My nephew is travelling from US to Europe (France); what is the best way to get Euros?

Question

Should he get the Euros here?
Or wait until he gets to Europe?
I'm wondering if he should use his credit card to make purchases there (it's a Discover card). I also have heard about people using their ATM cards to get cash in Europe, would that work?
Thank you!

Answer 1

If he has an ATM card, just do it that way. Just double check with the bank first if there will be any fees to contend with other than the standard exchange fees. I use BofA and never have any issues using my debit visa card for exchanges all over the world through any ATM machine without extra fees. Otherwise, you should probably do traveler's cheques before leaving US.

Answer 2

Discover is not accepted in Europe for transactions. You can withdraw cash in the UK at most LINK ATMs using your Discover card as of a few months ago (August I believe).

You can get Euros at many banks (I have used Chase) but you would probably do better using an ATM card in Europe as the costs for the transaction are usually smaller. You can use the cards in many places in Europe but you should just check with your particular bank to verify the ability to use it in Europe. Look on the back of the card for the various networks your bank works with and then match up the name or symbol with the ATM machine in Europe for the best success.

Also, check where ATM machines which accept your particular card are located. For example if the card is part of the PLUS Network (Visa) then go to:

http://visa.via.infonow.net/locator/global/jsp/SearchPage.jsp

You may want to also consider American Express Travelers Checks which you can get in Euros and should have no problem cashing in most areas of Europe.

Answer 3

Most ATM cards work at foreign ATM. He should call the bank first to make sure there isn't high fees for using it out of the U.S. The ATM machine just give you Euros and your bank converts it at the current rate to dollars and adds any fees if the bank requires it. You can go to your bank and tell them how many Euros you need and they will get some for you. Banks over ther will probably do the same thing. Some places might even take U.S. dollars. It is always good to have some cash on you because all places might not take credit cards.

Answer 4

Usually if you give your regular bank branch enough notice they will acquire foreign currency for you from their main branch. You'll get the most favorable discount rate buying them that way. Credit cards and debit cards also work as they do the conversion work for you after you make your purchases. I am unfamiliar with policy on ATM's in Europe maybe the local bank can tell you about that;

Answer 5

ATM is the best way i have found over the years it's best to change when you get to Europe you may want to get a small amount to carry over so you can hit the ATM

Answer 6

go to a bank maybe and ask if they exchange us dollors to euro money. If not go to a travel agent and ask them, Im sure they'd know. Best of luck & hope ur nephew has a safe trip :)