Travellers cheques or money card?

[Zip106]

I'm sending my parents away to America (not for ever - just a 'vacation') in August for 6 weeks to visit relatives.

I'm just wondering what the best option is money wise for a pair of mid-seventies, sometimes do-lally, partially deaf, not particularly travel wise OAPs.

I'm thinking possibly travellers cheques as they've used them before, but the money cards seem a good idea but only if the ATM fees aren't too high and they remember the PIN number.
I've never used the money cards so what are peoples opinions of them?

Also, as this is a Chrimbo present and surprise, am I able to buy Travellers cheques for them?
I know they need to be signed ASAP after purchase and that isn't a problem but would I have to get them signed at the Post Office when I buy them?

TIA.

[v15ben]

I'd personally go for a Money card as it'll be much easier to use nowadays. Fees are usually reasonable, just research the cards in advance. I've used mine all over the shop and never had a problem getting it accepted.

Having said that I'm sure most places in the US will still take travellers cheques so maybe it's better the devil you know.

[Zip106]

Ben, thanks.
You're in Notts aren't you? (maybe quite handy )

So, I've looked at the Money card from the Post Office and it looks OK - do all ATM's in the USA take them? (specifically Oregon)
And can I purchase the card for someone else?

[v15ben]

I am in Notts mate though not working in travel any more
You can buy a card for someone else, but some companies require the cardholder to verify their ID before sending the card out. That takes about 7 days though so you could always buy in advance easily enough.

[lazy_b]

In my experience of the USA (admittedly limited to Florida), dollar travellers checks/cheques are as good as cash - they are accepted almost everywhere, and if you pay for e.g. a meal with one, you will receive change in cash.