What is the best way to avoid service charges and exchange fees when using an ATM or credit card overseas?

Question

What is the best way to avoid service charges and exchange fees when using an ATM or credit card overseas?

Answer 1

traveler's checks

Answer 2

if your lucky the service charge is even lower than in your own country.

e.g. ATM use will be charged around EURO 2.50-3.00 in several european countries - when i went to the US i was only charged $1.00 less than a third of the EU fee...

If you will stay longer the best decision way to open up a free bank account, lots of banks offer them especially for students - normally there won't be any service fees.