Pre-loaded Moneycard

Jane, I'd suggest taking both cards, as I've found it's a really good idea to have a "backup" in case there's a problem with one of the cards (I've had that happen). Note that with your regular debit card, funds must usually be in a chequing account with a four-number PIN. Happy travels!

Take a very close look at the fees on the AAA card, getting the money loaded on the card is spendy. I did and I wasn't all that enthused about an AAA card afterwords. I would consider taking a debit card each, from two separate bank accounts. That way you will have a back up. Check the foreign currency transactions fees on the debit cards. There are a bunch of thread here in the helpline and a section on the Graffiti Wall too about the various money carrying options.

Two years ago when I looked at the AAA card the fees were 8%. It may have changed since then. But that is why they are push it. When was the last time you lost your debit card? Same probability in Europe.

Of course they were "suggesting" you buy their money card - they make money on it. Not that there's anything wrong with that. Just buyer beware. Using your good ole ATM card, you'll pay a premium over interbank exchange rates of 1-5% in fees. That almost certainly is less than AAA's going rate and fees for their card. If you lost or had stolen your ATM/debit card, it would be difficult to get replaced timely when in Europe. We recommend having a backup card for another checking account, or have other means of paying for things available, like a credit card. But if you use a money-belt or equivalent, it won't get stolen. Do not use your debit card for purchases, since if the number is stolen, you'll loose access to your account funds until everything is resolved.

Just agreeing with everyone else. In the US, the pre-loaded cards have VERY high fees, and are a very bad deal for most people. (Apparently in some countries, like Australia, there are much better deals). The only pre-loaded card that's even worth considering is the Travelex one that has a chip, and can be used in places that will only accept a chip and pin card. This has very high fees and lousy exchange rates, but at least you get something for it. But, I haven't read of any problems using swipe credit cards in Italy, and ATM's accept swipe debit cards without any problems, so for your trip, the Travelex card isn't worthwhile either Here's what you do: 1. Call your banks and tell them when you are traveling to Italy. 2. Ask them the rates for using the cards overseas. Do they charge a fee per withdrawal, a percentage of each foreign withdrawal, or both? Are there "partner banks" where these fees are waived? 3. If you don't like the rates, investigate getting an account just for travel. TD Bank and Capital One are often mentioned as having very favorable rates for ATM withdrawals abroad. With the Internet, you may be able to set up an account even though you're leaving in a week (or, at least, you'll know what to do for the next trip). 4. Use your ATM card to get cash only; don't use it for purchases (you don't want your account cleaned out). Use credit cards for purchases if you're not using cash. 5. For your credit cards, you should also call them with your travel dates, and inquire about their fees for overseas purchases. Depending on whether your ATM card or credit card has higher fees, you can determine which you will use and when.
6. Again, it's probably too late for this trip, but Capital One credit cards have no fees for foreign transactions.

NOTE TO JANE: Now that THIS duplicate thread has taken off and I've moved my (first) response from your 'original' post, please delete that one now; things get very confusing when you have two identical threads going at once! Thanks ;-) Of course they did, because they'll make a bunch of money on it ;-) If you keep your credit/debit cards in your money belt (worn properly), you can't lose them. What I will suggest is taking more than one ATM card; occasionally, one just won't work in a particular country, or gets 'eaten' by the ATM (a good reason to use ATMs that are physically attached to an actual bank, during business hours). Take two cards on two different banks (perhaps someone at home will need to transfer funds between the two banks), or if you're traveling with a spouse both of you bring your cards. (and please delete your other duplicate post)