In 2017, I stumbled into the world of cryptocurrency. At first, I saw Bitcoin and Ethereum as investments, but I never thought they would actually help me explore the world. Fast forward to 2021, and I found myself using crypto to fund my travels, pay for accommodations, and even book flights. What started as an experiment turned into a budget-friendly, adventurous way to travel.
From using Bitcoin to book hotels to paying for street food with crypto in Southeast Asia, my journey taught me that cryptocurrencies are more than just digital assets—they’re a tool for financial freedom and global exploration. Here’s my story of how I used crypto to travel the world and the tips you can use if you’re thinking of doing the same.
How I Funded My Travels with Crypto Gains
Like many early crypto investors, I got lucky. I bought Bitcoin and Ethereum when they were relatively cheap. By the time 2021 rolled around, the bull run had boosted my portfolio significantly. Instead of cashing out entirely, I decided to use some of my gains to fund a long-term trip.
I wasn’t looking to live luxuriously—I wanted to travel on a budget while experiencing new cultures, foods, and adventures. My crypto gains gave me the flexibility to do just that.
Why I Chose Crypto Over Traditional Money
- Freedom from Banks: No need to deal with international banking fees, currency exchange rates, or frozen accounts.
- Portability: I could access my funds anywhere in the world with just a crypto wallet and an internet connection.
- Low Transaction Fees: Sending crypto often cost less than using traditional money transfer services.
Booking Flights and Hotels with Crypto
When I started planning my trip, I wondered: Could I actually book flights and hotels using crypto? To my surprise, the answer was yes.
1. Using Platforms That Accept Crypto
Several travel platforms now accept cryptocurrencies as payment:
- Travala: A booking platform that lets you pay for flights, hotels, and tours with Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptos. I used Travala to book a budget-friendly hotel in Bali and a flight from Bangkok to Chiang Mai.
- CheapAir: This website allows you to pay for flights using Bitcoin and other major cryptocurrencies.
- Airbnb Alternatives: Some smaller vacation rental services accept crypto payments or let you pay the host directly in crypto.
My First Crypto-Paid Hotel
In Bali, I booked a small guesthouse near the beach using Bitcoin on Travala. The transaction was smooth, and within minutes, I received a confirmation email. The process felt empowering—no credit card, no bank delays, just a direct transaction using my digital assets.
The host was curious about crypto, and we ended up having a long conversation about Bitcoin over breakfast. It felt like I was part of a new, global movement.
Dining and Shopping with Crypto
I was surprised by how many places accepted crypto, especially in Southeast Asia and Europe. In Chiang Mai, Thailand, I found cafés and restaurants that accepted Bitcoin, Litecoin, and even Dash. Street food vendors who were crypto enthusiasts had signs that said “Bitcoin Accepted Here.”
Using Crypto Debit Cards
For places that didn’t accept direct crypto payments, I used a crypto debit card. These cards allow you to load crypto onto them and spend it like regular currency. I used:
- Crypto.com Visa Card: Earns cashback in crypto and works anywhere that accepts Visa.
- Coinbase Card: Lets you spend crypto from your Coinbase wallet and converts it to fiat at the time of purchase.
These cards were lifesavers when paying for meals, transportation, and shopping. I could seamlessly spend my crypto while earning cashback rewards.
Paying for Experiences and Tours
In Lisbon, Portugal, I booked a city walking tour through a local guide who accepted Ethereum. In Mexico City, I found a museum that offered discounted tickets if you paid with crypto. These experiences felt more personal and rewarding, knowing that crypto facilitated the exchange.
Peer-to-Peer Payments
For some experiences, I used peer-to-peer (P2P) payments. I met fellow travelers who were also into crypto, and we often split costs for activities or shared rides by sending each other Bitcoin or Ethereum. No need for cash or complicated bank transfers—just a quick scan of a QR code.
Staying Safe While Traveling with Crypto
Using crypto to travel was exciting, but it also came with security challenges. Here’s how I kept my crypto safe on the road:
- Used a Hardware Wallet: I stored most of my crypto on a hardware wallet (like a Ledger Nano) and only kept small amounts in my mobile wallet for spending.
- Enabled 2FA: For exchanges and wallets, I always used two-factor authentication (2FA) for added security.
- Avoided Public Wi-Fi: I used a VPN when accessing my crypto wallets to protect my data from hackers.
- Stayed Discreet: I didn’t advertise that I was traveling with crypto to avoid unwanted attention.
Pros and Cons of Traveling with Crypto
Pros:
- Financial Independence: No reliance on banks or traditional payment systems.
- Low Fees: Avoided expensive currency exchange fees and ATM withdrawal charges.
- Global Accessibility: Crypto worked wherever I had an internet connection.
- Privacy: Some transactions offered more privacy than using credit cards.
Cons:
- Volatility: Crypto prices can fluctuate wildly, affecting your travel budget.
- Limited Acceptance: Not every business accepts crypto yet.
- Security Risks: Traveling with crypto requires strong security practices to avoid theft or hacks.
Tips for Traveling with Crypto
- Research Ahead: Find out which cities and businesses accept crypto before you go.
- Carry Backup Funds: Have some local currency or a traditional debit card for emergencies.
- Use a Crypto Debit Card: It provides flexibility and makes spending crypto easier.
- Stay Secure: Use hardware wallets, 2FA, and VPNs to protect your assets.
- Join Crypto Communities: Connect with local crypto enthusiasts for tips and recommendations.
Crypto: A New Way to Explore the World
Using crypto to travel the world gave me a sense of freedom and empowerment I hadn’t experienced before. It’s not just about avoiding fees or using digital money—it’s about being part of a global shift toward decentralized finance and borderless transactions.
If you’re a crypto enthusiast or just curious about the possibilities, consider using your digital assets to fund your next adventure. The world is becoming more crypto-friendly, and your next trip might just be a blockchain-powered journey.
