Using ATMs overseas

A reader at the Vagabonding.net Q&A writes: “I receive a monthly pension that I intend use for my travel. What is the best way to insure that I can access my funds monthly — in third world countries, off the beaten track? Also, should I carry cash or travelers checks?”

I told him that I recommend talking to his bank and setting up an arrangement wherein his pension check goes directly into his account each month. That way his funds will be accessible at overseas cash machines via international ATM services such as Cirrus (he should check with his bank to see which ATM service he’ll use). And, believe it or not, these ATMs are available in almost every big city in the world