Guide to Withdrawing Forex Cash Abroad: ATMs, Hidden Fees & Safety Tips

There’s nothing quite like the excitement of exploring new destinations, experiencing diverse cultures, and creating memories that last a lifetime. Amid all the fun, one detail that often gets overlooked is managing your money efficiently. Hidden charges, poor exchange rates, confusing ATM fees, and forex card charges can quietly eat into your travel budget before you even realise it.

From studying in Toronto to shopping in the vibrant streets of Seoul, knowing how to manage and withdraw forex cash smartly can make a world of difference. It helps you save on extra charges and ensures a smooth, hassle-free travel experience wherever you go. Let’s dive deeper into the details of how you can handle forex cash withdrawals abroad in a smart, safe, and confident manner.

Why do you need cash abroad?

While forex card payments and digital wallets are common across most countries, cash remains the preferred method in many everyday situations. Not every place you visit will accept cards, and not every card machine will work seamlessly with international networks.

Small, local establishments, such as family-run cafes, street food vendors, weekend markets, and public transport services, often prefer cash payments. In many destinations, especially in smaller towns or rural areas, cash is still considered more convenient and trustworthy for quick transactions. Having some local currency in your wallet ensures you’re prepared for such moments.

Where to withdraw forex cash abroad?

Choosing the right place to withdraw forex cash can save you from high fees, poor exchange rates, and unnecessary stress. Here’s how you can withdraw safely:

ATMs inside banks

ATMs located within bank branches are usually the safest option. They are well-maintained, offer transparent fees, and are less likely to be tampered with. Look for machines displaying international network logos, such as VISA or Mastercard, which are compatible with global debit and credit cards.

Airport ATMs

Airports are convenient, but not all airport ATMs are the same. Most of them charge higher withdrawal fees due to the convenience factor. Use airport ATMs for emergency cash, but try to plan your main withdrawals elsewhere to save on costs.

Partner bank ATMs

Many international cards have partner banks that offer fee-free or lower-cost withdrawals. Always check if your card has partner banks in the country you’re visiting. This is one of the smartest ways to minimise forex card fees. Niyo helps you locate all nearby ATMs directly from the app, including free ATMs that do not add a surcharge, letting you withdraw cash conveniently and without extra fees.

Pro tip: Withdraw from ATMs attached to reputed banks. They’re more secure and usually display transparent fees before you confirm the transaction. If prompted, choose conversion in local currency, not INR. This will avoid the Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) charge.

Avoid standalone and tourist spot ATMs

ATMs located in busy tourist areas, nightclubs, or small shops may look convenient, but they often charge higher fees or offer unfavourable exchange rates. These machines can also be prone to skimming devices, so it’s safer to avoid them whenever possible.

Use reliable currency exchange counters when necessary

In countries where ATMs are scarce, authorised currency exchange counters at airports, malls, or bank branches can be a safe alternative. Always compare the rates, and avoid exchanging cash on the street.

Pro tip: Plan ahead and withdraw larger amounts at once rather than making multiple small withdrawals. This reduces cumulative forex card charges and saves time.

Understanding the fees: What really costs you

Here’s where things get tricky. When you’re using your card abroad, a few hidden charges can quietly sneak in. Let’s decode them:

Safety tips for ATM withdrawals abroad

When you’re far from home, it’s not just about spending smart, it’s about staying safe too. Here are some of the tips that you must consider:

• Use machines inside bank premises or busy areas. Avoid dimly lit or isolated locations.
• Protect your PIN from prying eyes or hidden cameras.
• If a stranger offers to assist you at the ATM, politely decline the request.
• Secure the receipt, as these can help if you need to report an incorrect debit later.
• Misplaced your card? Instantly lock it through the app.

How Niyo makes your forex withdrawals effortless

Travelling abroad comes with enough things to think about, and your money shouldn’t be one of them. Here’s how Niyo makes spending globally simple, smart, and stress-free:

Zero forex markup

Say goodbye to hidden charges! With real-time VISA exchange rates, you can shop in Paris or pay tuition in London and save up to 5% on every transaction.

Instant expense tracking

Stay in control of your budget wherever you go. Niyo’s app gives you instant notifications for every transaction, lets you view your spending history in real-time, and helps you track expenses across currencies.

ATM locator

Struggling to find an ATM while abroad? Use the Niyo app to instantly locate nearby partner ATMs and withdraw cash with ease.

24x7 Support

Travelling abroad shouldn’t mean waiting for help. With Niyo’s always-on chat support, you can resolve card issues or get answers instantly, no matter where you are.

Free ATM withdrawal

Each quarter, enjoy 1 international ATM withdrawal. Get the ATM fee reversed as Niyo Coins, which you can redeem for discounts on travel bookings in the Niyo app. Travel smart and get a little extra back along the way with a Niyo zero forex markup card!

*T&C apply

Ready to travel smart?

Travelling abroad, either for studies, work, or leisure, comes with enough things to plan. Managing your money shouldn’t be a headache. With Niyo zero forex markup cards, you can enjoy real-time exchange rates, zero hidden fees, and complete control over your spending, all from the convenience of your phone.

But that’s not all. Niyo also lets you order forex cash at up to 10% lower rates than airport counters or local vendors, delivered securely to your doorstep. Enjoy free one-day delivery in select metro cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Bangalore, with full order tracking through the Niyo app. Backed by RBI-compliant partners, every transaction is protected, and your funds are insured up to approved limits, giving you complete peace of mind wherever you travel.

From withdrawing cash to making seamless international payments, Niyo keeps your global finances simple, transparent, and worry-free.