Search  CIP Home  UD Home

Banking Abroad Due to increased fraud, some financial institutions have started to block their credit cards and debit cards from being used in certain countries overseas. To ensure a smooth trip with no financial emergencies, see your financial institution prior to leaving the country to discuss your options for accessing your cash and credit accounts while overseas. Participants should not carry large amounts of cash (over $100) at one time. We suggest purchasing travelers checks in $50-$100 units before departure, or relying on ATM and credit cards. Traveler’s checks may be purchased in U.S. banks and at AAA offices. Charges for exchanging U.S. checks into local currency apply. In case of loss, travelers checks can be easily replaced provided you have kept a record of the checks’ serial numbers in a secure place. For western European countries, Visa, MasterCard and American Express cards are accepted at most hotel, restaurant, and souvenir stores and they automatically give you a favorable exchange rate without a transaction fee. However, cards are not readily accepted at smaller vendors, sidewalk stands, or open-air grocery markets. Exchanging U.S. currency: Carefully monitor exchange rates of the countries to which you'll travel. However you choose to change money, your passport will usually be required for identification. Each currency exchange will require a transaction fee. The best legal rate of exchange is found in banks and at ATMs. Visit your own bank in the U.S. to check on the overseas ATM locations of your card, as well as any service charges that may apply. Note: Exchanging U.S. currency with unauthorized individuals is a serious offense in most countries. Students should be wary of anyone who offers a rate for dollars higher than the official one, regardless of the reason. Currency converter http://www.xe.com  Sending money In addition to the options available at your home bank, American Express recommends the Moneygram service to send cash overseas. Money should NOT be sent in the form of money orders or personal checks as these are rarely honored in Europe. Sending cash by mail is never recommended.

Helpful Links: Plan for your study abroad travels >> Technology abroad >>

Center for International Programs · University of Dayton · 300 College Park · Dayton, OH 45469-0315 Telephone: (937) 229-3514 Questions and comments: Webmaster