A good practice is to take more cash - American dollars - with you when you travel than you think you'll need. Better to be prepared in case of the unforeseen emergency! I try more and more to spend less on souvenirs. At least I have to think: is it lightweight enough and small enough to fit in the suitcase and not go over the weight limit?
Once, on a very special occasion, a dear friend's daughter's wedding, I had some crystal goblets shipped from Ireland. It cost more, but they arrived at home intact, on time.
If you're going to a foreign country, you'll want to get some cash in that country's currency. You can buy this from your bank but please do this several weeks before your trip. Once I made the mistake of asking the bank clerk to order a particular number of dollars' worth, say, $200, worth of Euros. When I went to pick it up, I found she had brought 200 Euros! This cost considerably more than the $200 worth of Euros. She said they couldn't be returned. Lesson learned! Now I make all requests in writing and keep a copy.
I didn't spend the 200 Euros on my trip. At the airport, I looked at the exchange rate. It was better than that of my bank back home! I cashed them in and actually made money.
Get familiar with the paper money and coins of your new country's cash so you'll know if you get the proper change when purchasing an item. Don't forget to save all receipts. Some foreign countries will give you the tax you spent back when you leave.
Keep most of your cash, both dollars and the foreign country's currency, in your money belt. See this blog, August 13, 2013, "P" help #3: I.D., Passport, Credit cards.
I've never been with anyone who has had their purse snatched or wallet pick-pocketed in a foreign country. For men: if you're keeping your wallet in your back pocket, wrap several thick rubber bands around it. This makes it harder to take out. Women, keep that purse very close to your body, a shoulder strap is good, everything zippered is good. Lastly, look out for each other!
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