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I'm based in the UK and travelling to South Africa in two months. I'm slightly against carrying a lot of cash since I have a habit of losing things and we are going to be staying in a lot of different hotels. I want to convert my money with the best exchange rate I can and also have a method of paying which secure and versatile.

For this reason I am unsure what the best approach would be, with the most obvious options being:

  • A prepaid travel card
  • A mastercard with no charge on foregin purchases

Since I'm not a regular traveller I'm a bit stuck. What does the communiuty recommend?

Jimmy
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A good idea would be to take the credit card if you will have internet/phone service. If someone steals a prepaid travel card, you've just lost that money. If you lose a credit card, contact the company and have them cancel the card immediately. The only problem is, it will take them a long time to send you a new one(if they'll send to South Africa). So, just to be safe, I'd recommend taking a credit card and a prepaid travel card. Only use the travel card if your credit card gets stolen. That way, you have your bases covered, and you can go without fear of not having enough money.

Elliot A.
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You need to check with your bank what are the charges they will apply for both a credit card payment and a local cash withdrawal. Some banks don't apply any charge for foreign payments. Others have huge charges so you really need to check with them.

From my own experience, a Master Card or an Amex would make it great. Those are also interesting for the insurances they offer to protect your goods and your travel.

You could also opt for a travel card but I am not familiar with this solution. Not sure if it is really interesting so I won't comment on it.

Olielo
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