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All about traveler’s checks, plus modern alternatives

January 18, 2024 | 1 min video

Getting ready to travel? One thing to think about is how you’ll make purchases while you’re away. Traveler’s checks aren’t as common as they used to be. So you might want to consider modern alternatives that may offer the advantages of traveler’s checks and more.

Read on to learn more about the ins and outs of traveler’s checks. And find out about other options—for example, credit cards, prepaid cards and mobile wallets—that could help make the most of your trip.

Key takeaways

• Traveler’s checks are paper documents that can be exchanged for local currency or used to buy goods and services abroad.
• Traveler’s checks feature unique serial numbers, making them replaceable if they’re lost or stolen.
• Fees may apply when purchasing and exchanging traveler’s checks.
• There are modern alternatives to traveler’s checks that you may find more convenient.

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What is a traveler’s check.

A traveler’s check is a paper document you can use for making purchases when you’re traveling, typically in other countries. It can be used as cash or a regular check.

Traveler’s checks—you may also see them referred to as “cheques”—are generally printed with a unique serial number. This means you may be able to get a refund if your checks are lost or stolen. The checks are usually available in set denominations—$20 and $50, for example. 

How do traveler’s checks work?

Traveler’s checks may be accepted at participating merchants like hotels, restaurants and stores. Just keep in mind that there could be fewer participating merchants than there used to be.

When you purchase your checks, you may notice that they have a space for two signatures:

• First signature: You might be asked to sign each of your traveler’s checks when you buy them. If not, you may want to sign them as soon as possible. 
• Second signature: You’ll usually sign your traveler’s checks again when you’re making purchases.

This dual signature method is meant to provide extra security and ensure that only the purchaser is able to use them. The merchant can verify that the second signature matches the first.

How to cash in traveler’s checks

You can use traveler’s checks like cash to pay for goods and services at participating merchants. You’ll typically sign the check in front of the merchant at the time of the purchase.

While traveling, you may also be able to redeem your traveler’s checks for local currency at financial institutions or your hotel.

Potential fees associated with traveler’s checks

It’s possible that certain fees may apply to traveler’s checks. For example, you may need to pay a fee when you purchase them or when you exchange them for currency once you get to your destination. There might also be a fee for depositing unused checks into your bank account.

Where to get traveler’s checks

While traveler’s checks might be harder to find than they used to be, they’re still available. You may be able to purchase them at some banks, credit unions and travel-related service organizations.

Pros and cons of traveler’s checks

Take a look at some of the potential pros and cons of traveler’s checks:

When to use a traveler’s check

You might consider using traveler’s checks in certain situations, including: 

• When you don’t have a credit or debit card. Some people may prefer to travel using modern payment options like credit and debit cards. But if you don’t have either, you may find traveler’s checks to be an acceptable alternative.
• When you can’t access an ATM. If you find yourself in a place that doesn’t have an ATM on every corner, you can instead use your checks at merchants that accept them.
• When you want to exchange them for local currency. When you get to where you’re going, you might want to have some local currency on hand. You may be able to exchange your traveler’s checks for currency at certain banks or other financial institutions.

Modern alternatives to traveler’s checks

There are a number of alternatives to traveler’s checks—options you may find faster, easier and more convenient. Here are a few to consider when you’re comparing your choices:

Credit cards

Carrying a credit card may be easier than carrying traveler’s checks. Plus, credit cards can be helpful for making large and online travel purchases like plane tickets and hotel reservations. That’s especially true with travel credit cards , which you could use to earn rewards on travel-related purchases.

Some credit cards may also come with benefits that could be useful while traveling. They might include things like protection from unauthorized charges and the ability to use a mobile app to track your purchases .

Keep in mind that foreign transaction fees may come into play when you use your credit card overseas. While this fee might vary between credit card companies, it could generally be in the range of 1%-3% of your purchase. You may also be charged a currency conversion fee. This fee is often part of a foreign transaction fee.

Some companies don’t charge foreign transaction fees. For example, none of Capital One’s U.S.-issued credit cards charge this fee. View important rates and disclosures .

If you’re traveling with your credit card, your credit card issuer may want to be alerted before you go. That’s because it might flag your purchases as fraudulent if it notices purchases made in an unfamiliar location. Thanks to the added security of its chip cards, Capital One doesn’t require this notification.

See if you’re pre-approved

Debit cards.

When you’re traveling, a debit card can be just as easy to carry around as a credit card. And like a credit card, it can help protect against fraud. 

The big difference: A credit card lets you “borrow” money for purchases, while a debit card uses the money in your checking account to make purchases.

It may be helpful to carry a debit card when you’re visiting a country that generally favors cash transactions. In that case, you could use your debit card at an ATM to get cash once you’ve reached your destination. And that may be safer than bringing cash with you and exchanging it for local currency once you’ve arrived. 

Keep in mind that you could be charged ATM fees when you use a debit card abroad. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), some banks and credit unions don’t charge customers a fee for using their ATMs. But they might charge you if you’re not a customer—and that could be in addition to a fee charged by the operator of the ATM.

Also, be mindful that some banks may charge a foreign transaction fee when you make purchases abroad with a debit card. You may also be charged a currency conversion fee—often, this fee is folded into the foreign transaction fee.

Some banks, though, don’t charge foreign transaction fees. For example, Capital One doesn’t charge this fee for its 360 Checking account . 

If you take a debit card on your travels, your bank may ask you to notify it beforehand. That’s because it could notice transactions made in an unfamiliar location and potentially freeze your account. Capital One doesn’t require this notification , thanks to the added security of your chip card.

Prepaid cards

Like credit cards and debit cards, prepaid cards may be easier to carry around than cash. They may also offer some protection against loss, theft or fraud once you register them.

But with a prepaid card, you don’t “borrow” money like you do with a credit card—or use money from your checking account, like with a debit card. Instead, you typically add money to a prepaid card before using it.

According to the CFPB, there are a few ways you can add funds to a prepaid card. For example, you can transfer money from your checking account or load funds at some retailers or financial institutions.

You might be charged one or more fees for using a prepaid card. The CFPB notes that if you get your prepaid card from a retailer, you should find a summary of fees on the card’s packaging. If you get your card from a different provider—online or over the phone, for example—the provider needs to share this information on paper or electronically.

Mobile wallet

You’ll probably have your phone with you when you’re traveling, right? Using a mobile wallet to make purchases is another modern alternative to traveler’s checks.

A mobile wallet is essentially a digital version of your real wallet. Depending on the wallet, you may be able to store things like credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards, boarding passes, hotel reservations, event tickets and other types of personal data. 

Mobile wallets can be convenient, allowing you to make quick and easy payments using your phone or other mobile device when you’re on the go. And they typically use advanced technology that prevents your actual account numbers from being stored in the wallet.

There are lots of mobile wallets to choose from. Researching your options could help you see which will work best while you’re traveling. Keep in mind, some merchants might not take mobile wallet payments.

Traveler’s checks in a nutshell

Traveler’s checks can be a helpful way to pay for things abroad, but there are also more modern options available today, like credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards and mobile wallets. And with a travel credit card, you could earn rewards on your travel-related purchases.

Ready to upgrade the way you pay before your next trip? Compare Capital One travel credit cards today to find the best option for you, no matter where you’re headed. 

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Found yourself stuck with travellers cheques? Here's how you can exchange your travellers cheques to cash.

JANUARY 2021

Before we start talking about exchanging your travellers cheques into cash, let's start at the beginning.

What exactly is a travellers cheque? According to the Oxford dictionary, it is defined as "a cheque for a fixed amount that may be cashed or used for payments abroad after endorsement by the holder's signature". Traveller's cheques used to be available in several currencies such as US dollars, Canadian dollars, pounds sterling, Japanese yen, Chinese yuan and Euros.

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They were seen as a safer alternative to carrying physical cash around and at one point in time, very popular amongst tourists. Restaurants, bars, shops and most businesses would happily accept them as a travellers cheque could never "bounce". The issuer will unconditionally guarantee payment of the face amount. For reference only, the organization that produces a traveller's cheque is known as the issuer. The bank or financial institution that sells the travellers cheques is the agent of the issuer and the traveller who buys the cheque is the purchaser. The shop or restaurant you go into and use the cheque is known as the merchant.

The most well known issuers of travellers cheques were Thomas Cook, Bank of America and American Express. However, since the 1990s there has been a great decline in their use as cash, pre paid cards, ATMs, multi currency cards and credit cards have taken over when spending money abroad.

Now it is very difficult to use travellers cheques abroad. In fact most businesses will not accept them and they have indeed become an obsolete.

How can I exchange my travellers cheques?

Even though these cheques can no longer be used in shops when you go on your next holiday, they have no expiry date and there are still some ways that you can cash them in but just expect a poor exchange rate when you do exchange them for cash.

1) Your local Post Office

Luckily, you can still walk down your high street and into your local Post office to exchange your travellers cheques into cash. The exchange rate you do this at will probably be poor and there may even be associated fees but this is at least a quick and simple solution. Remember to take your proof of ID with you, this could be your photographic driver's licence or passport.

2) Visit your local bank

A few banks still allow account holders to deposit Travellers Cheques to their personal bank account and so it may be worth checking with your bank first to see if you can exchange your travellers cheques with them directly and they deposit the GBP equivalent directly into your current account. Once again, if you go in person to your local bank branch will be asked to present photographic ID that includes your signature for sign off of these cheques.

3) Go online

It is also worth visiting the issuer's website directly to get guidance on redeeming your travellers cheques.

For example, if your travellers cheque has American Express logo on them, you can click on this link American Express Travelers Cheques. The page provides you with your nearest location to exchange your Travellers cheques in person and also provides an option to redeem them online.

Alternatively, if your travellers cheques are issued by Travelex, Thomas Cook, Mastercard or Interpayment Visa you can use their encashment form found here encashment-form-newv5.pdf (travelex.co.uk)

Generally speaking, exchanging your travellers cheques into cash requires you to print out and complete a form from the issuer. You will be asked to complete the details of the currency denominations of your travellers cheques and also to keep a record of their respective serial numbers. Additionally, since this process is done online and not over the counter in front of a clerk, they will request a copy of your proof of identification which also includes your signature. This can be a photograph drivers license or a passport. For larger amounts they may even request a proof of address - so a recent utility bill or bank statement.

Make sure you have the above at hand when filling these forms out to make things quicker for you

What are the alternatives to taking travellers cheques?

Travel money is a very easy and cheap way to spend money abroad. To find the best exchange rate, simply go online and compare exchange rates and any associated fees that foreign exchange providers are offering.

Some foreign exchange companies may say no commission and no fees on top but may in fact hide their fees within the exchange rate. So, instead of purchasing your travel money at the real exchange rate, you may be offered something away from that rate and this is the spread which incorporates their fees.

Other companies are easier to buy travel money online from as they are transparent. The Currency Club for example, offers their best exchange rates on any currency and additionally gives you access to review the live interbank exchange rate before you confirm your transaction giving you complete transparency. You can then easily compare how much you can save. The company will deliver the travel money directly to your home, fully insured by 1pm using with you selecting the day that suits you best.

Credit cards (pre paid and others)

There has been a significant increase in travellers using their cards abroad. Of course a pre paid currency card helps travellers to budget, as you top up only the amount you wish to spend. Additionally, like travellers cheques they can be a safer option in the event that your card is stolen.

However, the problem arises when you visit a place that does not accept cards. In which case you are at the mercy of taking cash out of ATMs when abroad and this can work out to be very expensive.

Not only may you get charged withdrawal fees each time, but the exchange rate may also be very poor since ATMs are also charging you for the convenience of having cash on tap!

The safest and most sensible solution is to always have some travel money and perhaps one other alternative. This way, it's easier to stick to a budget and it means you will not need to waste your time or money visiting ATMs when abroad.

Buy Traveller Cheques

As an alternative to cash, we offer the best currency exchange rates on travellers cheques. They are safest ways to carry money around. In the event that the travellers cheques are lost or stolen you can report this and receive a replacement immediately.

Make sure you sign each travellers cheque when you receive them from us and keep the serial numbers in a safe place before you travel so you are protected in the event that your cheques are lost or stolen. When you want to make a purchase or exchange them for cash, just sign the travellers cheque in the designated area in the presence of the acceptor, along with your passport (you may be required to show your passport when you decide to use them).

Then you're good to go!

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Traveler’s Checks When Traveling Abroad — Useful or Outdated?

Christy Rodriguez

Travel & Finance Content Contributor

88 Published Articles

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Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

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Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

What are traveler’s checks, how to buy and use traveler’s checks, what to do if traveler’s checks are stolen, best ways to use traveler’s checks, cons of using traveler’s checks, other alternatives, money tips for traveling abroad, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

When traveling abroad, you might wonder how to pay for things once you arrive. Should you bring currency on your trip? Which currency should you bring? Can you get money once you arrive? How much cash should you carry at once?

Many of these questions can be answered by using traveler’s checks. Traveler’s checks might seem like an outdated choice, but they can still be useful in certain situations.

In this article, we’ll explain what traveler’s checks are, how they work, and when they might be worth the hassle. We’ll also explore other more common alternatives and give tips for obtaining foreign currency.

Traveler’s checks are documents that can be used like standard paper checks and cash. Travelers purchase them before they leave home to exchange for cash in the local currency when they arrive at their destination.

These checks are printed in varying denominations, and each check is uniquely numbered so that it can be replaced quickly if lost or stolen.

Banks, hotels, and merchants were once very used to accepting traveler’s checks. These places liked traveler’s checks because of the safeguards that were put in place. Basically, as long as the original signature matched the signature made at the time of the purchase, payment is guaranteed — eliminating any “bounced checks.”

Now, with the increased use of credit and debit cards (especially those with no foreign transaction fees ), prepaid cards, and ATMs on every corner, traveler’s checks have become less popular.

You may find it difficult to find banks or hotels that accept them , and if you do, you might be at the mercy of their business hours to cash them in.

You can still buy and use traveler’s checks in the U.S. and other countries.

Where To Buy Traveler’s Checks

You can find traveler’s checks offered by companies like American Express and Visa . You can also go to your local AAA office to purchase them.

The best place to purchase traveler’s checks is from your own bank, but unfortunately, many banks no longer offer traveler’s checks, including Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America.

If you’re not sure if your bank offers traveler’s checks, it’s worth contacting them to confirm. If you are a customer, banks typically waive any fees to obtain them and this can add up because other companies can add on a 1% to 3% fee on top of the base currency amount that you request.

In order to obtain a traveler’s check, you will need to:

• Either go in person to an eligible bank or visit the website of the traveler’s check issuer.
• Select the total amount of currency to purchase.
• Submit payment, including any fees.

How To Use Traveler’s Checks

Once you have the traveler’s checks, you need to know how to use them. Traveler’s checks work a bit differently than other forms of currency. Here are the steps you’ll need to take:

• Sign the checks immediately. Follow the issuer’s instructions to find out where to sign (and only sign once).
• Leave evidence of your traveler’s check purchase somewhere safe. If checks get lost or stolen, you’ll need to provide proof of purchase along with check numbers to get a refund. Leave those details with a friend or save them online for easy remote access.
• Complete the payee and date fields. Once you have confirmed that the payee or bank will accept traveler’s checks, fill out the payee and date fields.
• Sign the check again. You must complete this portion in-person to ensure that the signature matches the original. You may also need to show some sort of identification as well. This is key to keeping traveler’s checks secure.
• If checks get lost or stolen, contact the issuer immediately. You may be able to get replacement checks locally, and the issuer needs to know which checks to cancel.

Traveler’s checks don’t expire , so if you don’t use them you can either keep them for future use or deposit them into your bank account once you’re home.

If all of your cash is stolen while you’re traveling abroad, you’ll have next to no chance of getting it back.

However, if this happens with your traveler’s checks, you’ll likely get them replaced as long as you’ve complied with your check issuer’s purchase agreement . This is the primary benefit of traveling with traveler’s checks.

Bottom Line: Treat your traveler’s checks like cash. If you lose your checks, you may not get replacements if your check issuer has reason to believe you didn’t safeguard them appropriately.

Here’s what to do if your traveler’s checks are lost or stolen:

• Call the customer service phone number provided by your issuer or find it by accessing their website.
• Provide proof that the check is yours by submitting the check number, proof of purchase, and your identification. It’s important to have easy access to this information for this reason.
• If required by your issuer, provide evidence that you have reported your stolen check to the police.
• Be sure to return any other refund paperwork requested.

If you don’t comply, you could experience delays or even have your claim denied. After you’ve reported your missing check, your provider will void it and issue you a new check.

Some issuers even pledge to get replacement checks out to you within 24 hours !

The following are situations when you might consider using traveler’s checks:

1. No Access to Credit or Debit Card

If you don’t have a credit card or a debit card tied to your bank account, a traveler’s check could be a safe alternative to simply carrying lots of cash abroad.

This tip also applies if your particular credit or debit card isn’t accepted abroad. This is more likely to happen if your card is something other than a Visa or Mastercard , as those credit cards claim the widest global network.

2. Limited Access to ATMs

In many places, you can easily get cash in the local currency at an ATM once you arrive. This wouldn’t be a problem in Europe, for example, but ATMs are rare in some parts of the world. In addition, ATMs can malfunction, networks can be down, and machines might even run out of cash.

Traveler’s checks allow you to get local currency at participating banks, hotels, and other foreign locations without regard for these potential problems.

3. Access Good Exchange Rates 

Buying traveler’s checks can help you avoid bad exchange rates. If you decide to exchange currency once you arrive, you might not get the best conversion rates by doing this at the airport.

By purchasing traveler’s checks before you leave, you can lock in a set amount at the current exchange rate.

Read our guide for the best places to exchange currency .

4. Avoid Common Credit or Debit Fees

If your credit or debit card charges a foreign transaction fee , you can be charged a fee every time you make a purchase with your card in a foreign country. If your card also charges ATM fees, these fees can add up quickly.

To avoid these fees, it might make sense to use traveler’s checks. Although there may be a fee involved when you purchase or cash a traveler’s check, it might still be less than other fees your credit or debit card may charge.

Hot Tip: If your card charges a foreign transaction fee, it will typically be 3% of each purchase you make.

5. As an Added Safety Measure

If you’re traveling to a potentially unsafe region, traveler’s checks keep your money secure. Even if you’re in a relatively safe place, anyone who enters your room or has access to your bags could search for your money.

The main benefit of traveler’s checks is that they reduce your risk of theft or loss. Since they can’t be cashed without your signature and often require a photo ID, they are less appealing to thieves or pickpockets. They can also be easily replaced if you provide the issuer with the proper information.

Here are some reasons that might discourage you from using traveler’s checks:

1. Limited Availability for Use

In much of Europe and Asia, traveler’s checks are no longer widely accepted and cannot be easily cashed — even at the banks that issued them.

This means that cashing in traveler’s checks might require hunting down a bank branch or hotel that accepts them during business hours.

Bottom Line: Those relying solely on traveler’s checks may find that they are unable to cash them in many remote or rural locations.

2. Not All Banks Offer Them

Certain major banks, such as Bank of America, no longer offer traveler’s checks at all. This might mean ordering traveler’s checks online well in advance of your travel plans or having to find a new bank that offers them.

3. Potential for Additional Fees

If a company does offer traveler’s checks, it typically charges fees for both buying and cashing in a traveler’s check. While some banks offer them for free if you are a customer, others charge between 1% to 3% of the total purchase amount.

Check the math for your own situation, but using traveler’s checks could actually cost more than using an ATM or credit card abroad.

4. Bulky Paperwork

Not only are traveler’s checks a hassle to carry, but most companies also require that you keep proof of purchase for the checks to verify the check numbers if they are lost or stolen.

Both of these just add up to keeping track of additional paperwork.

Obviously, traveler’s checks aren’t your only option when it comes to obtaining foreign currency. Here are some other options you should consider.

Cash is convenient and relatively easy to exchange. You can bring money from home into a foreign bank or currency exchange location almost anywhere in the world. It can be easily exchanged without the worry of multiple bank fees or ATM fees adding up.

Hot Tip: Be aware: if you exchange your money in tourist areas, you might be hit with a bad exchange rate.

On the downside, carrying paper money is a risk since it can’t be replaced if stolen.

A debit card can be used at an ATM to collect cash. While not all ATM machines (especially in more rural places) accept foreign debit cards, you will find that most do.

Depending on your bank, you might even have to pay both an out-of-network ATM and an international ATM fee for this convenience.

Hot Tip: An out-of-network ATM fee is typically between $2 to $3.50 per transaction in 2021 and a typical international ATM fee can range from $2 to $7 per transaction (plus a 3% conversion fee), depending on your bank and card.

Most restaurants and stores accept foreign debit cards, but carrying a form of backup currency is always wise . Additionally, foreign transaction fees can add up quickly if you are using your debit card frequently.

Credit Card

Like debit cards, credit cards are small and easy to carry. Mastercard, Visa, and more recently, American Express , are widely accepted in other countries, so you can rest easy knowing you will be able to complete your purchases. You can also limit fees by getting a credit card with no foreign transaction fees .

A credit card also comes with fraud protection. You can dispute fraudulent charges and get them removed from your account if reported timely.

Hot Tip: While you can use a credit card for ATM transactions, you will be hit with a cash advance fee . It’s best to avoid doing this, if possible.

Prepaid Card

If you have difficulty getting approved for a credit card , a prepaid card could be a good alternative. You simply load the card with money from your bank account and use it as a debit card at an ATM or as a credit card at merchants and hotels.

While prepaid cards are locked with a PIN number, they can sometimes be difficult to use at ATM machines. Additionally, fees for foreign currency transactions can be as high as 7% , depending on the card.

Hot Tip: Booking hotels, airfare, or activities online will require either a credit card, debit card, or prepaid card.

Do Your Research

Know which types of currency are accepted at your destination and how much of each type (if any) you should bring. Especially be aware of any cash you might need on arrival (to obtain a visa , exchange upon arrival, etc.) in case you can’t immediately locate an ATM or a currency exchange office.

Carry a mix of cash, cards, and maybe even traveler’s checks. Ideally, the cards you bring with you shouldn’t have foreign transaction fees or ATM fees . Having some variety also helps if one of your cards isn’t accepted or your cash is lost or stolen. 

Tell Your Bank You Are Traveling

Always be sure to let your bank and credit card issuers know where you’re going and when so that your card isn’t declined when you try to make a purchase due to unusual activity.

If you exchange money at your bank, you will likely also get a better exchange rate.

Don’t Keep All of Your Money in 1 Place

Keep some of your currency or an extra card locked in your hotel room’s safe or in a money belt . In the terrible instance that you lose your purse or wallet, you would still have immediate access to additional money.

We’ve shown that traveler’s checks aren’t necessarily the most convenient way to take currency abroad, but depending on if you have limited access to debit or credit cards or they aren’t accepted where you are traveling, it might be worth it to bring some along.

Overall, if you’ve decided that traveler’s checks can be of use to you, taking some, along with some cash and a debit, credit, or prepaid card, may just be the smartest way to travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you still buy traveler's checks.

While many larger banks are no longer offering traveler’s checks, they are still available at American Express and other smaller banks and credit unions. It is worth asking if your bank offers them and at what cost.

How much does it cost to buy traveler's checks?

While some banks offer them for free if you are a customer, others charge between 1% and 3% of the purchase amount.

What is the purpose of a traveler's check?

A traveler’s check offers a safer option than carrying around money. There are multiple safeguards in place to prevent fraud and if the checks are lost or stolen, they can be easily replaced.

Can you cash old traveler's checks?

Traveler’s checks do not expire. You can cash them in at any time — typically even at banks that don’t offer them for sale. This means you can go to your own bank and redeem your traveler’s checks.

To do this, date them, fill out the “Pay To” field (to your bank), and countersign in the presence of the cashier . Any unused value will be returned to you in cash.

Can I buy traveler's checks online?

American Express is the only large bank that offers traveler’s checks online. Its website offers a step-by-step process to order them.

You should check with your local bank or credit union to see if they might also offer this benefit.

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About Christy Rodriguez

After having “non-rev” privileges with Southwest Airlines, Christy dove into the world of points and miles so she could continue traveling for free. Her other passion is personal finance, and is a certified CPA.

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If You Have Old Traveler's Checks Lying Around, Here's Why You Should Cash Them ASAP

By Jason Cochran

03/07/2023, 6:15 PM

For a long time, the standard advice about traveler's checks has been conditional: You can still buy them, but be prepared for them to be refused at many places.

Traveler's checks hail from an era before ATMs, credit cards, prepaid debit cards, and digital wallets, when travelers had to bring large sums of money with them to pay for their adventures. The traveler's check enabled people to remain well-funded without the risk of carrying actual cash.

But we no longer need to carry ready funds wherever we go. We have digital payments. And as that global technology has grown, the systems that handle archaic proxy forms of payment such as traveler's checks have vanished.

Many former issuers of traveler's checks, such as Thomas Cook, Bank of America, Chase, and AAA, have either discontinued their traveler's check programs or gone out of business altogether. 

Yet there are still some consumers out there who seek out this form of payment out of familiarity. 

American Express acts like they're still worthwhile. ("Travelers Cheques mean peace of mind," the  Amex website promises .) So does  Visa , which issues them through its banking partners. 

Don't succumb. You could end up stuck with the checks after you get back home.  

Previously, if you still had some traveler's checks in your possession after a trip, you could redeposit them in your bank account. After all, they never expire.

But now big financial institutions have changed the rules. 

Last December, Charles Schwab, a major player in consumer investing, announced that it would no longer accept traveler's checks as deposits. (The company also announced it would no longer accept mobile deposits of money orders.) The warning was quietly slipped into a tiny box in the Charles Schwab app.

Financial institutions, like airlines, tend to imitate one another's consumer products. Your bank may follow suit, if it hasn't already.

In Chase's case, sales of traveler's checks were halted in 2015, but Chase still accepts them on deposit for now.

Many banks, though, will simply refer you back to the company that originally underwrote the transaction, so getting your cash might involve detective work and mailing the old checks to Europe  to petition for a refund.

Yet a lot of online travel tips still present traveler's checks as an uncommon-but-viable option.

A 2022 post by First Republic Bank sold them as "still a worthy option to consider," and a 2022 post from Capital One warned there may be a fee to deposit unused traveler's checks, but didn't mention that many banks aren't even capable of doing that anymore.

I tested ChatGPT with a question about how to obtain traveler's checks for a vacation. Because the A.I. software is fed by all the bad information online, the chatbot told me traveler's checks "have become less common in recent years," but then nonetheless proceeded to instruct me how and where to buy some.

ChatGPT never warned me that I could potentially have trouble cashing the leftovers after my trip ends.

If you research more carefully, you can find stories of people who run across old traveler's checks but have a hard time locating anyone to redeem them—even at the buyer's own bank or the institution named on the check. 

If you can't use traveler's checks easily and you can't easily get your money back afterward, they're not what I'd call a viable option anymore.

One statistic that's frequently cited online states that more than $1 billion in unredeemed traveler's checks are still circulating. Many of those checks are leftovers from long-ago vacations that came in under budget or vestiges of well-meaning grandparents who assumed buying traveler's checks as gifts was as safe as buying a bond.

Although that $1 billion figure may not be accurate, there's still no doubt that heaps of old traveler's checks are out there, forgotten in the backs of closets, sock drawers, and safe deposit boxes. The avenues for getting the value back out of the checks are swiftly closing.

So it's time to call it. Traveler's checks should never be used. 

More to the point, if you have any old traveler's checks somewhere, get the value back out of them as soon as possible.

And don't buy any more ever again. Not unless you want to run the risk of locking your hard-earned money into pieces of paper.

When it comes to travel, any company that is still issuing traveler's checks probably shouldn't be. Consider them dead.

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A Guide to Travellers Cheques

Once a foreign currency staple, this form of prepaid funds has existed for hundreds of years, designed as a way to allow payment from one person to another across currencies. As the financial services sector continues to shift to online solutions , we look at how, where and why travellers cheques are used, as we discuss the relevance of this form of currency.

What are travellers cheques?

The history of the travellers cheque spans as far back as 1772 when the first of its kind was issued by the London Credit Exchange Company, in the UK. Over the coming centuries the concept became popularised on a global scale, with major banks and financial institutions adopting this form of travel money in the 20th century. American Express became the largest issuer of travellers cheques and continues to offer these services to customers to this day.

A safe and convenient method of payment for anyone travelling to foreign territories, these pre-printed cheques hold a fixed amount which can be used worldwide across a range of currencies. Designed to facilitate payments from one person to another, using different currencies, travellers cheques were initially seen as a more practical way for individuals to carry their spending money.

Travellers cheques had their heyday in the late 20th century, reaching peak popularity in the mid-90s, before alternatives such as credit and debit cards became more widely available and easier to manage financial transactions. It was reported in 2018 that a mere 1.5% of Britons use travellers cheques, a rapid decrease over the course of two decades.

How do you use travellers cheques?

When you first receive your travellers cheques, you will be required to sign each one before use, as a way of verifying your signature. Each cheque will have a fixed value (usually $20, $50, $100, $500 etc.) as well as a unique serial number which can typically be found in the top right corner.

It is important to take note of these serial numbers as they will be referenced in any case of lost or stolen cheques. Unlike cash, if anything happens to your travellers cheques, the original vendor will be able to issue a refund for the exact same value. This added level of security is why this payment method was seen as revolutionary when first introduced.

As well as signing upon receipt, you will also need to sign each travellers cheque when used by a retailer or exchanged for cash. The act of signing your name as a form of security is somewhat outdated, given the modern technologies in place nowadays.

When accepted by retailers, a travellers cheque will be treated like local currency, which means you should receive any change in the standard, local currency.

Where can I get travellers cheques?

Due to dwindling demand, travellers cheques are not as readily available as they once were. However, they can still be acquired from some banks and financial institutions, post offices and currency exchange offices, like Travelex.

One thing to note is you may be required to settle the handling, commission or cash-in fees that often accompany travellers cheques, and these can be expensive, amounting to 2 - 3% in some cases. This cost is another reason they are no longer as frequently used.

Where can I use travellers cheques?

Generally, travellers cheques are still accepted all over the world, albeit harder to find vendors selling them and retailers accepting them as legal tender. Consider your destination before deciding on this form of travel money: if you are travelling to major cities there is more chance of you finding somewhere to cash your cheques or use them for in-store purchases. However, more remote destinations may not be equipped or able to accept this type of funds.

How safe are travellers cheques?

The original blueprint for travellers cheques was a paper payment method which could be used as foreign currency but was more secure than handling cash. At the height of its popularity, travellers cheques were generally considered much safer than cash due to the added security of their unique serial numbers, meaning customers could cancel and replace cheques if need be. These numerical codes were a money-back guarantee for anyone whose cheques were misplaced, destroyed or stolen. Another added benefit, if your travellers cheques are intercepted, you will not be vulnerable to bank fraud, as they are in no way connected to your bank account, unlike credit or debit cards.

Financial security measures have evolved greatly since the inception of travellers cheques, however, with the introduction of PIN codes, two-factor authentication, fingerprint touch ID and facial recognition, to name a few forms of fintech security commonly available now. With this in mind, the concept of a travellers cheque no longer measures up in terms of fraud protection and data encryption.

Travellers cheque vs. Cashiers cheque: What is the difference?

In terms of appearance, a travellers cheque looks nearly identical to a standard issue cashier's cheque: but are they similar in any other ways?

A cashiers cheque is issued by a bank or financial institution and is designed to be processed quickly, by the individual whose name is printed on the cheque. Conversely, a travellers cheque is for use overseas, is loaded with prepaid foreign currency - usually USD or GBP - and does not have a name or account number printed on it, although it does require a signature. Because travellers cheques do not have any bank details printed on them, they are deemed safer than cashiers cheques in terms of potential for fraudulent use. In addition to this, they are paid for when printed, meaning it is not possible for a travellers cheque to bounce.

What are the alternatives?

Credit or debit cards.

If you are worried about travellers cheques not being widely accepted where you are going, then this form of travel money will offer more flexibility. Using your regular bank cards overseas provides a record of spending and offers maximum convenience, but there are also some frequently flagged concerns. Primarily these concerns focus on the sky-high fees and below-average exchange rates related to using your debit or credit card abroad. This isn’t always the case, however, as many banks and financial institutions offer travel credit cards, tailored to suit the needs of frequent flyers.

Travel money cards

Prepaid travel money cards are the modern equivalent to travellers cheques and have become very popular. This is largely due to the fact that they are totally separate from your regular bank account, allowing users to spend their balance freely without the worry of potential fraud or overspending. Preloaded with funds, travel money cards often help limit additional currency exchange charges. In addition to this, in spite of fluctuating currency rates, these cards let customers lock-in a favourable exchange rate ahead of time.

International bank accounts

If you are headed overseas for a sustained period of time, it could be more convenient and cost-effective to open a bank account in your destination country. You would be subject to the relevant security and eligibility checks but this decision pays off if you are making regular international money transfers or being paid in a different currency by foreign clients. Find out more about this option by reading our guide: How to Open a Bank Account Overseas.

Due to the growing alternative digital payment methods available nowadays, it seems this age-old travel money no longer measures up in terms of accessibility, cost and convenience. When travellers cheques were originally launched, ATM withdrawals were not commonplace for travellers, and digital point of sale systems had not been invented. Nowadays, it is easy to access local currency using an assortment of different payment methods such as debit or credit cards, travel money cards or money transfer apps .

The best option for anyone who is reluctant to use their debit or credit card overseas, would be to use a prepaid travel money card. Prepaid travel money cards are a safer and more widely used alternative to travellers cheques, and customers do not need to seek out a bank to use them, are not required to sign for each transaction and security measures in place are far more advanced. This method enables customers to secure multiple foreign currencies, locking in the optimum exchange rate for your currency pairing ahead of your trip abroad. Use our comparison tool to ensure you receive the most competitive exchange rates for your international money needs.

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• A Guide to Travel Money Cards Travel money cards are a popular payment method for individuals headed abroad. Customers will load funds onto the card, using the money as foreign currency when overseas, much like a debit card is used at home. Also known as travel money prepaid cards or currency cards, they facilitate free foreign transactions and overseas ATM withdrawals. May 3rd, 2024
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• 10 Years of Data Predicts the Go-to Holiday Destinations for Brits Now COVID Is Over To establish the expected changes to tourism and GBP(£) spend abroad going forwards, MoneyTransfers.com analysed 10 years' worth of UK travel data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) - 2009 - 2019, to discover and predict where Brits will be travelling to in the next 10 years now that travel is well and truly back on again since Covid! May 22nd, 2024

• Millennial Guide For Baby Boomers & Generation X We looked over the stats for the past few years, and found that out of £1.5 billion payments abroad, 1 in 5 debit cards payments are made by the UK residents travelling abroad and credit card payments made outside the UK has increased in recent years, reaching 467 million payments. May 3rd, 2024

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How Traveler's Checks Work in the Modern World

Can You Still Buy Traveler's Checks?

• What Are Traveler’s Checks?

Best Ways to Use Traveler’s Checks

Evolution of traveler’s checks, how to use traveler’s checks, frequently asked questions (faqs).

Traveler’s checks, once a necessity for traveling abroad, can keep your money safe. While modern alternatives accomplish most of what traveler’s checks do, those checks are far from useless. Traveler’s checks probably don’t need to be your primary resource in areas with an ATM in every town (or on every corner), but they make for an excellent backup plan.

What Are Traveler’s Checks, Anyway?

That’s a fair question in the modern world. Traveler’s checks are paper documents that can be used like standard paper checks and cash. Traditionally, travelers carried these checks to get cash in local currency and pay merchants. Issuers print checks in varying denominations, and checks can be replaced quickly if lost or stolen. With the spread of digital payment options and ATMs, traveler’s checks have become less popular and more difficult to use.

Here are situations when you might want to use traveler's checks.

Low-Tech Access to Cash

In many places, you can get cash in local currency at an ATM , but they're rare in some areas of the world. What’s more, ATMs can malfunction , communication networks might be down, and machines occasionally run out of cash. Traveler’s checks allow you to get local currency at banks, hotels, and foreign exchange offices with a familiar piece of paper. That said, converting a traveler’s check to cash can be challenging and time-consuming.

Added Security

Traveler’s checks keep your money secure. Recipients are supposed to watch you countersign and compare signatures carefully when you use a traveler’s check, making them lose value when lost or stolen. Credit and debit cards provide similar protection, but they are more attractive to thieves who often use them successfully before you disable the stolen cards. You can replace lost or stolen traveler’s checks or get a refund from the issuer. On extended trips, you can keep traveler’s checks on hand for emergencies without risking large financial losses.

Currency Control

Buying traveler’s checks in your destination country’s currency helps you avoid surprises when it comes to exchange rates. You might not get the best conversion rates at home, but you can at least secure a portion of what you need at current rates.

Traveler’s checks aren’t what they used to be. Banks, hotels, and even merchants were once accustomed to taking traveler’s checks from foreigners. Nowadays, you may not be able to find anybody willing to accept a traveler’s check (or the process will be harder than in days past).

Prepaid travel cards are the modern version of traveler’s checks. They allow you to get local currency from ATMs and make purchases with merchants—effectively eliminating the need for traveler’s checks.

Prepaid cards are not linked to your bank account , which prevents anybody from draining your checking account if the card gets lost or stolen—and you can’t go into debt. Credit cards offer similar (or better) protection , but you might not want to use your everyday card abroad. By using a dedicated travel card, you avoid spreading your card numbers around, which means you can be less vigilant about monitoring your accounts when you get back home.

Visa and MasterCard both offer prepaid cards designed for use abroad. Those cards are available online, through travel agents, and at banks or credit unions. 

Travel cards should feature low ATM fees, technology that lets you operate like a local in foreign countries, emergency cash when you lose the card, and “zero liability” fraud protection. That said, prepaid cards can be expensive , so you need to compare fees against your other cards to decide whether or not a travel card makes sense.

As an alternative, if you already have credit or debit cards that you rarely use, reserve those cards for foreign travel. Be sure to test the card if it’s been dormant, check with the card issuer before you leave home, and monitor your accounts after you return.

Contact your card issuer before you travel. Otherwise, your purchases may be flagged as fraudulent, which could cause your account to be frozen.

You can still buy traveler’s checks in the U.S. and other countries. In the U.S., checks are available primarily from American Express , but you may need to do some legwork to get your hands on new checks.

Here are a few tips for using traveler's checks.

• Keep purchase records separate from the checks: If checks get lost or stolen, you’ll need to provide proof of purchase and check numbers to get a refund. Leave those details with a friend or online for remote access.
• Sign the checks immediately after you get them: Follow the issuer’s instructions to find out where to sign (and only sign once). You’ll sign the checks again when you use them to make a purchase or get cash.
• Fill in the payee and date when you’re ready to use a check: Be sure that the payee actually accepts traveler’s checks before you do so.
• Sign the check again when you complete your payment: The person or business you’re paying must be present to watch you sign. This ensures that the signatures are valid as both signatures must match.
• Traveler’s checks don’t expire: You can either keep them for future use or deposit them into your bank account once you’re home.
• If checks get lost or stolen, contact the issuer immediately: You may be able to get replacement checks locally, and the issuer needs to know which checks are potential fraud risks.

Where can I buy traveler's checks?

Most traveler's checks in the U.S. are issued by American Express, but you can also buy them through various small banks and credit unions throughout the country. Call your bank, or check online to see whether it offers this service.

What do traveler's checks cost?

You'll usually have to pay a service charge of between 1% and 4% for traveler's checks. Fees typically will be higher if you purchase from an institution where you don't already have an account.

What are the differences among a traveler's check, a cashier's check, and a money order?

Traveler's checks, cashier's checks , and money orders are all issued by banks and can be used as cash or personal-check substitutes for purchases in the U.S. However, traveler's checks are the best choice if you're traveling outside the country. They're designed to be accepted anywhere in the world, come in small denominations, and can be easily replaced if lost. They're also fairly secure, because you don't sign them a second time until you're in the presence of the recipient. However, they are becoming less common and are not as widely accepted as they once were.

American Express. " Online Travelers Cheques Redemption: Frequently Asked Questions ."

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. " What Is the Difference Between a Prepaid Card, a Credit Card, and a Debit Card? "

Visa. " Visa TravelMoney Prepaid ."

Mastercard. " Prepaid Travel Card by Mastercard ."

Federal Trade Commission. " When a Company Declines Your Credit or Debit Card ."

American Express. " Acceptance of American Express Travelers Cheques ," Page 2.

American Express. " American Express Travelers Cheques ."

Frommer's. " Traveler's Checks ."

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Redemption of American Express ® Travelers Cheques

Travelers Cheques have been a timeless addition to the world traveler’s carry-on for over 130 years. While new Travelers Cheques are no longer issued, your Cheques remain backed by American Express and have no expiration date.

REDEEM WITH AMEX ANYTIME

NO EXPIRATION DATE

24/7 CUSTOMER SERVICE

BACKED BY AMERICAN EXPRESS

HOW TO REDEEM

Travelers Cheques can no longer be purchased but can be redeemed in several convenient ways. Here’s how:

REDEEM WITH AMERICAN EXPRESS TRAVEL RELATED SERVICES COMPANY, INC.

REDEEM ONLINE

Quickly and securely redeem your Travelers Cheques online .

Call American Express Customer Service at 0800-587-6023 or find additional contact numbers based on your location to redeem over the phone.

DEPOSIT WITH YOUR BANK

Confirm whether your bank allows account holders to deposit Travelers Cheques. Fees may apply.

EXCHANGE FOR LOCAL CURRENCY

Travelers Cheques can be exchanged worldwide. Find exchange locations . Fees may apply.

TRAVELERS CHEQUES EXCHANGE LOCATOR

Find the nearest exchange location.

Service Center

Have more questions?

Here are some common scenarios and what to do.

UNDERSTANDING TRAVELERS CHEQUES

Keep your Cheques secure until you’re ready to redeem.

Protect yourself in case of loss or theft by signing on the upper signature line.

Record the serial numbers and keep them in a safe place when you travel.

Keep your Cheques tucked away and hidden like you would cash.

When the time comes, sign your Cheque on the lower signature line in sight of the person accepting it.

Find documents you may need in case of claiming inherited Cheques, lost or stolen Cheques, and more.

DOCUMENTATION

Additional documents may be required based on the claim type. Typical documents include:

• Valid Photo ID (Passport, Driver's License or Government Issued ID)
• Copy of the Voided Travelers Cheque(s)
• Refund Details

UPLOAD DOCUMENTS

Once you have gathered the required documents and filled out any required documents and forms, upload here. Clear images will help expedite processing.

UNABLE TO UPLOAD?

If you’re unable to upload your completed documents, you can send hard copies directly to American Express .

INHERITED CHEQUES

How to redeem your inherited Travelers Cheques if the original owner is deceased or incapacitated.

1. OPEN A CLAIM

Call American Express Customer Service at 0800-587-6023 or find additional contact numbers based on your location to begin a claim over the phone.

2. IDENTIFY & LOCATE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

List of required documents and forms can be found here . You’ll need these to submit your claim.

3. UPLOAD REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Be sure to upload clear images for faster processing.

4. IF YOU’RE UNABLE TO UPLOAD

As an alternative to submitting online, you can also mail hard copies of your documents to American Express .

*Travelers Cheque Encashment service is provided by American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc.

Can I buy Travelers Cheques?

Travelers Cheques are no longer issued and so cannot be purchased. 

Where can I redeem my Travelers Cheques?

There are thousands of foreign exchange partners in countries around the world where you can exchange your American Express ® Travelers Cheques for local currency. You can find places to redeem your Travelers Cheques using " Find Exchange Locations ". It may also be possible to redeem your Travelers Cheques directly for goods and services. Check first, though, with the merchant. American Express does not approve the use of its products, or any services related to its products, in the following territories: Crimea, Donetsk, and Luhansk Regions of Ukraine, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria, Russia and Belarus.

Can I redeem my Travelers Cheques directly with American Express?

Yes, you can redeem your Travelers Cheques directly with American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. online . Alternatively, you can call American Express Customer Service at 0800-587-6023 to register a redemption claim. You can find additional contact numbers based on your location. We may have to contact you with questions regarding your claim or to request additional information.

How do I redeem my Travelers Cheques?

You can redeem your Travelers Cheques directly with American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. Please refer the “How to Redeem” section above. Alternatively, simply present the Cheque at an eligible foreign exchange partner or merchant location. Make sure the acceptor watches while you countersign the Cheque on the lower signature line. Photo identification may be required. We strongly recommend you retain and carry your original Cheque purchase receipt with you when you travel. Commission charges may apply and can vary by country or exchange partner. Exchange limits may apply due to local regulations and exchange policies.

What happens if I sign my Travelers Cheques in the wrong place, or if my signatures don't match?

Acceptance of Travelers Cheques is based on the acceptor watching the customer sign the Cheque on the lower signature line, and then comparing that signature with the original signature on the upper signature line. The acceptor must observe the customer signing the Cheque. If the signatures are a reasonable match, the Cheque should be accepted. Photo identification may be required at the discretion of the acceptor. As always, if the acceptor is unsure, they should call an American Express ® Travelers Cheque Customer Service Center .

Is there a fee to cash Travelers Cheques?

Commission charges may apply and can vary by country and/or exchange partner. Before you travel, we recommend that you find the most convenient Travelers Cheque exchange locations using the Find Exchange Locations .

What happens if my Cheques are lost or stolen?

Lost or stolen Travelers Cheques may be refunded.* Please call Customer Service at 0800-587-6023 or find the additional contact numbers for your current location. Have your recorder serial numbers on hand when you call.

* Terms & Conditions and restrictions apply. Identification and proof of purchase required.

Still Need Help?

Call American Express Customer Service 24/7 at  0800-587-6023 or find additional contact numbers based on your location.

American Express stopped issuing Travelers Cheques, so they’re no longer available for purchase. Support is available by phone and the American Express website for customers to redeem valid Travelers Cheques. Travelers Cheques remain backed by American Express and have no expiration date.

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Travelling and money

Take steps that will help you avoid financial problems that may ruin your trip. Make sure you purchase  travel insurance , and most importantly make sure you always carry a backup source of funds in case of emergency or an unexpected delay.

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Cards (credit, debit and pre-paid).

• Traveller’s cheques

Travelling with $10,000 or more

Check with the  embassy or consulate in Canada  of the country you are planning to visit to make sure you are allowed to import or export its currency. If you are permitted to import its currency, bring enough cash to get by for a couple of days and keep it in a money belt or in several different pockets in case your wallet is lost or stolen or your financial institution accidently freezes your cards. When you arrive at your destination, you can withdraw more cash from an ATM. 

Exchanging your money

The currency exchange rate tells you how much your Canadian money is worth in the local currency. When you exchange your money, you are actually using it to buy or sell foreign currency at a specific price called the exchange rate. You can find the official exchange rate of the currency in the country you will be visiting by using the Bank of Canada’s online currency converter .

It pays to know your options when dealing with foreign exchange rates. There are a number of ways to manage your finances when you are abroad that will save you a lot of money in exchange fees.

If you want cash on hand before you leave Canada, you can buy foreign currency from your financial institution over the phone or online. It can be delivered to your local branch for pick up. Exchange rates at banks are slightly better than elsewhere. You can also order currency before you leave on your trip from a number of websites that will ship it to your home within a couple of days.

Exchange desks

If you need cash in an emergency, there are foreign exchange desks at airports and hotels that will exchange Canadian money for the local currency. Fees tend to be very high. Even those advertising no commissions may have hidden fees, making these desks the most expensive places to change money.

Black market

The currency black market forms part of the underground economy in a number of countries. In a currency black market, transactions are almost always in cash, since its participants don’t want to leave any evidence. 

This illegal or parallel market in foreign exchange operates outside legal banking channels. If you are tempted to take advantage of the currency black market you should be aware that you will be breaking the country’s laws and could be arrested and imprisoned . You are subject to the country’s criminal justice system. Consular officials will not arrange your release from prison.

Be aware of anyone approaching you on the street offering to exchange your money for a much better rate than a bank. Typical money exchange scams include stealing your money in the process of counting and recounting a pile of bills or mixing your money with currency from another country with a much lower exchange rate. It is safer to go through an authorized agency or a bank. 

Credit cards

Use a major international credit card for your big purchases, such as your airplane tickets, hotel bills and restaurant tabs. If you reserve your hotel and rental car on your credit card, the reservation should be guaranteed even if you arrive late.

Use the credit card instead of cash wherever possible. Credit card issuers typically charge fees for international transactions and you may get the best exchange rate and fees lower than those associated with exchanging cash. However, you should not use your credit card to withdraw money from an ATM, because the fees and interest charges are usually very high.

Before you leave:

• Know the expiry dates, account balance and amount of credit available to you on all of your credit cards. Make sure you have enough money in your accounts to cover your trip expenses, plus extra in case of emergency.
• Make sure your credit card company and financial institution have your up-to-date contact details, including a cellphone number, and information on where and when you will be travelling so that your account isn’t flagged for unusual activity.
• Check with your financial institution before you leave on your trip. Not all major credit cards are accepted everywhere. Merchants in some destinations prefer to be paid in cash because they must pay a fee to the credit card company. There may be a risk that your credit card will be cloned at some destinations, particularly in restaurants.

Debit cards

Always use bank-affiliated ATMs when you are outside Canada. Check if your financial institution has international branches or partners in your destination country where you can use your debit card fee-free. Using your debit card to withdraw money from ATMs will cost you extra in fees, but you can minimize them by withdrawing larger amounts less often.

You should carry some cash to cover daily expenses. Your debit card may not work in every ATM machine or be accepted at stores or restaurants in your destination country. If you are travelling to a rural area, you may not be able to find an ATM that is part of your financial institution’s network, so withdraw enough cash to manage until you are back in a city.

Due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity, you should use your credit cards and debit cards with caution. Use ATMs during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building.

Pre-paid cards

Some financial institutions offer pre-paid travel cards in foreign currencies. They may have higher fees than credit and debit cards, so check the terms and conditions and costs before you decide to travel with one. You can usually replace a pre-paid travel card as you would a lost or stolen travellers’ cheque.

Be aware that pre-paid cards may not be accepted at some hotels and car rental companies, and may be difficult to use at the ATM machines of foreign banks.

Dynamic Currency Conversion

Some shops, restaurants and ATMs give the option of using the currency of the country you are in or having the transaction converted into Canadian currency. Always choose to be charged in the currency of the country you are in. You will pay high conversion rates and transaction fees if they convert to Canadian currency.

Save your receipts

As you travel, save all ATM and transaction receipts in an envelope. Bring them home in your carry-on bag. Save your airline boarding pass to prove your return date. If you need to dispute a transaction, sending a copy of your receipt will speed up the resolution process.

After you return home, carefully examine your credit and debit card statements and continue to do so for several months. Identity theft and credit card fraud are not confined to Canada. If you notice any unusual charges on your statement, inform your financial institution immediately and request a copy of the receipt.

Travellers’ cheques

Canadian travellers’ cheques are not widely accepted worldwide, but are an option if you don’t want to use credit or debit cards or carry large amounts of cash.

When possible, order the cheques in the local currency and carry multiple cheques in small denominations. If you can’t order cheques in the currency of your destination country, order them in U.S. funds, which are widely accepted. Sign them as soon as you get them and keep the receipt in a separate location. If they are stolen they can be replaced anywhere in the world, usually within 24 hours.

Keep a record of your travellers’ cheque numbers, credit card account numbers and expiry dates and the telephone numbers for reporting lost or stolen cards in a safe place. If possible, leave a copy of the list with a family member or friend at home who can help you make telephone calls quickly if your cards are lost or stolen.

Any time you enter or leave Canada, you must declare any money or monetary instruments, such as stocks, bond or cheques, you are carrying valued at $10,000 or more.

Canadians who live or work abroad or who travel a lot may still have to pay Canadian and provincial or territorial income taxes.

If you are planning to be outside Canada for an extended period of time, you should inform the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) before you go to ask for a determination of your residency status. Your residency status depends on whether you are leaving Canada permanently or only temporarily and the residential ties you keep with Canada and establish in another country:

You are leaving Canada permanently

You are leaving Canada temporarily

Visit International and non-resident taxes for information about income tax requirements that may affect you.

Departure tax

In some countries you must pay a departure tax or service fee at the airport or point of departure. Make sure you set aside enough money in local funds to pay it. 

• Travel Advice and Advisories
• Financial assistance
• Overseas fraud: An increasing threat to the safety of Canadians
• Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act

We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.

Cash, card or traveller's cheques? Travel money options

We all know that pitching up at the airport to buy our foreign currency is generally the worst travel money option, but what's the best? It all depends…

On the high street: The Post Office and M&S foreign exchange bureaus are competitive but don't assume they always offer the best rates. You may be able to find better deals from smaller, independent foreign exchange services.

For security: Pre-paid currency cards offer competitive exchange rates and are a safe way to carry large sums of money. Go for one of the online FX services or mytravelcash.com .

In the US and big resorts: Traveller's cheques can still be exchanged for currency and they are easy to change back on your return.

Making big payments: The Halifax Clarity Credit Card is undoubtedly the best credit card to take away, with absolutely no exchange fees – even the cost of withdrawing money from an ATM is low compared with other credit cards.

Read our guide to prepaid cards here

How to get the best deal on your travel money

How to book the best flights

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3 Ways to Cash a Check

Where to cash a check, tips for cashing a check, the bottom line.

• Checking Accounts

How to Cash a Check

Cashing a check is usually quick and easy, with a few exceptions

PhotoInc / Getty Images

You can cash a check in person, at an ATM, or by mobile app. You must sign and submit the check, and depending on a few factors, you’ll generally receive the funds in your account within the next few days.

Let’s take a closer look at how cashing a check works, and details for specific situations. We’ll cover the three main methods for how to cash a check, but the general process is the same regardless of how you do it.

Key Takeaways

• After depositing a check, you usually have to wait until the next business day before the cash is available to spend—but this waiting time can vary by bank.
• Check cashing services offer immediate cash without needing a bank account, but charge significant fees.
• Additional rules may apply if you’re cashing a very large or very old check, cashing a check at a bank that’s not your own, or cashing a check that’s written out to someone else.

Most banks and credit unions offer at least three different ways to cash a check . Here’s what you need to know about the steps involved for each route.

Although mobile banking is growing in popularity, many people still prefer to visit banks in person. You might prefer to do your banking face-to-face, or maybe your bank has a different funds availability policy for in-person check deposits vs. mobile check deposits. In any case, here’s how it works.

• Bring your ID and the check: You may need to show your photo identification in some situations, such as if you’re depositing the check at a bank or credit union branch away from your normal one.
• Fill out a deposit slip: Your financial institution may require you to fill out a deposit slip, a small form where you’ll enter your account number, the check’s amount, the date, etc. You can often fill this out while waiting in line, which is usually where these forms are located.
• Sign the check and give it to the teller: Sign your name on the back of the check above the endorsement line.
• Collect a receipt: The teller will typically give you a receipt for the deposit and can tell you when the funds will be available for use. 

You generally won’t get access to the cash immediately when depositing a check at a bank or credit union. You’ll usually have to wait for the check to clear , which depends on the funds availability policy of that particular bank or credit union. Federal law requires financial institutions to make check deposits available to spend within one to five business days, tops.  

No branch nearby, after hours, or prefer to avoid people? No problem—you can use an ATM, but be aware that federal law allows banks up to five business days before making your deposit available to spend. Some banks offer a much quicker turnaround time, however. Here’s how to deposit a check using an ATM.

• Look for the nearest check-accepting ATM: Check whether your bank allows ATM check deposits, and if so, which machines you can use. Not all banks allow ATM check deposits, and not all ATMs are equipped to receive them. Use your bank’s website or mobile app to find one of its own ATMs if possible, as the check may clear faster than if you use an ATM owned by another bank.
• Log in to your account: Swipe or insert your ATM card, then enter your PIN to log in to your bank account.
• Choose the deposit option: Assuming the machine accepts check deposits, look for this option in the main menu and select it.
• Insert your check into the ATM: Sign the check and follow the prompts that the ATM gives you. Then, deposit your check into the machine. Depending on the ATM, you may need to use a deposit slip (which should be available at the ATM).
• Review and submit: Make sure everything looks correct, and then complete the transaction.

Be safe when using ATMs —be aware of your surroundings, and have your ATM card ready to go. It’s also a wise move to check for skimmers before using any ATM for any purpose.

With a Mobile App

About 44% of banking customers prefer to cash checks via mobile deposit , according to a 2023 survey from digital technology firm Mitek Systems. Mobile deposit lets you deposit checks from the comfort of your home or on the go. Here’s how it works:

• Download the mobile app: Check your bank’s website, or search for your bank’s mobile app within the App Store or on Google Play.
• Sign in to your account: Log in to your bank account via the app. If you haven’t logged in to your bank’s mobile app before, you may have to follow some verification procedures to access your account.
• Look for the mobile deposit option: Each bank’s app looks different, so you may need to spend some time searching around. However, the mobile check deposit option will likely be easy to find.
• Follow the prompts: Each bank has its own procedures for depositing a check using mobile deposit, and it’ll walk you through the process. You’ll generally need to enter the deposit amount and take clear photos of the front and back of the check. You must endorse the check.
• Review and submit: Make sure everything’s entered correctly and that you haven’t accidentally added an extra “0” in your deposit amount. Then, submit the deposit.  
• Hold the check, then destroy it: Unlike other check deposit methods, you’ll keep the paper check after you deposit it. Your bank’s app will generally tell you what to do with the check after you submit your deposit. If not, wait a few days until the check clears in case you need to re-submit a photo. Then, shred it for safety.

Banks and credit unions are two of the most common places to cash checks, but you can cash a check at other places too. Here’s a comparison of your options for cashing a check.

• Your bank or credit union: Most people prefer to use their own bank or credit union to cash checks. It’s free, and you can often get better help if you run into any problems, although funds usually aren’t available immediately. 
• The bank that issued the check: Bank policies vary, but oftentimes the bank or credit union listed on the check will cash it for you, sometimes for a fee if you don’t have an account there.
• Prepaid cards: Some banks offer prepaid debit cards that function like a checking account. You may be able to remotely deposit a check onto your card using a mobile app in just a few minutes, though there’s typically a fee for this service. For example, Green Dot charges up to 5% of the check amount, or a minimum fee of $5.  
• Check cashing stores: Payday lenders often offer check cashing services alongside payday loans . These services typically come with high fees, although you may be able to walk away with cash immediately.
• Major retailer or grocery store: Chain stores like Walmart and Kroger grocery stores sometimes offer check cashing services. These, too, often come with extra fees in exchange for same-day access to your cash. For example, Walmart charges $4 to cash printed checks up to $1,000 and $6 for personal checks up to $200.

Cashing a check requires a few steps, but isn’t generally that difficult. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

• Watch for scams: A common check scam involves someone sending you a check for a larger amount than you are actually owed, and asking you to return the difference via gift card, money order, cryptocurrency, etc. Eventually, the check doesn’t clear —but the money you sent does. The Federal Trade Commission advises never to accept a check for more than a selling price or send money from a check using gift cards or other cash alternatives.
• Check your digital security: Never use banking apps on unsecured Wi-Fi networks, such as free public Wi-Fi. Keep your PINs and passwords secure , and make use of mobile app security features like biometric logins and multi-factor authentication.
• Avoid check cashing services if possible: Fees vary by state and business, but you’ll typically pay a percentage of your check if you use one of these services. For example, Check City locations in Nevada charge 1.99% of payroll and government checks and 8% of personal out-of-state checks—expensive fees considering that cashing checks is free if you have a bank account.
• Make sure you trust the check writer: Banks must make your funds available within a few business days after depositing the check, but it can sometimes take weeks for the actual transaction to settle behind the scenes. And if a check turns out to be fake, you may need to repay those funds if you’ve spent them.
• Check before depositing large checks: Banks generally have limits on how much you can deposit or withdraw at any one time, especially when you’ve only recently opened an account. Look at your account agreement to see what qualifies as “large” to your bank.

If you’ve tried to get a bank account but don’t qualify, look into second-chance checking accounts , which are available at many financial institutions, or look for a bank that doesn’t use ChexSystems to view your banking history. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take for a check to clear.

The amount of time it takes for a check to clear depends on your bank’s funds availability policy. Federal law says that banks must make the funds available to use within one to five business days, depending on the amount of the check and how you deposit it. Typically, your bank must make $225 of a deposited check available on the business day after you made the deposit, with the rest usually available by the second business day.  

Do Checks Expire?

Checks can expire in some cases. Federal law doesn’t require banks to cash checks that were written more than six months ago. Some banks will cash older checks, however, depending on their policies. 

Can You Cash a Check at Any Bank?

No, you can’t cash a check at just any bank , but you can cash a check at more banks than you might think. Some banks are more open than others to cashing a check from someone who isn’t a customer. If they do, they may charge a fee, so it pays to contact the bank in advance. 

Can You Deposit a Check That’s Not in Your Name?

You may be able to cash a check that’s not in your name, but you’ll need to clarify the bank’s third-party check cashing policy. The person whose name is on the “Pay to” line on the check might be required to come with you to the bank, for example, or they may need to sign the check over to you by writing “Pay to the order of” underneath their own endorsement on the back of the check.

What Is a Bounced Check?

A bounced check is a check that’s written from an account that doesn’t have enough funds in it to cover the withdrawal. If you write a check that bounces, your bank may charge you a returned payment or non-sufficient funds fee. 

If you wrote a check to pay a bill, such as your credit card payment, and it bounced due to insufficient funds in your account, your payment won’t go through. If the payment is late enough, the creditor might report the late payment to credit agencies—which might affect your credit score.

If you need to cash a check and access the money immediately, your best bet is to use a check cashing service—but that’ll cost you a fee. If you have a bank account and you can wait a few days for the cash, deposit it at the bank, at an ATM, or by mobile app. You can then withdraw cash at a bank branch or ATM, or spend it as normal straight from the account. This is usually the best option since you can avoid fees and keep every last cent that you receive in the check.

American Bankers Association. “ National Survey: Bank Customers Use Mobile Apps More Than Any Other Channel to Manage Their Accounts .”

Code of Federal Regulations. “ Availability of Funds and Disclosure of Funds Availability Policies .”

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. " If I Deposit a Check Into an ATM, Are the Funds Available Right Away? "

Mitek Systems, Inc. " 7th Annual 2023 Mobile Deposit Benchmark Report: A Ranking of 20 US Banks and Credit Unions ."

Green Dot Bank. " Cash Checks to Your Green Dot Account in Minutes ."

Walmart. “ Check Cashing at Everyday Low Prices .”

Federal Trade Commission. “ How to Spot, Avoid, and Report Fake Check Scams .”

Check City. “ Rates & Fees Nevada: Financial Services .”

Office of the Comptroller of the Currency. “ I Deposited a Check. When Will My Funds Be Available / Released From the Hold? ”

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. " The Bank/Credit Union Refused to Cash a Check Because It Was More Than Six Months Old. Is This Allowed? "

Huntington Bank. “ How to Sign/Endorse a Check Over to Someone Else .”

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Personal Finance

Cashier's check cost, uses, alternatives.

Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we may earn a commission from our partners’ links. This content is created independently from TIME’s editorial staff. Learn more about it.

While paper checks are much less common today, there are still times when paying via check is a preferred (or at least, allowed) payment method. However, paper checks can be risky for merchants to accept since they often take days or even weeks to process. If the bank account on which the check was drawn doesn’t have the necessary funds when payment is actually processed, the recipient of that check could be out of luck.

A cashier’s check can be a more secure method of paper payment. That’s because cashier’s checks are issued against and guaranteed by the bank’s own funds, rather than being guaranteed by the funds held in a personal account. Since the bank verifies those funds and stands behind the check, using one is much less risky and more widely accepted by merchants.

Here’s an indepth look at cashier’s checks, how to get one, and why you might need to use a cashier’s check in the first place.

When should you use a cashier's check?

Cashier’s checks can be a preferred payment method for large transactions, such as the purchase of land, a vehicle or boat, or even a home. Because cashier’s checks are secured by the issuing bank, and the check draws from the bank’s account instead of your personal account, there is little risk that the funds won’t be there when it’s time for the merchant or seller to cash the check.

You may want to use a cashier’s check to pay for an important or large purchase when the seller charges a fee to process a card payment. In some cases, a wire transfer or automated clearing house (ACH) transfer might take too long and delay the transaction, or you could even incur fees for these bank transfers. In that case, a cashier’s check could be the fastest and most affordable option.

How much does a cashier’s check cost?

Banks set their own fees for cashier’s checks, so the cost can vary from one financial institution to the next. In general, you can expect to pay between $10 and $20 for a cashier’s check. Some banks won’t charge a fee if you have certain accounts or a relationship status, so be sure to check with your own financial institution to see if it will issue a cashier’s check for you for free.

How can I get a cashier’s check?

Cashier’s checks are issued by financial institutions, such as banks and credit unions . Typically, you can’t get a cashier’s check from a bank unless you have an account,  though there are a few exceptions.

In order to get a cashier’s check, you’ll need to request and pay for one (if applicable). The bank will then draw those funds from your account and hold them in the bank’s own transactional account until the check is cashed by the recipient.

Where can I get a cashier’s check?

Cashier’s checks are a specialized payment option. They are generally only offered by banks and credit unions to their own customers. Similar products, such as money orders, are available elsewhere, such as check cashing companies, supermarkets, and even gas stations. However, these may not be accepted as readily as cashier’s checks or may have smaller amount limits.

Many cashier’s checks are issued in person. Your check will be signed by a cashier, teller, or other bank representative and you’ll walk out with a check in hand.

However, depending on your bank, you may also be able to order a cashier’s check online. Capital One customers, for example, can order a cashier’s check through the bank’s mobile app or web platform, which can be delivered via FedEx as quickly as the next business day.

How long Is a cashier's check good for?

Cashier’s checks are usually good for between 60 and 180 days, though this can vary from one banking institution to the next. A cashier’s check will generally have an expiration date, or at least a number of days that the check will be valid, printed on the check.

If an expiration date or valid day range isn’t noted, the check may simply not expire. In that case, you can assume that the check is valid as long as the bank remains operational, though some merchants may request a new check after a certain period of time. It’s always wise to only request a cashier’s check right before you need to use it, so there are no issues with stale checks or even losing the check before it’s handed off.

Cashier's check alternatives

Not sure if a cashier’s check is right for you, or don’t have the option to get a cashier’s check from your bank? Here are some alternatives to consider.

Cashier’s check vs. certified check

A certified check is similar to a cashier’s check in that the financial institution verifies that you have adequate funds in your account, and that you are you, before issuing the check. The important difference between the two is that a certified check is still written from (and will draw from) your own personal account, whereas a cashier’s check will draw from the bank’s own account.

Another difference is that while some banks allow cashier’s checks to be ordered online, certified checks must be requested in person. That’s because part of the “certified” aspect of the check is that the bank verifies your identity.

Your funds aren’t removed from your account when issuing a certified check, only “earmarked.” This can make a certified check less secure than a cashier’s check, at least in the eyes of the recipient. A certified check can still bounce, as you may have already spent or transferred those funds between when the check was issued and when the recipient cashes it. A cashier’s check, however, is unlikely to bounce as long as the bank is still operational.

Cashier’s check vs. money order

A money order is also very similar to a cashier’s check, in that both require you to hand over the funds upfront and both are issued by another financial institution. This can make them more secure to merchants and sellers, since they are not likely to bounce.

While cashier’s checks are only available from banks and credit unions, you can get money orders from your local supermarket or big box store (like Walmart) as well as many check cashing businesses, gas stations, the United States Postal Service (USPS), and others. This makes money orders more accessible to those who don’t have a bank account or aren’t near one of their bank’s branches.

Both cashier’s checks and money orders are available for a fee. Money orders can be cheaper than cashier’s checks, but the caveat is that money orders typically have an amount limit. A money order from USPS, for example, is limited to $1,000 for a $3 fee. If you need to send  a small amount of money, this may be a more economical solution than a $10 or $20 cashier’s check. If you need to send $10,000, though, buying 10 money orders would mean spending $30 and keeping 10 different paper checks safe, which is more hassle and cost than a single cashier’s check.

A cashier’s check will sometimes include some of your personal information, such as your name, financial institution, or account number, on the check. A money order does not, so it may be safer for privacy reasons, especially if you want to send one through the mail.

Is a cashier’s check safe?

A cashier’s check is a safe and secure way to submit a paper payment, especially for a large purchase. These checks are considered safe for consumers to use, as they may not have all of your personal bank information listed (if any), helping to protect you against fraud. They’re also considered safer for merchants and sellers, as the funds are guaranteed by the financial institution and are unlikely to bounce.

What if I lose the cashier's check?

Losing a cashier’s check can be a much bigger hassle than losing a personal check. Since the bank is guaranteeing those funds, stopping a cashier’s check and replacing it is a much more involved process.

If you lose a cashier’s check, the very first step is to notify your bank. While this won’t prevent someone from depositing or cashing the check, it can flag the check in the bank’s system if that occurs.

Your bank may then require you to purchase an indemnity bond before a new check can be issued. Indemnity bonds are a form of insurance coverage, which protects the bank if the original check is found and processed—that way, the bank isn’t stuck paying out on both checks in a worse case scenario.

With an indemnity bond, you—not your bank—are considered responsible for the first check. Even after purchasing an indemnity bond, your financial institution may still require you to wait for a period of time (such as 30 to 90 days) before issuing another cashier’s check in its place. If you needed those funds to make a time-sensitive payment or purchase, this could be detrimental. For this reason, only buy a cashier’s check when you are ready to give it to a seller or merchant, and take close care to avoid losing it.

How can I cancel a cashier’s check?

You generally can’t cancel or put a stop on a cashier’s check. If the check is lost, notify your bank immediately and request information about next steps for getting it replaced.

If you simply don’t need the check anymore—for example, a planned transaction fell through—you can typically deposit the funds back into your account. Your bank may require you to write a statement, often on the check itself, noting that the check wasn’t used for its intended purpose. Then, the bank can usually just deposit the check into your account and you’ll be back where you started (minus the original cashier’s check fee).

How can I avoid cashier's check fraud?

If you are purchasing a cashier’s check directly from your bank, you can rest assured that the paper check you’re given is genuine and valid. However, if you’re receiving a cashier’s check from somewhere else, you’ll want to take certain steps to avoid accepting a fraudulent payment.

Most cashier’s checks have fraud prevention features built in, such as color-changing paper, holograms, or special patterns on the paper. Be sure to check which features your check has to confirm it’s genuine.

You’ll also want to go over the details on the check. Cross-check the institution’s address and phone number by searching for it online. You can also call the bank directly to confirm the check’s authenticity. Just be sure to call the number you have searched for online, rather than simply calling the number printed on the check (in case it’s fraudulent).

TIME Stamp: Cashier’s checks provide an alternative paper payment method

Cashier’s checks are an alternative paper payment method, often used for large purchases and transactions. These checks are written against a financial institution’s own account, rather than your personal account, making them more secure for the merchants and sellers to whom you may give them. Cashier’s checks do come at a modest cost, but can be obtained in person in just minutes or online as quickly as a single business day.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

How does a cashier’s check work.

When you request a cashier’s check from your bank or credit union, the funds will be withdrawn from your account and placed in the institution’s own account. You’ll then be given a check against that account—as if the bank were writing a check for your purchase instead of you. Your recipient, whether a merchant or seller, can then deposit that check into their own account the same way they would any other check.

Why would someone give a cashier’s check?

Cashier’s checks can be a more secure way to pay for large purchases or provide added peace of mind for important transactions like the transfer of a car, boat, or house. These checks are written by financial institutions against the bank’s own transactional account, so they are less likely to bounce or otherwise get returned, compared to personal checks.

What’s the difference between a cashier’s check and a regular check?

A regular check, or personal check, is guaranteed by an individual’s own checking account. If there aren’t adequate funds in that account when the check is cashed, the transaction will be returned and the depositor may be caught short with little to no recourse. A cashier’s check is guaranteed by the bank’s account, so there is little risk that it will bounce or get returned as long as the bank is operational and the check is genuine.

How much does a cashier's check cost?

A cashier’s check will typically cost between $10 and $20 to issue, though this can vary by financial institution.

The information presented here is created independently from the TIME editorial staff. To learn more, see our About page.

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China's Xi calls on world powers to help Russia and Ukraine resume direct dialogue

China hungary.

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TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — Chinese President Xi Jinping called on world powers to help Russia and Ukraine resume direct dialogue during a meeting Monday with Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán , state broadcaster CCTV reported.

Orbán made a surprise visit to China after similar trips last week to Russia and Ukraine to discuss prospects for a peaceful settlement of more than the two-year war. Hungary assumed the rotating presidency of the European Union this month and Orbán has since embarked on a peace mission, which, however, lacks the endorsement of other European leaders.

“China is a key power in creating the conditions for peace in the Russia-Ukraine war,” Orbán wrote on the social media platform X. “This is why I came to meet with President Xi in Beijing, just two months after his official visit to Budapest.”

Orbán is widely seen as having the warmest relations with Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin among European leaders. His visit to Moscow last week drew condemnation from Kyiv and EU officials, who insisted Orbán was not acting on behalf of the whole European bloc.

Their rebuke failed to deter Orbán from extending a similar visit to Beijing, which he called “Peace mission 3.0” in a picture posted on X.

During his meeting with Xi, Orbán described China as a stabilizing force amid global turbulence and praised its “constructive and important” peace initiatives.

China has been promoting its own six-point peace plan, which it issued with Brazil in May. Beijing says it is neutral in the conflict, though in practice it supports Moscow through frequent state visits, growing trade and joint military drills.

While hosting Orbán, Xi called on Russia and Ukraine to cease fire and on other major powers to create an environment conducive to talks. Only when all major powers project “positive energy rather than negative energy” can a cease-fire occur, Xi said, according to CCTV.

Orbán hosted the Chinese leader in Hungary only two months ago as part of a three-country European tour that also included stops in France and Serbia, which unlike the other two is not a member of the EU or NATO.

During the trip, China upgraded its ties with Hungary to an “all-weather, comprehensive strategic partnership,” one of its highest designations for foreign relations that in addition to Hungary applies only to Belarus, Pakistan and Venezuela.

Hungary under Orbán has built substantial political and economic ties with China. The European nation hosts a number of Chinese electric vehicle battery facilities, and in December it announced that Chinese EV manufacturing giant BYD will open its first European EV production factory in the south of the country.

The Hungarian prime minister broadly opposes Western military aid to Ukraine and has blocked, delayed or watered down EU efforts to assist Kyiv and impose sanctions on Moscow over its invasion. Orbán has long argued for a cessation of hostilities in Ukraine but without outlining what that might mean for the country’s territorial integrity or future security.

That posture has frustrated Hungary’s EU and NATO allies, who have denounced Russia’s invasion as a breach of international law and a threat to the security of Eastern Europe.

Standing alongside Orbán last week in Moscow, Putin declared that Russia wouldn’t accept any cease-fire or temporary break in hostilities that would allow Ukraine “to recoup losses, regroup and rearm.”

Putin repeated his demand that Ukraine withdraw its troops from the four regions that Moscow claims to have annexed in 2022 as a condition for any prospective peace talks. Ukraine and its Western allies have rejected that demand, suggesting it is akin to asking Kyiv to withdraw from its own territory.

China meanwhile has spread its influence in Central Asia and Eastern Europe in recent years beyond its “no limits” partnership with Moscow. Over the weekend, China held “anti-terror” military drills with Belarus — a key ally of Russia — near the border with Poland. The drills came after last week Belarus joined a regional security organization led by China and Russia.

Orbán will next head to Washington, D.C., where NATO leaders are holding a summit to discuss ways to assure Ukraine of the alliance’s continued support.

“Next stop: Washington,” Orbán posted on his social media account Monday. It was not clear whether he would meet separately with President Joe Biden, or Donald Trump, whose presidential candidacy Orbán openly supports.

Associated Press writers Adam Schreck in Bangkok, Justin Spike in Budapest, Hungary, and Vladimir Isachenkov in Moscow contributed to this report.

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International Edition

Ukraine war latest: Putin launches daylight hypersonic missile attack on Ukrainian cities - at least 20 dead and children's hospital hit

At least 20 people have been killed as Vladimir Putin launched a hypersonic missile attack on multiple Ukrainian cities, with a children's hospital struck in Kyiv. It comes on the eve of a NATO summit in Washington.

Monday 8 July 2024 15:13, UK

• At least 31 killed in Russian missile strikes across Ukraine
• Children's hospital hit in barrage
• Deborah Haynes: Russia sending a message to NATO
• Indian PM makes first visit to Russia since invasion of Ukraine
• Big picture: What you need to know this week
• Your questions answered: Has the West been honest about Ukraine's failures? | Is Kyiv next?
• Live reporting by Katie Williams

By Sam Doak, OSINT producer

Geolocation of footage taken after the Russian strikes show they affected areas across the city of Kyiv.  

A children's hospital, private medical clinic and business park are among the buildings damaged following Russian shelling.  

Subsequent photographs show crowds at the hospital, and patients evacuated to the nearby street. 

Matching footage of the aftermath with publicly available images from Google Maps shows that a building housing the hospital's toxicology unit was heavily damaged, appearing to have been hit directly.

The toxicology unit sits in the east of the hospital grounds, around 50 meters from the main building.  

While Kyiv has been under threat of Russian airstrikes and shelling since the start of the war, this has not occurred as frequently in recent months.

According to data from ACLED, Kyiv was targeted by Russian strikes and shelling ten times in 2024 prior to 8 July. 

As Ukraine reels from the latest deadly barrage by Vladimir Putin's forces, Volodymyr Zelenskyy has been on a visit to Poland to discuss further NATO support with prime minister Donald Tusk.

Mr Zelenskyy said he hoped this week's NATO summit in Washington would provide concrete steps towards bolstering his country's air defences against Russia.

In a joint news conference with Mr Tusk in Warsaw, the Ukrainian leader said he wanted to see "greater resolve in our partners and hear resolute responses to [today's] attacks".

Attendees at the conference were asked to observe a moment of silences for the victims.

During their meeting the two leaders signed a cooperation and defence agreement that spells out Poland's continued support for Ukraine including air defence, energy security and Poland's participation in reconstruction.

More European leaders and ministers are reacting to the Russian bombardment that killed dozens of people and injured scores more in Ukraine in broad daylight today.

Estonian prime minister Kaja Kallas said the images coming out of Kyiv today were "shocking" and a reminder of why the world needed to keep supporting Ukraine.

Italian foreign minister Antonio Tajani described the missile attacks on the Ukrainian capital as "war crimes" that should be "condemned by the entire international community".

The attacks have been branded "inexcusable" by  Czech President Petr Pavel, who said they were "proof that Putin's Russia will stop at nothing".

"I am currently flying to the NATO summit, where I expect a consensus that we all perceive Russia as the biggest threat for which we must be thoroughly prepared," he wrote in a post to X.

Meanwhile, UK foreign minister David Lammy  said the strike on Okhmatdyt children's hospital was an "appalling attack on Ukrainian civilians", as he reiterated that the UK's support for Kyiv was "iron-clad".

It comes after UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer earlier condemned the targeting of the hospital as "the most depraved of actions" (see 12.01 post).

Ukraine's security service (SBU) says it found wreckage from a Russian Kh-101 cruise missile at the children's hospital struck in Kyiv today.

The SBU said it deemed the attack a war crime by Russia and has opened criminal proceedings. 

It said officers discovered fragments of the hull of the rear of the missile, as well as a serial number and part of the rudder.

"The SBU investigative team, together with the National Police and other relevant services, continue to work at the scene of the tragedy," the service said in a statement.

The number of people killed in Russia's attacks across Ukraine has risen to at least 31, Ukraine's interior ministry has said.

A further 125 people have been injured, it said.

Of the total number of victims, 20 people died in Kyiv and another 61 people were injured in the Ukrainian capital, according to the ministry.

At least 16 people, including seven children, were injured at Kyiv's main children's hospital, according to city mayor Vitali Klitschko.

Sky News military analyst Sean Bell has been discussing the deadly Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities today.

"What we do know is that Russia is very short of missiles, as is Ukraine," he said.

"They want to use those missiles as effectively as they can do and we have seen Russia step up its attacks on, Ukraine's ability to generate weapons, its energy infrastructure and its airfields.

"And we don't know clearly - when these missiles get shot down by the Patriot missiles that are now in Ukraine... where the debris falls. Where the explosive actually explodes, we don't actually know, but it's very clear that Russia is trying to step up its efforts now.

"This is the summer offensive. If you remember, last year, you and I were talking about the Ukrainian spring offensive. That really fizzled out.

"And this year, because of the gap with the West supplying weapons, we fully expected Russia to launch its major summer offensive, We're midway through that [but] Russia is stalled on the front line, is suffering huge casualties, and I suspect this is a bit of an intensive effort in advance of the NATO summit. Just to demonstrate that Russia isn't finished just yet."

Bell went on to respond to Russia's claims that the damage to civilian targets in Kyiv was the result of missile defence systems being used by Ukraine - and suggested the evidence indicated it was possible those claims were true.

"We're in an information war and it's incredibly difficult to actually work out what's going on," he said.

"I have to say, from a purely military perspective, however dark we'd like to paint Russia and President Putin, it's very difficult to see how he would gain benefit from using the limited supplies of weapons that he has to deliberately target civilian targets, given that he actually needs to stop the Ukrainian war effort.

"A good example of that is that over the last couple of weeks, Russia has been maintaining or increasing its strikes against Ukrainian airfields to try to wipe out the Ukrainian Air Force, probably in advance of the F-16s arriving.

"But the Ukrainians have been very canny here. They've started to do what they did in World War Two, which is to put out sort of wooden and fake replica aircraft on airfields to try to waste the Russian missiles.

"So it's quite difficult to see exactly why Russia would deliberately strike a civilian target. But as ever in this brutal war, whenever there's missiles flying around and Patriot missiles taking them out of the sky, there are going to be horrendous casualties on the ground. And I think that's what we're seeing today."

Rescuers have been searching throughout the day for survivors under the rubble of buildings damaged or destroyed in Russia's deadly barrage across Ukraine.

Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko said at least 16 people, seven of them children, were injured at Okhmatdyt children's hospital when it was struck by a missile.

Windows and doors were blown out and walls blackened, while blood was spattered the floor in one room.

The head of Ukraine's presidential office, Andrii Yermak, said the attack occurred at a time when many people were in the city's streets. 

Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said he will initiate an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council after Russia's attacks on Ukraine.

The Ukrainian president said Moscow's forces fired more than 40 missiles today targeting several cities and damaging infrastructure and buildings.

Confirming that Kyiv has requested the emergency meeting, Ukrainian foreign minister Dmytro Kuleba urged "all countries and international organisations" to "strongly condemn" Russia's actions.

He also urged "immediate steps to strengthen Ukraine's air defence capabilities" and the rejection of any "appeasement" of Vladimir Putin.

The Ukrainian air force says it downed 30 out of 38 Russia-launched missiles during today's deadly attack.

Russian forces used cruise, ballistic, aerial ballistic and guided missiles in a combined attack on Ukrainian cities, the Ukrainian air force said.

However, a 10 people were killed in strikes on Kyiv, with the total killed in attacks on cities across the country now standing at 29.

Russia has issued a statement blaming Ukraine for the strike that hit a children's hospital in Kyiv, while providing no evidence for the claim.

A statement from Russia's ministry of defence said the accounts from officials in the Ukrainian capital of a "deliberate missile strike on civilian facilities" were "absolutely untrue".

It said photos and videos from Kyiv "clearly confirm the fact of destruction" was caused by a Ukrainian air defence missile launched from an anti-aircraft missile system within the city.

"We especially note that similar hysterics by the Kyiv regime have been happening for several years now, and each time on the eve of another summit of its NATO patrons," the Russian statement said.

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