Cashless in Chiang Mai: A warning about banking apps while traveling

I was in Chiang Mai for a month, working from cafes. One day, my bank app forced an update and logged me out. To get back in, I needed a code sent to my US phone number, which I hadn't brought. No access to my money for a week. I had to cancel client calls because I couldn't pay for internet. My friend lent me some cash, but it was embarrassing. Now I use a digital bank with better travel features. Always have a backup plan for money when you're a nomad.

2 comments

2 Comments

morgan5125d ago

I never really worried about my banking app before reading this. Your situation sounds like a total nightmare and it completely changed my view. I just assumed my phone was enough for everything. Now I'm checking what my own bank needs if I get logged out overseas. I'm definitely setting up a backup plan before my next trip, maybe a second card with a different bank kept separate. You really can't rely on just one method.

gavink954d ago

Seriously, morgan512 hit the nail on the head. I used to be the same way, just trusting my phone for everything. Reading about these kinds of stories totally shifted my perspective. Now I see how risky that can be, especially if you get locked out abroad. Setting up a backup plan is SO important, like having a second card from a different bank.