Spending around Asia

hayface

Hello guys! This is my first post here so be gentle with me...

I figured this would be the best place to get some good advice about spending throughout multiple countries.

I'm heading to Asia on a 6 month trip but I'm not sure what my best options are in terms of spending?

Ideally I'd like a debit card so I'm more in control of my spending and I'm wondering what products you could recommend? I'm trying to avoid as many charges as I can and chances are I'll be withdrawing cash more than making actual card transactions.

Any assistance and recommendations would be appreciated!

Thank you and kind regards, Ian.

ferf1223

have you looked at this:

http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/travel/cheap-travel-money

hayface

I have done so, but I can't find anything specific for my needs. I was wondering whether users had some of their own recommendations or information on newer products perhaps?

Bob_the_Saver

hayface wrote: »

I have done so, but I can't find anything specific for my needs. I was wondering whether users had some of their own recommendations or information on newer products perhaps?

If you are in London or go to London a Metro Bank card.

ferf1223

?? Not sure I understand how the link doesn't address your needs....the detail isn't specific to any currency, but general to overseas spending....and gives detail for various options includig debit cards (and table of charges for many debit card options).

Metro Bank is one of the debit card options mentioned there too....

Saz888

Beware I just got back from 3 months in Thailand and ALL cash machines charge £3 per transaction - this is on top of any bank charges at home.

Nevertheless in SE Asia I usually take my debit card for cash withdrawals, a hidden credit card for total emergencies, $100 in cash and some travellers cheques also hidden for absolute emergencies. This is for lengthy trips & keep stuff in different places so I'll never be without if anything happens.

totallybored

Saz888 wrote: »

Beware I just got back from 3 months in Thailand and ALL cash machines charge £3 per transaction - this is on top of any bank charges at home.

Some charge in Vietnam too, there is no way of knowing if the machine will or not until you confirm your transaction. I've used quite a few different banks ATMs and it seems random. Normally only about. £1 fee. I have discovered the more dubious looking machines that I'd avoid at home (stood on the street on their own or in a 7-11 type shop) are often free though!

I got a Metro bank card to avoid fees but I've realised that I just look for machines where I feel safer using them and have stopped worrying about a couple of quid here and there.