Not every hostel or hotel will take credit cards, so for those, cash will be the only option. Just take out enough cash from ATM to pay for it, and don’t worry so much about pick-pocketing. Taking out smaller amounts of cash more often might cost you extra in fees, but it sounds like in your case the fees would buy you some peace of mind.

You could also get those travel money belt or necklace things, but I personally don’t like using them.

I agree with Don! Although I don’t think ATM fees have kept pace with Credit Card fees.

I have a Credit Union ‘Check Card’ (ATM Card) that charges minimal fees for Cash withdrawls. I would advise you to get the same.

Credit Card Companies are hurting. Most have increased their fees for foreign Transactions even though it doesn’t cost them any more (i.e., to increase revenue).

You want fiancee in erope? Make trip to ukraine, they make best choice comrade

You should check with your bank before you go. You may want to change your debit card options. I pay a slightly higher annual fee but get more free ATM transactions. Also, check to make sure your card will work in European ATMs…Many european ATMS only allow four digits (no letters)…also if your card has more than 4 digits you may want to change your PIN. Also, get an extra debit card (if one gets lost or stolen you’ll still be able to get cash)

So the best option would be for all four of us to get debit cards and withdraw cash as needed? Because we need to split all the hostels/hotels. I was thinking the only alternative would be to have one credit card that we end up splitting when we get home?

NOOOOOOOOOOO!!! Unless you have a business account, you can only get the card put into one person’s name (which means if there’s a problem, etc. that person is responsible). What if you get back and someone decides they shouldn’t have to pay for a certain portion of the bill? People have good intentions, but sometimes small squabbles over money can kill friendships. Better to have everyone chip in during the trip rather than try to settle accounts afterwards. Trust your uncle Finnegan on this one.

If you know exactly when and where you will be you can pay for your hotel fees up from before you jet off. This is common in Central and Eastern Europe.

The hotel email you a letter with a stamp with your pre-pay details. You can even store it digitally online and print it before hitting your next stop.

Saves you faffing about with cash or credit cards while traveling