put 90% into Wise and the rest just exchange to AUD cash to put aside for emergency just in case merchant doesn't have terminal.

You can still withdraw money using Wise card at any ATM and first two withdrawal is free (if your cash is out and need another physical cash)

Use Wise card/Apple Pay whenever you can.

I just got back from Perth weeks back and all my transaction via card or Apple Pay. I exhange couple of hundred dollars that doesn't used until my end of trip. Have to spent all during last day because coming back here and exchange, rugi on exchange fee.

edit: been to Coles, petrol station, wildife park, outskirt attracktion and even small coffee shop accept card.

This post has been edited by rip_code: Oct 6 2023, 12:43 PM

they didnt check for cash. not sure if that should be their SOP. but during applying ETA i do submit all my payslip, house title etc.
yes digital card fine. i add digital card to my apple pay the other day. wasn't support yet for Malaysia during my stay.

but i suggest just bring any CC that you have just in case if they ask how are you going to spend there.

dont forget to declare all the things. i heard now is very strict and once caught, they can either cancel your visa or shorten your length of stay

This post has been edited by rip_code: Oct 6 2023, 05:50 PM

yeah that was before covid. now ETA very slow to get. last time within few hours to 24 hours can get.

ETA nowadays need to submit all your income in this country like salary, car grant etc.

wow seriously 2 minutes? fastest i ever heard.