How to Travel the World Without a Wallet
Whether you’re commuting on a train or traveling the world, it is absolutely crucial that you are careful with your money. Fortunately, technology now allows us to travel the world without a wallet. These days all we need to keep an eye on is our smartphone as we traverse around the globe.
Today, we thought we’d take a look at two of the simplest, safest cash alternatives that you can use almost anywhere in the world. They’re easy to obtain, easy to use and best of all – they do not require a wallet. Well, not a physical one at least.
Bitcoin
More and more travelers are choosing to explore the world with bitcoin instead of a wallet, as it is easy to use and far safer than traveling with cash. You may worry that Bitcoin is a currency limited to individuals who know the complex ins-and-outs of technology, however, the truth is that you can actually use it in almost exactly the same way as more traditional currencies.
These days you can do anything from playing Bitcoin blackjack on bitcoin-operated sites like Vegas Casino to purchasing flights anywhere in the world on Cheapair. You can even exchange Bitcoin for other currencies, which is a good option when you’re planning to visit numerous places.
To travel using Bitcoin you will first need a secure Bitcoin wallet where you can store your digital money. These usually have 2-factor authentication, multi-signature technology complete with personalized PINs, confirmation emails and around the clock support. Secondly, you will need a smartphone with an internet connection so that your wallet is accessible. Plus, you’ll be able to search for local businesses that accept bitcoin as payment using websites such as Coinmap. Once everything is set up, you’ll finally be able to globe trot to your heart’s content without a fanny pack or cargo pants with zip pockets. And more importantly, if you’re unlucky enough to get your phone lost or stolen, you can be rest assured that your bitcoins are still safe.
Apple or Android Pay
One of the main selling points for both Apple and Android Pay is that you can leave your wallet at home where it’s safe. Instead, you simply enter your debit or credit card details and then use your compatible smartphone device to pay for goods and services at checkouts using near-field communication (NFC) technology.
As Google’s Android Pay is far newer than its competitor Apple Pay, there may still be some kinks to work out, but it is already available in the United States, Poland, Hong Kong, Australia, Singapore and the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, Apple Pay has been around for a few years now and is available on all iPhone models after the iPhone 6, as well as the Apple Watch.
The only major problem with Apple Pay is that there is occasionally a limit on how much you can spend on any given day, depending on where you are in the world. For example, there is a limit in the UK, which currently stands at £30 at retailers without POS terminal software. However, more tech-savvy businesses around the world allow you to spend limitlessly again.
There we go. Two incredibly simple, secure alternatives to money that you can use to move around the world without constantly searching for a currency exchange bureau. Now all we need is teleportation technology to come with the next iOS update and we’re all set.