Study Abroad Money: How Much Cash to Carry

When preparing for a study abroad trip, there is a lot of conflicting advice out there as far as how much cash to carry with you. The following is our advice about how much cash to carry.

1. Bring about $200 USD.
2. Of this $200, convert $100 into local currency. This can best be done at the airport before you leave, or as soon as you land in your host country. 
3. You will need a Visa/Mastercard ATM/Debit card. Check with your bank beforehand to see what the fees are for withdrawing cash in the country you are going to.
4. Make sure you can pull cash from a regular Visa or Mastercard credit card as well, by going to the bank. Again, ask before your trip what the fees will be. 
5. Make sure when you are leaving, you are prepared to pay any applicable departure taxes. Usually this is done in local currency, sometime in US Dollars, and occasionally by credit card. We've compiled a handy list here. Check with EmbassyWorld for the most up-to-date information on departure tax.      

More resources about ATMs and banks are listed here.