If the ATM charges a flat fee (as many in the US do) then I'm inclined to draw more, less often.
If my card issuer charges a fee per transaction either a flat rate or a percentage with a minimum (like 2% min £2) then I'd draw so as to minimise such fees.
If no fees or a straight percentage apply then the amount doesn't matter and I'd draw less because
(a) less risk of having some left over and needing to change it back;in fact for the USA and Euro-land, I tend to just hang on to any surplus for the next time...
(b) less risk of having it stolen/otherwise losing it. i've just found out my bank charges £1.56 (for non sterling transactions)
and then whatever rate at the time of using. it might turn out roughly the same. i'd probably take a lump sum out abroad I now do this as well.
I did the maths on a few trips and even with the banks charges, because the rate itself was much better than anything I could get back in the UK, I just used the ATM when I got there.
A couple of things to note though
1. Where there are per transaction charges, the fewer transactions the better obviously. Clearly if you have a fee free card (there are a few out there) this is less important
2. Make sure you let your bank know in advance that you will be using your card whilst out of the country so they don't block it on first use I'm planning to use these guys Travel Money | Foreign Currency Exchange-The Currency Club for my euros this week, they have solid reviews and free RMSD delivery, has anyone used them personally here? For high street, and often as good as you'll get, Best Foreign Exchange can't be beaten if you're near a branch.
Failing that any of the Currency Exchange Corporation associated branches, but order online before picking up Recently swapped from Natwest(which charged stupid rates) to a nationwide flexplus which has 0% fee and Visa exchange rate I have been using a revolut card and i find it excellent and safe
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