Money

Although Traveler's checks are still accepted in many locations, they are not used as frequently as they once were. ATM cards and MC/Visa cards are widely accepted and offer better exchange rates and flexibility.  Although major banks still offer to exchange your currency, debit cards eliminate the need to do so.  Withdrawals in local currency can be accomplished at any conveniently located ATM machine. 

Before leaving, check with your bank (debit card) and/or your credit card company on fees regarding foreign transactions and pin number usage.  Be sure to advise your financial institutions you will be traveling abroad as many require a travel notice to be submitted for your debit card to be validated while abroad. 

Please be sure you keep a copy of your bank's US contact phone number separate from your card in the event of a lost or stolen card or any other problems that may arise while abroad.

Cell Phones

Check with your cell phone provider prior to departing for your trip abroad.  Most cell phones now DO work overseas but some carriers may still need to activate the phone to do so. 

It is much more expensive to make and receive phone calls abroad; check your carriers cost of making and receiving calls, as well as text messages, if you frequently send / receive texts.  Even though you may have an unlimited plan, those plans do not apply when you're traveling overseas.