ATM - how do you track USD?

[account4fun]

Do the foreign ATM's tell you the EURO and USD amount you're withdrawing? I know that's probably too much to hope for :o

 

I just wondered how people keep track of their expenses in USD to know how much has been spent and what you have left. I will not have access to a computer to check my balance and I don't want to count on making a call to the bank.

 

Any insight is appreciated!

[cruisemom42]

I've seen a (very) few ATMs in my travels that will provide currency -- and balances -- in multiple denominations. Most, however, will ONLY provide currency and your balance in the official tender of the country.

 

You can do a balance inquiry on any ATM to find out how many euros you have left. Then just multiply by a reasonable exchange rate to find out how much you have in US dollars. It's really better to just think in terms of euros (or whatever currency) though.

 

For any account I have, I always build in a margin just to be on the safe side. For my travel account, I look at my balance and immediately subtract 100 euro (if in Europe) as if the money isn't even there. That's to make sure I have enough reserve to deal with any unexpected charges -- a $5 charge per withdrawal, for example.

 

It's not so much of a problem with my new Cap One account, because there aren't a lot of extra charges. However, I still think it's a good idea. Last thing I want is the hassle of an overdrawn account while traveling.

[mapleleaves]

When I've made ATM withdrawals the amount was displayed as euros, not dollars. I've never tried to do an inquiry on the balance.

What I do is ... check the exchange rate before I leave, then I round up for each withdrawal. ie if the the rate is $1.32 and I withdraw 200 E, I'll note $270 in my account instead of $264. This covers any change in the exchange rate, plus the bank's fees. My credit union fees are very low so I'm pleasantly surprised when I balance my account.

[account4fun]

When I've made ATM withdrawals the amount was displayed as euros, not dollars. I've never tried to do an inquiry on the balance.

What I do is ... check the exchange rate before I leave, then I round up for each withdrawal. ie if the the rate is $1.32 and I withdraw 200 E, I'll note $270 in my account instead of $264. This covers any change in the exchange rate, plus the bank's fees. My credit union fees are very low so I'm pleasantly surprised when I balance my account.

 

Good idea! I have been assuming worst case scenario and using 1.5 but it would be nice not to have to and have more euros to spend :D