I knew I had crossed into a new era when I inserted my American ATM card into a bank machine in Tbilisi and withdrew $200 worth of Georgian lari.  Goodbye traveler checks, hello instant cash! 

ATMs have made travel far easier across the globe.  They’ve also created yet another thing to worry about.  For example, a different ATM I tried accessing in Georgia had no English options.  It took me three tries to get my money and I was getting very worried that it would confiscate my card. I had brought some emergency traveler checks just in case my card disappeared, but it was still an enormous worry. 

So, even though ATM cards make life easier on the road they carry with them new challenges one must now become familiar with.  Before you head out on your next trip, take a moment to read up on some of the more concerning issues and what you can do to prevent them. 

Filed under: Gear