Going digital to beat the cash crunch on travel
When demonetisation of Rs.500 and Rs.1000 notes was initiated in November 2016, the chaos and confusion that ensued were unprecedented. While these measures by the government are aimed to curb black money and currency counterfeits in the economy, yet it became messy for the common man and especially, domestic travellers. However, the use of plastic money and digital transactions got a huge boost. Demonetization or not, carrying a huge wad of cash when travelling domestically in India is inviting trouble for yourself. These days it is easy to incorporate some alternate ways of financing to save your travel from a nightmarish situation.
Plastic money is a boon
Whether you are shopping or paying bills, it’s best to swipe your cards and be free from the stress of visiting ATMs. To ensure that travellers are not bothered with the headache of cash payments many hotels, cafes and related establishments in tourist destinations offer card payment facilities. In fact, Goa, one of the most popular tourist destinations, will even be declared cashless, thanks to the efforts of its residents.
Fill up your e-wallets and get going
There has never been a better time to adopt and use e-wallets than now. Apps like Paytm, Chillr and other e-payment/e-banking apps make payment easy thus eliminating the need for carrying extra currency. Within a few taps you can pay your bus and train tickets and other utilities in an instant without having to wait in lines for cash withdrawal.
Opt for speedy and hassle-free online booking
Those looking to plan trips to various domestic regions should opt for online payment modes. Many travel operators and tours can be booked and paid online without having to pay cash. This becomes really efficient in the current cash stringent market. Trains, flights, buses and even hotel reservations are easy to book online and on the upside, you might even end up availing surprising discounts. Trivago, MakeMyTrip are great online options to book your tour packages.
Various payment modes for easy transactions
All major public and private banks nowadays offer online NEFT/RTGS facility. In case the need arises for urgent transfer of money on your travels, all you need is a good internet connection and a trusted banking app. Login with your credentials, click on NEFT and RTGS facility and transfer funds instantly and safely.
Smaller denominations are underrated
Fill up your wallet with notes of smaller denominations including the new 200, 100 and 50 rupee notes. While online and app modes of payments are efficient, they might not work as well if you travel to remote regions of the country. If you plan to visit offbeat places, especially rural areas, stocking up on cash is a must. Many tourist places like monuments and museums today require you to pay the entry fees in cash, be ready with the change..
In addition to these, scout your travel destination for bank branches and ATMs beforehand. Major banks have listed their branches and ATMs online, visit their websites to know about the nearest banking facility in your travel destination. While you are securing your coffers, it’s best to opt for a travel insurance policy that offers cashless hospitalization along with a host of other indispensable features. Secure your travel, save your cash and have a rocking vacation with travel insurance by your side.