Currency Tips

While most of Europe is on the Euro, not all countries use this currency. The United Kingdom, Switzerland, Poland, Czech Republic, and Sweden are major countries that don't. However, it is simple to get the local currency.

Try to avoid currency exchange booths if you can, especially if they are in the train station or airport because these will charge a higher rate. The best way to get local currencies is by withdrawing money from an ATM using your bank card. All major banks will be up-to-date on currency exchange rates and these normally offer the best deals. The machine should tell you on the screen if will charge you to withdraw money (usually around 2-3 Euros), so look for machines near banks which will be the least likely to charge.

Before you leave the country, tell your bank and credit card company that you will be out of the country or your card won't work! This is a safety precaution your bank takes in case your details get stolen and taken outside North American borders. Also, be sure to ask your bank if there are any fees for using or withdrawing money when in Europe. Our credit card company charges 1 percent every time we use it and our bank card is charged two bucks for each withdrawal. However, it is worth the money to us to have a small amount of money on us at all times instead of carrying large sums of money around.

Here are some useful tips to consider:
- Use cash for smaller purchases like food at the market or tickets to a museum and use a debit or credit card for larger costs like hostels and travel.
- Take around $50-100 worth of local currency when you leave for the country to cover the first meal, bus to the hostel, and any emergencies. (Most banks can get you foreign currencies, but be sure to give them at least two weeks notice.)
- Use http://www.xe.com/ucc/ to get an idea of currency rates.
- 'We buy' currency exchange booths will use terms like 'WE BUY' or 'WE SELL'. If they say, 'We buy United States Dollars (USD) for 1.5' it means they will give you one of the local currency for $1.50. 'We sell USD for .86' means they will give you 86 cents for every one of the local currency.

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Passport Security Tips

If you aren't traveling alone, it's a good idea to make a copy of your passport (only the page with photo and information) for each travel buddy. Everyone should get all copies, fold them together, place them in a zip-top bag, and tape the bag shut. Place the copies deep inside your backpack or toiletry case where no one would think to look.

The main reason to take this precaution is because it is much easier to obtain a new passport from an embassy versus having nothing at all if the original gets lost or stolen.

It also doesn't hurt to e-mail yourself a copy of the passport so if all backpacks go missing or something terrible happens, a quick trip to the internet cafe can get you a copy. While you are at it, e-mail credit card cancellation phone numbers and any emergency contact numbers of family or friends to yourself. Your e-mail inbox works as a 'digital safe' to keep some important pieces of information.

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