Advice on Vegas Cash Withdrawals

Question

Hi there

Please could you assist me with advice/guidance concerning the possible options of withdrawing cash whilst visiting the US?

I am a seasoned Vegas visitor regularly performing trips from the UK to Vegas. However, our next trip will include a road trip in the US before flying in to Vegas. I would usually not worry about withdrawing cash in Vegas as I usually just place the cash in the room safe and access as I require. However, I am concerned about carrying the Vegas cash plus road trip money whilst I am completing the road trip leg of the holiday.

I have attempted to research possible bank options but the ones I have found seem to restrict the amount I am able to withdraw to an average daily amount of $500 which would not cover my daily Vegas activities.

All advice, thoughts, guidance are welcome! I truly appreciate your help and assistance with this matter. Thank you for taking the time to read and respond to this query.

Answer

It's great that you're planning ahead for your upcoming road trip and visit to Las Vegas! As an international traveler, especially from the UK, managing cash withdrawals in the US can be a bit tricky. I understand your concern about carrying large sums of money while traveling and withdrawing enough cash for your Vegas activities. Here are some options and considerations that could help you navigate this more efficiently:

1. ATM Withdrawals from Your UK Bank Account

Many UK banks allow you to use your debit card at ATMs in the US, but as you've mentioned, there are daily withdrawal limits, typically around $500 per day. However, if you need more, there are a few things to consider:

Check with your UK bank – Some UK banks allow you to increase your daily withdrawal limit for international travel, either temporarily or permanently. Contact your bank before you travel to discuss this option.
Use multiple cards – If you have multiple cards, you can withdraw from different accounts, giving you access to more cash per day. Just be mindful of any fees associated with using different cards.
ATM Fees – Be aware that using your UK bank card at an ATM in the US can come with fees, typically around $5-10 per transaction. Also, check if your UK bank charges foreign transaction fees.

2. US-Based Bank Accounts (If You Plan to Open One for Your Trip)

If you're planning an extended stay or will be spending a lot of time in the US, it might be worth considering opening a US bank account. This would eliminate foreign transaction fees and give you easier access to larger withdrawal limits. Some banks, such as Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo, have widespread ATM networks in the US.

Opening a US bank account – You can usually open an account online before you travel or in person once you're in the US. Most US banks will offer cards that allow you to withdraw cash from ATMs without fees if you use their ATMs.
ATM withdrawal limits – US bank ATMs typically have higher withdrawal limits than UK-based accounts, sometimes up to $1,000 or more per day. If you plan to make large withdrawals in Vegas, this could be a convenient option.

3. Prepaid Travel Cards or Currency Cards

Prepaid travel cards, such as Revolut, Wise, or Travelex, allow you to load money in GBP and convert it to USD before your trip. You can then use the card to withdraw cash at ATMs in the US. These cards often have better exchange rates and lower fees than traditional bank cards.

Benefits of prepaid cards – They offer a set amount of funds to withdraw, which can help you manage your budget and avoid overspending. They also often have higher withdrawal limits and lower fees compared to international debit cards.
Top-ups – Prepaid cards can be topped up online or via bank transfer, which is useful if you're running low on funds. Just ensure you carry enough in case you need to top up while on the road.

4. Using Credit Cards for Larger Expenses

While you may still want some cash for small purchases or tips, credit cards are often the most convenient way to handle larger expenses in Vegas. Many places, including restaurants, hotels, and even some bars and casinos, accept credit cards, and you won’t need to carry as much cash.

Consider cash advances – Some credit cards allow you to withdraw cash at ATMs, but this typically comes with a high-interest rate and cash advance fees. This option is best used in emergencies rather than as a primary method for obtaining cash.
Rewards and protection – Many credit cards offer rewards for spending and provide fraud protection, making them a good choice for larger purchases.

5. Safety Considerations for Carrying Cash

If you do decide to carry cash while traveling, here are some tips to keep it safe:

Split your cash – Don’t keep all your cash in one place. Split it up between your wallet, room safe, and a backup spot like a hidden money belt.
Use hotel safes – Most hotels, like the ones in Vegas, offer in-room safes. It’s a good idea to store large amounts of cash here when you're not using it.
Carry small amounts – For day-to-day expenses, carry only what you need. This reduces the risk of losing all your funds if something happens.

In conclusion, if you're looking for larger daily withdrawals, the best options are either increasing your withdrawal limits with your UK bank, using prepaid cards, or possibly opening a US bank account for easier access. Credit cards are also a convenient backup for bigger purchases in Vegas. Always keep an eye on the fees involved and consider your daily cash needs when planning ahead for your road trip and stay in Las Vegas.