Indien 
A chai by the roadside can cost less than the fee for a Swedish card transaction abroad.
India is extremely digital in everyday life, but surprisingly cash-driven in certain situations. After several trips, I have settled on a simple strategy: combine UPI where it works, always have cash for what does not, and plan ahead to avoid panic withdrawals.
Preparations at Home Before Thinking About UPI
UPI is India’s super-fast payment network used for everything from grocery stores to tuk tuks. For Swedes, the catch is that many UPI apps traditionally require an Indian bank account and Indian mobile number, which means you cannot rely on having everything sorted with an app on the plane.
What works for most, however, is a combination of an international bank card, some cash in INR, and a plan for how you will pay in everyday situations. Bring at least two cards from different networks if you can, and activate international purchases in your banking app.
Expect that hotels, larger restaurants, and chains accept cards, but that small places often only take UPI or cash.
Application and Rules That Affect Your Wallet
To enter the country, you need the right visa, which also affects how you plan your finances. If you choose an e-visa, you will want to ensure your payment is sorted online and save the confirmation, as staff sometimes ask for it upon arrival.
You can find updated visa requirements and prices on VIZA.se.
On Your Way to India and First Money on Arrival
I usually do not exchange large sums at home. Instead, bring a small buffer in INR if you can get it, otherwise, it is sufficient to have a card that works for withdrawals right after landing.
At Indian airports, there are ATMs, but they can be full, have limits, or have long lines. Have a plan B, such as an extra ATM in another terminal area or cash in another currency that is accepted at the exchange desk.
Quick Overview That Saves Time
| Payment Method in India | Works Best For | Typical Pitfalls | My Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| UPI QR Code | Small purchases, cafes, tuk tuks, local shops | Often requires an Indian number or account | Excellent once you have access |
| International Card | Hotels, larger restaurants, online bookings | Extra fees, terminals that malfunction | Good as a base, but not always |
| Cash INR | Markets, tips, small towns, temple fees | Lack of change, worn bills may be refused | Necessary every day |
| ATM Withdrawals | Cash replenishment | Withdrawal limits and bank fees | Withdraw larger amounts less frequently |
Arrival and Everyday Payments with UPI
When you get out into the city, you will see QR codes everywhere, at fruit stands, pharmacies, and in taxis. If you have the opportunity to use a UPI solution via an Indian SIM and local account, or through a service that offers UPI for visitors, it is worth it since payments go through in seconds and you avoid hunting for small bills.
But do not base your entire trip on UPI. Sometimes the internet is shaky, sometimes the seller has a QR code that does not match the name you see in the app, and sometimes someone wants you to pay to a private number instead of the store’s.
Only send UPI payments when the recipient’s name in the app clearly matches the one you are paying.
Cash in India Without Getting Cheated
Cash is still king in many places, especially outside major cities and for spontaneous purchases. Aim to have a mix of bills, and ask for smaller denominations directly when you exchange or withdraw, otherwise a simple ride with an auto rickshaw can turn into a change dispute.
Also, be a bit picky about the condition of the bills. Very worn bills may be refused in smaller shops, and it is frustrating when you are standing there with a bottle of water in hand.
Smart Habits That Make Payments Safe
India is intense, and payments often happen quickly, with people around. I follow a few simple habits that reduce the risk of mistakes.
- Have a separate small cash wallet for daily money.
- Withdraw cash from ATMs inside banks or shopping centers.
- Do not photograph QR codes and pay later, pay on the spot.
- Set your own daily limit in the banking app if possible.
- Double-check the amount before approving, especially in taxis.
Prices to Keep in Mind When You Are There
In major cities, a short ride in an app-based taxi can cost around 150 to 400 INR depending on the time and traffic. A simple street food meal can range from 50 to 150 INR, while dinner at a trendier place can easily add up.
Tipping is not always strict, but small amounts are appreciated. Always have some smaller bills for hotel staff and drivers.
Tips on Location, Internet, SIM, and Common Issues
A local SIM makes things much easier, both for maps and payment apps. Expect that registration can take time and that you will need your passport and sometimes a photo. When the internet gets bad, especially at train stations and markets, cash is your savior.
If a shop says the card terminal is broken but UPI works, and you lack UPI, ask about cash or move on. It is common for cards not to be prioritized in small businesses.
The Best Mix for a Smooth Trip to India
My favorite is to travel with two cards, have a cash buffer that lasts one to two days, and use UPI when you actually have a stable and secure solution. This way, you can pay quickly where it is meant to be quick, and still be completely calm when the QR codes suddenly do not help.
