Rant: My old way of handling money abroad almost cost me a whole paycheck

Used to just use my regular bank card at any ATM. Got hit with a $45 fee in Bangkok last year because of bad exchange rates and bank charges. Switched to a Wise borderless account and a Charles Schwab debit card for no-fee withdrawals. Now I keep a small amount of local cash but move most funds digitally. Anyone have a better system for countries that are mostly cash only?

2 comments

2 Comments

the_james4d ago

Oh man, I feel this. Got absolutely wrecked by my old bank in Mexico City. Took out what I thought was 200 bucks, but between their terrible rate and a flat fee, it ended up being more like 250. Felt so stupid. I do the same thing now with a no-fee card and only pull out small amounts. For cash-heavy spots, I just suck it up and get a bigger chunk out once to avoid multiple fees.

hollym823d ago

Sounds like your bank saw a tourist and decided to play a fun game of "how many fees can we add.