Background Information
Traveling to Turkey is becoming increasingly popular due to its rich culture, tempting cuisine, diverse cities, and stunningly beautiful beaches and islands. It is not uncommon to find tourists and locals alike visiting some of Turkey’s most stunning and historically significant sites such as the Old City of Istanbul, the ruins of Troy, and the spectacular landscapes of Cappadocia. With all that Turkey has to offer, the question remains: how much cash should I bring when traveling to Turkey?
Costs
When it comes to the cost, Turkey has something for everyone. Travelers can expect to find accommodation that caters to budget, mid-range, and luxury travelers. Prices may vary depending on season and demand, however, the low-cost of most food and accommodation makes it possible to travel cheaply. As for the cost of getting around, transportation is also affordable, with bus, train, and air options to choose from. An average day in Turkey can be spent on the cheap, usually including meals for two for about $50 (USD).
ATM Machines and Credit Cards
ATM machines are conveniently available in most parts of Turkey and credit cards are welcomed widely. However, it is important to note that Turkish banks will charge small but inevitable fees—usually about 5%—for foreign transactions with credit and debit cards. Using ATMs allows travelers to save money and avoid further fees associated with having to exchange money. It is recommended to withdraw only the amount you need as extra cash and to use whatever credit card the user has that offers the lowest withdrawal fees.
Doumanis
Another important factor to consider when traveling to Turkey is the currency, which consists of both cash and electronic forms called Doumanis. Doumanis are electronic transfers used to make payments; for example, for taxi fares, restaurant bills, or grocery bills. They can be transferred directly from one bank account to another or from bank account to Turkish cell phone or store and can save travelers a significant amount of money by avoiding the need for currency exchange or ATM withdrawal fees.
Cash Reserve
For travelers who prefer to use cash, a good rule of thumb is to bring no more than $1,000 USD or 1,000 Euro cash as a reserve. This should be enough money for a traveler to cover basic expenses such as food, lodging, transportation, and small souvenirs. It is also important to exchange foreign currency at reputable currency exchange offices or banks in order to get the best rate.
Getting Help
When in doubt, travelers are encouraged to contact the local tourist office to ask any questions they may have before their visit to Turkey. Additionally, if travelers find themselves in a precarious situation in Turkey and need help, the Turkish government established the Tourists for Emergency Call System to handle emergencies. This system is available 24 hours a day, with a call center and personnel in major cities that can assist tourists in emergency cases.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to figure out how much cash to bring when traveling to Turkey. This should include a reserve of no more than $1,000 USD or 1,000 Euro cash for basic needs and the use of ATM machines or credit cards to avoid additional fees. Travelers should also research the availability of Doumanis and consider exchanging their foreign currency at reputable exchange offices to get the best rate. Lastly, travelers should also be aware of the Tourists for Emergency Call System to access assistance in emergency cases.
