Currency for round the world trip

Paloma_2

Hi all

I am going to Hong Kong, New Zealand and San Francisco in January and wondered if anyone has any suggestions as to the easiest way to convert my cash into each currency. Should I get travellers cheques (in US dollars or British pounds?), or a currency cash card in advance or just get money out of ATMs as and when I need it?

My head is spinning a bit with all of the options available and the associated commission charges, if anyone has any ideas on a cheap and easy way to spend my hard earned cash!

Thanks in advance
Paloma

richardw

Paloma wrote: »

just get money out of ATMs as and when I need it?

Yes, and get a Nationwide account if you want to save a little extra.

dzug1

The easiest way is just to get cash from ATMs when you need it. If you have the right debit card (Nationwide) then it will cost you nothing. Even if you don't, on the worst cards ('cards from hell' as Martin hypes them) the costs are going to be roughly the same as the average for getting for TCs here.

(One tip - if your card charges a fixed fee as well as an exchange loading then don't take out lots of small amounts - make fewer larger withdrawals)

Some reserve access to currency is always advisable though - don't trust just to one source

jamesnc

Get a Nationwide debit card for withdrawing cash from ATMs. Its Visa so should be accepted around the world. It comes with their flexaccount.
I have used it travelling all over the world. It's amazing they still offer this service as it saves you loads on fees when travelling around the world as there's no charge for withdrawals! If you need a top up of funds you can just call home to ask family to put money in your account. Also safer than carrying cash!

If you go for this card make sure you let your card company know before you leave where you are going so they expect you to make withdrawals abroad.

To help save money whilst away in New Zealand there's a good site called Kiwimoneysavers which offers information on cheap flights, accommodation deals, phoning home whilst in New Zealand.