Cash or Card in Spanish: Choosing the Best Option

In many Spanish-speaking countries, cash is still the preferred payment method, especially among locals. According to a survey, 70% of Spaniards prefer to use cash for small purchases.

In some places, like Mexico, using a credit card can result in a higher exchange rate, which can lead to additional fees. This is because merchants often charge a higher rate for credit card transactions.

However, using a card can offer more security and protection for your money, especially when traveling abroad. In Spain, for example, consumers have more rights when using credit cards, including a 30-day cooling-off period for purchases.

In general, it's a good idea to have a mix of both cash and card when traveling in Spanish-speaking countries. This way, you can take advantage of local deals and discounts while also having a backup in case of emergencies.

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In Spain, cash is still the king of payments. According to the Bank of Spain, 65% of the population used cash on a daily basis in 2023, and for 60% it continues to be the main or most common means of payment for purchases in physical shops.

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You can find cash machines, or cajeros, everywhere in Spain, from shopping malls to train stations. There are over 53,000 ATMs in Spain, and they usually accept all foreign cards.

However, relying solely on cash might not be the best option. In some cases, you might encounter businesses that don't accept cash, so it's a good idea to have a card handy as well. Credit and debit cards also offer travel insurance, which can be a lifesaver in case of unexpected events.

If you do choose to use a card, make sure to choose the option to withdraw in the local currency without a currency conversion. This will give you a better rate, as the conversion will be done by your bank or card provider instead of the ATM provider.

Here's a quick rundown of the advantages of using cash and cards in Spain:

In the end, it's a good idea to use both cash and cards on your trip to Spain. Each option has its advantages, and you can choose which one is most convenient for each situation.

Tipping in Spain is a gesture of appreciation, not an obligation. Locals tip in various establishments, including cafés, restaurants, hotels, and taxis, with an additional 5-10% or just rounding up the bill.

You can include a tip when paying by card, but it's best to leave it in cash to ensure the server receives it. This is especially true for small orders, as tipping is uncommon for them.

Relying on cash is a good idea when traveling to Spain, as it's accepted everywhere, including small businesses and street vendors.

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In Spain, you can find over 53,000 ATMs, called cajero automático or cajero, in big cities, shopping malls, train stations, and banks.

Spanish ATMs usually accept all foreign cards, and withdrawal limits vary between €300 and €1,000 per transaction.

Some ATMs don't even charge additional fees for foreign cards, making it a convenient option for tourists.

If you choose to withdraw in the local currency without a currency conversion, you'll get a better rate, as the conversion will be done by your bank or card provider instead.

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The Wise card is another option for international payments, converting your pounds at the mid-market exchange rate with a small, transparent currency conversion fee.

With the Wise card, you can make 2 withdrawals of up to 200 GBP for free each month, after which there's a charge of 0.5 GBP per withdrawal.

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If you want to spend like a local in Spain, consider using the Wise card for international payments. It automatically converts your pounds at the mid-market exchange rate with only a small, transparent currency conversion fee*.

You can use the Wise card for a wide range of expenses, from accommodation costs to daily expenses. The card can also be used to easily withdraw cash from ATMs in Spain.

Each month, you can make 2 withdrawals of up to 200 GBP for free. After that, there is a charge of 0.5 GBP per withdrawal.

Related reading: How to Transfer Money from Wise to Bank Account

There's also a 1.75% fee on any amount you withdraw above 200 GBP. Keep in mind that additional charges may occur from independent ATM networks.

The Wise card is a convenient option for contactless payments in Spain, with a limit of 50 euros, the same as in other Eurozone countries.

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Your UK debit card will likely work in Spain, but be aware that some places might not accept cards at all.

If you're planning to use your UK debit card in Spain, it's essential to know that it will likely work, but there's a catch - some places might not accept cards at all.

Some places in Spain might not accept cards, so it's a good idea to have some cash on hand for those situations.

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In Spain, it's best to rely on cash as your primary payment method. This is because cash is accepted everywhere, including small businesses and street vendors.

You'll also want to consider using cards for certain transactions. Cards are a convenient option for larger purchases or when you're short on cash.

Cash is the best way to leave tips in Spain, so be sure to have some on hand for good service.

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If you had to pick only one option between cash and card in Spain, it would be best to rely on cash. It's a method that's accepted everywhere, including small businesses and street vendors.

Cash is the best way to leave tips in Spain. You can use it to show your appreciation for good service without worrying about the hassle of finding an ATM or dealing with foreign transaction fees.

It's worth noting that using both cash and cards on your trip to Spain is the most convenient option. Each method has its advantages, and you can choose which one is most suitable for each situation.

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