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Cryptocurrency vs Traditional Currency
Discover the differences between crypto transactions and traditional transactions and learn more about their benefits
Where from?
Where to?
Dates
Passengers & Class
What's the difference?
How are cryptocurrency transactions different from traditional currency transactions?
Curious about which form of currency is better?
- Cryptocurrency is a digital currency which is an alternative form of payment created using - encryption algorithms. They have no legislated value and are simply worth what people are willing to pay for them in the market.
- Traditional currency is a form of money that is government-issued or owned by central banks and can be printed.
In recent years, the popularity of cryptocurrencies has skyrocketed as more and more investors and traders have begun to recognise its potential as a new asset class. So could this mean that cryptocurrency is a better form of payment?
Stability and security
Both traditional currencies and cryptocurrencies come with their own security measures and risks.
With cryptocurrency, payments are made using digital tokens stored in a secure blockchain. Transactions are verified through cryptography, making them transparent and hard to tamper with. However, crypto wallets can still be vulnerable to cyber attacks, especially without strong personal security.
Traditional currencies are backed by governments and typically more stable. Banknotes are protected with features like holograms and watermarks, while digital payments use PINs and verification tools. That said, centralised systems and third-party involvement can still leave room for fraud and identity theft.
While fiat currencies rely on regulations and physical protections, cryptocurrencies prioritise decentralisation and digital encryption. Some coins, known as stablecoins, are even tied to traditional currencies to reduce volatility.
Transaction speed and cost
Crypto can offer faster and cheaper transactions than traditional currencies, especially for international payments. Bank transfers often come with added fees, exchange costs, and delays due to limited banking hours.
In contrast, most crypto payments are near-instant and carry lower fees (depending on the network). That said, crypto’s speed and anonymity have also made it a target for misuse, including fraud and money laundering.
Global acceptance and usage
Traditional currencies are widely accepted and deeply embedded in global economies. They're recognised everywhere, backed by governments, and trusted for their stability. But because they’re controlled by central banks, some believe they’re vulnerable to censorship or manipulation.
Cryptocurrencies, on the other hand, are gaining traction, especially online. You can use crypto to book flights, buy gift cards, shop with global retailers or even pay for hotels that accept digital assets. Some crypto-friendly countries are moving fast on adoption, making them top picks for crypto-friendly travel.
Which cryptocurrencies can I use?
Unsure of which Cryptocurrency to use for booking flights? Here are some of the top Cryptocurrencies recommended for travel. You can book flights on 600+ global airlines with Alternative Airlines using over 100 cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, and Tether.
Simply search flights, choose 'Cryptocurrency' at checkout, and pay with your preferred digital currency. Enjoy seamless crypto transactions for your next journey! There are around 420 million users from across the globe. Bitcoin is currently the best-known cryptocurrency but here is a list of more we offer when paying for flights on our website:
- Dashcoin (DASH)
- Tether (USDT)
- Aragon (ANT)
- Ren (REN)
- Ripple (XRP)
- Dogecoin (DOGE)
- Litecoin (LTC)
What traditional currencies can I use?
Forms of traditional money include cash, credit or debit cards. At Alternative Airlines, we offer:
- Mastercard
- Visa
- American Express
- Apple pay
- Pay Pal
- Maestro
- JCB card
Pros of cryptocurrency
- Financial inclusion- Regular money, like dollars or euros, is used by many people but doesn't reach everyone, especially in places without many banks. Cryptocurrencies, which are digital and not controlled by any central authority, could help by allowing people without bank accounts to access financial services using just a smartphone or computer, even in areas where traditional banks are hard to find.
- Lower fees-The result is lower transaction fees, especially when conducting cross-border transfers.
- Transparency- While the cryptocurrency space has witnessed security challenges, ongoing advancements in technology and increased awareness contribute to the maturation of security protocols.
Cons of cryptocurrency
- Price fluctuations- In contrast to traditional fiat currencies, which tend to be relatively stable and are subject to central bank interventions to control inflation, cryptocurrencies can undergo sudden and unpredictable changes in value.
- Legal challenges- The lack of a unified global regulatory framework can create uncertainties for businesses and users alike. It clashes with the regulatory frameworks established by traditional financial systems.
- Lack of consumer protections- Cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible by design, which means that once funds are sent, they cannot be easily recovered. This lack of recourse poses some risks, especially in cases of hacking, fraudulent activities, or accidental transactions.
Navigating the choice between cryptocurrency and traditional currency
Still deciding between using cryptocurrency or traditional money? Each option has its strengths, and the best choice often depends on what you value most - speed, stability, privacy or control.
Why choose cryptocurrency?
- Faster transactions: Crypto payments are typically quicker than bank transfers, which is ideal for time-sensitive bookings like flights.
- Increased privacy: Transactions are recorded on a public blockchain, offering transparency without revealing personal details.
- Global access: Cryptocurrency isn’t tied to a specific country, making it useful for international transfers or travel.
That said, crypto prices can be highly volatile, and your wallet’s security depends on how well you protect it.
Why choose traditional currency?
- Backed by governments: Fiat currencies are supported by central banks and are subject to regulations designed to maintain their value.
- Wider acceptance: Traditional money is still more broadly accepted in most situations, especially offline.
- Lower volatility: While inflation can affect fiat currency, its value doesn’t usually swing dramatically day-to-day.
The world of currency is changing fast. Cryptocurrencies offer speed, flexibility and privacy. Traditional currencies offer stability and broad use. In the end, the right choice depends on your preferences, and how much risk you’re comfortable taking.
Made your choice? Book now!
Whether you’re going all-in on crypto or sticking with traditional currency, we make booking your next flight simple. Choose from over 600 airlines and 90+ payment options, including the biggest names in crypto.
FAQs
What is cryptocurrency?
A cryptocurrency is a currency in virtual or digital form which acts as a method to transact with. Individuals can still make purchases of services and products but have ownership of digital tokens which are stored in a computer database. To make verified and secure transactions, cryptography is used.
Why buy flight tickets with crypto?
Many cryptocurrencies have a low transaction fee or none at all. They can be used no matter where you are in the world, as long as you have a device which can access the internet, ideal for when you’re not at home or lost your physical cards. Crypto payments are also extremely safe and secure as a result of their decentralised blockchain technology. Book your flights today using cryptocurrency right here at Alternative Airlines.
Where can I use cryptocurrency to pay for flights?
Alternative Airlines is a flight search that allows you to fly crypto by booking from 600 different airlines online. You can buy plane tickets with Bitcoin and other alternative cryptocurrencies such as Ethereum, Dash, and many more. Just make a search for the flights and routes you need and select the Cryptocurrency payment option at checkout. Here you will see a range of cryptocurrencies available to use on the site. You can book your crypto tickets through us today and enjoy your crypto vacation.
Which airlines accept cryptocurrency as payment?
Most airlines don’t accept cryptocurrency as a form of payment on their official websites. However, when you book through Alternative Airlines, you can choose from 600+ airlines and have the option to pay using cryptocurrency. Using the search form at the top of the page, start searching for the flight that best suits your needs and get that crypto travel booked. We offer airlines from all around the world including Delta, American Airlines, Qatar, Lufthansa, British Airways, Emirates and United Airlines.
Are cryptocurrencies safe investments?
Cryptocurrencies being volatile investments, often leading to significant investor losses stemming from scams, hacks, bugs, and market fluctuations are not uncommon. While the underlying cryptography and blockchain technology are typically secure, the technical intricacies involved in utilising and safeguarding crypto assets can pose considerable risks for new users.
Which the best crypto coin to invest in now?
The answer is Bitcoin. It was the first decentralised cryptocurrency and should only be considered if you have a high risk tolerance, are in a strong financial position already and can afford to lose any money you invest in it.