Visa debit card in USA?

matt80

Hi,
I've just signed up for the Nationwide Flexaccount as it doesn't charge commision for spending or cash withdrawals abroad, but I just want to make sure of two a couple of things:

1) The account gives me a Visa debit card - will I be able to use that in America without any problems?
2) Will I get a good exchange rate by spending on it, or should I get cash/travellers cheques before I go?

Thanks,
Matt

pin

You should be fine using your debit card in the states. You will get the visa wholesale rate minus 1% cut that Visa takes for non Euro transactions. This is the best rate you will get around.

Don't bother with taking cash / TCs before you go. When you get to the states, get to an ATM and take some money out.

Also make sure you have enough money in your account!!

Cardew

Pin above is 100% correct.

Cash and TC's(obtained in UK) belong to a bygone age as far as the USA is concerned.

If you have just obtained a card(as you state) make sure you try it in UK to get a little money from an ATM and/or a purchase to make sure it is all set up and working OK. Using it for the first time when in the USA and finding the pin etc doesn't work would not be fun!

It also might be an idea to ring Nationwide and tell them you will be using it a lot in the USA from a certain date.