<h1>Money Tips for Travelers</h1>
<h2>Cash is King</h2>
While giving money tips for travelers in Italy, we should first talk about cash. You need to have some cash on hand always, because the open-air markets, some little shops, cafés and restaurants may not accept credit cards. Carry some small bills and change with you for small purchases. You can exchange money at the airport before your flight, of when you arrive, for the best rates.
<h2>Get Cash from an ATM in Italy</h2>
You'll do best by bringing your ATM card and remember the PIN number; the automatic teller machines (<em>bancomat)</em> are everywhere. Notify your bank in advance that you’ll be traveling in Italy and ask about service charges when using the bankcard overseas. Some ATM machines offer a choice of languages and preset amounts to draw. <em>Prelievo</em> = withdrawal. The maximum daily withdrawal amount is currently € 250.
<h2>Buying Euros in Advance</h2>
While we recommend withdrawing Euros from an ATM as soon as you arrive in Italy, there are advantages to buying foreign currency in advance. You can take some time to shop online. Make sure you get the best deal by comparing how much currency actually arrives at your doorstep. Don't rely just on the exchange rate offered, because high commissions and handling fees can take a big chunk off your cash. You can avoid delivery fees by arranging to pick up your Euros at a money store (such as Travelex) at the airport. Non of us get the official market rate, but your supplier should certainly add less than 5% on top. Get together with people in your group and order as a group, to keep the costs down. If you plan to pay for your Euros with a credit or debit card, your bank would considered this a cash advance and slap you with high fees. To remedy this, sign up for Internet banking and pay by bank transfer to avoid all hidden charges.
<h2>Credit and Debit Cards</h2>
Credit and debit cards are widely used, especially Visa and MasterCard. You can use credit cards at supermarkets, most stores, restaurants and gas stations. You can pay with a credit or debit card at the Autostrada tollgates, you'll see the signs (<em>Carte</em>) at the exit gates and they even take Diners and Amex! Drive to a full-service attended tollgate if you don’t want to use the automated machines.
<h2>Travelers' Cheques</h2>
Travelers' Cheques have become a thing of the past, but if you still have them, be prepared to spend time at a bank when cashing. Banks are typically open in the mornings only and can have long lines during the tourist season. The special money exchange shops in bigger cities offer faster service, but watch out for their rates and higher charges. It's best to have a large amount on just a few cheques, rather than lots of small ones, since you pay fees for each cheque when cashing. Remember to bring your passport when cashing a travelers’ cheque.