To get traveler's checks, you must put down the amount of money you wish to purchase in checks. You will pay a fee of 1 to 4 percent depending on the policy at the point of purchase. If you are an American Express cardholder or an AAA member, you can buy traveler's checks without paying the fee if you purchase them in those respective offices.
At the time of purchase, the teller or selling officer will watch as you sign the top line of each check you buy. You must sign each check and date it for the check to have value.
You will not need your passport at the time of purchase. When you cash a traveler's check in a foreign country, whether in a bank or an exchange booth, the cashier will request your passport.
When cashing a traveler's check you will need to sign the bottom line and date it. Do this only in the presence of the teller. The staff at a bank or exchange booth will then copy the check and your passport before handing you the appropriate amount minus any cashing fee.
Durant and Cheryl Imboden of Europe for Visitors suggest using traveler's checks to supplement an ATM or credit card.
Write down the number of each check on two separate pieces of paper. Leave one list at home with a trusted friend. Take the other with you in a place other than where you store the checks. As you use each check, mark it off your personal list.
Avoid cashing your traveler's check at the hotel front desk if possible. The hotel fee may be much higher than that of a bank or exchange booth.
