European money

[robing]

What's the best way of getting cash out in Europe? Mainly thinking of Euros. I did trips to Ireland and Spain this summer and found I was getting charged quite a lot every time I withdrew money from an ATM.

 

[slowmotion]

Have a look at getting a Caxton Card.

 

[classic33]

Friends account!
Assuming you've transferred/paid into first of course.

 

[PaulSB]

Pre loaded euro card from someone like Travelex. Works like a debit card in shops, restaurants etc. and likewise in cas machines.

Travelex call it the Cash Passport but I understand many companies offer the service. I liked the fact you get two cards with different pins so one can be lost or stolen without influencing use of the other. Also anyone who has your account log in details can instantly add funds if you find yourself in desperate need of money.

I've used them in SA and USA without issues. I guess Europe is the same though to be honest I just use my bank card in Europe or Santander Zero credit card which makes no charges if paid in full each month.

 

[albal]

Get a Santander debit card all withdrawals are free from any Santander ATM. Passed one in Nurnberg, Germany last June, just after I used an-other ATM. Damnit! Nationwide Credit card do not charge for transactions made. ATM charges do apply , do not use!

 

[andym]

I use FairFx - though I suspect there's probably not much difference between them and the otehrs mentioned here. Make sure to get the Euro card - *not* the Anywhere card.

moneysavingexpert.com has a guide to the best cards to use abroad - it's well worth reading.

Prepay cards like FairFx and Caxton have the advantage that you know exactly what rate you are getting and what the charges will be. With other cards it can be more difficult to find out and compare.

I just use my bank card in Europe or Santander Zero credit card which makes no charges if paid in full each month.

I have a Santander Zero Card as well, while it's good for things like hotels I think they charge interest on cash advances from the day you make the withdrawal.

 

[Kolb]

The website moneysavingexpert.com has a section on foreign money - under travel I think. Well worth reading.

 

[robing]

Have a look at getting a Caxton Card.

Thanks, yes got the Caxton card. Looking forward to using it for this summer's European tours.