Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Cash:
carry small change in pockets, not big notes. Distribute it between a belt bag, day
pack and your travel bag so you have an emergency stash.
Travellers' cheques:
record serial numbers and the emergency phone number for the is-
suer in case of theft. You sign each one when you get them from the bank but then there's
a space for a second signature. Don't sign this second box until you're cashing it - if you
do and your cheques get stolen, they can be cashed and you invalidate the insurance cover.
Only cash a couple of travellers' cheques at any one time - get a mix of larger and small
change denominations. Often street traders and snack stalls, or taxis and rickshaws, won't
have change for a large note and it makes you vulnerable - you seem rich.
Hotel currency exchanges are more expensive, local banks can take a long time and require
ID. If you can find a Thomas Cook centre they're the most efficient and speedy we've
found. Street rates can be cheaper but be very careful. A lot of street money changers are
trading illegally - don't hand over the cheque until you have your money and have counted
it.
Credit card:
essential back-up. The problem with a credit card is losing it or having it
stolen - keep a note of the numbers, how to report the loss of the card and the number you
have to ring to do so.
Both Visa and Mastercard are useful, in an emergency, for getting local currency cash ad-
vances from a cash dispenser at banks abroad. Remember, if you're using your credit card
to get money over the counter then you're likely to need some form of ID (
eg
passport).
If you are paying for goods or restaurant meals by using your card, you should insist on
signing bills/receipts in your presence and not allow the card to be taken out of your sight.
This way you'll have no unpleasant surprises or mysterious purchases when you see your
card statement.
Travel Money Cards:
pre-pay travel cards are now a well-established alternative to trav-
ellers' cheques and can be used at an ATM using a PIN number. The idea is that you load
them with funds before you leave, but beware - like credit and debit cards, most charge for
every reload and for cash withdrawals. To find out more check out these two examples:
Wiring money
If you find yourself stranded with no cash, travellers' cheques or credit cards, then having
money wired to you could be the only option. Two major companies offer this service:
MoneyGram -
www.moneygram.com
Western Union -
www.westernunion.com
