Withdrawing cash at ATMs abroad: what to check before you press
The types of fee you can meet, how a debit card differs from a credit card cash advance, how to pick a machine, and a safety checklist.
Kort antwoord
- Cash withdrawals abroad can carry several layers of cost: your own bank's fee, the ATM operator's fee, and currency conversion. We quote no amounts because they differ by card and machine and change over time. Check your bank's fee schedule and read the machine's screen before you confirm.
- A debit card and a credit card cash advance are treated differently. Credit cards usually have specific terms for cash advances, which you should read in your card documents before using one. Do not withdraw without knowing the terms.
How much cash you still need on a trip
Even where cards and phones are widely accepted, cash still helps at markets, small shops, some transport, tips in certain countries, and as a backup when a payment system fails. How much you need depends on the country, how you travel and how you spend. We give no figure, but a way to think: list where cash is likely to be needed, then carry enough for the first day and for emergencies.
Using an ATM is one way to get local cash. Another is to exchange money before you go or at the destination. See our guide on currency exchange for how these compare.
The kinds of fee you can meet at an ATM
| Cost line | Who charges it | Waar je het vindt |
|---|---|---|
| Your bank's foreign withdrawal fee | Je kaartuitgevende bank | Your bank's fee schedule or card terms |
| The ATM operator's fee | The bank or company that owns the machine in that country | The machine's screen before you confirm; some countries require it to show a fee first |
| Currency conversion | The card network and your bank, or the machine if you choose DCC | Card terms and our DCC guide |
| Per-withdrawal and daily limits | Your bank and the machine's owner | Your bank app and the machine's screen |
Layers of cost on a foreign ATM withdrawal
Because several parties may charge at once, many small withdrawals can add up if a fee applies per transaction, while one large withdrawal means carrying more cash. You have to weigh the two against your own bank's terms.
Debit card versus a credit card cash advance
A debit or ATM card draws from your bank account directly. Withdrawing cash with a credit card is a cash advance, which is often treated differently from a purchase: for example there may be a specific fee, and interest may begin from the day of withdrawal without an interest-free period. This depends on each card's terms, which you need to read in your card documents.
Not every card can withdraw from overseas ATMs, and some must have the service switched on first. Check that your card is enabled for overseas withdrawal, what limit is set, and that you remember the PIN. For a credit card you need a cash PIN, which may have to be requested beforehand.
A common question is whether you can use a debit card instead of a credit card on a trip. Generally yes, if the network and shop accept it and the card is enabled for overseas use. But the key differences are that money leaves your account directly, and that some hotels and car rental desks may prefer or require a credit card for holds. Ask before you book, and see our guide to credit cards abroad.
How to choose a machine
- A machine inside a bank branch, or in a lit lobby with cameras and foot traffic, is usually a safer choice than a standalone one on a quiet street.
- Machines in airports, hotels or some convenience stores may have different terms or fees from bank-owned ones. Read the screen carefully.
- If the machine asks whether to charge in baht or local currency, use the same thinking as DCC at a card terminal. See our DCC guide.
- If the machine does not dispense cash or keeps your card, do not walk away. If it is in a branch, speak to staff; otherwise contact your bank straight away.
- If you cannot find a machine, use offline maps or a map app, but be wary of anyone offering to help at the machine.
Staying safe at the ATM
Card skimming at machines may involve fake devices fitted over the card slot or tiny cameras that record your PIN entry. No method is 100% protective, but you can reduce risk by paying attention and shielding.
- 1Look at the machine before inserting the cardCheck whether the card slot or keypad looks loose, different from neighbouring machines, or has something added. If in doubt, use another machine.
- 2Cover the keypad when entering your PINUse your other hand to shield the keypad every time, even if nobody is nearby, because a camera may be hidden.
- 3Decline help from strangersIf someone offers help or stands too close, cancel the transaction and go elsewhere.
- 4Take your card and cash before walking offWait for the machine to return the card and cash, and put the cash away before leaving the area rather than counting it out in the open.
- 5Check the transaction and keep the receiptCheck the amount debited in your bank app. If the amount is off or an item looks odd, report it to your bank at once.
What to ask your bank before you travel
- Can this card withdraw cash abroad, and does it need to be enabled first?
- What withdrawal and conversion fees apply to this card? Ask where they are shown in the documents.
- What are the per-withdrawal and daily limits, and can you adjust them in the app, if at all?
- For a credit card, what are the cash advance terms on interest and fees, and is a separate PIN needed?
- If the card is swallowed or lost, what does the bank offer abroad, and which number should you call?
- Does the bank have partner ATM networks in your destination that may carry different terms?
Save the answers in a note on your phone so you can check them standing at the machine instead of relying on memory.
Staying online to manage your cards and cash
Checking what was debited, receiving alerts, or locking your card quickly when something looks wrong all need mobile data. If you want data without tying it to a phone number, a data-only eSIM bought and installed online is one option; see the current plans on the eSIM page.
Veelgestelde vragen
Veelgestelde vragen
What fees apply to ATM withdrawals abroad?+
Typically your bank's fee, the machine owner's fee and currency conversion. The amounts differ by card and machine. Check your bank's fee schedule and read the machine's screen before confirming.
Can I withdraw cash with a credit card?+
Some cards allow it, but it is a cash advance that often has specific terms, such as fees and interest that differ from purchases. Read your card's terms first.
Can I use a debit card instead of a credit card abroad?+
In many cases yes, if the card is enabled for overseas use and the shop accepts it. Remember that money leaves your account directly and that some places, such as hotels or car rental, may want a credit card. Ask first.
The ATM asks whether to charge in baht or local currency. Which should I pick?+
Use the same reasoning as DCC at a card terminal: find out who converts and what it costs. We do not say which is cheaper. See our DCC guide and your card's terms.
What if the machine swallows my card?+
If it is in a branch, speak to staff immediately. If not, call your bank to lock the card and ask what to do next, and use your backup card or cash meanwhile.
How do I watch for ATM skimmers?+
Look for anything odd about the card slot and keypad, shield the keypad when typing your PIN, use machines in branches or under cameras, and check your app after each withdrawal. Nothing is 100% protective.
How much cash should I carry?+
We give no figure, as it depends on the country and how you spend. List where cash is likely needed, carry enough for day one and emergencies, then withdraw more as needed.
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