Best way to spend in the US

JulesJC

Hi, I'm off to the States for a month in August and want to know the best / cheapest way to spend whilst out there. I have a Revolut card, Starling Bank and various bank debit and credit cards but just can't work out the best one to use whilst out there. I find it all a bit confusing if I'm honest!  I'm happy to get another card if none of mine are the best to you and would REALLY appreciate any and all advice. 
TIA, Juliette 

daveyjp

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

heatherw_01

I would use Starling for most if not all.

If you need cash, you can withdraw some at no extra cost (other than any ATM fees) up to a certain amount each month.

You can check this page out for detailed information from MSE.

I personally take my Monzo/Chase which is similar to Starling. I also some cash as some places I go, won't take card. I like to have some cash, but that is just my choice.

Only thing I will say is that I personally usually avoid using my debit card for gas or restaurants.
The reason being is that often block off a certain amount until the transaction comes off fully. i.e, say $50 blocked on your card that is released when the transaction settles. Also gas stations usually don't take UK debit cards at the pump, although you can pay inside.

bagand96

You already have a perfect card in the Starling Bank Debit card. This allows fee free spending and cash withdrawals (although pretty much all US ATMs will charge their own withdrawal fee). Having some cash is handy just in case, but cards are accepted pretty much universally in the US. 

If you wanted to use a credit card for bigger purchases (a sensible idea) then get a fee free credit card, plenty suggested in the link above.  If you're hiring a car you'll need a credit card for the deposit.

Having more than one card available is also a good idea. 

NoodleDoodleMan

Is a Chase UK debit card not fee free when used to withdraw currency at Chase ATMs in the USA ?

They have a widespread network presence over there - so, if that is the case, it would be my "user friendly" card of choice.

Also fee free when used  for goods and services - is there a better option ?

bagand96

NoodleDoodleMan said:

Is a Chase UK debit card not fee free when used to withdraw currency at Chase ATMs in the USA ?

They have a widespread network presence over there - so, if that is the case, it would be my "user friendly" card of choice.

Also fee free when used  for goods and services - is there a better option ?

Yes you're correct - Chase Bank ATMs in the US are fee free for Chase UK Debit cards. Travelling with Chase | Chase UK So it is the best option if you need or want cash.  I so like do have a bit of cash available for incidentals although the last time I was in the US the $200 I withdrew when I got there was still in my wallet on the last day - card payments are the norm everywhere.

It's definitely worth having a credit card too - and it might be needed for hire cars and some hotels.