Greeting,

Are traveller checks accepted in smaller cities like Huaraz? I know I can take my bank card but I am trying to avoid it.

Thanks
Ahsan

Probably, but in my experience (I stopped carrying travelers checks for this reason), you will get less money or charged a fee for them in any Latin American country than you would with cash or card. In the larger cities and tourist cities you can find places to change them, but cash or ATM is much easier. Of course it may be slightly more risky as well, but I've never had a problem.

I gave up traveller's checks a long time ago. I've always taken my bank card and have had no problems. I'm told that you can get prepaid credit cards that would work the same way and would limit your potential loss to the amount that you had put on them.

Take a bank card and some cash. Exchange your money out of the airport if possible. You will find better exchange rates. Also, don't take large bills ie. 100.00 . Take only small denomination bills, 20's , that are ( very important), clean, un-marked, not folded, ripped or otherwise tattered. If you do this, you will have no problem.

I agree that an ATM card is the way to go, but it is a good idea to call your bank first and let them know when and where you will be traveling. Some banks will block unusual use (ie out of country) if they don't know ahead of time. The crisp new bills advice is also essential for the cash you bring.

I've never had luck with travlers checks at businesses. I've always had to go to the bank, wait in line, and then pay a fee. Total waste of time. There are ATMs everywhere and charge no fee, except what your bank gets you for. Don't take travlers checks.