Cards and cash abroad

Paying abroad can cost you a few percent on every purchase if you use the wrong card or say yes to the wrong question.

Before you go

• Check whether your cards charge a foreign transaction fee
• Check your bank's fees for ATM withdrawals abroad
• Carry two cards, kept separately
• Set up travel notices if your bank asks for them

While you're there

• If a card machine or ATM offers to charge you in US dollars, say no and pay in the local currency; the conversion rate offered is usually worse
• Withdraw larger amounts less often to limit ATM fees
• Avoid airport currency exchange counters

General educational information. Prices and rules change; check with the provider. Dime Pockets isn't paid by any airline, hotel, booking site or insurer.