In the past I usually bring travelers checks although friends have told me of the benefits of using ATMs instead of dealing with the currency exchanges. What have other people experienced using ATMs abroad and how have the fees compared to the commisions at the currency exchanges?

Hi Ed S! Good to see you around again. It's been awhile!

All the answers to your questions are likely found here already. Look up and to the right, find the SEARCH link and click on it, then enter ATM as your keyword search and you'll find many MANY postings about ATM card usage, traveler's checks versus ATM, exchange rates, commissions, I think just about everything.

Last month while in Madrid is exclusively used my ATM card at ATM machines for all my cash and didn't even cash any of my traveler's checks. Lower commission on ATM exchanges than on traveler's checks exchanges. I think mine was about 2%, but it depends on your company. Call/write them for their international exchange rates. Good luck!

Saludos, MadridMan

One of the benefits of using ATM's is when you just want to convert a small amount. Most 'Cambios' have a 'minimum commission' which is really exorbitant for exchanging small amounts. I call it 'front end load.' Then there are the really bad exchange rates offered by the 'Cambios' at the airport and rail stations...

MM,

Thanks for the info. I actually did try a search first, but I only typed ATM and didn't have any luck. I searched using ATMs and found lots of advice. Looks like I will be using my ATM card with a some travelers checks as back-up. Luckily my bank issues them for free so if I don't use them it won't cost me!

Ed