Using cryptocurrency abroad is possible, but how you use it depends on where you are. Some places accept crypto directly, while others require you to convert it before paying.
Most travellers use crypto in three simple ways:
If you’re booking flights, Alternative Airlines lets you pay with cryptocurrency across 600+ airlines using 100+ digital currencies. Payments are processed securely through popular gateways like Binance Pay, xMoney, CoinGate and Crypto.com.
To pay, search for your flight, select “Cryptocurrency” at checkout, and complete the payment using your preferred wallet.
Cryptocurrency has become much easier to use in recent years. You can now spend it through crypto debit cards, Bitcoin ATMs and mobile wallets, whether you’re at home or abroad.
To get started, choose a payment method that works for you and make sure your wallet is funded with widely accepted cryptocurrencies.
The most commonly used options include Bitcoin, Ethereum and Tether, which are supported by more platforms and services.
Paying with cryptocurrency can give you more flexibility and help you avoid some of the usual costs that come with travelling abroad.
While acceptance still depends on your destination, more businesses are starting to support crypto payments.
If you’re planning to use crypto while travelling, you’ve got a few options. Some methods feel just like using a normal bank card, while others rely on businesses accepting crypto payments.
Here’s how you can spend your digital currency when you’re abroad.
Crypto debit cards are one of the easiest ways to spend your crypto abroad. You can use them just like a normal bank card, whether you’re paying online, in person or withdrawing cash.
Your crypto is automatically converted into local currency when you pay. This means you can still use it even if the business doesn’t accept cryptocurrency.
To get started, simply load your card with your chosen digital currency and use it as you normally would.
When choosing a card, look for:
Popular providers include Crypto.com, Wirex and Binance, which offer different features depending on how you plan to spend.
Crypto mobile wallets let you store and spend your cryptocurrency directly from your phone. They give you full control over your funds and make it easy to manage your crypto while you travel.
With a mobile wallet, your digital currency is always within reach. You can pay, send or receive crypto using a single app, without relying on an exchange.
To make a payment, you’ll usually:
Unlike crypto debit cards, mobile wallets only work if the business accepts cryptocurrency. This means they’re most useful in destinations where crypto payments are more common.
Popular apps like MetaMask, Exodus, Phantom and Trust Wallet make it simple to get started and manage your crypto on the go.
In some destinations, you can use Bitcoin ATMs to buy Bitcoin or convert it into local currency. This can be useful if you want to top up your wallet or withdraw cash using your crypto balance.
To use a Bitcoin ATM, you’ll need a crypto wallet to send and receive funds. Once set up, you can exchange Bitcoin for cash, which you can then spend as usual.
However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
There are over 37,000 Bitcoin ATMs worldwide, according to this report by Fortune Business Insights, but availability varies by location. It’s worth checking ahead to see if your destination has any nearby.
If you’re travelling somewhere that accepts cryptocurrency, you can pay by sending crypto directly to a business’s wallet.
You can do this from your mobile wallet or exchange, as long as you have access to your funds. Most payments are completed by entering a wallet address or scanning a QR code.
However, this option is less widely accepted and depends on the business being set up to take crypto. It can also take a bit more time and coordination compared to other payment methods.
Before relying on crypto while travelling, it’s worth planning ahead. A few small checks can save you time, stress and unexpected costs.
Crypto regulations vary by country. Some destinations are open to digital currencies, while others have strict rules or bans. Make sure you check both your destination and any rules that apply from your home country before you travel.
Crypto adoption isn’t the same everywhere. Some cities and businesses actively accept it, while others don’t. Look into where you’re going and identify places that accept crypto so you’re not caught out. For example, Ljubljana in Slovenia has a dedicated Bitcoin shopping area known as Bitcoin City.
It’s always a good idea to have a backup. If you lose access to your wallet or can’t pay with crypto, you’ll need another way to cover costs. Carrying some local currency or a card can give you peace of mind.
Start searching for flights with our search form at the top of the page!
Select the flights that best suit you, then proceed to checkout where you can choose from 100+ different cryptocurrencies available on our site, including Bitcoin, Ethereum and Ripple.
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No, cryptocurrency isn’t accepted everywhere. While adoption is growing, many businesses still don’t accept crypto directly. In most destinations, you’ll need to rely on crypto debit cards or convert your crypto into local currency to pay for everyday expenses.
Using cryptocurrency can be safe if you take the right precautions. Always use secure wallets, enable two-factor authentication and avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing your funds. It’s also important to keep backup access to your wallet in case your device is lost or stolen.
In many countries, using cryptocurrency can trigger tax obligations, especially if it involves converting crypto into fiat currency or making gains. Rules vary depending on your home country, so it’s important to check local regulations before travelling.
The easiest way is usually with a crypto debit card. It works like a normal bank card and automatically converts your crypto into local currency at checkout. This means you can pay even if the business doesn’t accept cryptocurrency directly.
Yes, you can withdraw cash using crypto debit cards or Bitcoin ATMs. However, Bitcoin ATMs may charge higher fees and are not available everywhere, so it’s worth checking availability before you travel.
If you lose access to your wallet and don’t have a backup or recovery phrase, you may not be able to recover your funds. That’s why it’s important to securely store your recovery details and always have a backup payment method when travelling.
Crypto can help you avoid some foreign transaction fees and exchange rate markups. However, fees can still apply depending on the platform, network congestion and how you convert your crypto, so it’s worth comparing costs.
The most widely accepted cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Ethereum and stablecoins like Tether. Stablecoins are often preferred for spending as their value is less volatile compared to other cryptocurrencies.
Yes, Alternative Airlines lets you book flights with cryptocurrency across 600+ airlines. You can pay using 100+ digital currencies through trusted partners like xMoney and Crypto.com, making it easy to use your crypto for travel.
