No Nationwide card - What to do?

Brown_eyes_4

I'm off to New York on 3rd April. I obviously don't have time to get a Nationwide debit or credit card before I go so I'm wondering what is the best way to pay for purchases and withdraw money whilst out there. I have an Egg money card and Lloyds TSB debit card or do I exhange money into dollars.

Jem8472

Sorry I cant help, but I would like to know can I get a nationwide card without having to use them as my new current account bank?
I like natwest and they have a very easy to use online banking so I dont really want to switch but I want to be able to use my card when I go to Canada without paying the 2.75%

Brown_eyes_4

Yes, you can set up a flexaccount with nationwide without having it as your main current account. Use the flexaccount visa debit card for withdrawing cash and their credit card for purchases abroad.

Russ66

Jem8472 wrote:

Sorry I cant help, but I would like to know can I get a nationwide card without having to use them as my new current account bank?
I like natwest and they have a very easy to use online banking so I dont really want to switch but I want to be able to use my card when I go to Canada without paying the 2.75%

You would need to open a "Flexaccount" (Current Account) with them but there are no conditions etc on how you use it, just make sure that you have enough cash in there for the duration of your trip.

As this is a "Money Saving" website you should really ditch your Natwest account anyway. The Nationwide website is much easier to navigate that the Natwest, they'd pay more interest on your current account, cheaper overdrafts (if needed) and you can easily use your mouse to move money in and out of their higher interest accounts as you need it if you have some spare.

Take the plunge, you won't look back.

Finishrich

If you are looking for a nationwide credit card you don't need to have a current account with them. The only reason you would want a current account is to use their debit card.

p00pieb0tt0m

Both your Egg card (if credit) and your Lloyds card (normal current account with blue and green card) will charge for withdrawals abroad and I believe purchases too (check the terms and conditions).

What I do when holidaying is pick a day when I have time and shop around my nearest town. Also only ask for £'s worth in first place. After that ask for however many dollars, they have quoted you, in every subsequent place. This way it's very easy to compare.

Consider travellers cheques they are v. easy to spend in America and have insurance with them which offers replacements within 24 hours. Also American Express have a free service (if you buy theirs) where they will help you out if your passport and/or debit/credit cards are lost or stolen.

If you decide on money/travellers cheques and are paying with one of your cards be aware that the banks know you have bought money and will charge you accordingly (again check terms and conditions). Your best option may be to withdraw the cash at the bank but careful with that money in your pocket!!!

Jem8472

I have just applied for a flexaccount, I might transfer all my stuff over but not 100% sure