É«»¨ÌÃ

    does anyone still use traveller check while overseas. do local viet bank honor them. just curious, rather than  carrying cash, lest it stolen or lost.
   

    -@brianAFSER73

I haven't heard anyone mention Traveller's Checks for over 5 years, but IF I had one I'd expect the best deal on a USD check from a major hotel IF I were a guest there.

    does anyone still use traveller check while overseas.

I've not even seen traveller's cheques since I was in Crete, about 40 years ago.

do local viet bank honor them.

Good question, and one I'm sorry I can't answer. If they do, be prepared to present your passport (and other ID?), then wait while the bank employee gets authorization (in branch, or by phone to head office?), and then if all is well, the eventual disbursement of your monies.

just curious, rather than  carrying cash, lest it stolen or lost.         -@brianAFSER73

Why not use your bank's ATM card? ATM machines are found everywhere.

I’ve often wondered this myself?  I’d only use American Express if I did. Call Amex and ask them? 

I recommend getting a local bank account here - i easily got one as a tourist - rules change frequently here, so don’t know how difficult now?

If using a foreign debit card, ask your bank to issue two.

Some machines here misread pin codes and you’re screwed if card is locked out. Tollfree numbers to your bank cost a fortune to call - use an app like Skype to call your bank if you have problems?

My bank mailed me a replacement card to vietnam but i doubt they’ll do that now?

Pickpocket Proof pants are available online - well worth the cost. Mine have 10 pockets ! Ingenious design - i bought 2 pair - worn for 10 years -  especially good for attending packed events or sleeping on buses or public transport…

I recommend a moneyclip for daily cash bills and keep big bills in wallet - always in front pockets - same as mobile…

Perfect with removable legs for wearing in buildings which don’t allow shorts.

I recommend getting a local bank account here - i easily got one as a tourist - rules change frequently here, so don’t know how difficult now?
    -@TaurusTiger

Only a few banks offer a limited international account now on a tourist visa (Timo for one).

No domestic accounts are allowed on a tourist visa since the major changes in banking laws.

Ah, thanks for clarification

Only a few banks offer a limited international account now on a tourist visa (Timo for one).

No domestic accounts are allowed on a tourist visa since the major changes in banking laws.
        -@OceanBeach92107

I do believe the OP, brianAFSER73, would qualify for a VEC.

Can you recall whether we've discussed on the forum banking regulations vis-a-vis VEC holders?

(bit of a tongue twister, that)

    Only a few banks offer a limited international account now on a tourist visa (Timo for one). No domestic accounts are allowed on a tourist visa since the major changes in banking laws.        -@OceanBeach92107

I do believe the OP, brianAFSER73, would qualify for a VEC.
Can you recall whether we've discussed on the forum banking regulations vis-a-vis VEC holders?
(bit of a tongue twister, that)
   

    -@Aidan in HCMC

Yes, we have, and no, they don't qualify for a domestic account, as they are only approved to remain in Vietnam for 6 months at a time AND the VEC basically gives them the same visitor status as a tourist visa.

Timo is probably their best bet for a limited bank account.

@Aidan in HCMC

if you do mutiple withdrawals. atm fee, currency exch rate fee would be a killer.  for an exended stay, what's the best option to access your cash in your home country bank. i saw some early thread, but  they all seemed muddled. i am still unclear if there was a best solution. maybe some veteran expat on here can share their workaround

    @Aidan in HCMC
if you do mutiple withdrawals. atm fee, currency exch rate fee would be a killer.  for an exended stay, what's the best option to access your cash in your home country bank. i saw some early thread, but  they all seemed muddled. i am still unclear if there was a best solution. maybe some veteran expat on here can share their workaround
   

    -@brianAFSER73

There are many, many posts that you've obviously missed in your searching regarding Schwab Bank.

Search results for "Schwab" (link)

Open an account while you are in the USA.

Your home page says you are American, so get a Charles Schwab bank account. You have to open an investment account too, but it can be empty. Excellent for international travel and living. Keep your money in the US. Use ATMs anywhere, even in convenience stores, and Schwab reimburses. See reviews in nerdwallet dot com etc.  Avoid Vietnamese banks, many hassles. 

Pros will have a second bank/ATM card for emergencies when your Schwab card expires, breaks. They will send you a replacement for free overseas, but you might starve waiting for it.

Two credit cards are a good idea too, one Mastercard on Visa. Nerdwallet lists good ones for international use.

And carry at least $1000 cash, brand new $100 bills, no tears or folds. Stash it when you arrive. You won't get mugged, and if you can't afford to lose $1000 then your finances are pretty shaky.  (I would have lost my first apartment if I didn't have the cash for deposit).

Figure out how to access your financial accounts online. They have free chat too.  Also some/most? cards still require you to set a Travel Notice for which countries you will be in. Do that before you leave.

Happy skies!

@gobot

your comment and suggetion on opening a schwab account is wise, and practical. thank you.