How do I use money in Brisbane, Australia?

Question

For vacation, how much cash should i bring to australia from America? How do I access my bank accounts in Australia from America, or is it just best to carry cash?

Answer 1

Don't take large amounts of cash anywhere you travel, if you lose it, its gone.  Bring your credit card, leave your money in the bank, you can exchange american dollars at any bank in any city, or cash in travellers cheques or whatever.  Check with your bank that your cards will work over here.

Answer 2

Most cards today work around the world. The ATM just goes through computer systems to the HQ of whichever bank you're with and process your transactions.

I wouldn't recommend bringing a large sum of physical cash - probably have $300 in your wallet and bring your ATM card and credit card so you can deal with the payment when you go back.

Enjoy your time in Australia.

Answer 3

Hi.  Depends upon your budget, but for careful travel without restricting yourself and staying in backpacker style accommodation $500 US per week is about the minimum.

To live large you will need twice that.

If you are here for a longer time this could come back to about $350 if you are in share accommodation and not moving around much.

You can use any credit card or cashcard attached to the cirrus network here (although a reserve of cash is a very good idea as these networks can go off line for a few days, as I found out to my cost previously)

Alternatively you can set up a citibank foreign currency account and draw on it directly.  Most people mainly use plastic with a cash and traveller's cheque reserve.

Answer 4

Try the web site below, your money in our currency we took one to the USA last year and it was the best way. Good Luck and enjoy your trip.

Answer 5

And for fu#k sake, DO NOT use eftpos/credit at dodgy looking service stations (Gas stations) or shops. they can rip you off easily, especially being a foreign tourist. Australia is very similar to the US so think like you would back home, Cheers mate and have fun.

Answer 6

Always keep a bit of cash on you.. atleast $200 or something..

You access your bank accounts the same way you would in America, by using an atm machine.. or at the register when paying for things.. you can even get cash out at a register when you buy things..

Answer 7

Just bring enough actual cash for immediate use, e.g. bus or taxi from the airport, first couple of days beer money etc. Say Australian $250.

Pay things like hotels & restaurants on your credit card. Then just use your usual card in an ATM and draw cash as you need it. Check with your bank before you leave that your card is internationally enabled - "Cirrus" is an example

Answer 8

ever heard of travelers cheques?