How much do you carry?

[RETCW4]

I was wondering....on a thru hike, how much cash is carried at any given time? I plan on a combination of cash, debit and credit cards. I'll use the cash for any place that won't take a debit/credit card. I realize I'll be able to get cash at ATMs, but want to limit that option.

Tumbleweed

[MuddyWaters]

I carry a debit card and two $20 bills.

Carry either a debit card or a credit card, there is no need for both. There is no need for lots of cash either.

[kayak karl]

i used a debit card and had $100 auto transfer per week. (if i need more i just found a puter and added more). if i lost the card it didn't have 5k on it just had a balance of around $300.
for cash it varies. you'll figure it out as u go.

[WingedMonkey]

I realize I'll be able to get cash at ATMs, but want to limit that option.

Just a reminder to use the free "cash back" at places you shop that allow it. Save the AT fees.

[cabbagehead]

If the Facebook guy did the AT, I'm sure he would pay for most things with cash to save time. He used to earn around $1,900 a second. He might still be earning that.

[kayak karl]

good point. i found dollar stores, grocery stores and post offices did.

[max patch]

Personal preference; I like to leave town with $100 cash but thats just me.

[Miner]

In case you loose your credit card/debit card, you should keep at least some cash for food and stuff stored in a different place so you can live until you can get it replaced.

[Maddog]

+1 On carrying about $100 in cash. Maddog

[10-K]

A few hundred, with some small bills for tips and whatever. Also take 2 credit cards, debit card, DL, and insurance card.

[rusty bumper]

I carried my driver's license, health insurance card, debit card and $100-$200 in cash. I put them all inside a small Opsak bag that was always in the zippered back pocket of my hiking shorts.

[StubbleJumper]

A few hundred, with some small bills for tips and whatever. Also take 2 credit cards, debit card, DL, and insurance card.

+1. I always try to leave town with some miscellaneous small bills (ie, a couple of five-dollar and several one-dollar bills) so that I have some small money to contribute for gas when I'm hitching out of town, and then when I hitch back into town at the next town stop. If you just have twenties that are fresh from the ATM, you don't really want to offer gas money to your hitch. :-)

[RETCW4]

Thanks for the advice from everyone. Sounds like carry small amounts in various denominations and use debit card at local stores to resupply cash.

Tumbleweed