cash to USA

happicamper

I'm travelling out to USA for holiday in March. I do not own a credit card and never have, will that be a problem in the states. I was planning to take out cash only? is that advisable approx $4k, advise needed.

whatmichaelsays

happicamper wrote: »

will that be a problem in the states.

Possibly. In general, you don't exist as a human being in the States without a credit card.

If you are hiring a car or checking into a hotel, they are likely to want to take a pre-authorisation from a credit card when you check in. Some may take debit cards, but some won't.

Without a card, you're relying on whatever policy the hotel has in place - and don't automatically assume that they have one.

Best advice would be to call anywhere in advance where it's likely you'll need a card.

hcb42

you can take cash only, but your risk...

I took $2K recently that said, so each to their own

Most decent hotels will let you check in with cash, (assuming you have not prepaid) as long as you can show ID, and of course you will not be able to charge to your room

Kernow666

personally i would get a prepaid card for that amount ( or most of it )
just on previous experience with immigration if you get pulled and then they will ask you how much cash you got and if you say 4k you'll get the 3rd degree

happened to me a couple years ago i had $1500 cash and was asked why i had so much etc etc , now i take a good wedge on a prepaid card plus i got my clarity card and a couple 100 in cash and still get asked i just say i will use my credit card for purchases

alanrowell

I'd have multiple cards stored in separate places so that if something does go wrong you aren't up a creek without a paddle.

happicamper

we have paid up front for our hotels and car hire, so cash was just for meals and fuel etc. i guess a clarity card would be a good move. thanks for all your replies,

EssexExile

happicamper wrote: »

we have paid up front for our hotels and car hire,

The car hire company will still want a credit card (or loads of cash).

Kernow666

also bare in mind that your travel insurance probably wont cover a large amount most only cover £200 worth

steve1500

EssexExile wrote: »

The car hire company will still want a credit card (or loads of cash).

I would most definitely check with the hire company about not having a credit card.

If they say you don't need one, I would ask for that in black & white. Also what the cash deposit will be