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Travelers used to rely upon travelers checks as the best way to carry money abroad, but in recent years this method has become somewhat cumbersome. Rules governing reimbursement have tightened to prevent fraudulent claims, and although travelers check companies claim that they will get money to you anywhere, anytime, with emergency speed, the reality is that many travelers find themselves stuck with no cash, and lost or stolen travelers checks are not reimbursed for months. And then they are only refunded or reimbursed after the consumer fills out pages of documents and makes many long and sometimes frustrating phone calls. Although there are still some good travelers check companies, many travelers complain that customer service and speedy reimbursement are lacking. For that reason we recommend using travelers checks as a backup, not a primary plan of action. A better and more dependable idea is to carry a bank card, like an ATM or credit card. Because most financial networks subscribe to the same ATM machine systems, your card will be compatible with automated cash machines throughout the world. All you have to do is take one piece of plastic with you, and your bank account is only a PIN number away. Of course you may find yourself in a place where there are no machines, or where you card does not work, but in general this is a good way to carry money overseas. Experts recommend that you plan ahead, and open a special bank account for your overseas travel. Use the ATM card connected to that account, and only deposit enough money to cover your travel expenses. That way, if your card is stolen and misused, thieves will not be able to clean out your lifes savings. To back up your ATM card in case you arent able to use it somewhere, carry enough cash either in dollars or in the currency of the place you are traveling to tide you over for a few days at a time. You can also use most credit cards and a passport to withdraw cash from foreign banks, but you may have to pay pretty steep fees for the convenience. And as always, it is highly recommended that you leave copies of all your important documents, including your bank cards, in a safe place. If yours are lost, you can use the copies to help file claims to replace them. |
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