Travel Euros

[smokedgarlic]

Is it cheaper generally to get travel euros from the Post Office or from the airport currency exchange . Is the most expensive way to withdraw euros from a cash machine using my Visa card? I saw an entire cabin crew doing this a few weeks ago so wondered whether I was missing a trick !

I've always tended to get mine before I go - Post Office and Tesco both usually have good prices, and I think M&S tend to as well. I haven't tried the airport, but I would worry that they think they can give a worse rate because if you need them, you need them, so they won't be so bothered by you going elsewhere.

ATMs - depends on your account - I have one with Nationwide which doesn't charge a fee for getting Euros from the ATM or for buying things in Euros on the card, but that is one specific account, so chances are your 'ordinary' visa account may not be that good. The cabin crew have probably all made sure they have accounts which are specially good for that.

debenhams did us a good rate so we took euros with us

We only ever take a small float with us and then get money when necessary.

We normally self-cater and I don't like taking cash with me for 2 weeks. We withdrew money 3-4x.

Also, ATM withdrawls are calculated by a different rate then when you take cash from the Post Office or similar, normally the rate is better. You may pay fees for withdrawls but I found that a small price to pay for not worrying about cash.

we went AI so didnt need huge amounts of cash and used a credit card to pay for excursions

NEVER get cash at the airport unless pre-ordered.

always pay in local currency. Tell your bank you are going abroad.

I think you're prob best using the cashpoint where you go - you can get certain cards in the UK which are commission free - think Nationwide was one.

There are also cards you can 'pre-load' with currency before you go to so you're not carrying lots of cash if that worries you.

Thank you all that is really helpful

Only use visa DEBIT to withdraw cash, visa CREDIT will charge interest from the moment of withdrawal, on everything that you have on the card.

I found ordering from Sainsburys online was a good rate.