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Morocco - Debit card vs Halifax Clarity card?

Hi - OK so I've worked out that taking 2000 Moroccan Dirham is allowed from UK to Morocco but it's better rates to just get it there instead of buying it here, even at the airport.

My question is when I'm there is it better to withdraw cash from ATMs and make purchases with my Halifax Clarity card or my hsbc debit card?

Not been for 25 years - no idea what I did last time but I can't imagine I cared much about exchange rates back then anyway!

Thanks for any help,
Worto!

Comments

  • jbrassy
    jbrassy Posts: 934 Forumite
    Seventh Anniversary 500 Posts Name Dropper
    edited 25 September 2024 pm30 1:47PM
    If you have time before you go, apply for a Starling or First Direct bank account. With these, you can spend and withdraw from ATMs abroad with no additional fees. Morocco is a largely cash based society, so having a card where you can withdraw cash for free is essential. HSBC will probably charge you fees for this.

    If it was me, I would use the Halifax Clarity for spending and Starling / First Direct for ATM withdrawals.

    Enjoy Morocco.
  • eDicky
    eDicky Posts: 6,835 Forumite
    Ninth Anniversary 1,000 Posts Name Dropper
    edited 25 September 2024 pm30 4:40PM
    HSBC card has fees/FX markup so avoid using except as backup. Clarity card is ideal for spending, no fees or markup, also for ATM cash but accrues daily interest which can be limited to pennies by early repayment.
    Evolution, not revolution
  • Just to say, while you can withdraw on Halifax Clarity, doesn't mean you should. First, it will accrue interest, second it will show on your credit history. Easier to avoid all that faff by using a Starling or First Direct debit card. 
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