Please or to access all these features

Add post

Watch this thread

Save thread

Start a new thread

Flip thread

Hide thread

My feed

Active Unanswered threads

Getting started FAQ's

Unanswered threads Acronyms Talk guidelines

Hide shortcut buttons

Talk

Holidays

Use our Travel forum for recommendations on everything from day trips to the best family-friendly holiday destinations.

Flip

Original poster

best way to take dollars?

11 replies

Magnalux · 21/03/2023 14:55

Hi all, we're heading to Florida for three weeks, family of 5, 2 adults 3 dc What is the best way to bring and spend dollars? Has any one used the post office currency card? I also have a Revolut account, is that a better way to go? the kids have some money saved so I'd like them to be able to keep and spend theirs separately. Thanks for any help

OP posts:

TizerorFizz · 21/03/2023 18:07

Look at Money saving expert for the best currency cards. Check your exchange charges and other charges to get the best deal. We have the Halifax Clarity card. It’s a credit card though so not ok for all. Maybe take cash for Dc?

YankeeDad · 21/03/2023 18:24

Something like Revolut will probably give you the best exchange rate. I am not sure what is the best approach for the kids but if you check Revolut website, maybe it is possible to take out cash in US Dollars once you are there. Otherwise you could use a regular UK debit card in an ATM in the US, although the commissions for that might be higher. My guess is that US cash will be cheaper to get in the US than in the UK. Whatever you do, do not go to one of the currency exchanges places in the airport, as they are a complete ripoff. They usually take about 15-20% of your money in either direction.

Lcb123 · 21/03/2023 18:25

Halifax clarity credit card is best for overseas usually. And cash for the kids

PurpleWisteria1 · 21/03/2023 18:30

Starling card. No fees for using abroad.

PurpleWisteria1 · 21/03/2023 18:31

Revolute is not a uk operated bank and does NOT have the same protections. Look it up. Lots of people have been caught out. Your money is all fine and safe with that card… until it’s not.

Whammyyammy · 22/03/2023 18:33

I use the BA amex, accepted everywhere in the u.s, and collect avios on the way.

Mumof1andacat · 22/03/2023 18:48

We went last year. We took $500 in cash and opened a starling account so used the card out they. Very easy app to use. Nice break down to show where you are spending your money

Original poster

Magnalux · 22/03/2023 23:10

Thanks for all the help.. lots to look at!

OP posts:

YankeeDad · 22/03/2023 23:13

Make sure you do your research on the exchange rates. Some of the suggestions you have received would result in fees on the order of 3% or more of what you spend.

HanSB · 22/03/2023 23:29

Cash for kids if they are not taking much each. Starling card is very good, I linked it to my phone and used it that way, it uses the current Mastercard exchange rate with no fees.

TherealmrsT · 22/03/2023 23:36

Post office card works well (have used for over 10 years) but might not give best exchange these days.

Flip