How Much Cash Should You Take on Holiday?
In a card-and-phone world, do you still need foreign cash? Usually a bit — but far less than people think, and getting it the right way matters.
The card-plus-cash rule
For most destinations, aim to put day-to-day spending on a low-fee card and carry a modest cash buffer for taxis, tips, markets and small vendors that don’t take cards. A few days’ worth of small expenses is plenty; you can always withdraw more.
How much is “a buffer”?
It depends on the destination’s prices. In cheaper countries a little cash goes a long way; in pricier ones you’ll want more. Compare your destination first in our Burgernomics tool to gauge what a day of meals and transport actually costs.
Getting cash the smart way
- Avoid airport exchange desks — the rates are the worst you’ll see.
- Withdraw local currency from a bank ATM abroad, and decline the “pay in your home currency” option.
- Know the mid-market rate first via our converter so you can spot a bad deal.
For the full playbook on fees and rates, see how to get the best exchange rate when travelling.