How much cash and which cards should I carry with me when I first arrive in Canada as an Indian student?
Carry a mix of cash and digital payment options. Bring around 500 to 700 CAD for food, a SIM card and transport, plus a small amount of rupees for Indian airports. Add a global-enabled debit card, a preloaded forex card and, optionally, a credit card for emergencies.
When you first arrive in Canada, you should carry a mix of cash and digital payment options, since some places may not accept cards right away. Around CAD 500 to 700 (approx INR 33,505 to 46,907) in cash usually covers your first local expenses.
Money Essentials to Pack
| Item | What to carry |
|---|---|
| Cash in CAD | Around CAD 500 to 700 (approx INR 33,505 to 46,907) for food, a SIM card and transport |
| Cash in INR | Around INR 2,000 to 5,000 for needs at Indian airports |
| International debit card | Enabled for global use |
| Forex card | Preloaded CAD card, safe for early purchases and easy to track |
| Credit card (optional) | Useful in emergencies, especially one with zero forex markup |
| Bank documents | Account details, recent statements and a copy of your PAN card |
Before You Travel
- Inform your bank before you travel.
- Compare exchange rates before loading any card to get the best value.
- Keep cash and cards in separate bags in case one is lost.
My Advice
Do not carry large amounts of cash. Take enough for your first few days and rely on a forex card and a global debit card for the rest. Confirm card activation and limits with your bank before you fly.
How much will a month in Canada cost you?
Rent, food and travel. A real monthly budget, city by city.
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