Travel money tips

Here are a few tips to help you navigate the world's choppy financial waters.

• Mix your money: For security, take a mixture of formats - cash, cards and travellers cheques.
  
  
• Consider a travel card. The Travel Money Card is a great way to carry and spend cash abroad. It allows you to pre-load US dollars, euros or sterling on to a card that you can use with a PIN where Visa is accepted.
  
  
• Get help: Call Travel Line on 0845 600 80 90* for advice on the most commonly accepted currencies in the places you're visiting and to get tips on keeping your money safe.
  
  
• Rare cash machines: ATMs may be hard to find outside towns and cities. Use our cash machine locator.
  
  
• US dollar is king: Especially in developing nations. It's easier to change dollars and dollar travellers cheques too.
  
  
• Loose change: Carry the majority of your money in smaller denomination travellers cheques and keep your receipts and a log of their numbers separate. Only exchange what you need and don't walk around with lots of cash.
  
  
• Spot the conmen: Change your cheques and currency in a bank or recognised foreign exchange bureau. Don't change money on the streets - it could be a way to get ripped-off.
  
  
• Tips on tipping: Find out the accepted practice on tipping in bars and restaurants. This can vary from country to country.
  
  
• Carry a card: Buy expensive items with your card to avoid a big dent in your daily budget. Don't carry all your cards with you - leave at least one in a hotel safe.
  
  
• Online Banking: Sign up and monitor your account while you're away. Register for Online Banking. Always take care when using the service in public areas, such as Internet cafes.
  
  
• Belt up: Make it hard for thieves by using a money belt or secure inside pocket.
  
  
• Get in touch: Have a list of emergency phone numbers for all your cards and travellers cheques in case they're stolen. You will need to cancel them immediately.
  
  
• Pay your bills: Pay your credit card and other bills while you're away to avoid being stranded with no plastic.
  
  
• Secret fund: Keep a small amount of cash hidden away in case of real emergencies.
  
  
• Bag a bargain: Familiarise yourself with local prices to avoid rip-offs. You may find haggling uncomfortable but it's a way of life in many countries - just don't go overboard.

* To maintain a quality service, we may monitor or record phone calls. Read call charges info.

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