We don't use debit cards. Use CC for protection and to get points and rewards to get free stuff like Yeti coolers and other outdoor stuff. Always pay off when bill comes in. When traveling, I usually take $500-$1000 in mixed bills- $5 to $100 bills and some change for backup. Once we get home, the unused cash goes back in the bank. If power goes down, so does CC. Don't travel much outside of U.S. anymore, too much to see in the great U.S.A.