money issues

"It's a good idea to call your bank and let them know where you'll be and when. First, you don't want to get stuck with a card that won't work because your bank is suspicious of the activity (your card being used in Peru will look a little weird and may raise some red flags)." GAP Watering Hole post

I called my VISA and they took down my travel dates. I'm doing the same with my bank for Interac later this week.

No need for Travellers' cheques as ATMs are readily available. Someone suggested only using swipe-type machines instead of the ones where you insert the full card, in case your card gets eaten. I'm also making sure I can use my VISA as an Interac card just in case!

"Bring in US $$ the amount that is required for "local payment" plus $100 - you'll give the local payment to your tour guide the first day. Otherwise, local currency will be the best currency to use wherever credit cards are not taken. Bring 2 Visa or Mastercards if you're afraid one might not work. (Though I have very rarely found that a card may not work in one ATM, but even if it doesn't in one, it'll almost always work in another).

1. At the airport hit an ATM and take out about $50-100 in Soles for taxi and food and peace of mind.

2. Hit another ATM downtown after you've dropped your luggage off at the hotel and get around $200-$300 more in Soles. If you're on a GAP tour, it should take awhile to burn through that much dough.

3. Anytime you dip near $50 in Soles and see an ATM, go for it. And make sure you use your coins as often as possible - if you don't use them, you WILL not get that money back - they'll just be pretty pieces of metal turned souvenirs. Be sure to use a money belt and put your credit cards, most of your money and your Passport in it for safe keeping when in cities, especially bigger ones. " GAP Watering hole post