PLAN YOUR TRIP
Money and payments in Asia
Payment habits differ sharply between neighbouring countries, and the assumption that a card will work everywhere is the most common way to get caught out.
Cards, cash and QR
- Several East Asian countries run almost entirely on domestic QR payment apps, some of which need a local bank account or a registered foreign card.
- Japan and much of Central Asia remain more cash-oriented than visitors expect.
- The Gulf states, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia accept international cards almost everywhere.
- Smaller towns, markets and transport across most of the region are cash-first regardless of the national picture.
Dynamic currency conversionIf a card machine offers to charge you in your home currency, decline. The exchange rate it uses is set by the terminal operator and is almost always worse than your bank’s.
Currency rules
Some currencies cannot legally be taken in or out of the country, and several countries limit how much cash you may carry without declaring it. Each country page lists its currency; check the limits with that country’s customs authority before you fly.