**UK Travellers Urged to Carry Cash Abroad to Avoid Holiday Hassles**
As the summer holiday season gathers pace, British travellers are being warned not to rely solely on plastic and digital payments when heading overseas. New research indicates that an increasing number of holidaymakers are running into obstacles and extra costs because they haven’t brought any cash along on their trips.
A recent survey conducted by money advice website ‘Be Clever With Your Cash’ revealed that nearly two in five travellers (39%) had encountered situations abroad where only physical currency would suffice. Over a third of respondents said they found themselves unexpectedly dependent on cash for things like tips, local transport, and buying from small-scale vendors, often in cash-only environments.
While many of us have grown accustomed to the convenience of contactless payments and mobile banking, relying entirely on cards can be a “costly mistake”, as highlighted by Amelia Murray, a financial expert at Be Clever With Your Cash. “There’s still a blind spot when it comes to cash,” she remarked, noting that assuming a fee-free card is all you need may leave you out of pocket, especially if you end up withdrawing from an ATM that imposes hefty charges or if you’re hit by an unfavourable exchange rate.
To help counter this, some travellers opt for prepaid or specialist travel cards. These can indeed help reduce dependence on notes and coins, yet they are not a universal solution. According to the survey conducted by Opinium, many holidaymakers who left home without any local currency were forced to withdraw from airport ATMs or use exchange bureaus at the last minute, both of which can carry higher fees and less competitive rates than purchasing travel money in advance.
The issue can prove particularly acute for those venturing outside major cities. In rural areas or smaller communities, the likelihood of cash being the only accepted method of payment rises. Small businesses, markets, transport providers, or tip-based services like taxi drivers or tour guides often require hard currency—a fact easily overlooked amidst assumptions about the ubiquity of card machines.
Financial expert Amelia Murray emphasises that carrying cash doesn’t mean stuffing your pockets with large amounts. Instead, she suggests packing a “cash cushion”—just enough to cover common cash-only expenses like tips, taxis, or that initial meal out if cards aren’t accepted upon arrival. “It’s about being prepared for those moments when a card simply won’t cut it,” she explained.
Travellers are also reminded to familiarise themselves with their travel card’s policies regarding overseas usage. Some cards carry sneaky charges for foreign withdrawals or transactions; others might not offer favourable exchange rates. Murray further advised checking what cover is provided by your travel insurance in the event that cash is lost or stolen during a trip.
Figures released in May by financial information specialist Defaqto show that coverage for lost or stolen cash is included in the vast majority of policies—91% of annual and 86% of single-trip travel insurance offerings. However, the limits can vary, with around 35% of single-trip policies covering between £200 and £299, and a further 24% providing higher cover of between £300 and £399. Understanding these details before departure can avoid further frustration if things don’t go to plan.
The key message for UK holidaymakers is to plan ahead, consider both card and cash needs, and ensure you’re not caught unprepared in situations where digital payments simply aren’t an option. By taking these steps, travellers can steer clear of unwelcome charges and enjoy greater peace of mind during their time abroad.
This timely warning highlights the importance of preparation as the holiday season begins in earnest, serving as a reminder that whilst technology has made spending abroad easier, some old-fashioned cash is still a travel essential. As habits evolve, a balanced approach remains the safest bet for stress-free adventures.