What is the best way to pay on a trip to Europe?

Question

We are backpacking thru Europe.

Answer 1

Whatever you do, don't use travellers checks.  Nobody takes them and there's a fee on converting them to Euro's when you want to.  Take cash its easiest and cheapest.  Just don't lose your wallet/purse, otherwise things will become a little more difficult.

Answer 2

I disagree with those who recommend carrying cash. Too dangerous, other than a very small amount (like enough to cover one meal). Cash invites theft and you can't replace it if stolen. If you have a credit card (Visa, Mastercard) you'll find ATMs pretty much everywhere now. Just look at the logos on the back of your card and look for matching ones on the ATMs. Get out just enough cash to cover your next day's expenses. Pay for big purchases with your card. Make sure you put your credit card details (number, emergency contact phone number, etc.) into an email to yourself and then leave the email in your inbox in case you need to access it because your card gets stolen. I've lived in Europe and was just there again a couple of years ago.

- A travel agent

Answer 3

This is not exactly what you asked about, but since I worked for DOD for 13 years I can offer you sound advice on do's and don'ts:

.  Watch out for the Metro subway system in France, many tourist get taken here.

2.  Only change you money at a bank or an authorized change service, a great rip off is the scam switch, when you think you have really gotten an exceptional exchange rate you discover you have a pack with francs on the bottom and top with newspaper in between, and believe me they are pros you will not see it coming.

3.  Airports really bad carry your money credit cards in a inside front pocket, not as easy to picket pocket, if you get bumped, it may appear like an accident, but if you have been bumped you probably have just been picket pocketed.

4.  Buy a Euro rail, you can travel on any of Europe's transportation without having to keep change handy for each mode of transportation, many tourist office will set it up stateside and you pay for it here and just pickup your Euro Card at your destination with proper identification.

5.  Most hotels have a safe, place your money, passport, there for safe keeping.

6.  It is extremely difficult to replace a lost or stolen passport in an expeditious manner.

Helpful Links Below Paris France Metro Line and Eurorail website

Answer 4

MasterCard

Answer 5

cash,the best way... you can use Euro everywhere (not in England...don't go there...  :-P)... jocking...

as credit card...MasterCard,visa and some American express(in Italy)

Answer 6

Make sure you carry your ATM card.  Almost every ATM in Europe will accept your card.  You can withdraw cash (Euros or Pounds...) at the best available rate.  There will be no currency exchange fees - it is definitely the cheapest way to get local funds.  This way you can withdraw only what you need for a few days at a time.  I'd also carry a Visa or Mastercard which are widely accepted.  Have a great trip.

Answer 7

if backpacking carry small amounts of money, and use currency of the country, no plastic or travelers checks...also make a dummy wallet with like 5 bucks in it...so if you do get robbed hand him that one

Answer 8

Carry small bills in both Euros and dollars - you'll be fine.  If you plan to purchase anything expensive, bring a credit card.

Have fun!