Money Exchange (Airport / Using card in EU)

[sam86]

Two questions;

1 - Am I right in thinking that exchanging money at airports isn't as bad as it used to be, and that you pretty much get as good an exchange rate as you would out and about?

2 - Someone suggested that I can now use my Visa Debit card in the EU (specifically France), in stores and withdrawing money from cash points, at a pretty standard exchange rate. Is that true?

Cheers x

 

[Springal]

It's still pretty awful.

If you have enough time, order it online as cash. If not, I'd get a fairfx card. Visa debit can be OK, but some banks still charge handling fees etc etc

 

[Mr Burns]

Depends who you bank with. If you have time, I would suggest opening a nationwide current account, and using their debit card to withdraw money. Although they have recently brought in a 1% charge on foreign transactions, their exchange rates are top notch and blow the "big banks" rates out of the water.

 

[sam86]

Going Saturday, and I'm with the wankers that are Natwest.

 

[Billy the Fish]

2 - Someone suggested that I can now use my Visa Debit card in the EU (specifically France), in stores and withdrawing money from cash points, at a pretty standard exchange rate. Is that true?

This is what I always do. I don't understand why people bother changing up wads of money or take hundreds in travellers cheques in this day and age. The exchange rate at the cashpoint is the same as any beareu de change. If there is a difference either way it won't amount to more than a couple of quid in a weekend. Cashpoints are everywhere.

 

[Simster]

I always thought that using a visa debit card abroad to withdraw cash was the way forward - as you then automatically take advantage of Visa's bulk buying power in securing a decent exchange rate.

 

[Goring Gull]

Going Saturday, and I'm with the wankers that are Natwest.

I normally just use a credit card - the exchange rates with Braclay card seem very favourable yes you have a small transaction fee - but i still feel it's better than having wads of cash.

If your debit card is natwest don't use it as i'm with them and they do rip you off a bit.

 

[Bozza]

If you want to take some cash, order online with Travelex to pick up at the airport. You'll get a far better rate than just rocking up and exchanging on the day - they really sting people who do that.

Other than some money for incidentals I always just use my cards. I don't currently have one of the few 'zero transaction fee' cards so do incur a charge on each transaction, but for me the convenience is worth it.

 

[glos seagull]

Have a look at fairfx - Travel Money Card - Best Exchange Rates - FairFX Currency Card - they have a euro card and a dollar card and give good exchange rates - was recommended these for our summer hols last year and will continue to use them as was good service and good exchange rate....

 

[Lincoln Imp]

I use my card in the EU all the time. Cash in Hurstpierpoint post office yesterday, diesel at Pyecombe this morning, just never stops.

 

[Sussex Nomad]

Always use my visa debit (Nat West) in the EU, bit confused with this negative feeling towards the bank... always been more than fair with me?

 

[Safeway]

If you do want to take some Euros with you, get to Gold Arts at the bottom of George Street or Hove Coin Shop on New Church Road. Definitely do NOT go to the Post Office, they are a con.

 

[Thunder Bolt]

Depends who you bank with. If you have time, I would suggest opening a nationwide current account, and using their debit card to withdraw money. Although they have recently brought in a 1% charge on foreign transactions, their exchange rates are top notch and blow the "big banks" rates out of the water.

I agree.