Traveling Soon? Here Is Why You Should Avoid Using ATMs Abroad

We know how exciting (and sometimes hectic) it is to travel. Whether you’re off for work, study, or vacation, your Timon card is built to go with you, simple, safe, and ready for global spending.

But here’s one thing we recommend:
    Try to avoid using ATMs abroad unless it’s absolutely necessary.

Let’s explain why, and what to do instead.

Foreign ATMs Can Be Pricey

When you use an ATM in another country, you’re likely to face extra charges, like:

• Fees from the ATM operator
  
  

• Network or international processing fees
  
  

• Hidden conversion charges by banks
  
  

These fees can stack up quickly. For example, withdrawing the equivalent of $100 might end up costing you $7 to $10 extra, just in fees.

That’s money you could be spending on your trip.

The Exchange Rates May Not Work in Your Favour

Even though Timon doesn’t apply any hidden markup, the ATM might.

Some ATMs abroad give you the option to convert your transaction, but the rate they use is often much lower than the real market rate. So you get less value for your money, even if everything seems fine on the screen.

It’s Hard to Track What You’re Really Being Charged

With card payments, you get instant notifications and can see your transaction right away.

But with ATM withdrawals, you might not even notice how much you’ve been charged.

What You Should Do Instead

Your Timon card works perfectly for POS (in-store) and online payments, and this is the best way to spend when abroad.

Here’s why:

• No surprise ATM or conversion fees
  
  

• Better control over how much you spend
  
  

• Safe and easy to track with real-time alerts
  
  

• No need to carry or convert large amounts of cash
  
  

When to Use the ATM

If you just received your Timon physical card, or recently changed your PIN, take a moment to do this:

Insert the card into any ATM  and do a balance inquiry.

This helps:

• Activate and sync your card chip
  
  

• Make sure your new PIN is working properly
  
  

• Prevent issues at POS machines abroad
  
  

You only need to do this once. After that, there’s no need to use ATMs, your card is travel-ready.

✈️ Your Timon Travel Checklist

If you ever need help while travelling, we’re right here.
Send us a message in the app or email help@usetimon.com, we’ve got your back.

Your Timon card is the smart, travel-friendly way to spend abroad. Skip the fees, skip the stress, and enjoy your trip.