Best way to take currency to Ukraine?

Question

We're travelling from the United Kingdom to Ukraine soon.

What's the best way to take currency and pay for things in Ukraine?

Should I take cash, or get traveller's cheques?

Are cards like Visa and Mastercard generally accepted in Ukrainian restaurants and shops?

Somebody has recommended that we get a lot of US dollars here, then get them converted over there- is this a good idea? Seems long-winded to me but would it be cheaper?

Local or traveller's advice would be very welcome.

? · Accepted Answer

The best way is to take some cash and Visa/Mastercard card(s) ( don't forget to call your bank and make them aware of your travel plans). Travel cheques are *almost* not used here (I mean, travelers don't use them that often). 
Yes, our shops/restaurants etc accept credit/debit cards, + there are tons of bankomats in Kiev (I assume you're going to visit the capital, right?) and the rest of big cities (Odessa, Donetsk, Kharkov, Dnepropetrovsk, Sevastopol, Lwiw etc...). 

As for US dollars... it depends. Last week € was ↓ and $ was ↑, so it differs every week. 

I'm local, and usually have ₴ (grivna/hryvnia), Russian rubles, € and some $ + Visa and Mastercard (€ and $ again, not ₴; both are not from Ukrainian banks). It really is better that way. 
If you are here just for 2-3 weeks you'll be fine with two kinds of currency + cards. If less - then kind of currency wouldn't make a big difference.

Anonymous · Answer

I go to Ukraine regularly and i usually take dollars..Credit card for emergencies and like AN said tell your bank first.
Don't change any dollars at Boryispol as you will get ripped off with the exchange rate.Look around Kreschatyik in Kiev for the best rates at the exchange booths.

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Best way to take currency to Ukraine?

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