traveling with cash

Alice:

I always hit the ground in Europe with around 1000 euros in cash. I know that many folks on this board disagree with me but it gives me tremendous peace of mind knowing that - no matter what - I can exist in Europe for a few days.

I use the ATM the rest of the time.

I have never had any "hassles" with the large sum of cash.

Have fun.

There is no problems with larger sums of cash in to Rome or else. Now if it approaches 10,000 or more there might be some questions. Just remember that any Euro purchased in the US probably will carry fees upwards to 10%. Which would be substantially more than using an ATM once there.

Thank you for your quick replies.

Alice

I have arrived in Rome twice with about that amount and it has never been an issue. I dont think I was ever asked about it. I wouldn't carry more than that as the ATM's are plentiful and convenient. Just use good sense about carrying it. I keep my cash in a neck pouch and take out enough to cover the day in a pocket I keeped zipped inside my travel vest.

alice,

I wouldn't bother travelling with that much cash, but I don't see any reason there would be "additional hassles" as the airport.

Obtaining cash from ATM's is very easy, so I usually just take a small amount (perhaps €100 or so).

Note that travel funds usually must be in a chequing account wiht a four-number PIN.

Cheers!

Alice don't be foolish carring that much money with you to Italy! It is so easy to get what you need at the ATM's (just like here in the US). Iusually don't take more than $100 with me when I go. Where are you going to put all that money once yhou arrive? You don't want to walk around with it and if you're staying in a B@B you may not have a safe place to store it. Anyway, have fun no matter what you do!!!!!

i wouldn't carry that much but as long as you have a money belt or a hidden pocket i would feel secure with that much...