Money Exchange Tips for Tourists

Travelling to another country comes with just as much financial planning as it does excitement. Whether you're going on holiday, relocating temporarily for work, or visiting loved ones abroad, one thing remains critical, he need for money. Wherever you're heading, your money should work as efficiently as you do.

For many Nigerian travellers, navigating foreign exchange can be tricky, especially with restrictions on Nigerian bank cards and the volatility of the naira. That’s why proper planning is essential. Relying on airport Bureau de Change kiosks can be expensive, and traditional banks often aren’t the most convenient or cost-effective options.

This is where digital wallets like Pesa come in. Pesa’s multicurrency wallet was designed to be your wallet wherever you go. From converting currency and tracking exchange rates to monitoring your travel spend in real time, Pesa helps you manage your money across borders, stress-free.

Whether it’s your first trip or your tenth, here are some practical money exchange tips to help you get the most out of your funds while abroad.

Practical Money Exchange Tips while Travelling Abroad

1. Always carry some loose change

When travelling, always have a bit of cash on hand,  preferably in US dollars, which are widely accepted globally. Depending on your destination, small amounts of Pounds or Euros can also come in handy. This can help you avoid getting stuck in a tight spot when digital options aren’t available.

2. Go digital

Digital wallets let you skip queues and enjoy better exchange rates, all from your phone. As a Nigerian traveller, you can hold, send, and receive money through platforms like Pesa, Wise, or any other trusted wallet. It's the smart way to travel with your money.

3. Compare exchange rates

If you must use a Bureau de Change, always compare their exchange rates with those on your digital wallet. You’ll be able to make a better-informed choice and possibly negotiate more favourable fees.‍

4. Always pay in local currency

While it’s wise to carry globally accepted currencies, always try to make purchases in the local currency of the country you're visiting. This reduces the risk of additional charges and shields you from fluctuating exchange rates.

5. Keep a mix of cash and digital funds

While going digital is smart, cash still has its place. Split your funds between physical cash and your digital wallet. That way, if one runs low or encounters issues, the other acts as a safety net.

6. Top up on the go

One of the biggest perks of travelling with a digital wallet like Pesa is the ability to top up anytime. No need for long bank calls or waiting for someone to send you money — just fund your wallet and continue enjoying your trip with ease.

Step-by-Step: How to Use Pesa for Money Exchange While On Holiday

Download the app: Get the Pesa app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

Register and verify your account: Upload your ID and proof of address for verification. Once that’s done, you’re ready to go.

Create one or more wallets: You can currently create wallets in USD, GBP, EUR, CAD, and AUD. Perfect for spending in Europe, the USA, Canada, and beyond.

Enjoy your life: With your wallets set up, all that’s left is to enjoy your holiday, knowing your money is within reach, wherever you are.

💡  In Case You Didn’t Know: You Can Now Send Money to the US via Venmo on Pesa

Venmo is officially in the mix! If you are holidaying in the USA, you can send money to anyone through Venmo. With this, you have an extra layer of ease and enjoyment and can might have little to no need for liquid cash while on holiday. It’s fast, easy, and super convenient.

Think holiday, think Pesa!

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