Can You Buy Travelers Checks With Credit Cards?

Traveler's checks protect your assets.

When traveling abroad or across the United States, traveler's checks are a secure way to assure you are traveling with your money safely. Traveler's checks must be used by the purchaser and accompanied by photo identification. Purchasing traveler's checks is an easy process that is done at a number of locations.

Currency

Travelers checks can only be purchased with cash to avoid money laundering. It is also because travelers checks are exchanged for cash at various establishments.

Process

At a bank or currency exchange location, travelers checks are purchased in increments of $50 or $100. The front of the check is signed upon purchase and verified with a photo identification card. A service fee must also be paid upon purchase.

Location

Travelers checks are most commonly purchased at banks. Other locations may include check cashing facilities and currency exchange bureaus.

Types

Travelers checks are most commonly issued by Visa or American Express. These checks come in Euros, American dollars, Canadian dollars, Australian Dollar, Pound Sterling, Chinese Yuan and Japanese Yen.

Use

Travelers checks can be used at any store or restaurant, anywhere that cash is accepted. When used a photo identification must be presented and the back of the check must be signed. Both signatures and the I.D. must match.

References

• American Express: Travelers Checks