Credit / Check Cards - Make sure your ATM card has a Visa or MasterCard logo. If it doesn't, get a card that does from your bank or apply for a card from another bank. Those with good credit might want to consider a Signature Visa Card tied to the airline you are flying because this allows you to check in at the first class counter and pre-board. Those with little or no credit history can get a prepaid Visa card from Visa's website.
Check for ATMs before you leave - Both Visa and MasterCard list their ATMs worldwide online, but you can call as well. A nearby ATM will mean that you can reduce the amount of cash or travelers checks you were thinking of taking. If you are a customer at Bank of America, Barclays, BNP Paribas, Deutsche Bank 24, Scotiabank and Westpac, you can avoid ATM access charges by banking with a member of the Global ATM Alliance. If an ATM is broken, you can get a cash advance on your credit card at a bank.
Bring enough cash for emergencies - Holidays, arriving after hours, expensive ground transportation, missed connections, lost luggage, broken ATM machines and arrival/exit costs are just a few reasons why you should NOT plan to arrive or depart with a few dollars and a credit card. Have enough cash to cover expenses.
Comments