Multiple currencies

Kinnie

We are doing a 1/2 world cruise and I want
US DOLLARS , NEW ZEALAND DOLLARS & AED DIRHAMS
Only looking for 100 of each just to start us off for coffee etc
Our bank wants minimum £300 Of each, just wondering if I can order in Halifax or another bank,
Prefer to go rather than post but if needs will post
Also lots of places seem to do a charge for the minimum amount of each currency, giving 3 extra costs

Hopefully someone can advise. Thanks

koalakoala

Go to any money exchange bureau

eDicky

Do not waste time, effort and money buying these currencies in cash, then losing out again to change back any leftovers.

It will be cheaper and much easier just to use your current cards, debit or credit, for payment and ATM withdrawals, even with their fees. To avoid those fees obtain fee-free cards, the easiest and best currently being a Starling Bank account on your phone. See:

https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/credit-cards/travel-credit-cards/

Kinnie

Have Halifax and other cards but want cash for coffees etc

Heliflyguy

I would expect payments for such things would be card contactless payments in those destination.

A convinient approach but not necessarily the cheapest, although possibly better value than converting cash is (dare I say) a Transferwise account and mastercard.

You can convert GBP and hold all 3 currencies in the account or just convert 1 to another as you travel.

Kinnie

I have a TransferWise card but just want a little cash

eDicky

So withdraw from ATMs, common also in ports and airports, or exchange cash on arrival.

Neil49

If you really want to take some cash then try ordering via the Travel Money Max link on this site.

You can pick up from Tesco or Sainsbury's etc where they have a travel money desk and you can order smaller amounts than those required by your bank.

https://travelmoney.moneysavingexpert.com/

Personally I wouldn't bother and just use a Starling or Monzo card instead.

Kinnie

Thanks everyone. Think it’s sorted now