Can I use the BigPay card in Panama in 2024?
If you’re planning a trip to Panama - or planning to move there to live, work or study - you’ve got an exciting time ahead. As the Panamanian Balboa (PAB) is the official currency in Panama you’ll need to find convenient ways to spend in Panamanian Balboa while you’re there.
This guide walks through how to use the BigPay card in Panama for convenient and secure transactions, and offers some handy hints about making your money go further when you’re abroad.
Can I use the BigPay card in Panama?
If you are a resident of Malaysia and have a BigPay card - or if you’re thinking of getting one - you’re probably wondering: can I use my BigPay card to pay for things in Panama?
The answer is yes, you can use the BigPay card for everyday spending in Panama. You can use the card to pay for things in Panamanian Balboa with competitive exchange rates and low transaction fees. This guide walks through how you’ll be able to use your BigPay card to help manage your travel spending.
How to order a BigPay card
Getting your BigPay card in Malaysia is fairly simple, and the entire process can be done on your phone. Here’s how you can order your BigPay card:
Download the BigPay app from the App Store or Google Play Store, and sign up using your email address or mobile number.
Complete the registration by entering your personal details and verifying your identity. You’ll need to upload a photo of your IC or passport, along with a selfie for verification.
Once your identity is verified, top up your BigPay account using your preferred payment method.
Go to the Cards section in the app and select the option to order your BigPay card.
Confirm your shipping address, and your BigPay card will be sent to you by mail.
Can I get the BigPay card in Panama?
Unfortunately, the BigPay card is not yet available for residents of Panama. You may find that Wise is a better option for residents; check whether Wise is available below.
See alternatives to BigPayWhat happens if I move to Panama?
You can continue using your BigPay card until it expires, but you will not be issued a new card as BigPay does not offer the card in Panama. You may be able to continue using other services, offered by BigPay - we would recommend checking with their Customer Support team for more details.
An alternative to BigPay in Panama: Wise
Visa/Mastercard debit card
Mid-market exchange rate
40+ currencies- Spend in Panamanian Balboa when visiting Panama ✅
- Not available to residents of Panama ❌
- Earn healthy interest rates on USD, EUR and GBP balances 💸
Hold and exchange 40+ currencies in your account and spend with your Wise card in 150+ countries globally. You’ll get the mid-market rate to convert currencies wherever you are in the world, with low fees - and some free ATM withdrawals every month, too.
Will my ATM card work in Panama?
While your ATM card will work in Panama it’s useful to know that cash will still be accepted by some shops and restaurants.
Cash is always useful to have, not just for paying the bill, but for tipping and gratuity as well.
Carrying a low cost ATM card when you’re in Panama is still a smart idea, so you can take out cash when you do find an ATM. You may also be able to use your card in larger hotels or restaurants, particularly in tourist areas.
However, keeping some cash on you at all times, as well as your card or cards is a smart plan, so you’re prepared no matter what happens.
How can I avoid ATM fees in Panama?
Don’t pay more than you need to when using an ATM. Here are some hints to avoid unexpected ATM fees in Panama:
Get a low cost ATM card which offers some free or cheap international withdrawals
Always pay in the local currency when you withdraw - this avoids additional charges and poor exchange rates offered by an ATM
Check if there’s a fixed cost per transaction for your ATM card. This might mean that making fewer, larger withdrawals is cheaper
Watch the ATM screen for warnings of extra fees the ATM operator may add - if there are going to be extra charges you may want to find an alternative terminal
Tips for saving on your travel budget for Panama
Make the most of your money so you can do more on your trip to Panama. Here are some travel budget tips:
Pay for your luggage when you book your flight - this is cheaper than at the airport
Don’t exchange currency at the airport or your hotel, as this is often the most expensive place
Always pay in the local currency
Keep a few different payment methods on you at any time, just in case you need a backup plan
Get a travel card which has good exchange rates and low or no cost ATM withdrawals overseas
What is the best currency to take to Panama?
The Panamanian Balboa (PAB) is the official currency in Panama.
You can exchange your MYR before you leave Malaysia if you’d like - but bear in mind that you won’t be able to spend MYR in Panama. If you arrive with cash in your pocket you’ll need to exchange it locally, which may come with unexpected costs, and take time out of your trip unnecessarily.
A better plan for lots of people is to get a travel card for spending abroad, with low costs and secure transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
The BigPay card will be OK for your trip to Panama. Use your BigPay card in Panama to get low cost currency conversion and cash withdrawals, and to keep your budget down overall.
Unfortunately, the BigPay card is not yet available for residents of Panama, so if you're planning on relocating you may need to consider alternatives.
Using the BigPay card when you’re spending overseas can mean you get a better exchange rate and lower overall costs. Explore your card’s features and fees carefully to make sure you can get the most of it when travelling abroad.
The delivery time for a travel card in Malaysia can vary a lot depending on the provider you pick. Get ready in advance so you’ve got your card in good time before your trip to Panama.
We retrieved Wise's and BigPay's card coverage from the following sources:
- Where can I use my Wise card? - Wise (checked 20/02/2024)
- Can I get the Wise card in my country? - Wise (checked 20/02/2024)
- Things you should know about using your BigPay card overseas. - BigPay (checked 12/08/2024)