A popular way to make sure you dont get stung by charges for withdrawing abroad is to organise a pre paid card while still in the UK.



These are available for a range of foreign exchange establishments and offer a pre topped up card with U.S. Dollars, euros or British Pounds. You can top these up when they are running low online or over the phone, and by cutting out the middle man you can save yourself a decent amount of money.





The top up card is also a bonus for sticking to a tight budget, as of course, one its gone its gone! If you decide to use this method a lone make sure you keep up to date on your credit really often, and do not put money thats going to pay for your hotel etc on this card or youre going to be in trouble.



What may be a surprise to you is that credit cards often offer a very competitive rate for foreign exchange. This is why it is often very beneficial to have one with you while on holiday. However the credit cards of course come with a sting for the majority of cards every time you take out a withdrawal you will be charged a minimum of 2.50 for each time you remove money. If you do incorporate a credit card into your holiday spending try to limit how many times you take money out. Take out a larger sum than you need and store the money in a safe back at your hotel or villa.



A credit card can be a real blessing if you are stuck in a tight spot while abroad. If you need to buy an unexpected item or spend a little over budget while out on the town, a credit card can help you get home without too much of a problem, so you can repay any over spending once you are home. If you are prone to a shopping spree when you know you shouldnt, leave the credit card at your hotel so you will be less tempted!