Using a debit card abroad

Andybez38

Is there a charge to use your Barclays connect debit card abroad? and do you have to notify your bank so they can flag your account, to authorise forigen transactions.

lisyloo

Yes, I'm pretty sure there is a charge.
You won't see it though, they will simply use a slightly worse conversion rate.
I don't know what it is off the top of my head bu usually it's around 2.75%.

You don't usually have to inform them for use abroad, however if you are going on a cruise (for example) and visiting 10 different countries it's a good idea to let them know so they don't stop your card because they think it's stolen.
If I'm doing this sort of holiday (or spending a large amount of money) then I call them and ask them to add it to my notes.
Computers are programmed to look for unusual spending patterns.

jonesMUFCforever

My bank charges 2.75% + £1 per transaction.
I would only use it to get money and rest of spending goes on my credit card.

lisyloo

Most credit cards charge around 2.75% (although it varies).

One that doesn't charge anything is Nationwide (for purchases).
They don't charge anything for withdrawing cash using their debit card.
They do charge for withdrawing cash on their credit card but I think it's still better that other banks.

Certainly worth loking at the if you travel a lot.

jojo1978_3

I think its always worth letting your credit card company know, if you plan to use your credit card whilst abroad, it then gets picked up on their system if they see activity in a foreign country they know its you, so will authorise the transaction.