DON'T BRING US CURRENCY ON YOUR TRIP
Exchanging money is often a pain  and you often get ripped off with the exchange rate. Save the cash and keep it in your bank account.
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​ ​DON'T BRING THE CURRENCY YOU WILL NEED IN YOU TRAVEL DESTINATION!! 

US banks often impose hefty fees for currency exchange. The most cost-effective method for transactions with minimal exchange rates and no ATM fees is to establish a Revolut bank account and acquire a free debit card. The account setup process is incredibly straightforward—simply visit the App Store or Google Play Store on your phone, search for Revolut, and download the app. 
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USE AN ATM UPON ARRIVAL TO GET CASH!
Yes, you can use an ATM at the airport; however, unless if needed right away, wait until you get settled into your first location and then walk to a bank. Just as you see in the US, in other countries you will also see ATM's at stores and random places. We suggest to look for a bank and use their ATM. Be smart, just as you would at home, don't walk around with €500. You don't want it stolen, but you also don't want to misplace anything; it can happen when we are excited to see a whole new part of the world! 
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Make sure to contact your bank and credit card companies! 
You can do this mostly online, but you can also call to confirm your travel. Make sure to notify each bank and credit card that you may use on your trip. Always have back ups in case you lose one or one doesn't work. I typically carry three bank cards and three credit cards.
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Check all fees for bank cards and credit cards. 
Some cards impose foreign transaction fees, so verify that you won't be charged each time you use your card. Also, like in the States, expect ATM fees from both your bank and the one you're using abroad. If you have a card that waives ATM transaction fees, ensure it applies globally. ATMs in other countries may limit withdrawals; for instance, in Sicily, I could only withdraw €200 at a time. These fees can accumulate, especially in remote areas where cash is king.
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​Pro-tips
Opt to pay in the local currency when using your credit card. Your card will offer a better exchange rate compared to the vendor's, saving you money in the long run.

​Clean out your wallet!
Leave any extra bank, credit, or gift cards at home to reduce the hassle if your wallet is lost. Similarly, consider leaving passports, ID cards, and other important documents at the hotel, storing photos of them on your phone for added security.