5 Reasons Google Pay is Your Next Travel Buddy

Google Pay is finally in the Philippines! For those unfamiliar, Google Pay offers fast and secure contactless transactions. It also comes with Google Wallet, which keeps your cards, tickets, and passes neatly organized in one place. 

There’s a lot you can do with it—but nothing that might excite people who already have digital wallets like GCash or Maya. Except for, of course, one of its best and most exciting uses—travel. That’s why we’re breaking down the top five reasons to start your own Google Pay account and incorporate it into your travel routine.

From Google

If you’re ready to try it out, the Samsung Galaxy A56 from the Next Upgrade Shop—with reliable NFC support—is the perfect match.

Courtesy Next Upgrade Shop

One Wallet for Everything

From Google

Google Pay trims down the clutter by keeping your payment cards, transit passes, and even airline boarding passes (for example, Philippine Airlines and AirAsia) tucked neatly in your device. Instead of rummaging through your bag, you can breeze through checkpoints or tap-to-pay terminals in seconds. For travelers, this means fewer things to lose and more time focused on the travel experience.

Works Seamlessly Across Borders

From Google Playstore

One of the standout perks of Google Pay is its international compatibility. Travelers heading outside the Philippines can also rely on it for tap payments in stores, restaurants, and transport systems in many major cities. It spares you the hassle of swapping currencies or using unfamiliar local payment apps in the country you're traveling to. Plus, it helps you keep a clear track of all your spending abroad without having to wait to check your bank app.

Better Security for Peace of Mind

From Google

Traveling can make anyone extra cautious about their money, and Google Pay helps ease those worries. Every transaction is tokenized, meaning your actual card details are never exposed. In case you misplace your phone during a trip, you can remotely lock it or wipe your data—something you can’t do with a lost wallet. It’s a layer of protection that feels especially reassuring when you're far from home.

Offline Functionality When It Matters

Spotty signal at the airport? Patchy Wi-Fi in a new country? Google Pay still works for many tap-to-pay transactions even when your phone doesn't have data. Google Wallet stores a set of one-time tokens on your device. This allows for offline tap-to-pay functionality until the tokens run out (at which point you just need to briefly reconnect to the internet to replenish them). This is a small detail that matters a lot for travelers who often find themselves hopping between networks or dealing with roaming limitations. When you’re simply trying to get through a turnstile or pay for a snack, offline capability becomes an unexpected hero.

Ready for the Future of Local Commutes

Beyond international travel, Google Pay is gearing up to support local transport systems in the Philippines. Google Pay is already integrated for tap-and-pay on the Manila MRT-3 and certain modern jeepneys in Cebu and Mandaue City. Its future rollout also includes integration with the Beep App for Manila buses and trains—turning your daily commute into a simple tap-and-go experience. Imagine skipping ticket kiosks and lineups entirely, relying instead on the same wallet you can use abroad. As more transport operators adopt NFC-enabled systems, Google Pay could soon become your go-to for both everyday rides and long-haul adventures.

Tap Into Smarter Travel with Next Upgrade Shop

Traveling with Google Pay becomes even better when your smartphone is up to the task. Visit the Next Upgrade Shop to find a wide selection of NFC-ready devices that make your trips smoother, easier, and more secure.