I get this question a lot. Should I get cash before I travel? The answer almost universally is no.
First, in most countries European countries you're going to need a lot less cash than you think. You could easily travel to Europe without any cash. It's nice to have some Euros for tips and the occasional trinket but almost everyone is going take (and expect payment via) credit card.
That said I usually like to have some local currency with me for tips or small purchases. Personally, I find it rude/insensitive to pay in US dollars. Imagine if someone here tried to pay in Euros or Yen...There are some exceptions to this in countries with volatile currencies, but that's my general rule.
Anyway, here's the tip: Get cash when you land at the airport from an ATM (not a currency conversion place). ATM fees will generally not be different in an airport than anywhere else. The currency conversion in the airport will almost always rip you off.
Here's my approach: I have a checking account with Charles Schwab Bank. They do not have foreign transaction fees, they do not charge any ATM fees. AND if the other bank charges a fee Schwab refunds it, anywhere in the world. This essentially makes every ATM everywhere in the world "in network!" Suddenly I don't worry about getting "enough" cash, or too much cash. I just get a bit of money when I land and then more as needed.
Note: I do not work for Schwab, nor would I get any referral fee for you signing up with them
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