How to Get Emergency Cash When Traveling

Here are few things more frightening than being on vacation, or traveling, and having a situation that leaves you short on the number of funds that you will need. Sometimes, emergencies cannot be avoided while you are traveling, and you need to make sure that you have a few plans in place that will allow you to get access to emergency cash when you are traveling and in need. There are a few different ways in which you can get your hands on some cash quickly and efficiently, and avoid any of the negative effects of being short on cash while on vacation.

Have Family Wire It to You

Sometimes, depending on where you are traveling, you may have the option of wiring money available to you. Wiring the money usually takes less than 24 hours, and will allow the money to appear in your bank account overnight. Of course, you need to speak with family that is willing to wire you the money, or have someone available that has the proper permissions to access your account that can facilitate the wire transfer, if you are unable to do so yourself. This is the best available option, because it gives you quick access to funds from your own bank account, allowing you to utilize your debit cards just as you normally would.

Western Union

Western Union is another popular option for getting funds to people when they are away. Western Union is not going to be the cheapest option available to you, and charges quite a bit for their money transfer services. However, Western Union is a very convenient option for many, because they have so many offices around the world. It is very likely that the location in which you are traveling will have a Western Union office, if not in the city, in a local airport or train station that will allow you to get a hold of your funds quickly and efficiently. Western Union is viewed by many as an older option, but is one that still works in your advantage.

Cash Advance

If you are vacationing to an area that has payday loans or cash advance locations and services available, they can be another excellent option for you to get your hands on some desperately needed money while traveling. Cash advances usually have high interest rates, and depending on how far away you are from your own home, it can be rather simplistic, or quite difficult to be depending upon your location. A cash advance is not a cheap option, but gives you access to funds within 24 hours. Most of the time, a cash advance will require some documentation regarding your pay. Future paychecks and income information which you may not have with you while traveling.

Mail Delivery

Companies like FedEx will deliver money to you overnight. You can send a check through the mail, or discuss with the company the money transfer and mailing options that they make available. Mail delivery might not be the most ideal option, but is a trustworthy one that ensures that the money is on its way.

Online Transfer

If you have a PayPal account, or another type of online money transfer service, and a debit card attached to it, you can have someone send you funds to your account, and then utilize your debit card to gain access to these funds. Of course, this requires weeks of preparation and is not a viable option for individuals that are in a pinch.