has anyone ever been overcharged- since you dont know until you get back and get a statement- im just concerned that someone might think stupid american- or maybe onaccident over charge or charge twice(this just happened to me on a tab in texas) do you save your receipts- im using my visa check card(s) when i go over
also has anyone had their card eaten by a machine?- im bring three cards just in case

If you use a credit card instead of a check card it is easier to dispute errors. With a check card the money is automatically deducted from your account and it is difficult to retrieve the funds. With a credit card you can hold the payment while resolving ligitimate disputes.

I have used credit cards in Spain for years and have not encountered any problems yet. We will see what this Summer brings.

I agree with breibach, however, your checkcard can be used as a credit card. Something else to think about.

Shawn