TRAVEL SAVVY: ATM/DEBIT & CREDIT CARDS

I have often been asked for my opinion regarding financial transactions while traveling abroad.  Here is my insight regarding cash, ATM, debit and credit cards …

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted throughout the EU and other European countries;

Notify your US financial institutions regarding your travel plans; 

Ask the bank what the ATM withdrawal limit is per day (and change if necessary); 

Inquire whether there/what are ATM fees;

AVOID HIGH FEES BY NOT PURCHASING FOREIGN CURRENCY IN THE U.S., OR EXCHANGING CASH WHILE TRAVELING, UNLESS NECESSARY;

Inquire whether your credit/debit cards are free of foreign transaction fees;

Note:  Purchasing/transacting is much easier with contactless credit/debit cards