Not everywhere though.. Country I live in, bank card (or ATM card) can be used to draw money from ATM or make purchases in shops (by scanning the card and typing the PIN). Debit cards actually have a 'number' on it, which functions as a credit card... Most of the banks I know give you a free debit card if you apply for it (or they have some promotions etc.) You can try that, or 'borrow' a card from your friends, while paying them in cash..