Dollar Travellers Cheques

datzcreationz

Hi All

Were off to NYC in 3wks and are starting to think about our money, I would just take all dollars but the hubby is worried about loosing it.

We took TC before but shops didnt realy know what to do with them and it was a right pain.

If we were to take some TC would we be able to cash them in at any bank for free.

Thanks

claire16c

I wouldnt take a load of cash no.

Id use your cards like you would at home, and Im sure someone here will soon be along to advise the best one for the best rate if you wanted to do that, although as youre going in 3 weeks not sure if youd have enough time to apply for one.

So if it was me Id just use your normal credit and debit cards. And take a couple of hundred in dollars, to use mainly for tips and small purchases.

benjus

Never used TCs in my life - they always struck me as an expensive and outdated way to take travel money, although people always say how easy they are to use in the USA...

If you live in, or can get to, the London area you can open a Metro Bank account instantly in-branch, which will give you a debit card that gets a perfect exchange rate for cash withdrawals and purchases, although remember that most American ATMs impose their own charge for cash withdrawals - there's nothing you can do about that, except try to find an alternative ATM that doesn't charge.

Failing that, the TravelEx cash passport Globe is an excellent prepaid card which can be ordered at short notice. It has no charges for overseas spending/cash withdrawals, and only a 1.49% loading on the wholesale exchange rate. This card is denominated in Sterling and converts to the foreign currency at each transaction - which actually works out cheaper than a card denominated in USD. The point about ATM charges applies equally.

Finally, even if you just use the cards you already have, it probably won't work out any more expensive than buying TCs.

Meadows

Only used them once in Orlando and would not bother again. Some stores would not take even a small amount, so we stick to cash & card, never had any problems with these.

You will need some cash when you first get their for taxis, tips etc.

As for losing your money don't worry you are no more at risk in NY than you would be else where. Walk with confidence, do not flash loads of money, keep valuables safe just as you would at home.

Most hotels have a safe in the room or a sarety deposit box in reception.

We have been to Manhattan four times, walked most of it on and off the beaten track and never felt unsafe once. Common sense where you go and the times of day you travel on foot, use taxis at night rather that walk or use the subway, but subways and foot are fine for day time.