debit cards, cash, travelers checks?
 

is it easier to just use a debit card to pay? Are there fees for using the atms in europe? what's a good exchange rate for pounds lately?

This question is discussed in great detail on this forum. Run a search for ATM. As far as exchange, I use www.oanda.com to check the rates. I know there are other sites you can use just as easily as that one.

Hi Lettie,

You probably can't use a US issued debit card directly to pay for things, but your ATM should work at almost any big bank ATM in London. Yes, there are fees, but you get a good exchange rate.

Travelers checks might be good in an emergency, but these days, an ATM card and a credit card are really all you need.

Karen

Using your ATM card will give you the best exchange rate followed by a credit card for purchases (not cash advances!). On my 3 latest trips, I took travelers' checks and brought them all back; however, I suppose it's a good back-up. The only fee charged for your ATM card is from your own bank (Wells Fargo is $2-$3 per withdrawal). Also, for Great Britain, go to oanda. com and print out a copy of the current exchange rate just before you go. You could do the same for euros.

I have a VISA debit/ATM Card at my local stateside bank. When I use it overseas, it is a VISA Card and an ATM Card all in one. Whatever I charge on the VISA Card overseas, it comes directly out of my checking account. Whatever I get cash out of the ATM machine with it, it comes directly out of my checking account.

I don't recall any extra fees being charged.

I agree with Nancy regarding Travelers Checks. If it makes you feel comfortable, take some with you for emergencies.