Exchange money online in the UK or take £s abroad??

abumahya

I'm off on my jollies to Spain next week ( :j ) and expect to be spending approx £500 whilst I'm over there. (Before anyone mentions Nationwide, I've just opened an account but they don't think I'll get my cards through in time).

So my question is, would I get a better rate if I were to exchange the money online via travelex or should I take sterling with me and change it at a money changers in Spain?

Apologies if this has already been covered elsewhere...

Thanks in advance

fatboyonadiet

Welcome to the boards, Travelex is your best option if you need money before you go, otherwise change at a bank in Spain (shop for rates and be aware of extra charges) £ is strong you so will get the most for your money this way.

abumahya

Cheers buddy

PS Congrats on the run!

fatboyonadiet

Cheers, forgot to say have a nice holiday

grumbler

After coming back read 'The cheapest way to spend overseas: save 6% ' article and apply for Nationwide debit and credit cards. :wave:

P.S. I am sorry .

Before anyone mentions Nationwide, I've just opened an account but they don't think I'll get my cards through in time

I've read only title and replies...

DO_YOU_KNOW_DAVE

When did you open the account? When I opened an account, the card and pin number arrived in eight working days. The exchange rate we were getting last week was 1.48 EUROS to the POUND.

ManAtHome

If you take Sterling to change on the street, beware of exchanges offering very high rates (often with big "No Commission" signs). You're likely to miss the 2 point text at the bottom telling you this is for amounts over £5k only.... I'd expect a reasonable rate for cash to be around 1.46 to 1.47 at the moment (bank exchange rate currently close to 1.50) - depends what Travelex are offering (I think you need to give 24 hours notice, so still chance for the NW card(s) to turn up).

Would love to say "have a great time" but I've just come back from latest hols (grump grump)..

terrymats

I've changed to Euros many a times. You've not mentioned your location, but if you happen to be near Central London, there are a number of exchange places in Paddington opposite the station. The first shop which is read is a real bargain. First check what others are offering and then go to the 1st one. Then act unhappy and start walking, they'll call you and give you a further better rate without commission. Anyone living nearby may drop in the current rate?

Terry

N9eav

Pop into the post office, or a local travel agent. The rates will be fine and there will be little difference in it