New guide published on using cards abroad

Tuesday, 01 June 2010 09:53

By myfinances.co.uk staff

A new guide has been published offering advice to holidaymakers and business travellers on using credit and debit cards while abroad.

The recommendations have been drawn up by the UK Cards Association and travel association Abta.

According to the organisations, Britons made 303 million card purchases and withdrawals while overseas last year, spending £17.7 billion and taking a further £7.8 billion out of cash machines.

The new guide advises consumers to only take the plastic they intend to use while abroad and to make sure they have a 24-hour contact number for their card issuer.

Furthermore, they should check that their provider has up-to-date contact details for them, including a mobile phone number.

While abroad, Britons should never let their card out of their sight - especially in restaurants and bars - and they should never divulge their Pin to anyone, even if they claim to be a police officer or a representative of their card issuer.

John DeVial of Abta said: "The advice in this guide provides UK consumers with useful information that can help ensure a safe and stress-free time overseas."

Santander recently warned that fans travelling to South Africa for the World Cup will face foreign exchange fees of around 2.75 per cent on purchases and ATM charges of 1.5 per cent of the transaction for cash withdrawals.

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