The amount of spending money you will need will vary with each individual. The program carries money for emergencies. Usually the exchange rate is better for traveler's checks than it is for cash once you're in the airport or in Spain. If you take traveler's checks, make sure to keep a record of the numbers of the checks and leave a copy of the numbers in the United States as well as carry a record of the numbers in a different place than where you carry the checks.
All exchange places charge a commission.
As with all card transactions, there will be service charges and just as with traveler's checks, the percentage charged on small amounts is proportionately higher than on large amounts. Sometimes it's really easy to lose track of how much we spend on off-campus study. If you happen to be the designated tipper for a large restaurant bill, usually the tip is no more than 200 pesetas no matter how much the bill is. Put your money on the bar and wait for the change to come back to you on a little plate. Taxi tips are optional.