What is the best way to travel without using credit cards?

Question

I know I can use debit cards to book flights, hotels, etc.

But as I understand it, once the items are booked, the money in your account is immediately taken, and I'd rather that money remain in the account until closer to the travel date. Or am I mistaken on how this process works?

Is there a better way?

Thank You for the tips!

Answer 1

I have been travelling for the last 1-2 years and have used from Dollars, Roubles, Dinars, Euros and all... Writing a few things I had put to use apart from Credit Cards

1. Traveller's Cheques :: These are the most simplest and very usefull instrument available in Euros and Dollars and convertible to any local currency anywhere in the world. But you shouldnt try to BUY stuff with these TCs. Because TCs quote "lower" exchange rate compared to $$/Euros. The best way is to locate a Money Exchange company near to where u stay (Never use the Hotle Exchange office, NEVER). Go there and convert the TCs to $$/Euros OR to the local currency. Sometimes in many countries many shops offer "discounts" if you pay them in Dollars. (wink)

2. Travellers Debit Cards :: These work much like the debit cards u get issued from ur bank. But the difference is they are not linked to your account but issued only for your travel. Though you might not be able to use these cards for taxi rides or candies, you can withdraw from an ATM or in a bank. But remember many banks charge if you withdraw Dollars instead of local currency. Similar to the cash in hand, the money is taken from the card ONLY when u pay for it.

3. Debit Cards :: Just like you use these cards here in your country you will swipe em in the shops and malls. But there is a CATCH. Most banks charge an additional "Foreign Transaction" charge so if a stuff is worth $10 you will end up paying $10.55 or $11 depending on the bank. This mode of cash is a costly one for travellers. In this too the money is taken ONLY when you Swipe the card at the shop or in the ATM.

4. Credit Cards :: The most easiest and not-so-pinching-now kinda payment. Where you use the card now, have fun, come back home, then after 30 days u get to pay the money!!! So if you are short on cash when u travel, but REALLY need that DeBeers diamond brooche, swipe that card baby... Hubby can pay it next month (wink). But again there is a catch. Most banks charge 2.5% of the transaction amount as FX(Foreign Exchange) charge and ALSO the exchange rate is the HIGHEST for the currency in which u have paid. If you use Credit Card, ensure you pay it in Dollars and not in local currency. Ask the shop dude, he will know.

Hope this helps. If you need anymore information you can always buzz me or drop a line to me.

.:Fishie:.

Answer 2

Actually, the best bet if you are eligible get another checking account from a different bank. Get a debit card from that bank.
Split your money between the two banks. Tell both banks you will be using it out of your home country. Use one card for hotel and car rental, then use the other for your normal purchases. Then after 7 days after your car is returned and your checkout of your hotel. The extra hold should be removed from your account. Still take some cash with you and keep an eye on your balance while traveling.

Answer 3

One should always use credit cards to book flights and hotels, if at all possible. (Not debit cards) That way you have more recourse if somehting falls through for some reason. I don't use credit cards, but borrow a family members when needed (paying them upfront), for my own protection.

You are not mistaken, when you book using a debit card, the money is out at the time booked.

As far as when you travel, a debit card is the best way, even better than travelers checks, more flexible and easier to use, and more universally accepted.

Answer 4

It is actually up to the merchant. Credit card companies do not recommend allowing others to use your cards, but they don't do anything to keep others from using your card unless they suspect fraud. Cash and debit cards set a better example. We tend to spend less when we use cash, especially when it is money we work hard to earn.

Answer 5

Your debit card account will not be "debited" until tickets are issued. Not when reservations are initiated.
As to hotels, if a night is guaranteed, your account is debited at once.
At "check in" a hold for your stay is placed on your account, plus an additional amount, as reserve for any extra charges, such as movies, bar, or restaurants. This is adjusted up or down at checkout.

Answer 6

The flights are paid in advance & the hotel deposit is tendered so that the only expense is the hotel, payable upon arrival. The credit [or debit] cards make it convienient to convert currencies & I'm not sure what your 'etc' entails. We all hate to part with our money but as far as I know, this is the way it woix! 8-( [+2];-)

Answer 7

I always carried quite a bit of my money in traveller's checks. Never had a problem spending them, and they can be replaced if lost or stolen in just about any country. Lose you credit or debit card, and you aren't so lucky. But, keep debit or credit handy just in case.

Answer 8

Try travelers checks, My Dad swears by them and if you are going far from home they are a good safe bet. Your bank will issue them to you most of the time if it is your own bank they will issue them to you for free. they are prepaid checks that you sign there then again when cashing them. If they are lost or stolen they are pretty much worthless to anyone else and can be canceled and then replaced by your bank quickly.

Answer 9

It should not be taken, just earmarked.