Talking Money

Decide what currency you want to take with you as ATM's can be expensive to withdraw from but see the next section for some tips on transaction free cards.  Remember you may need money for taxis or buses at the airport and any incidentals.  If you decide to take currency to use in the country your visiting try and work out what you might need saving the necessity to transfer back when you return home. 

I recently came across a bank account called Starling which is a mobile only bank. The account can be opened online in minutes and does not charge a single penny for withdrawals up to about £350 anywhere in the world nor does it charge for any other transactions which can save you £££'s.

The next best is Monzo which charges nothing until you reach £200 per month then its 3% (as at Jun 19) and thats about it although there are others that charge smaller fees.

I am sure there are others on the market too so it is worth looking.

If you are planning on using your debit card whilst away let your bank know where and how long you will be away. Especially with cruising where you will be in different places daily the last thing you want is your bank putting a stop on your account. This happend to me and getting in touch with the bank from overseas was a pain.  

It is also an idea to keep a separate note of the phone numbers for your cards in case of loss/theft while you are away. Maybe even take a photocopy of your card so you have all the details you will need in a separate place

A great way of saving money is to check  out various transport services, rail and underground and buying railcards and passes to save money. Check out any free walking tours, museums and city passes and pre-buy before you go. 

Carrying money overseas is always a worry especially in big cities where pick pocketing is rife! Consider a money belt or a cross body bag with a zip and only take out what you need.  Place any unused cash/cards in the hotel or cabin safe. Do not think it will be safe in your trouser pocket ! If your purse/wallet is stolen contact the authorites immediately and your own insurance company who may need a crime number from the local police.  Contact your card company who can put an immediate stop on your account to stop any further withdrawals.

There are lots of places online where you can get a very good exchange rate with no delivery charges. I use eurochange.co.uk but only if I intend to buy a lot of currency as the more you purchase the better the rate. You will find local Post Offices and Travel Agents all have a currency counter.  The most expensive place with the worst rates is usually the Airport so make sure you exchange before you go!