Traveler checks in spain?

i already found some banks in the city i will be staying in that exchange AmEx traveler checks. however, the more research i have done everyone seems to say that traveler checks are a pain and obsolete. is this true or will i be okay since i already know there are banks near where i will be that can exchange? i do not have the option of an ATM card or credit card (i will not be with my parents). what are my other options?