card details (number, CVV, expiry) refresh automatically after each online purchase, preventing fraud and unauthorised recurring charges from vendors. The Revolut app also makes budgeting and exchanging currency easy. You can link your multi-use virtual card to Apple Pay or Google Pay for seamless, contactless payments in stores using your phone. Note that while Revolut offers competitive exchange rates, weekend transactions may incur a currency exchange markup, depending on your specific plan.

Managing digital payments at the AFCON with Grey

If you plan to be in Morocco this year for the AFCON 2025, then you must have a reliable payment solution to avoid being stranded or losing a lot of money to high transaction costs and exchange rate markups. Grey helps you get ahead with a versatile USD card that supports funding from multiple currencies and integrates seamlessly with global payment platforms. Whether you are paying for your flight tickets, match tickets or. You can also send money from your multicurrency accounts to local MAD accounts at mid-market exchange rates.

Sign up on Grey or download the mobile app to simplify your international transitions.

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Visiting other countries is all fun and chill until you have a scoop of gelato in your mouth, but your payment service has decided to embarrass you. The fear of becoming financially stranded in a foreign country is a legitimate concern. Managing money in another country can be confusing, navigating different currencies, unfamiliar payment systems, high payment fees, and surprising exchange rates.

As a US resident, you have various payment options, ranging from cash to digital wallets, but choosing wisely can save you money and hassle. This article is a simple guide for US travellers visiting other countries who are wondering how to use their money abroad.

What you should do before travelling

Don’t be in a hurry to leave the US. Here are some things you should do about your finances before you travel.

1. Tell your bank you’re travelling

Banks often block transactions that appear unusual, especially those outside your usual location. Notify your bank to avoid declined payments if the system flags the transaction as suspicious.

2. Check international card fees

Many US debit and credit cards charge foreign transaction fees (usually around 3%). Some also add currency conversion markups.

3. Compare exchange rates

Exchange rates fluctuate daily. Using tools like Google, Xe, or Grey helps you avoid poor conversion rates at airports or hotels.

4. Consider a multi-currency account or travel card

A multi-currency account lets you pay in multiple currencies and may offer better rates than banks or cash exchanges.

Understanding your payment options

There are several options for managing money abroad, with each having its advantages and drawbacks. Opt for affordable payment options with favourable exchange rates close to the mid-market rate.

Cash

Carrying cash is essential, especially in markets or places where card payments might be unavailable. However, this should not be your primary method.

Pros:

• Widely accepted for small purchases, tips, taxis, or use in rural areas.
• No fees once exchanged. It makes budgeting easier.
• Useful as a backup if cards fail.

Cons:

• Risk of theft or loss.
• Poor exchange rates at airports, hotels, or tourist spots.
• Inconvenient for large transactions.
• Some countries restrict how much cash you can carry.

Airport and hotel exchange services often cost more than banks. You should expect markups or commissions. To avoid losing money, exchange a small amount at your US bank or credit union before leaving for better rates. Don’t keep all your cash in one place in case it’s lost or stolen.

Also read: How to open a USD bank account remotely without US citizenship

Debit cards

Your regular US debit card works at international ATMs in many countries. However, specialist travel debit cards incur fewer fees.

Pros:

• Convenient for ATM withdrawals and POS purchases.
• Secure with app controls to freeze if lost.
• Easy to carry around.

Cons:

• Standard cards often add 1-3% foreign transaction fees plus $2-5 per ATM use.
• Cards can be held or blocked for fraud suspicion outside your usual location if your bank isn’t aware of your trip.
• Weaker protections than credit cards.

When using international debit cards abroad, always withdraw in local currency to avoid dynamic conversion fees. Review your daily and inform your bank of travel dates to avoid payment holds.

Credit cards

Travel credit cards are excellent for larger purchases, and they offer rewards and protections. The best US card for you will depend on your spending habits, whether you’re willing to pay an annual fee, and your preferred type of rewards (points, miles, or cashback).

Pros:

• Offer chargebacks for unsatisfactory products or services.
• Earn rewards like miles or cashback on travel spends.
• Wide acceptance.

Cons:

• Interest starts accruing immediately on cash advances (up to 29% APR).
• Requires good credit, and late payments hurt scores.
• Some cards have annual fees.

It is recommended that you use your credit card for spending only and repay it monthly to avoid interest. Opt for local currency at checkout to avoid extra fees. Cards like the American Express Platinum offer lounge access but come with higher costs.

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Prepaid travel cards

Prepaid travel cards can be an excellent option for travel outside the US because they allow you to preload the card and lock in an exchange rate. This offers stability and helps with budgeting. They also offer better security since they are not linked directly to your main bank account.

Pros:

• Locks in exchange rates
• Not linked to your main accounts for security.
• Replaceable if lost.

Cons:

• Funding and inactivity fees are possible.
• Not always fee-free; no rewards.
• Limited protections.

Prepared travel cards like the Travelex Money Card or AAA Prepaid are great options. Some prepaid cards have a set fee per transaction. It is best to avoid using them for small transactions.

Also read: How freelancers in the US get paid by international clients

Virtual cards and multicurrency accounts

With the popularity of contactless payment, getting a virtual card or digital wallet is also a great option. You can link your cards to apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay on an NFC-supported phone and use them to make purchases and pay for train and bus rides. You can even set this up before you leave the US.

Pros:

• Quick and secure with biometrics.
• Works where cards do.
• No physical card needed.

Cons:

• Depends on your phone battery and connectivity.
• Not universal outside tech-savvy areas.
• Fees match the linked card.

Grey provides a virtual USD debit card that simplifies international payments for US travellers. You can also access multi-currency accounts for free, and manage USD, EUR, and GBP from anywhere in the world. Grey supports payout in many local currencies and competitive exchange rates. Set up a Grey account as you prepare for your next trip, get your multi-currency accounts, and request your USD debit card.

Get started with Grey today for seamless international payments.

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