Currency ExchangeTips
So its getting to that point where you need to swap the queen's head with George Washington and we understand there's usually a lot of questions surrounding this. How much money should I take? What if I don't want to take cash? Should I take my debit card? Relax, we have all the answers right here...
Cash Exchange
When it comes to exchanging currency a lot of people just pop into a local travel agents and get currency there.
THAT IS A BIG NO NO! Go to the naughty step!
Okay, you can come of now. We highly recommend you shop around before exchanging currency on the high street so you can ensure you get the best rate. If you want to see what the exchange rate currently is then click here. To ensure you get the best exchange value, check out MoneySavingExpert's travel exchange comparison section for advise on where to get the best rate. Check the website out here
Whilst it is recommended to take some cash with you to the States, it is not advisable to take a huge amount, just in case it gets lost or stolen. If it goes, its gone for good. But never fear! There is another way...
Travellers Cheques
You may be familiar with travelers cheques. This is a great alternative to using cash because if they get lost of stolen it is possible to claim back the money. Most currency exchange bureaus offer travels cheques.
All you have to do is visit a bank once in the States to exchange the cheque for cash.
Pre-paid Cash Card
Behold, the Almighty cash card! One of the safest ways to take your money abroad. A pre-paid cash card is similar to a debit-card in terms of how it can be used, but it won't charge you too use it abroad. SAY WHAT!? Yes, this card allows you to top it up (either online or other the phone) then either withdraw the money in dollars from an ATM or to make purchases using the card. "Now, CampStaffGuide, surely there have to be charges with doing this"? Yes you are right, some pre-paid cards will charge you for withdrawing money or for making a purchase. But here at CampStaffGuide we do all the hard work for you. We have looked around for a pre-paid card that has NO CHARGES!
The CaxtonFX card has NO charges for making an ATM withdrawal or a direct purchase. Now, we must point out that there is a sightly lower exchange rate compared to the other pre-paid cards BUT if you take into account the charges the others make, we feel that this is by far the best card out there. For more information click on the card to be taken to the CaxtonFX website. The great thing about this card is that if it gets lost or stolen, all you have to do is call the help-line and they will be able to send to you a new card. Safe and secure.
Please Note: That the pre-paid card can not be used as a security deposit (For hotel or car hire). Whilst Caxton will not charge you for withdrawing money, but it will lock that amount for up to 31 days on the card.
REMEMBER, if you are going to take your UK debit card with you, you may experience high charges from your bank for both withdrawals and purchases. It is always important to notify your bank before your travels if you do intend to use your card abroad.
(We did it in bold because it is that important!)
