When you go to Europe, do you get some euros from your bank (or wherever) before you go

[CTyankee]

3. I get them in the ATM at the airport after I arrive...

I find it is the cheapest way, even with the fees from my bank. it helps to have a few left over after your trip. Depending on how much in cash money I will need. I put everything I can on a credit card as I am really hesitant to carry cash with me. I usually take two: mastercard and visa. Everything goes in the hotel room safe when not needed.

One tip I had to learn the hard way: carry enough in dollars to cover the cost of getting an emergency passport from a U.S. embassy or consulate and they want cash. I think the charge now is $110. Carry copies of your passport picture page...one goes in my checked bag and one is on me at all times. Passport itself belongs in that safe, too...and carry the emergency numbers outside the U.S. of your credit cards, not photocopies of the cards themselves (I was warned by my cc companies).