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Shopping and paying abroad - 12 tips for travelling

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What do you need to consider when shopping and paying abroad? Do you need to exchange cash beforehand? How do you protect yourself against theft and skimming? Should you choose local currency or Swedish kronor when paying by card? We have collected 12 tips for travelling.

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Things to consider when shopping and paying abroad

It has become a little easier now that several countries in Europe use the euro, but there are still plenty of different currencies around the world to keep track of. When we travel a lot and get confused, we sometimes give up and call everything 'money'. This costs 37 money and that costs 78 money.

Then there is the issue of card payments. How to avoid extra charges and how to avoid theft and skimming? We don't have all the answers, but we've learnt a few things along the way. We're sharing our top tips. Feel free to add yours!

Handla och betala utomlands

1. Always carry some cash

In Sweden, people are spoilt by the fact that it is always possible to pay by card. This may not always work in other countries, especially in rural areas or small villages. Therefore, it is always good to have some cash in the local currency as a backup.

2. Make change before - or withdraw cash on the spot

Even if you want some cash, you don't always have to change money in advance. Often it is just as easy to withdraw at an ATM on the spot. If you need the cash right away, and perhaps enter the country via the countryside, it may be useful to have changed money in advance.

Peter buys vegetables in Albania - best with cash!

3. Take care of the code when withdrawing cash

Make sure no one sees you enter your code at the ATM and never keep it near your card.

4. Have at least two different cards

It can be useful to have at least two different credit cards. Occasionally, a card will malfunction, so it's good to have two different ones to choose from.

5. use credit cards or cards with access to "some" money

It is better to use a credit card than a debit card to minimise the impact of theft. If you use a debit card, don't keep too much money in the account to which the card is linked. Take equipment with you so that you can transfer more money when you need to.

Shopping Kiev
On the way to the hotel after a long day of shopping in Kiev, Ukraine

6. Get a credit card with travel insurance

Many credit cards include travel insurance, which can be useful when travelling. Each card has different policies, discounts and bonus schemes, and it's a good idea to compare to know which card is best for you. You can compare credit cards at Financer.

7. Keep your card locked for purchases you don't need

Keep your card locked for international payments when you are not abroad and keep it locked for online purchases when you are not shopping online.

8. Choose local currency when paying by card

When paying by card, you may be asked to choose whether you want to pay the amount in Swedish kronor or in the local currency of the country. Always choose the country's local currency! Companies are free to set the exchange rate, so it will probably be more expensive if you choose to pay in Swedish kronor.

Österrikiska kläder
Peter tries on Austrian clothes in Salzburg - it was a hat!

9. Write down the blocking number

If you lose your card, you may need to call and cancel it. Make sure you know where the blocking number is, so you can quickly block the card if you need to.

10. Keep track of the currency

It's important to keep track of the exchange rate so you know what things cost. You can look at Forex, for example, and it's also easy to google. For example, if you google "150 usd sek" you will quickly find the price in Swedish kronor.

In Hungary, prices are in forints

11. Drink in moderation

Tipping is common in many countries, and in some countries it is a crucial part of the salary for people in certain professions. It is advisable to read up on the rules in the country you are going to visit.

12. Dare to haggle

In some countries, including Asia and Africa, haggling is normal, especially at markets. Remember that you should feel satisfied with your purchase when you leave!

Handla och betala utomlands
In the souk in Marrakech, haggling is the name of the game!

What are your top tips for shopping and paying abroad - and keeping your finances in check?

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