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Prepaid atm card

Until recently, both Visa and American Express offered prepaid cards that combine the convenience of ATM or debit cards with the safety of traveler`s cheques. American Express has withdrawn from the `travelers cheque` card market, leaving Visa as the only provider.

Safety is the main appeal of a prepaid travel cash card: If your card is lost or stolen, the card company will issue a new card or refund the unused balance. However, you`ll pay a premium for this reassurance, especially if you use the cards to obtain foreign currency--and you`ll still need to carry a credit card for occasions when the prepaid card can`t be used (e.g., to secure car-rental or hotel reservations).