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[Ohana]

Hi all with only 12 days left until our trip I really think it's time to start thinking about getting our euros started. Last time we went we booked with a travel agent and got our euros with them - they give you a deal if you book with them, although I'm not entirely sure what the deal is.

I suppose my main questions are:

1. Where is the best place to get euros? Baring in mind I do not want over 1000 euros floating around my bag as cash, I would like most of it on a card.

2. I do already have a card somewhere from when I went last time, can I reuse that? And will they still let me have a new one if I've lost it (which seems likely, it is me).

Thanks guys

[daddyof2]

Look on http://travelmoney.moneysavingexpert.com - it'll tell you the best rates. I'm not an expert on the cards, but you might find help via there too

[seraphelle]

Look on http://travelmoney.moneysavingexpert.com - it'll tell you the best rates. I'm not an expert on the cards, but you might find help via there too

I agree. I always look here first to see what rates are being offered.

[stifle]

Rather than carrying loads of cash or messing around with junk fees on pre-paid cards, why not open an account with Metro Bank or Norwich & Peterborough building society which give free foreign transactions in Europe and better rates than cash or prepaid cards? Metro Bank even issues cards on the spot when you open your account so you don't have to worry about it not reaching you. Then you can use the card for purchases or to withdraw the amount of cash you need, and you'll definitely get the best rate.

[A&S&O]

We second Stifle's suggestion. We use our credit cards for everything - in the US and Europe. You get a much better exchange rate than if you get cash before you go. Shop around for the best card - our Nationwide card is good (but not sure if that's because we been with them for ages), also I believe the Halifax do a similar card.

So, look for cards with good exchange rates and that don't charge you a fee every time you use them. Some are just good for Euros, some are also good for dollars.