Halifax issues travel money guide for brazil

Photo: Digo_Souza

Over 10,000 England football fans could be heading down to South America to show their support for the Three Lions and soak up the atmosphere. To help, Halifax has produced some  financial travel tips, which mean you can Pack your bags in confidence.

Anthony Warrington, director of Halifax current accounts, says: “Watching the World Cup in Brazil should be an unforgettable experience, but wherever you are going this summer there are a few simple steps that everyone can take to ensure that money worries don’t stop their enjoyment.

“Preparing in advance and letting your bank know you intend to go abroad are as important as packing the sun cream. But while away being sensible with your money and taking a copy of the numbers you might need, could help minimise the stress should something happen.”

Halifax Top Ten Travel tips

Order your travel money at least a fortnight before you go. Check to see if you can order your travel money commission free through your bank in advance and whether they’ll Change it back to sterling commission-free when you return.

Before you travel, register your debit and credit cards for use abroad to avoid having it blocked for anti-fraud reasons. Make sure your registered phone number is up to date in case it is necessary to contact you while abroad.

Check out whether your cards will be accepted in ATMs, and how much you can withdraw per day.

Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance and have read the small print to make sure it gives you all the cover you need.

As well as travel insurance, take a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) with you. This will give you reduced cost or sometimes free medical treatment in 28 European countries.

Should you need to make a claim, always retain all receipts for medical expenses
Make a note of 24-hour emergency numbers, together with your card(s) and ticket(s) details. Save these into your phone, and leave copies and notes, plus your itinerary and contact details, with family and friends.

Leave the bulk of your cash in a secure place such as a safety deposit box or hotel safe. Wherever you are going, only carry around cash you will need for the day; be aware of who is around when you are using cash machines.

Should you need to Change money or cash traveller’s cheques while abroad, be aware that you may be required to bring your passport with you.

Report losses/thefts to the police immediately and obtain a written report.