The report also reveals a clear shift toward pre-trip travel money planning. More travelers are purchasing foreign currency before departure rather than during the trip or on the day of travel. In some markets, fewer than 10% of travelers acquire travel money on the day of departure, highlighting a growing preference for anticipation, financial control, and convenience. This behavior creates new opportunities for industry providers, particularly in digital services and integrated solutions.
Despite the rise of digital payments in everyday life, cash continues to play a crucial role when traveling. According to the report, approximately 69% of travelers globally still use cash during their trips. In some markets, such as Europe, up to nine in ten travelers rely on cash abroad. This is largely due to the need to cover expenses in environments where cards are not always accepted, such as local markets, transportation, or tipping.
However, the use of cash does not exclude other payment methods. In fact, the combination of cash and card has emerged as the dominant model. Travelers value the flexibility this combination provides, enabling better budgeting, enhanced security, and adaptability across different payment environments. In this context, the report emphasizes that no single payment method fully meets the needs of modern travelers.
Another key finding is the increase in leftover foreign currency after trips. In regions such as Australia and the Middle East, a significant proportion of travelers return home with unused cash, sometimes in substantial amounts. This reflects both pre-trip purchasing behavior and a tendency to overestimate spending needs for security reasons. At the same time, it presents an opportunity for the industry to develop solutions for currency buyback or reuse.
The report also highlights cultural and economic differences across regions. In Asia, for example, highly digitalized markets like China coexist with cash-oriented economies such as Japan. Despite these contrasts, even travelers from predominantly cashless societies tend to rely on cash when abroad, reinforcing its role as a universal payment tool.
In the Middle East, travelers are characterized by purchasing large amounts of cash before traveling, reflecting higher spending patterns. At the same time, the reputation of travel money providers emerges as a key decision factor, ranking alongside exchange rates. This underscores the growing importance of trust and brand strength in an increasingly competitive market.
In Europe, rising costs in traditional destinations have driven demand toward alternative regions such as the Balkans and North Africa. This shift is not only economic but also reflects a growing interest in authentic and less crowded experiences. The report also notes that European travelers continue to rely heavily on cash for everyday expenses while abroad, despite the widespread adoption of digital payments at home.
Meanwhile, in Australia and New Zealand, social media trends are strongly influencing destination choices, with notable growth in so-called “dupe” or alternative destinations. This illustrates how digital inspiration is reshaping the tourism industry and, consequently, travel money behaviors.
The global travel money landscape in 2026 is defined by both continuity and change. While cash remains highly relevant—especially in international contexts—it is increasingly complemented by digital solutions. Early planning, destination diversification, and the coexistence of multiple payment methods characterize the modern traveler.
For the industry, these trends represent both challenges and opportunities. Companies that successfully adapt to a more informed, demanding, and proactive consumer will lead the market in the years ahead. Designing flexible, secure solutions that support travelers before, during, and after their trips will be essential to meet the evolving dynamics of global tourism.
