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Cologne –
What belongs to the travel fund? Three banking experts answered questions from readers of the "Kölner Stadt-Anzeiger" during a phone call on Thursday. The most important questions and answers at a glance:
I wanted to withdraw money from the ATM in Florida with my girocard (formerly: EC card), but the bank refused, I would have exceeded my arrangements. How can this be explained?
Many banks and savings banks have restricted or blocked the use of girocards outside of Europe to prevent misuse of cards. Therefore, always inquire before your trip to your home bank, if there are any restrictions on the use of your card in the country and leave the limit for the card individually.
What fees do I have to pay if I use my payment cards abroad?
In the countries of the Euro, you can still use the credit card and the Girocard without charge for payment. Cash withdrawals at ATMs and payments in foreign currency countries vary, so check with your own bank. Also ask if there are partner banks in the country where the withdrawal is cheaper or even free.
Can I also use my V-Paygirocard (V-Pay) outside of Europe?
The Girocard with the V-Pay symbol is mainly usable in Europe. But ask your bank for security. A girocard with the Maestro symbol is accepted worldwide. In general, you should have a credit card with you next to the girocard. The locations of ATMs can be found eg. at http://www.atmlocator.de.
Should we exchange money here or locally for our trip to Namibia and are there enough ATMs? The exchange in national currency should be done only in Namibia. There you will get a better exchange rate. Collecting money in Namibia is possible with banks in all major cities.
If you are offered to convert or settle the national currency into euros, you must be careful. Machines often attract with the promise of "guaranteed exchange rate", which then determine the course and the commission. In most cases, this can cost you a lot. Therefore, it is better to select the option "direct payment" or "without currency conversion" on the machine.
What if my credit cards are stolen?
Stolen or lost cards must be blocked immediately! The central emergency call number +49 116 116 or +49 (0) 30 4050 4050 is valid for all girocards and almost all credit cards. An overview with all the restricted numbers is available in SOS Infopbad on www.kartensicherheit.de. Tip: If you make a copy of your cards, you will have all the data at hand if they are blocked.
What about charges for using the card abroad? When traveling in the euro zone, it makes sense to pay with the girocard. Because here no fees are charged. When withdrawing money at the machine abroad, however, caution is also required in the countries of the euro area: For the use of machinery require operators of automata foreign customer fees. These are generally between 3.50 euros and 6.00 euros. Some banks charge one percent of the amount withdrawn or more instead of a fixed rate. Before traveling, check with your bank or savings bank for any charges. In addition, when you pay with girocards in the retail sector, additional fees may apply abroad.
What should essentially be taken into account when withdrawing money abroad?
In principle, the same safety instructions apply as in Germany. So, use ATMs in banks during normal opening hours. Then you have a contact person directly in case of problem. Cover the PIN code and do not be distracted by strangers.
Is it advisable to get a credit card for our trip to the United States and how much money can I withdraw at the ATM?
Yes, because in America, the credit card is the most widespread. This allows you to pay retail, gas stations, restaurants or hotels. For renting a rental car, a credit card is usually required. You can get money with girocard at the ATM.
We are going to Sweden soon and have heard that money does not matter anymore.
Yes, Scandinavian countries tend to be more likely to make cashless payments. Therefore, you should have your girocard and a credit card with you.
Michael Lüssem
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