An expert has revealed the five costly travel mistakes that Brits keep making abroad, warning that relying too heavily on card payments could end up costing more than expected. Despite the UK's shift towards near-cashless living, British holidaymakers are being urged to plan ahead to avoid hidden fees, poor exchange rates, and cash-only cultures.
Mike Wiltshire, travel money expert at H&T Pawnbrokers, said: "Brits are used to tapping their card for everything at home, so it can come as a real shock when their card is not accepted abroad. Even in well-developed tourist destinations, cash-only payments are more common than people expect."
The Five Common Travel Money Mistakes
According to Wiltshire, these are the five most common money travel mistakes and how to avoid them:
1. Not being prepared for tipping culture. In destinations like Egypt and Morocco, tipping in cash is expected for tours, hotel staff, and drivers. Wiltshire advises researching tipping etiquette before travelling.
2. Relying solely on card payments. Even in popular tourist spots, card machines can be unavailable or unreliable, especially in smaller towns, taxis, markets, and independent cafes. Carrying cash ensures you are never stuck.
3. Not taking out local currency before you travel. Exchanging money in advance helps avoid international ATMs and expensive airport exchange rates, ensuring you have cash ready for essentials upon arrival.
4. Not paying in the local currency. When using a card machine abroad, always choose the local currency. Opting to pay in sterling often results in poor exchange rates and extra charges.
5. Not checking your card fees before you travel. Some credit and debit cards charge foreign transaction fees or cash withdrawal fees. Wiltshire recommends considering a travel-friendly card that waives these fees.
Why Cash Still Matters
Wiltshire stressed: "Even where card payments are accepted, using cards abroad is not always the cheapest option. Foreign transaction fees, poor exchange rates and changing conversions can all add unexpected costs to everyday purchases." He added that withdrawing cash at the resort or airport can be expensive due to high ATM fees and unfavourable exchange rates, so planning ahead and taking a small amount of local currency before flying can save both stress and money.
Five Holiday Hotspots Where Cash Is Still King
Wiltshire highlighted five popular destinations where cash remains essential:
1. Germany: Despite its modern reputation, Germany still leans heavily on cash, especially for low-cost purchases. Independent bakeries, shops, and cafes often prefer cash, particularly outside major cities.
2. Greece: Large hotels may accept card, but many smaller islands and family-run businesses do not. Tavernas, taxis, and craft stalls may only take cash, and ATMs can be limited in remote areas.
3. Morocco: Souks, traditional markets, and street vendors operate almost entirely on cash. Taxis and small eateries rarely take cards, and cash is expected for tipping drivers, guides, and hotel staff.
4. Egypt: Cash is widely used in markets, small shops, and for local tours. Tipping is a big part of the culture, so travellers need cash on hand throughout their trip.
5. Romania: Cities like Bucharest are card-friendly, but traditional villages and rural areas rely heavily on cash. Local guesthouses, craft stalls, small restaurants, and public transport often don't accept cards.
