cathygreen

I am traveling to India in February, and have been told about prepaid cash cards that you can pre buy and then reload from India if need be. Does anyone have recommendations as to the best company/companies to deal with?

Any advice on whether this is a good idea would be welcome also. Thank you.

MmePerdu

I've always used my regular bank debit card at ATMs for cash and credit cards to pay for hotels, shopping, flights from those who accept credit cards. Never had a problem. (India is not Target)

thursdaysd

No, it is almost certainly a bad (i.e. expensive) idea. You need an ATM card with a bank that does not charge excessive fees. Ditto credit card.

Kathie

The prepaid cards are typically expensive, with lots of fees.

To get cash, you want an ATM card that doesn't charge a lot of fees. The typical big bank in the US will charge you $5 each time you use an ATM card, plus three percent of the amount you withdraw. Take a look at your local small banks or credit unions or ask your brokerage.

For credit cards, too be aware of fees. Most credit cards charge 3% on foreign exchange, but some have no fee on foreign charges.

Be aware that it is much wiser to use a credit card rather than debit card for making purchases or paying for hotels, tickets, etc. You have more fraud protection on a credit card.

And, of course, always notify your banks when you are traveling out of country.

MmePerdu

I should also have said, my bank debit card charges 1% of the withdrawn amount for cash, reasonable I think. My credit card is, of course, a Capital One, no foreign transaction fee.