I don't like carrying that much cash. My credit card protects me from double charges, if they happen. In 23 trips, I have only had one double charge and that was at Emerald Beach last year. We stayed in April and was charged for our rooms, food, etc. Then in October, a duplicate charge showed up on my CC statement. It was resolved quickly. Also, using my Capital One card, it comes with some benefits; if I rent a car, it covers insurance, if I buy anything and it gets lost or stolen, they replace it. Capital One does not charge an exchange fee either.