NFC, Apple Pay or Google Pay when travelling : pros and cons of using these services

Understanding the Core Technology: NFC

Before comparing Apple Pay and Google Pay, it’s essential to understand the technology that powers them: Near Field Communication (NFC). NFC is a short-range wireless technology that allows two devices, like your smartphone and a payment terminal, to communicate when they are close together. When you tap your phone to pay, NFC facilitates a secure, encrypted exchange of payment information, making the transaction possible in seconds. Both Apple Pay and Google Pay are digital wallet services that use your phone’s built-in NFC chip to enable these contactless payments.

Pros of Using Digital Wallets Abroad

Leveraging services like Apple Pay or Google Pay while traveling offers several distinct advantages over traditional payment methods.

• Enhanced Security: Digital wallets use a process called tokenization, which replaces your actual credit card number with a unique, one-time digital token for each transaction. This means your real card details are never shared with the merchant. Combined with biometric authentication (fingerprint or face ID), it creates a highly secure payment method, reducing the risk of card skimming or theft.
• Convenience: Carrying a single device—your smartphone or smartwatch—is far more convenient than managing multiple physical cards and cash. Transactions are fast, requiring just a simple tap, which is ideal for quick purchases in transit systems, cafes, or retail stores.
• No Added Fees from the Wallet: Neither Apple Pay nor Google Pay charges any additional fees for transactions, including international ones. However, it is crucial to remember that you are still subject to any foreign transaction fees charged by your underlying credit or debit card issuer. Always use a card with no foreign transaction fees linked to your digital wallet.
• Broad Acceptance: The contactless payment symbol (a series of four curved lines) is now a common sight worldwide. If a merchant accepts contactless payments, they will almost certainly accept Apple Pay and Google Pay.

Cons and Considerations for Travelers

Despite the benefits, there are potential drawbacks and important factors to consider before relying solely on your phone for payments.

• Battery Dependence: The most significant limitation is your device’s battery life. If your phone or watch runs out of power, you lose your ability to pay. This requires travelers to be diligent about keeping their devices charged, often carrying a power bank as a backup.
• Inconsistent Acceptance: While widespread, contactless payment infrastructure is not universal. Smaller towns, local markets, or certain types of businesses (like some toll booths or unattended kiosks) may still require cash or a physical card with a chip and PIN.
• Initial Setup and Connectivity: While the payment itself does not require an internet connection, setting up your cards in the wallet and receiving updates from your bank does. Ensure all your desired cards are added and verified before you leave home.
• Transaction Limits: Many countries impose a limit on the value of a single contactless transaction. If your purchase exceeds this amount (which varies by country), the payment may be declined, forcing you to use a physical card with a PIN or a different payment method.
• Bank and Regional Restrictions: Not all banks support digital wallets, and some may have specific restrictions on using them abroad. It is vital to confirm with your bank that your card is enabled for international use within Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Apple Pay vs. Google Pay: Key Differences

While both services function similarly, a few distinctions may influence your choice, primarily based on the devices you own.

Device Ecosystem

Apple Pay is exclusive to Apple products, including the iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac. Google Pay is the standard for the Android ecosystem and is available on most modern Android phones and smartwatches that have an NFC chip.

Global Availability

Both platforms are available in a vast and growing number of countries and are supported by thousands of banks globally. The “best” option often comes down to which service better supports your specific bank and the cards you hold. Always check the official Apple Pay and Google Pay websites for the most up-to-date lists of supported countries and banking partners before you travel.

User Experience

The process for paying is slightly different. On an iPhone, you typically double-press the side button to bring up your default card and authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID before tapping. On most Android phones, you simply need to unlock your phone and hold it near the terminal for the payment to process. Both methods are extremely quick and secure.

Final Recommendations for Travelers

Using a digital wallet like Apple Pay or Google Pay is an excellent way to add security and convenience to your payments abroad. To ensure a smooth experience, set up and verify all your cards in the wallet before your trip. Link a primary card that has no foreign transaction fees to avoid unnecessary charges. Most importantly, never rely on a single payment method. Always carry at least one physical credit card and a small amount of local currency as a reliable backup for situations where digital payments are not an option.