Forgotten how to do money abroad. What is the cheapest way?

[GrabbyGabby]

Fingers crossed off on holidaze to Spain in June. I have forgotten how to do money. What is the most cost effective way to take money out to avoid having to carry bucket loads of cash out

I just paid for everything by card.

Card and always pay in local currency not £s
Have a lovely time

Everything by card, withdraw cash if required from atm. Not necessarily the cheapest option but definitely the easiest

Monzo card no?

Sign up for Revolut / Monzo and use it abroad. You can transfer over what you need and convert as you go, paying in local currency and avoiding fees. Take a bit of cash with you for emergencies and small purchases.

Monzo is a great tip will do that. Have been meaning to set that up

Obviously Martin lewis will have all the most accurate information but I don't think Monzo is on the list fo best cards to use abroad, it wasn't when I checked recently for my parents

I would take some cash for smaller purchases if you're using your bank card. If you are charged a foreign currency fee for every €10 transaction the charges will really add up. And yes pay in the local currency not GBP.

If you're with Santander they don't charge foreign currency fees for withdrawing cash from their ATMs in Spain. Their Zero credit card also offers excellent exchange rates and no penalties. But you need to pay in local currency and don't let the shop/restaurant exchange for you.

I always prefer to take some cash with me. Sites like moneysupermarket have tools to show you where the best exchange rate can be found. I've often used those little specialist exchange shops and found they offer the best rates, specially if you order online, but do a comparison. It's always better to collect but factor in the cost of getting to them. Only exchange at the airport in an emergency - the rates are generally awful.

Caxton worked for me.

The Virgin Money current account is fee-free for cash withdrawals and debit card purchases abroad. It's very easy to open and manage online.