travellers cheques

[Immortal298]

going to new york in october and i'm planning on taking $100-150 in cash and the rest in travellers chques, but not really sure about what sizes they come in.  is it just any size i ask for?  and if it is, what sizes shud i ask for?

[Clanad]

If you're getting them in U.S. equivalent currency, the best are $20 denominations.  They are accepted readily and smaller businesses don't have a problem in making change....

[funkychicken]

I went to florida last year and we ordered travellers cheques from the post office, I remember the majority of them came in $50s and I think some were $100s, there may well have been smaller ones and ones that were about $75 but since I wasn't in charge of the money I'm not sure.

[thugulike]

Avoid $100 bills as many are forged.  Beware  as all dollars are the same colour.  You need to take real care when paying for stuff.  If you have a credit card that is a much better bet than travellers cheques.

[rampart]

Many hotels have a small vault in each guest room or a lock box at the front desk.You might want to keep the majority of your travellers cheques in the safe in your guest room (or at the lock box at the front desk) and cash one or two each day at the front desk as needed. (Keep your passport and other valuables that you don't need that day locked up!) That way you won't have to carry a great deal of cash on you. The front desk clerks have always been glad to cash my travellers cheques.

You will find yourself tipping a great deal - taxi rides, doormen, etc. So do keep a few one-dollar bills as you get change for transactions.

Your credit cards might work just fine, but perhaps call your customer service number and make sure you know the details.

October is a good time of year. I hope you enjoy!