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How much money to bring?

I'm planning on visiting my bank to purchase British pounds and Euros for my 2 week Europe trip. I'm spending the first 3 days in London, and the remainder in Euro-using countries. How much actual money should I take with me? Is there a good guideline to follow - ie. how much per day?

Posted by
23178 posts

I think I would get about a 100 Canadian or so just to get your started. Maybe it is cheaper on your side but the US most banks change in the range of 8 to 10% for foreign currancy, After thata use a debit card to get cash as needed. Hard to forecast your needs without knowing your spending patterns.

Posted by
8700 posts

Rick Steves recommends using credit cards for major purchases and getting cash from ATMs for everything else. He also recommends bringing a few hundred dollars in your own currency for emergencies. There are some important things to do BEFORE leaving home to be sure your cards will work in Europe. Read Rick's article: www.ricksteves.com/plan/tips/moneytip.htm.

Posted by
1003 posts

Make sure your local bank can even do it - I asked at Washington Mutual yesterday and they said they don't do it. I was pretty surprised, considering how big they are. But I will just have to go to an Amex Travel office or AAA office to get a bit of cash before I go. I'm doing about the same thing as you, Heather - 3 days in England before going to Euro countries, I was going to get 50 pounds and 50 euros, just to have enough to get to my hotel really.