Run out of cash while shopping abroad? Here are 6 ways to save the day!

Text & Photos／MATCHA

What should you do if you run out of money while traveling abroad? Besides using a card, you can exchange yen at banks or currency exchange shops, or withdraw from an international PLUS ATM. The MATCHA editors have also compiled other methods to help you resolve a cash crisis in an emergency!

What should you do if you miscalculate your budget or get too excited and overspend while traveling abroad, resulting in a shortage of yen? The MATCHA editors have put together the following six methods for your reference, hoping they can come in handy like a lifesaver in times of need!

Gather your courage and exchange money at a bank!

Just like how we exchange yen before traveling abroad, if you really run out of yen, it’s recommended to visit a Japanese bank with foreign exchange services. Fill out an exchange application form, take a number, and wait for your turn to exchange yen. Note that Japanese banks are typically open from 9 AM to 3 PM, and closed on holidays, so those needing to exchange yen should pay attention to the hours!

Currency exchange shops are your holiday friends

If you need to exchange yen on a holiday when banks are closed, then currency exchange shops on the street are your best bet for foreign exchange. Just go to a shop that says “Foreign Currency Exchange” or “Money Exchange,” tell the counter staff you need to exchange foreign currency, and they will assist you. The MATCHA editors also suggest that besides exchanging foreign currency, you can also buy transportation tickets at these shops. Though the discounts may be small, saving on transportation costs while traveling is always a good idea!

No need for Japanese skills with currency exchange machines

If you don’t speak Japanese and are shy, then the MATCHA editors must tell you about a huge lifesaver—ta-da, the automatic currency exchange machine!

As Japan is about to host the Olympics and is preparing for an influx of international travelers from around the world, multi-language supported automatic currency exchange machines can now be found in major Japanese cities. Aside from occasionally appearing in busy shopping streets, they are usually located in convenience stores or major department stores (such as Takashimaya). If your yen is running low, simply insert your own currency into the machine to exchange it!

International ATMs are also a lifesaver for cash shortages

What if you want to exchange cash but don’t even have your home country’s bills to begin with? It’s recommended to use an ATM with international withdrawal capabilities and withdraw local cash directly from your existing account.

But here’s the important part: this only works with “ATMs that support international withdrawals.” If you haven’t activated this function with your bank before leaving your home country, you won’t be able to withdraw money. So go ahead, add this to your pre-travel to-do list—better safe than sorry!

When you don’t have yen, the simplest solution is to use a card

Yes, the simplest solution is indeed to use a card. When you realize your yen is running low, it’s recommended to use a card for purchases at shopping streets, convenience stores, or department stores whenever possible. Try to save your cash for meals, transportation, and entrance fees!

The last resort: return what you can

As a last resort, when none of the above methods work, you might have to swallow your pride and see if any purchased items can be returned. Please note, not every store accepts returns!

Additionally, the MATCHA editors would like to seriously remind you that if you need to make a return, keep the item in brand-new condition (tags and packaging unopened) and present the purchase receipt. Of course, the types of items eligible for return and the return period vary by store, so please stay polite and follow the rules!

A little MATCHA reminder

First, the MATCHA editors would like to remind you to set aside transportation and meal expenses separately when traveling abroad. For example, if you're going for five days, calculate the cost for five days' worth of transport and meals in advance. When it comes to larger expenses (like accommodation or buying electronics), first check whether your budget allows it. If possible, use a card to pay first to avoid the awkward situation of running out of yen while traveling. Finally, if you’re really not good at keeping track of expenses, the MATCHA editors suggest considering booking a homestay or hotel with Chinese-speaking staff before coming to Japan. That way, if you encounter such a sudden cash emergency, there will be someone you can communicate with!

Author: MATCHA
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