Imagine landing in Paris, Bali, or Dubai and struggling with payments because you don’t have the right currency or your card isn’t working. Many Indian travelers face this issue abroad. That’s why understanding foreign exchange (forex), currency rules, and international payment options is crucial for a smooth trip.

In this guide, we’ll share smart forex tips, payment methods, and hacks to help Indian travelers manage money stress-free while abroad.

Why Forex & Payment Planning Matters?

• Save Money – Avoid high conversion charges at airports.
• Stay Hassle-Free – Always have the right payment mode handy.
• Be Secure – Reduce risk of theft and fraud.
• Follow Rules – RBI & FEMA regulations apply to forex for Indians.

Best Ways to Carry Money Abroad

1. Forex Cards (Prepaid Travel Cards)

• Load in foreign currency before travel.
• Widely accepted at hotels, shops, ATMs.
• Safer than cash (PIN-protected, replacement card option).
• Example: HDFC Forex Card, Axis Bank Multi-Currency Card, ICICI Travel Card.

Best for: Long trips, multiple currencies, students abroad.

2. International Debit/Credit Cards

• Directly linked to your bank account.
• Accepted worldwide at ATMs and POS machines.
• Some cards offer airport lounge access & travel rewards.

Pro Tip: Activate international usage with your bank before travel.

3. Cash in Foreign Currency

• Essential for taxis, street shopping, and tips.
• Carry 10–15% of your budget in cash.
• Buy forex from RBI-authorized dealers, not airports (expensive).

4. UPI Payments Abroad (New in 2025)

• UPI is now accepted in countries like Singapore, UAE, Mauritius, France, Sri Lanka.
• Just scan QR codes and pay directly in INR (auto conversion).

Best for: Young travelers & quick payments.

5. Traveler’s Cheques (Old Method)

• Rarely used now but still available.
• Safer than cash but less convenient.

How Much Forex Can Indians Carry Abroad? (As per RBI FEMA Rules)

• Leisure/Business Travel: Up to USD $250,000 per financial year.
• Cash Limit: Maximum USD $3000 in hand, rest in forex cards or bank transfers.
• Students Abroad: Tuition + living expenses allowed under LRS scheme.

Safety Tips for Managing Money Abroad

1. Never keep all cash/cards in one place.
2. Inform your bank about travel dates to avoid card blocking.
3. Save forex card helpline numbers.
4. Use secure ATMs inside banks/malls.
5. Always keep a backup card.

Currency Exchange Tips for Indians

• ✅ Exchange currency before your trip (best rates from authorized dealers).
• ✅ Avoid airport kiosks (they charge 10–12% higher rates).
• ✅ Compare rates on apps like BookMyForex, BuyForexOnline.
• ✅ Opt for multi-currency forex cards if visiting multiple countries.

Best Forex & Payment Options by Destination

• USA/Canada: Forex card + international credit card.
• Europe (Schengen): Forex card (Euro) + some cash.
• Dubai/UAE: Forex card (AED) + UPI payments (2025 update).
• Singapore/Thailand: UPI works! Carry little cash + debit card.
• Bali/Malaysia: Forex card (USD/IDR) + some cash for street shopping.

Pro Hacks for Smart Travelers

1. Load your forex card when INR is strong → lock in best rates.
2. For shopping, use local currency cards instead of INR conversion at checkout.
3. Use apps like Revolut, Wise, Niyo Global for easy international payments.
4. Keep at least two payment modes (card + cash/UPI).
5. Redeem unused forex before returning to avoid loss.

Quick Do’s & Don’ts

✅ Do’s

• Carry at least 2 forex options (card + cash).
• Keep receipts of currency exchange.
• Use international travel insurance with wallet protection.

❌ Don’ts

• Don’t rely only on cash.
• Don’t withdraw frequently from ATMs (high charges).
• Don’t carry more than the permitted cash limit.

Conclusion

Money management is as important as itinerary planning for international travel. By choosing the right forex cards, UPI payments, and currency options, Indian tourists can enjoy a safe, smart, and stress-free trip abroad.

At Plan My Tour, we not only book your flights and hotels but also guide you with forex, insurance, and payment solutions—making your trip smooth from start to finish.