How to Use Traveler's Checks

Traveler's checks are a convenient and safe way to handle currency while on the road.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Identification Cards
• Travelers' Checks
• Writing Pens

1. Make sure you find out from a store whether it accepts traveler's checks before you start filling one out.
2. Wait for the clerk to total your purchase, then hand over the appropriate amount in checks.
3. Ask the clerk if you can sign the checks. When you get the go-ahead, countersign the bottom of the checks while the clerk is watching.
4. Present your ID with the checks, if requested.
5. Take your change in regular currency.

Tips & Warnings

• It is important to sign checks while the store clerk is watching. Otherwise, the clerk has no proof that you aren't using someone else's checks.
• Be sure to find out from the bank everything you need to know if you lose your checks.
• Be especially careful with your traveler's check receipts and always keep them in a separate place from your checks. If you lose your checks, you must have the receipts to get reimbursed.