What's the best money option for US travelling?

What's the best money option for US travelling? - Top view of different types and colors American dollars placed together on each other

My friends and I are going on a road trip in the US. We're wondering what kind of money we should take, be it a credit card, debit card, pre-paid card or just cash. We're going for two weeks. Does anyone has any experience what works the best in the US and how to avoid hidden bank transactions/ATM fees?



Best Answer

When I've travelled in the USA, I take (in order of preference)

  • Credit Card
  • Cash
  • ATM Card

I found that all places accepted foreign Credit Cards without a problem. Your credit card provider can inform you of the fees for transactions in the USA. In addition, your provider will be able to replace your card if it gets lost or stolen.

I used a Visa credit card.

It's worth taking a small amount of cash. Depending on where you're going, a small pizza restaurant won't take a card for a $1.99 slice. Food and drink vending machines often only accept cash. Buses are also usually cash only. Tipping for personal services (like hotel staff carrying your bags) is usually cash.

Take a small amount of cash - I'd suggest $50 - 100 should be fine for emergencies / sundries.

Finally, take an ATM card and put it somewhere separate from your credit cards and cash. American ATMs can charge outrageous fees for transactions. Speak to your bank to see how much they charge as well.

In all cases, tell your bank & credit card company when you'll be in the USA so that they don't block your card & leave you stranded.




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What's the best money option for US travelling? - From above electronic calculator and notepad placed over United States dollar bills together with metallic pen for budget planning and calculation
What's the best money option for US travelling? - From above of dollar bills in opened black envelope placed on stack of United states cash money as concept of personal income
What's the best money option for US travelling? - Pile of American paper money on black surface



Quick Answer about "What's the best money option for US travelling?"

  • Travel credit cards – near-perfect exchange rates and purchase protection.
  • Travel debit cards – near-perfect exchange rates and no hard credit check.
  • Prepaid travel cards – lock in a rate before you go.
  • Cash – good as a backup where card is not accepted.


What is the best form of money to travel with?

Credit and debit cards A credit card may be the best way to travel with money, provided you have the right one. For one thing, using a credit card instead of a debit card protects your bank balance from theft.

Which travel money card is best for USA?

Best 5 Travel Money Cards for the USA in 2022:
  • Wise Multi Currency Card for best exchange rates.
  • Revolut Travel Card as the best all rounder.
  • HSBC Global Everyday Debit Card for ATM cash withdrawals.
  • Bankwest Breeze Platinum Credit Card for lowest interest rate.
  • ING One Low Rate Credit Card with no annual fee.


Is it better to use cash or card in America?

According to the report, cash still beats out credit and debit cards as the most used form of payment in America and the world.

Which card is best for international travel?

Best cards for international travel
  • Best overall: American Express\xae Gold Card.
  • Best for dining: Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card.
  • Best for hotels: Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card.
  • Best for luxury travel: Chase Sapphire Reserve\xae
  • Best for bad credit: Discover it\xae Secured Credit Card.




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