Planning an international trip involves dozens of decisions, but one of the most important is how you’ll carry your money abroad. Should you rely on a forex card, especially the increasingly popular zero forex markup cards, or should you carry forex cash for flexibility? With exchange rates, security concerns, and convenience all at play, choosing the right mix can make a noticeable difference to your travel expenses and overall experience.
In this blog, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each option to help you travel smarter and spend wiser.
Understanding forex cards
A forex card is a prepaid travel card that allows you to load foreign currency before your trip and use it abroad just like a debit or credit card. Modern forex cards, particularly zero forex markup cards, offer exceptional value because they let you spend internationally without incurring additional currency conversion fees.
There are two main types:
- Single-currency cards (loaded with one currency)
- Multi-currency cards (support several currencies at once)
Some of the key features of forex cards are:
- Preloaded with one or more foreign currencies
- Exchange rates are locked in at the time of loading
- Chip-and-PIN security
- Accepted for card payments globally
- ATM withdrawal enabled
- Online tracking and reloading options
Here are some advantages of using forex cards:
- Favourable exchange rates – Zero forex markup cards eliminate hidden conversion charges.
- Enhanced security – Protected by PIN, OTP, and block/unblock options via apps.
- Convenience – Perfect for hotel payments, shopping, restaurants, and online bookings.
- Budget control – Monitor spending through the card’s app interface.
- Multiple-currency support – Ideal for multi-country itineraries.
Limitations of forex cards:
- Possible ATM withdrawal charges depending on the provider.
- Limited acceptance in rural or cash-only regions.
- Physical loss of the card, though replacement and blocking are straightforward.
Understanding forex cash
Forex cashrefers to physical foreign currency notes that travellers carry on their trip. It’s often essential for small transactions and situations where digital payments are not accepted.
Advantages of carrying cash
- Ideal for tips, kiosks, taxis, markets, and other low-value purchases.
- Useful in countries or regions with limited card acceptance.
- Immediate and hassle-free, no machines or connectivity needed.
Limitations include:
- High risk of theft, misplacement, or accidental loss.
- No protection or recovery if stolen.
- The exchange rate may not be as competitive, especially if purchased at the last minute.
- Restrictions on how much currency you can carry while entering or exiting a country.
Comparing forex cards and cash
Let us take a look at the difference between these two:
Safety and security
Zero forex markup cards offer significantly better security than carrying large amounts of cash. Cash once lost is gone for good, whereas cards can be blocked instantly and replaced by the issuer.
Convenience and acceptance
Card payments dominate in airports, hotels, malls, and restaurants in most developed countries. However, forex cash remains necessary for rural areas, street vendors, public transport, and budget-friendly marketplaces.
Costs and exchange rates
Zero forex markup cards shine here. They eliminate the 2–3% markup that many banks charge on international transactions. In contrast, cash often comes with higher exchange margins, especially at airport counters.
Budget control and tracking
With forex cards, every transaction can be tracked via mobile apps, making it easier to manage your travel budget. Cash, however, tends to be spent quickly and without clear records.
Emergency situations
A blocked card can be replaced, and many providers offer emergency cash support. Cash doesn’t come with such safety nets, making it unreliable for emergencies beyond the basics.
Which option is best for different types of travellers?
Every traveller has different needs, let us see what suits best for whom while travelling abroad:
- Students studying abroad: Zero forex markup cards are ideal for regular payments like groceries, transport, and academic expenses. Cash can be kept to a minimum for the initial days or for small purchases.
- Leisure travellers: A combination works best, use a zero forex markup card for most expenses and cash for tips, taxis, and small local transactions.
- Business travellers: Multi-currency zero forex markup cards offer ease, efficiency, and cost savings. Cash is rarely needed except for local commuting or quick purchases.
- Frequent travellers: Since they travel to various countries, frequent flyers greatly benefit from multi-currency zero-forex markup cards, which reduce exchange rate losses and eliminate repeated fees.
Why does a combination of both work best?
While zero forex markup cards provide unmatched convenience, security, and cost savings, forex cash remains an essential backup. The ideal strategy is to rely primarily on a card while carrying a modest amount of cash for situations where digital payments may not be accepted.
Also Read: How to strategically use fixed deposits for your New Year financial goals
Final tips for managing forex cash and cards
Here are some tips to manage your forex cards and cash seamlessly:
- Avoid exchanging currency at airport counters.
- Keep a small portion of cash separate from your wallet for emergencies.
- Track your spending regularly through your card app.
- Inform your bank or provider about your travel dates.
- Check card expiry, limits, and ATM fees before leaving.
Conclusion: What’s the smarter choice?
Both forex cards and forex cash have their advantages, but today’s traveller gets maximum value from zero forex markup cards, especially when travelling to countries with widespread digital payment infrastructure. Forex cash still plays a supporting role, ensuring you’re prepared for small transactions and emergencies.
If you’re looking for a reliable and cost-effective travel-money solution, Niyo is one of the best options available. Niyo’s zero forex markup cards let you spend across 180+ countries at live VISA exchange rates with no joining fees, no annual charges, and no hidden markups. You can easily load INR via UPI or bank transfers, track all expenses in real-time through the Niyo app, and manage your card with features like lock/unlock, PIN reset, and spend controls.
Travellers also benefit from international ATM access, one free airport lounge visit per quarter (on meeting spend criteria), 24/7 in-app support, and DICGC-insured deposits. Additionally, Niyo complements its cards with foreign exchange cash services, providing you with the flexibility to carry physical currency whenever needed.
With its strong mix of transparency, convenience, and traveller-friendly features, Niyo is a top choice for students, holidaymakers, business travellers, and frequent flyers who want smoother, smarter, and more affordable international spending.
Get your zero forex markup card from Niyo today!