Money is often a sore subject for many people – worrying about paying the bills, affording little treats and saving for the future can stress you out no end. When we are fortunate enough to be able to head abroad for a well-deserved holiday, the last thing that we want to worry about is our hard-earned cash. Whether it’s where the spending money is coming from, or how to ensure that it stays safe and secure, money can carry a lot of stress with it.
Luckily, with a few sensible decisions, your money, while on holiday, can be well taken care of. If you’re travelling abroad and need to have that little extra peace of mind, there are plenty of ways in which you can almost guarantee that your finances will stay in ship-shape. Here’s how.
What travel money options are there?
You can take your pick from the various travel money options that are available – some will be more appealing than others, and often, it depends on the kind of person you are.
Do you prefer to change all of your money into the local currency before you leave for the airport? Or are you more likely to change your money at a local bank once you have settled in at your chosen destination? Many holidaymakers choose to deal with cash, and only cash, but be aware that cash isn’t protected (unless with your travel insurance), so losing it could seriously cost you.
Another option would be to take a credit card. Not only are they safe and secure, but if you choose to sign up for a specialist card, such as the Avios LloydsTSB credit card, you can enjoy 0% on all of your foreign purchases, as well as no foreign exchange fees. Your Avios points will also build up, which can be spent on future holidays.
Prepaid account cards are also a viable option, nowadays. You simply top up the card before you travel, which you can then use to withdraw money from ATM machines while abroad.
Travellers cheques can be cancelled if they’re lost or stolen, but they can cost a lot when you consider commission charges.
Keeping your cash safe
You’ve surely heard the phrase “don’t put all of your eggs in one basket”, and that can be applied to travel money. When you go abroad, don’t carry all of your money and cards around with you in your wallet – what happens if it is lost, or stolen? Instead, use a safety deposit box in your room to store all of your important documents, valuables and money that you don’t need.
When you’re out and about, don’t leave your purse or wallet in plain view. If it’s in a bag, don’t leave it at the top where it could easily fall, or be stolen. Better still, have your money on you. Store some separate in a money bag in an inside pocket, or bumbag. If you are at the beach, make sure that one member of your party stays with everybody’s belongings, bury anything of value near to your sun lounger, or at least stay close by. Don’t take too much of value to the beach though – leave it in the safe in your hotel room instead.
There are plenty of options available, and you need to choose the best deal for you. Whatever you choose though, look after your cash and don’t become too complacent, just because the sun is shining!
