Travel Mistakes You Might Be Making Without Even Realizing It

4. Not Carrying Emergency Cash in Local Currency

In an increasingly cashless world, many travelers assume they can rely solely on credit cards, Apple Pay, or digital wallets. However, this can be a major mistake when visiting countries where cash is still king. Even in modern cities, some small businesses, local markets, taxis, or street vendors still only accept cash. Worse, if your card gets declined, lost, or stolen, you could find yourself in a stressful situation without a way to pay for transport, food, or emergency needs. To avoid this, always carry a small amount of local currency—enough to cover transportation, food, and small purchases for at least a day. Avoid airport currency exchanges (which often have terrible rates and high fees). Instead, use ATMs inside reputable banks, as they typically offer the best exchange rates with lower transaction fees. If possible, notify your bank of your travels to prevent suspicious activity blocks on your card. Having a backup payment method—whether it’s cash, a second credit card, or a prepaid travel card—ensures that you’re never stuck in an emergency without a way to pay.