Debit Cards in Europe

James Martin, About.com's Guide to Europe, recently tested out a few debit cards in Europe and has put together some good information on the results, especially those pesky fees and banks' tendency to lock your card when you're using it overseas. It appeared to be World Bank that gave James the big locked-card headache; for us, it was Wells Fargo that cost us seven hassle-ful overseas calls when they locked our card four times during a month in Australia last fall. Yeah, we called 'em before we left, too. Fortunately, we had other cards with us.

And we've also learned the hard way to carry two debit cards from a "main" account when overseas, as our cards' magnetic strips always eventually deactivate from sheer abuse. Getting a new one while traveling is not a snap (although long-term travelers can arrange for US mail delivery overseas). For those living or studying abroad for a few months, financial experts recommend opening an account at an overseas bank, where you can get a replacement card more easily than with your US bank, and choosing a bank with a US affiliate makes it easy for parents to access your account locally if need be (like if you need to dial for dollars).

• All About Debit Cards and Travel
• Debit Cards in Europe

_{Related: How to Use Your PIN Number Internationally | How to Get US Mail Delivery Overseas | About Travel Money}