Spending Money
Explorica recommends that each participant budget $30 to $50 in spending money each day for souvenirs and any transportation and meals that are not included in the tour fee.
Participants will also need to budget an additional amount for tipping Tour Directors, bus drivers, and cruise ship staff. Visit the Tipping on Tour page for more information.
Recommended Methods
ATM Cards and Prepaid Cash Cards
ATM cards and prepaid cash cards are safe and convenient ways to access money while abroad. Using ATM machines will allow you to withdraw local money at a fair rate and with a minimal charge compared to the high fees often charged by money changers. It is important that you contact your bank before you leave to make sure that your ATM card and PIN number will work abroad, and also to let your bank know that you are traveling abroad to avoid security flags and frozen accounts.
Credit Cards
Credit cards can also be used abroad but it is important to note that some foreign countries require that credit cards have a PIN number (not required in the US). Speak to your credit provider about the possibility of needing a PIN number, to make sure your credit card will be accepted abroad, and also to inform them of your travel plans to avoid security flags and frozen accounts.
Cash
Explorica recommends that you limit the amount of cash that you carry and instead carry your ATM card or prepaid cash card. Before you leave, exchange enough money to get you through your first day abroad, and after that just withdraw money from the ATM as you need it. This will also help you avoid exchange rate fees if you travel to countries that use different currencies.
Traveler’s checks
Traveler’s checks are not recommended as many international vendors no longer accept Traveler’s Check redemptions.
Currency
Because most European countries have joined the European Union and have converted to the Euro, participants of many of our European tours will not have to worry about currency conversions. However, if you would like to find out more information on current exchange rates, visit the XE currency converter site.