Which is the best travel card for the UK?
The best travel card for the UK is the Wise Multi Currency card for tap or swipe large transactions like accommodation and restaurants. Wise offers the best exchange rate for British pounds globally and charges no international transaction fees.
HSBC Global and Citibank Plus cards are the best for ATM withdrawals and great exchange rates for British pounds. Both these cards charge no international transaction fee and can be used within Australia without penalties.
The best credit cards for the UK are the BankWest Platinum Breeze and ING One Low Rate as they have the lowest interest rates on the market with and charge no international transaction fees.
Should I exchange money before I travel to the UK?
Yes you should buy British pounds before you travel to the UK. Having pounds on hand when you arrive at the airport will make your life a lot easier. The airport is also the most expensive place to exchange currency, so you will save a lot of money as well. Even though the UK is card friendly, having cash on hand will always be handy for small purchases, tipping and paying for transport.
Can I use my Australian card in the UK?
Yes you can if they are Mastercard or Visa and you will be charged with a lot of fees including the international transaction fee (3%), ATM withdrawal fee by the bank in the US ($5) and an ATM withdrawal fee by your own bank ($5).
Can you get prepaid cards for the UK?
Yes you can get prepaid cards for the UK and Wise, HSBC and Citibank offer the most competitive cards in the market. Other older style prepaid cards like Australia Post, Cash Passport, Travel Money Oz and Travelex have lots of charges like load, unload, inactivity, ATM withdrawals and initial card fees.
How much money do I need per day in the UK?
As a general rule, working out how much money to take to the UK depends on where you go and your type of travel. If you travel on a budget to the UK it can cost from £50 a day. If you travel in the middle range throughout the UK it can cost from £120 per day. Finally if you travel with luxury throughout the UK it can cost anywhere from £200 per day.
Can I use dollars in the UK?
No you can not use Australian dollars or US dollars in the UK. The currency in the UK is the British pound or ‘sterling’. There are 5 bank notes with different colours, they are £5, £10, £20, £50, and £100. There are 8 British coins, they are 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p, £1 and £2. The most frequently used are the £1 and £2 coins.
