Helpful tips for dealing with ATM machines when you travel.
The main concerns are money conversion rates, bullshit fees, and safety.
Tips regarding fees:
- Try to avoid the ones at the airport, they charge the most fees.
- Try to use the ones by local bank, they charge the least.
- NEVER pick the ATM machine’s “conversion” option. It charges you extra money for nothing. Your bank (card service) is already charging you a conversion rate. You should also never pick the “conversion” option when paying with your card at restaurants or shops. Always choose the local currency if they ask you.
- Never use Euronet machines in Europe. These bastards charge a lot.
Tips regarding safety:
- Be careful of card skimmers. Pull on the card entry slot and pinpad to see if they come off. Machines in the shady areas are most likely to have been rigged by card thieves.
- Be vigilant and look around.
- Don’t let anybody help you with the machine.
- Beware of beggers and pickpockets, or anybody distracting you while you use the machine. ESPECIALLY when your money is dispensing.
Miscellaneous tips:
- It’s common that machines randomly don’t work or run out of cash – you might have to walk to 3 or 4 different locations to find one that works.
- When visiting islands (like Holbox, Mexico) – the machines often run out of cash because the island has such bad internet and most places only take cash. Read online beforehand to know if you should just bring cash ahead of time.