Use abroad or return Travellers Cheques

rescueranger

Hello,

I have Thomas Cook US $800 travellers cheques that I took for a year long world trip as emergency money should my credit/debit cards fail me or get stolen. I've been trying to figure out however what is best to do since I am close to finishing the trip:

1. Use the travellers cheques whilst I am still abroad (China/Vietnam/Malaysia)
2. Return them when I get back to the UK and get Pound Sterling back.

I have been trying, unsuccessfully, to understand which way I might loose less money or whether there is there not much in it? Any help gratefully appreciated. Thanks.

inmypocketnottheirs

It all depends on what the rate was at the time you purchased. How much did you pay for the TC's. Then work out how much you will get for them now and compare.

bris

Start spending them instead of your normal money, the US dollar is taken at face value in these countries so you will not lose any money by spending them in the shops instead of your usual spending money.

Back home, unless the exchange rate is significantly better you will lose a fair percentage by selling them back in the UK.

rescueranger

Thank you both for your speedy and succinct replies, much appreciated. Off to use up my TCs now!