New York ? Travelers in foreign countries today have access to many convenient and safe methods to exchange money, including bank ATM cards, credit cards and travelers checks. But each one comes with different fees. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• When you use your ATM card abroad you are subject to a universal ATM charge of $5 regardless of how much you take out. The fee means it’s best to withdraw cash in large, but safe, amounts.
• Credit-card companies typically charge 1 percent to 3 percent of each purchase.
• American Express charges 1 percent to buy travelers checks, though this fee is waived for its cardholders. But there may be charges applied by the bank you cash the check at.
• To avoid paying more than you must, do some research before you go abroad. Call your bank-card and credit-card companies and ask about their fees and exchange rates.