The holiday season is just around the corner. While some folks are busy finding and wrapping the perfect present for everyone on their list, others are planning to send more than gifts. In fact, according to the new Visa Money Travels 2026 report, many Americans are also preparing to send money to help loved ones abroad celebrate the season.

"The research really shows how personal these payments are," said Claudia Lombana, Emmy and Peabody Award-winning journalist and consumer expert. "Gifting is the leading reason Americans send money internationally, but people are also helping loved ones cover everyday essentials, family obligations and unexpected emergencies."

The holidays aren't the only time that Americans send money to family across borders. The report found that 68% of U.S. remitters send or receive international payments several times a year or more, and nearly one in five U.S. senders cuts back on personal spending to support someone abroad.

For many families, sending money across borders has become a regular way to stay connected and support the people who matter most. But how can they do so safely? Here are a few of Lombana's practical tips for sending funds to loved ones safely and securely this holiday season.

Choose security over speed

Speed is not the most important factor when it comes to sending money internationally, and many Americans agree. According to the Money Travels report, 45% of surveyed consumers would accept a 24-hour transfer delay if it reduced the risk of fraud.

Choose a provider with a proven track record of reliability you can trust, even if that means the funds will reach your family abroad a little more slowly.

"Trust is especially important," Lombana said. "Visa's research found that globally, 69% of remitters say their trust in a new way of moving money depends more on who offers it than on the technology itself."

Compare total costs and options before sending

Don't be surprised by the final cost when sending money to loved ones internationally. Before settling on a money transfer service provider, Lombana encourages senders to compare the total cost of the transaction, including fees and exchange rates. She also suggests that consumers compare other details, such as delivery options. Doing so can help you feel confident that your money will arrive to your intended recipient safely.

Be suspicious of urgent requests

Did you receive an odd request for money from someone you know? Slow down. When a request for money feels urgent or unexpected, verify with the person using a phone number or contact method already known to you, rather than relying on information provided in a message. Be cautious about impersonation scams and AI-generated requests, and never share passwords, PINs or verification codes.

Research digital currency options

Some people may now have the option to send funds to loved ones across borders with digital currencies like stablecoins.

"Stablecoins are a type of digital asset designed to maintain a stable value, typically by being tied to an asset such as the U.S. dollar," Lombana said. "They're emerging as another potential way to move money digitally across borders, but Visa's research shows that familiarity and trust are still developing."

Send money with confidence

This holiday season, send money to your loved ones outside the U.S. without worrying about whether it will arrive. To learn more about sending money internationally safely and securely and access the Money Travels 2026 report, visit Visa.com/VisaDirectNetwork.