Halifax launches Clarity card, deal for cheap holidays abroad

With so many of us after cheap holidays abroad, we try to keep costs down as best we can. But for so many holidaymakers, getting a cheap holiday stops at finding a great package deal. Many of us don't think about expensive phone bills or the cost of using a credit card abroad. But it all adds up. And some cheap holidays abroad might not work out so cheap after all.

Using a credit card in a shop or cash machine abroad could be a big mistake if your bank charges high transaction fees. But Halifax has launched a new Clarity card - a no-fees credit card that can be used abroad in shops or at cash points without incurring a charge. It's worth the effort applying for a card to use abroad. Taking your usual debit or credit card might be more convenient, but it's not so easy on the pocket.

Prepaid cards are another great option for travellers. They can be good value and they are safer than carrying wads of cash around in your pocket. By loading money onto a prepaid card, it's readily available when you need it. Some prepaid cards can be topped up with foreign currency and transaction fees on purchases abroad are often lower.

Holidaymakers can also save money by buying foreign currency online in advance. Getting your dosh at the airport is a lot more convenient but the conversion rate is poor. If you are planning a last minute getaway, then some companies will give you the option of ordering foreign currency online and then picking it up at the airport.

Once you've sorted out all your money matters, then you're on the right track to getting cheap holidays abroad. But remember that it's important to factor travel insurance into your budget no matter how little you hope to spend on your holiday. Without travel insurance, your cheap holiday could turn into a financial nightmare. For example, if you need to receive medical treatment abroad and you don't have travel insurance you could end up spending thousands of pounds.

Insurewithease.com has a range of affordable travel insurance policies to suit budget conscious travellers.

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