Hopping between continents and exploring new destinations is thrilling, but securing your finances is paramount. Enter Apple Pay and Google Wallet, the superheroes of travel finance. The benefits of digital pay apps like these are profound, particularly in keeping your monetary dealings secure. The sweet and safe part is that the store doesn’t get your credit card number, and guess what? Your credit card always stays in your secure pocket or purse!
Why use Apple Pay or Google Wallet while traveling outside of the United States
Apple Pay or Google Wallet minimizes the risk of your credit card details being exposed. They process transactions using a system account number and a unique, one-time-use authentication token. So, your actual credit or debit card numbers are never shared with retailers or sent with the transaction.
The apps also encrypt your number for added security. And, since there’s no need for a physical card, the risk of theft or loss dwindles. No more constant peeks in your bag or pocket to ensure your wallet is safe!
The Benefits of Apple Pay
Are you an Android user? Keep reading for Google Pay tips…
Apple Pay, the game-changer in the world of mobile payments, offers seamless transactions right from your iPhone 6 (or newer), Apple Watch, iPad, or Mac. Introduced in 2014, Apple aims to make the physical wallet a relic of the past with Apple Pay. You can now make purchases using the cards stored on your devices. No more rummaging through your bag or pockets!
With its foundation in NFC technology, Apple Pay is accepted at millions of retail locations worldwide and is available in more than 60 countries. Plus, it’s not just restricted to physical outlets. You can use it for online purchases, too. Bonus! For folks in the U.S., person-to-person payments are also possible.
Check out the Ultimate Apple Pay Guide
To see if your travel destination supports Apple Pay, visit Countries that Accept Apple Pay
Setting up Apple Pay is a breeze:
- Open the default Wallet app on your iPhone.
- Tap the + button in the top right, then tap continue.
- Choose the card type: debit or credit.
- Enter your card details manually or snap a photo of the card.
- Position the card within the outlined frame. Your device will read the details automatically.
- Input the 3-digit security code from your card.
- Complete the bank’s verification process.
- Voila! You’re all set to go.
Using Google Wallet & Pay for International Travel
Google’s digital payment solutions, Google Wallet and Google Pay, ensure your monetary transactions remain secure during your travels. Add your cards to Google Wallet, and you can tap and pay wherever Google Pay is accepted. Rest easy knowing your details are encrypted and fraud protection is in place.
With Google Wallet, you can also add your driver’s license, student ID, and even tickets to events. Imagine all your essentials in one place! Catch a flight or take a bus, and Google Wallet keeps you updated with timings and even reminds you when your card balance is running low.
Here are two helpful links to set up Google Pay and for international travel:
- A Guide to Google Pay & Wallet
- Check the countries that accept Google Pay.
Top Tour Plan International Tips for Digital Payment Phone Apps
Traveling is an art, and Tour Plan International is here to make you the Picasso! Here are our two top tips for using a digital payment phone app while traveling:
Tip #1: Get a head start! Set up either Apple or Google Pay a few months before your big trip. Get comfortable with the app, explore its features, and make it your new best friend.
Tip #2: Choosing the right credit card for international travel is crucial. Opt for one with no international transaction fees and one widely accepted. Consider your travel frequency, monthly expenditures, the utility of travel credits, and any foreign transaction fees. The right card can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable.
Embrace the benefits of digital pay apps and make your international adventures stress-free and secure! Safe travels!
PS: Another Tour Plan International Pro Tip is reading our blog, Protecting Your Travel Documents.
