Be wise about money
- Get cash before you travel - only buy foreign money at an airport in an emergency.
- Try a currency card - load money in the currency you need and use it like a normal bank card. Top up from your bank account online, by phone or text.
- Always take some cash out with you in case you can't find a local ATM.
- Always use a debit card for cash withdrawals - especially abroad where charges can be higher. Make a few large withdrawals rather than several small ones.
- Do tell your card provider you are going abroad or they may mistake foreign spending for fraud and your card may be blocked.
- When paying by card, opt to pay in local currency to avoid sneaky extra charges.
- Travellers cheques are still used in large resorts and hotels (especially in the USA) but are not as easy to use as a currency card or cash card.
Avoid scams
- Always use official taxi ranks and check the taxi has a license disc in the window.
- Tour reps pushing day trips and restaurants may be getting a cut from locals for passing on business. Ask other holidaymakers for their recommendations.
- Never change money with street vendors - they'll either flog you counterfeit money or shortchange you.
- Beware of fake plain-clothes 'policemen' who ask to see your documents, then do a runner with your ID.
2016 advice: If you have a dispute with a trader in an EU country while abroad, call 01268 886690 or visit ukecc.net for help.
[
Good Housekeeping July 2013 and July 2016]
