changing us to euros

There are a number of threads currently running on this very topic, but I will state once more - the cheapest, easiest way to get euros is to get them out of an ATM at your destination. Some people are more comfortable getting a small amount in advance of their trip, and that's fine, but you will get a better deal at an ATM.

Lynda, Nancys post is spot on.. no need to pre purchase Euros in States, get 100 euros to have on hand if you want, ( I usually arrive with that , but sometimes its just left over from previous visits) but no need to.. use ATM care do withdraw money from your checking account. Talk to you bank.

Be sure to use a bank connected ATM to avoid higher fees and worse conversion rates.

Hello Lynda, We generally take about 100 euros with us - either from a previous trip or from the bank. Yes, you definitely get a bit better exchange rate at the ATM's but that isn't always true of the ones in airports and for me having euros when I land means one less thing I need to do right away. When we travel, we use a Capital One card (set up like a checking account) which we can use at virtually any ATM in Europe without a fee. I also bring 2 other "cash" cards that don't have foreign transaction fees associated with them and 2 other credit cards. My husband and I split up the cards between us - thus if one of us loses them/has them stolen, we aren't without funds. The one real key is to make sure you understand the fees associated with the cards you do bring - these days cards w/o foreign transaction fees are fairly common - but if none of yours are, apply for ones that don't charge fees!

Thank you so much for the shared wisdom and time you took to help me have a great trip:)