Have you ever been on an amazing trip abroad – exploring local food, discovering unique souvenirs – only to suddenly see a “cash only” sign? It’s a common travel challenge. Finding yourself without access to local currency can quickly turn a great experience into a stressful situation. That’s why a simple travel hack can make all the difference.
At Western Union, we believe your journey should be about enjoying the moment – not worrying about money. That’s why we offer a practical travel money solution and a reliable travel hack: send money to yourself in local currency before or during your trip. With this travel hack, you can manage your funds with flexibility and confidence, and it can often be the best way to get cash abroad when cards don’t work or fees are high.
Why Send Money to Yourself While Traveling?
Avoid Airport Exchange Traps
Currency exchange counters at airports and tourist hotspots may come with high fees and unfavorable rates. With Western Union, you can see exact fees, exchange rates, and the amount you’ll receive before confirming your transfer – helping you avoid surprises. For many travelers, using Western Union can be the best way to get cash abroad compared with last-minute exchanges.
Stay in Control of Your Travel Budget
Managing expenses abroad can be challenging. By sending yourself smaller amounts and picking them up when needed, you can better control your spending instead of relying heavily on cards or carrying large sums of cash. This approach to travel money lets you pace your spending and adjust as your itinerary changes.
Be Prepared for the Unexpected
Lost wallet? Blocked card? Having money ready for pickup can provide peace of mind. Simply visit a Western Union location and access your funds – so your trip continues without disruption. When you send money to yourself with Western Union, you’ll have a backup plan if things go sideways. Many seasoned travelers consider this a must-know travel money hack.
How to Send Money to Yourself: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Open the Western Union App
Log in or create an account – it only takes a few minutes.
Step 2: Choose Your Destination
Select your travel country. Western Union supports transfers to over 200 countries and territories.
Step 3: Enter Amount and Select Delivery Method
Decide how much money you want to send and choose “cash pickup” as your payout option.
Step 4: Add Yourself as the Receiver
Enter your own details as the recipient of the transfer. You will be able to easily collect the money when you arrive.
Step 5: Confirm Your Transfer
Review the amount, fees, and estimated payout in local currency, then complete your payment.
Step 6: Pick Up Your Cash at Your Destination
In many cases, your money will be available for pickup within minutes at a Western Union location in your destination country. For many destinations, this can be the best way to get cash abroad when ATMs are limited or card networks are down.
Find a Western Union Location Anywhere
The Western Union app includes a Location Finder, which shows nearby agent locations wherever you are traveling. This makes your travel money plan simple and dependable.
Travel Smarter with Western Union
Travel should be exciting – not stressful. By sending money to yourself in advance or on the go, you can avoid unnecessary fees, stay on budget, and be prepared for unexpected situations. Treat it as a core travel hack in your planning to keep your trip smooth from start to finish.
Ready for Your Next Trip?
Download the Western Union app and try this simple travel money hack for your next journey. Travel with confidence, flexibility, and peace of mind – wherever your destination takes you. When you use Western Union to send money to yourself, you’ll have a dependable plan for cash access – often the best way to get cash abroad – backed by a trusted global network.
