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Using debit card in the UK?

  • 10-02-2019 2:54pm
    #1
    Pauliedragon
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,405 ✭✭✭


    Heading over for a few days and was wondering what's the most efficient way to spend. Cash from an atm or just tap away as you go?


Comments

  • #2
    Caranica
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 10,205 ✭✭✭✭Caranica


    On my way back from the UK after a great weekend. If you're travelling in a small group then debit card all the way but if it's larger and you might operate a kitty system you will need cash


  • #3
    Vic_08
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,090 ✭✭✭Vic_08


    It will depend on the exchange rates/fees on your card, some are far worse than others. The rate they give for purchases may also differ from the rate they give for ATM withdrawls, usually purchases are cheaper but not always. Also in UK look out for non-bank ATMs, most ATMs are run by the main banks but some, particularly ones inside pubs, petrol stations, etc can be from independent ATM companies which add-on fees. Genuine ones will usually be marked as "Fee Free" or similar.

    It is not a given that it will be cheaper than a good cash exchange rate.

    As above a currency card like Revolut will give base rate exchanges so will beat any normal debit/credit card.

    One thing to look out for is if you are given the option to pay in your home currency or local currency ALWAYS choose local. Home currency means the retailer's bank does the conversion and will take a nice % for themselves for all their hard work.


  • #4
    Bummer1234
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,872 ✭✭✭Bummer1234


    Mr.S wrote: »
    Something like Revolut would be best.

    +1 on this....Was over in london at the weekend and this was a lifesaver taping on the tube and for food here and there...No charges what the banks here would charge you and decent exchange rates.


  • #5
    punisher5112
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 24,633 ✭✭✭✭punisher5112


    Revolut all the way...


  • #6
    Nigel Fairservice
    Moderators, Regional Abroad Moderators Posts: 2,403 Mod ✭✭✭✭Nigel Fairservice


    Bummer1234 wrote: »
    +1 on this....Was over in london at the weekend and this was a lifesaver taping on the tube and for food here and there...No charges what the banks here would charge you and decent exchange rates.

    My last trip to London was completely cashless via Revolut. Just used the card everywhere (great for the tube) and avoided my banks conversion rate and non euro transaction fees. I didn't have to bring back any coins or spend leftover notes for the sake of it.

    Irish cards will work fine over there and you could do it cashless but you have to accept your banks conversion rate and non euro transaction fees.


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