FWIW...I use ATM's almost exclusively, but I am still a bit old school and routinely will take in excess of $5k for insurance. It gives me comfort, and yes...I am taking chances with carrying that much cash, but I've never had a problem, whereas on several occasions I found that the cash came in handy and helped solve problems. I carry the cash in a money belt and I've never been stopped or questioned regarding the money...ever.