I don't really trust debit cards. I like having the extra step of me getting billed by the credit card company a few weeks after I make a purchase, for security.

For instance, I had a friend who used his debit card to purchase take-out at a restaurant. The restaurant ended up accidentally charging him again for an amount that was in the hundreds of dollars. With a debit card - immediately that money is not available for you to access. If you then go to an ATM because you need cash, you might find out that you don't have any money available. If you're traveling and really need cash, this probably isn't such a great situation.

Similar, but worse, situations are possible if someone's trying to defraud you. To me, it makes no sense to pay as much for a debit card, but not get any of the benefits of a credit card.

d