1. Money Matters

1. Carry more than once source of money (e.g., U.S. dollars, traveler’s checks, a credit card, etc). While using the local ATMs is usually the best way to get local currency, having a backup source of cash is essential. Your card may become captured by a machine, and sometimes bank networks go down. Bring along some hard cash – U.S. dollars still work well abroad -- to exchange in a pinch. 
2. Exchange rates are often the worst in the airport. Stick to banks and authorized currency exchange kiosks outside of the airport when possible.Know the current international exchange rate for the country you are visiting.
3. Although a few countries in Southeast Asia actually accept -- and may prefer -- U.S. dollars, always try to use the local currency when you can. Save your U.S. dollars for visa fees and potential emergencies. Some currencies such as the Cambodian riel can’t be exchanged outside of the country -- use it all or you’ll be stuck with paper souvenirs!
4. Know if the country you are visiting charges a departure fee that is not included in your ticket price. You may be asked for cash as you exit through the airport. Avoid having to use the ATM -- and pay transaction fees -- one more time on your way out. Indonesia, Brunei, and the Philippines ask for a departure fee from tourists who are leaving.
5. Don’t accept torn, faded, or damaged banknotes from anyone -- they may be difficult to spend later.
6. When departing a country, large-denomination banknotes are far easier to exchange than smaller denominations. Try to save the large bills to change on your way out. Banknotes need to be in good condition, otherwise they may be refused.
7. Enter odd amounts into ATMs to receive a mix of denominations. For example, ask for 5,900 baht in Thailand rather than an even 6,000 baht. Large banknotes can sometimes be a hassle to break or spend. It’s bad form to give a large bill to a street vendor for a small purchase. Try to break big bills at 7-Eleven minimarts, in bars and restaurants, or at your hotel.
8. When possible, try to choose ATMs in well-lit areas, preferably ones that are inside of banks rather than on the street in tourist areas. Doing so reduces the chances of having your number swiped by card-reading devices and increases the chances of getting your card returned if the machine eats it!
9. Separate your money so that the largest denominations aren’t visible. Doing so will thwart thieves and help your chances at scoring better prices while negotiating.
10. With a few exceptions, tipping is unusual in most Asian countries.

• Avoid these six mistakes that travelers often make with money.

2. Tips for Shopping in Asia

1. Don’t buy from the first merchant you encounter; you’ll often find the same item for less deeper inside of the market.
2. Don’t always believe what is advertised, particularly in tourist markets. Just because woodchips are on the floor around a local artisan doesn’t mean that they carved an item by hand. “Fresh” orange juice is sometimes just a sugary mix purchased in cartons and put into unlabeled bottles.
3. Unless you are purchasing brands designed for Westerners, Asian sizes tend to run smaller than those in Western countries.
4. Consider the source of your souvenirs before making a purchase. Avoid products that contribute to unsustainable practices (e.g., items made from shells, animal products, etc).
5. Haggling is an accepted part of the culture in most Asian countries -- don’t pay the first price!
6. While negotiating prices for purchases is the norm, some items such as food, drinks, cigarettes, and other consumables are fixed in price. Don't try to negotiate for fixed-price items.
7. Beware of the fakes! From flip-flops and sunglasses to iPhones, there are plenty of cheap replications for sale in Asia. Even large shopping malls with legitimate-looking stores will sometimes sell fakes.
8. Tourist markets are often a haven for unscrupulous individuals who prey on newcomers. Purses should be kept closed; wallets should be kept in the front pocket when squeezing through crowded spaces. Know about the most famous scams in Asia and then run when you see one developing!
9. Don’t be intimidated by the frenetic markets in Asia. Experiencing local markets is a memorable, cultural part of any trip.
10. The markets in Asia are often the best places to try excellent street food! Nibbling through a market can be very enjoyable -- and cheap!