While away for almost 4 months on the WC we used our ATM for cash exclusively for smaller purchases and incidentals (better bargaining when shopping with CASH) and paid 99.9% of our larger on shore expenses with our AmEx (we were happy we also had a Mastercard as there were a few parts of the world that didn't accept AmEx). We also paid all our bills on line from the ship (carefully planning ahead of time) and had as much as possible set up for auto payments on our AmEx or auto withdrawal from our checking. The one and ONLY bill we pre-paid was our gardner whom I pre-dated checks for 4 months on the 1st of each month so our yard was maintained while we were away. We even filed an extension for our 2004 IRS taxes (but made sure no $ was owing so we didn't incur penalties).

The one bill we missed and didn't plan for was our car registration which came due while we were away. It never even occurred to us. By the time we returned, it was already delinquent so we bit the bullet and paid the late fee when we returned. Look ahead and anticipate what bills may arrive while you're away. Other than this, I think using ATMs for various currencies/cash is the best way to go. Whenever possible, use credit cards for larger purchases.

I also gave our Vet pre-authorization in the event of any emergency with our pets. All of this planning sure gave us peace of mind and it really wasn't that difficult!