Handling money sitaution in Europe..

[Syringer]

I'm going to be in Western Europe over the next 5 weeks (leaving tomorrow morning)..and am wondering how to handle my money..I'm bringing a BofA ATM card and a couple credit cards, and I've called them to let them know I'm going overseas.

Is that pretty much all I need? What are the fees like for withdrawing money? Traveler's checks won't be necessary will they? How much cash should I bring over there?

Plus, anyone else have any final tips on what I should bring/do?

 

[DainBramaged]

Last time I was in Europe, fees for withdrawing money were a buck or two. That was directly from my bank account. I used my bank card the whole time I was there, often paying right at the place I was going to use it at and not even bothering with cash.

Edit: SPIDER

 

[QED]

When I went to France a few years ago, I just used my ATM debit/credit card everywhere with no problems.

I don't even think I was charged anything for ATM withdrawals... and the ability to pull out cash at the most favorable exchange rate also helped considerably.

 

[Mill]

No need for traveler's checks. Just call your bank and make sure they know you will be overseas. Just look for a safe bank and withdraw money when you get there. Maybe carry 100 US to exchange right now in case an ATM is hard to find.

 

[zephyrprime]

I recall seeing on tv that using your card is the way to get the best exchange rates.

 

[Kwaipie]

Don't exchange money at a money changer. Total waste of $$. Fly over, once you pass through immigration and customs, hit an ATM for some pocket money (I usually withdraw the equivelent of about $100) You may run into the occassional ATM that isn't flagged with Cirrus or Interbank etc, just look around for another and note where it is at for future patronage.

 

[Lonyo]

Take some money with you cash for when you arrive, just in case.
You never know what could go wrong. Better to be safe than sorry.