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How Much Money to Carry to Russia for the First Time?

Okay, so you're off to Russia! Oh, yeah! But before you picture yourself strolling across Red Square, there is one slightly less glamorous, but no less vital, question that you need to figure out: how much money do you actually NEED to bring with you?

 

Let's get real, figuring out money in a foreign country is a little intimidating. Bring too much, and you're thinking about how you're going to spend it all. Bring too little, and you're stressing about every Ruble. I've done it (not in Russia, per se, but I get the money-worrying part), and I want to take you through how to arrive at that "just right" amount.

 

Why You Can't Do Away with Cash Entirely:

 

While cards are not very common in Russian cities, cash is king in some situations. Think of it as an insurance and way to access parts of Russian society:

 

• First Impressions (and Expenses!): Airport transfer, local SIM card to keep in contact with the world, something to eat on arrival – all these will likely be paid for in cash. And if you haven't pre-booked your accommodation, you'll definitely require some Rubles as a payment on account.

• Local Charm, Local Rules: Those cute little shops, busy bazaars, and street stalls? They might not always take cards, especially if you're heading out of the big city centers.

• Oops! Moments Happen: Card machines get stuck, ATMs lose cash, and sometimes life throws you a curveball. Having cash as a backup gives you a fall-back plan.

• Tipping (It's a Thing): Tipping is not as aggressive as in America, but tipping is appreciated in Russia for restaurant staff, taxi rides, and even good haircuts.

 

Decoding Your Cash Needs: It's Personal!

 

The "proper" amount of cash depends on everyone. It depends on your personal situation. Here's what to consider:

 

• Have You Paid Up Yet? Did you shell out for your accommodation and the first semester tuition before you left home? If you did, you will not have to carry as much money with you.

• City Mouse or Country Mouse? Moscow and St. Petersburg tend to be more pricey than smaller towns. Bear that in mind when working out your budget.

• Apartment Life versus Dorm Life: Dorm costs are lower than apartment rental, so you don't have to pay as big of a deposit upfront.

• Are You a Saver or a Spender? Don't lie to yourself! Do you like eating out and traveling around every day, or do you like to make meals at home and stick with the routine?

• How Easy is a Money SOS? How quickly can your family send you more money if you get into a financial bind?

 

Busting the Bills: What to Expect

 

Alright, alright, let's be real. Here's a rough estimate of those initial costs you're likely to encounter:

 

• Airport Escape: A cab ride from the airport to where you're staying in Moscow or St. Petersburg can easily be 1,500-3,000 RUB, depending on traffic and distance. The express train to the airport is cheaper, about 500-600 RUB.

• Staying Connected: A local SIM card with data plan will cost about 500-1,000 RUB.

• Food, Glorious Food (Eventually): Spend 2,000-3,000 RUB on food to get you by or for a couple of restaurant dinners until you're settled into cooking life.

• Security Deposit Showdown: If you haven't paid in advance, be prepared to leave a deposit equal to one month's rent. This may be anywhere from 15,000 to 40,000 RUB (or more!), depending on where and what you're renting (dorms are less expensive).

• Visa Documentation (Ugh): If you need to register your visa or get an extension, budget for 2,000-5,000 RUB.

• Just in Case: Add 5,000-10,000 RUB for random expenses like toiletries, transport, or an unexpected necessity for a new phone charger.

 

The "Sweet Spot" Number

 

Granting all that, I'd say a conservative amount of cash to bring with your initial trip into Russia is 30,000 to 70,000 RUB (around $400 - $950 USD). It gives you more than enough buffer for that initial outlay and sets you up so you don't have to cause yourself undue concern financially.

 

Critical Dos and Don'ts:

 

• Declare, Declare, Declare! If you're bringing over $10,000 USD (or Ruble equivalent), you must declare it when you enter customs. Seriously, don't skip doing this or you'll lose your cash!

• Exchange Strategically: Exchange a small amount of currency upfront to pay for immediate needs, but hold most of it for Russia, where you might get a slightly better exchange rate.

• Protect Your Stash: Conceal your money and keep it safe, either in a money belt or hidden pocket. Be discreet and don't openly display lots of cash on the street.

• Let Your Bank Know You're Traveling!: Very important! Let your bank know your travel dates so they won't flag your card as suspicious and freeze it.

• Pre-Paid Card as a Back-Up: Consider purchasing a pre-paid travel card. You can load it with a fixed value and use it for day-to-day expenditure. It's a more secure way of carrying cash than rolls of money.

• Don't Panic (It Can Be Solved): In case you overestimate your cash needs by error, don't worry. Ring up your friends or family members, and they can send you money through a reputable money transfer scheme.

 

The Takeaway:

 

Having just the right amount of cash in hand when you arrive in Russia makes for a smoother, less stressful transition. By considering your own circumstances, budgeting out those initial costs, and heeding my words, you can set yourself up to succeed (without breaking the bank). Don't forget, it's always better to be a little bit over-prepared than to be scrambling around looking for money in a foreign country! Good luck on your journey!

 

SIMPLE ADMISSION PROCESS

No hefty donations, no entrance exams, no hassle for documentation just your dream MBBS study and you. RUS OVERSEAS does everything for you from scratch. We make sure you don’t have to do rounds of rotation and get fed up with the process of admission. From beginning to end, we are with you.

 

THE PROCESS

Eligibility: 

• 50% in PCB (40% for SC/ST/OBC) in Class 12.
• Minimum 17 years by December 31 of the admission year.
•   NEET Qualification: Mandatory for Indian students.

 

Invitation letter: 

After RUS OVERSEAS submits your documents in the university. The university issues you an invitation letter. 

 

Visa process: 

Once the invitation letter arrives. The company will start your visa processing and in a few days you will be on the plane to Russia. 

HOW RUS OVERSEAS HELPS YOU IN YOUR JOURNEY

RUS OVERSEAS has the experience of more than a decade. Our team is supportive and cares for the students wholeheartedly. We are available 24/7. Your one stop solution for MBBS abroad is us. We at RUS OVERSEAS will never disappoint any student or parent in their fulfilling journey with us.

 

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