Hotel holding card details

flaneurs_lobster

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82020900#Comment_82020900

I can't find any Starling account with a card that isn't a current account, do you have a link?

MyRealNameToo

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82020900#Comment_82020900

Whilst Starling offer savings accounts you can only get one if you have a current account with them so not sure what account type you think you have with them?

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82020609#Comment_82020609

Have you used other forms of credit? A lack of history with credit can be a red flag to prospective lenders, as such using your main bank can be a better idea with a lack of history as they can consider your activities with them as a customer not just what they get from the CRAs

Your bank may not offer the best card in the world but at the end of the day you just need something with enough limit to clear the holding you dont actually ever need to put any charges on the card unless you trash the hotel room and dont tell them up front.

saajan_12

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82020804#Comment_82020804

Which is exactly why many won't take debit cards.

OP, just get a credit card, else you'll be severely limited in where you can stay. Its only needed for the hold. You can usually pay the main room rate and at the end, pay for any incidentals via your debit card if you prefer, but the hold usually has to be on a credit card.

new2u

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82021213#Comment_82021213

Not really no

NoodleDoodleMan

A credit card is the way forward, the best option.

There are several "user friendly" credit cards available - ones that don't charge a foreign currency fee for Goods & Services transactions - not not recommended for withdrawing cash as there is a fee there.

Halifax Clarity is a regular favourite, as is Barclaycard Rewards, there are others - we use Nationwide Members card - their app is very straightforward to use.

I notice Lloyds Ultra Visa CC is on MSE top picks.

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

Having convenient access to a bricks and mortar branch of a bank is useful if you encounter any difficulties - but not essential.

elsien

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/82021213#Comment_82021213

Perhaps it is then, but they asked me if I wanted a current account when I set it up and I said no. And there is no will be an option for setting up direct debits.

And whatever it is, it doesn’t seem to have an overdraft facility, but it can be used abroad. Both of which are a bonus.