Money makes the world go round — and makes it possible for divers to go around the world. Here are our best tips for saving money on your next dive trip.

1. Use Credit Cards for Big Purchases

Use a credit card for expenses like hotel rooms, dive trips and rental cars. Credit cards pose less risk if your details get stolen because most have zeroliability policies and they’re not connected to your bank account. It’s also generally easier to get refunds or dispute charges through a credit card than your bank.

2. Call Ahead

Banks and credit-card companies often disable customers’ cards if they flag unusual transactions, especially from a foreign country. Always notify your card issuers of your travel dates and destinations before you go.

3. Know What’s Accepted

Find out whether you can use credit cards and ATMs at your destination — in some remote spots cash might be a necessity. And find out which credit-/debit-card types are widely accepted at your destination.

4. Changing Money

Get cash in the local currency through an ATM rather than a currency exchange for the best deal. Also, use your debit card to withdraw money from an ATM. A cash advance on a credit card will incur steep fees and sky-high interest rates.

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5. On Arrival

Plan ahead to make sure you have the cash you need to get from the airport to the hotel when you arrive.

6. Bring Backup

Along with cash and an ATM card, it’s a good idea to travel with at least two credit cards: a primary card that you use for major purchases and a backup stashed somewhere safe just in case.

7. In Case of Emergency

Keep backup credit cards, surplus cash, and travel documents safely tucked away in the hotel’s main safe or your room’s safe. Keep copies of all cards, front and back, in a separate location, making sure to note the international assistance number to call for each card.

8. Money Belts

If you have a lot of cash, travel documents and c redit/debit cards, carrying a money belt or other discreet wallet is a good idea, but don’t pull money from it when you’re out and about.

9. On the Dive Boat

Use a small waterproof box or dry bag to bring tip or spending money and a credit or ATM card with you on the dive boat, tucked inside your dive bag or backpack.

Want more travel tips? Check out the best island street eats and our tips for tracking down lost luggage.