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The newer credit/debit cards with the Visa/Mastercard logo on them look like credit cards, act like credit cards but instead of taking money out of a line of credit, it's taken out of your checking account. Most credit card readers won't know the difference. If you use it as a debit card, you can get cash back with your purchase at the point of sale, where you won't if you use it as a credit card.

A word of caution: some major rental car companies and hotels will not knowingly accept a debit card for reserving a car or a room, as they usually hold back at least one night's rental. They will, however accept a debit card for final payment.