When cash matters

Sometimes ATM cards, credit cards and travelers’ checks may be useless in some countries. Here’s what you should know about cash societies:

Many countries such as Libya are cash societies, meaning that reliable ATMs are rare and many businesses don’t accept credit cards. Certain designated locations such as airports have an ATM or the ability to accept cash wires. You should know how and where to access cash in case of an emergency.

Sometimes these countries call for travelers to be in possession of a certain amount of cash as part of their entry requirements. For instance, the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office notes in its advice that visitors to Libya must have the equivalent of 500 Libyan Dinars in order to get into the country.

When in doubt, check with you travel agent and double check with government advice.