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How do you get the best holiday money exchange rate, high exchange rates, delivery charges, special offers, pros and cons, five golden rules of travel money, 1. know how much cash you'll need.

Carrying around a large amount of cash isn't the safest thing to do. At the same time, not having enough cash can cause a lot headaches too. It's a good idea to take a little more than you think you'll need.

But it's also good sense to have a backup prepaid , debit or travel credit card that you can rely on - assuming you're going to a destination that widely accepts card transactions.

2. Shop around

Not all currency exchange companies are created equal. Some may have good exchange rates, but higher fees. Others may have higher rates, but no fees. You have to make sure which one offers the best value to you.

This is why it’s worth comparing the deals on offer from several companies before ordering your travel money. Factor in the fees and the exchange rate and see where you end up better off. Often the amount of money you're exchanging can be a deciding factor.

3. Don't buy your travel money at the airport

Airport holiday money providers have notoriously high prices because they offer a last-chance solution for those who are just about to board a plane. By planning ahead you can save a small fortune.

4. Don't carry too many large notes

Notes of large denominations can be tricky, as small shops and taxi cabs, which are more likely to require cash, might not have enough change to accept a large note.

Some retailers are also often wary of accepting large notes. Smaller notes and change can also be handy when it comes to tipping or buying small everyday items.

5. Don't use your credit card to buy travel money

Avoid buying foreign currency with a credit card as credit card providers treat the transaction as a 'cash advance' . Not only will you be charged daily interest, you're also likely to be hit with a fee.

Budgeting for your holiday

How much travel money you need to take depends on your plans . You'll need to budget for your holiday to make sure you don't run out of money before the end.

Deciding how much money to take depends on were you're going, whether debit or credit card usage is prevalent, and if you want to have some local currency on hand for emergencies.

Having some cash is extremely important , as there's always a possibility your cards could get declined or blocked for some reason, and it may take some time to resolve the issue.

Also, some countries still rely predominantly on cash transactions , so you should factor that into how much cash you decide to take.

What are the top alternatives to buying travel money?

Travel credit cards.

Travel credit cards - i.e. the ones with  no foreign transaction fees  - offer two key advantages over travel money:

Great exchange rates  - when you spend on a travel credit card you get the Mastercard or Visa exchange rate, which is about the best you can find as a regular consumer

Purchase protection  – for purchases costing between £100 and £30,000 you're covered by  Section 75 of the consumer credit act , meaning if something goes wrong you can make a claim with your card provider should the vendor fail to pay up

However, not everywhere accepts travel credit cards and using them at a cash machine abroad can come with hefty fees. It can also be easier to overspend on a credit card, leaving you with debts on which interest is charged.

Travel money cards

Currency cards and travel bank accounts let you spend overseas without being charged a foreign transaction fee. Their key strengths are:

Great exchange rates  - you card provider will pass on the Mastercard or Visa rate to you without adding extra charges

No charges for ATM use overseas  - if you need extra cash on holiday, you can withdraw it without being charged by your provider. Watch out for local ATM fees though, as these might still apply 

The downsides include that there can be limits on how much you can withdraw abroad using a travel money card, and that they're not accepted quite as widely as cash. Some travel current accounts also come with fees.

Prepaid travel cards

Prepaid travel cards  can be loaded with currency and used abroad without paying foreign exchange fees. You can load a prepaid card with a specific foreign currency or a variety of different currencies, depending on your travel plans. The key advantages are:

Low or no fees to use abroad  – prepaid travel card providers charge far less than traditional banks for overseas usage

Safer than carrying cash  - you can cancel or freeze the card if it's lost or stolen, protecting your balance

However, you’ll need to watch out for general usage fees, which often apply when you load the card with cash and may also be charged monthly.

Can you get commission-free travel currency?

Yes and no. It depends on how you define it. Commission refers to the service fee that a currency exchange broker charges for exchanging your money.

Many companies advertise 0% commission to exchange money online or on the high street, but, instead of charging commission, they offer a less competitive exchange rate. This is why you need to compare the whole deal rather than just opting for a zero-fee travel money deal.

Are there restrictions on getting currency delivered?

When you buy your currency online, it's normally sent via Royal Mail's Special Delivery service. This means you have to sign for the package. Cash orders that exceed £2,500 will be sent in batches because that's the maximum value that can be insured for each delivery.

Can you get next-day delivery for currency?

Some travel money providers do offer next-day delivery. These brokers send out currency using Royal Mail's Special Delivery Guaranteed by 1pm service.

Our comparison shows which operators offer this option and how much they charge for it. With some companies, you also have the option to pre-order your travel money for collection in person from a local branch, meaning you don't have to pay for delivery.

Will anyone buy my currency back?

If you've got leftover travel money from a trip abroad, you can use a  buy-back service  to convert it back into pounds.

The buy-back rate tells you how much sterling you'll get back.

Remember to factor in the rate and delivery costs, and compare exchange rates. You can check out the best euro-to-pound exchange rate by looking at our comparison table.

About our comparison

Who do we include in this comparison.

We include every company that gives you the option of buying euros online. Discover  how our website works .

How do we make money from our comparison?

We have commercial agreements with some of the companies in this comparison. We get paid commission if we help you take out one of their products or services.  Find out more here .

You do not pay any extra and the deal you get is not affected.

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"We have a passion, some may say obsession, for helping Brits find the best exchange rates on the market"

We are proud of being the UK’s leading website for comparing cheap currency deals. Our flagship independent travel money comparison will help you maximise your holiday and foreign currency requirements. Save up to 10%. Don’t let the airport bureaus cash in!

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Why settle for the first deal you stumble across? Shop around!

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If you want the best euro exchange rates, simply enter the amount of euros (or up to 100 foreign currencies) you want to buy, the amount, and based on your requirements, we will dynamically find the best travel money deals based on multiple comparison filters. Why pay more on travel money if you don’t have to? It gives our team of money-saving, super savvy editors the greatest of pleasure helping you source the cheapest travel money and foreign currency suppliers.

Whether you want to use a travel money company who offers time saving home delivery of currency or airport pickup, we offer a raft of flexible options.

Manage your holiday budget abroad with a free travel money card

In addition to comparing holiday money,  Prepaid travel money cards  have proven to be an excellent tool to manage your holiday budget. The cards are typically FREE of charge and work by pre-loading foreign currency onto the card prior to departure. If you are going to the Eurozone countries, compare euro currency card options, and for the USA, take a look at our dollar currency card comparison.

Eliminate hefty ATM & Point of Sale charges abroad with a free travel money card.

Save 10% with today’s best euro rates

Compare travel money deals with MyTravelMoney.co.uk and save up to a whooping 10% with today’s best euro exchange rates + 65 other currencies. Our unique comparison platform screen scrapes the live rates of every major travel money supplier. Our research team do weekly mystery shops on euro currency rates.

We’re so sure you won’t find a better euro travel money deal, we offer a best rate guarantee! Happy searching for cheap deals on your travel money!

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Our product managers and designers have stayed up late, drank copious amounts of coffee and worked hard to launch our new and updated travel money search. You can now compare travel money companies across a variety of filters, including: best exchange rates, fees, reviews, home delivery & collection.

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We used to be like you. Frustrated. Spending hours on end searching for the best exchange rates when buying holiday money, only to come back confused and bored. That’s why we invested in a passionate and dynamic editorial team who search the travel money market to help you compare the best exchange rates from all the major players. Put simply, we’re here to showcase great deals and make your life simple.

It’s why we always work with the techies on bettering our product so you compare holiday money with consummate ease. The free tools, travel money saving tips and guides will ensure you and your family don’t get ripped off with poor exchange rates and high commission.

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Compare travel money

Choosing the right place to buy your holiday cash can make a huge difference to the overall cost of your trip. We compare the best rates from high-street cash providers, prepaid travel cards and travel debit cards to show you the best deals.

Which currency do you need?

Click on a tile to compare travel money providers for that currency.

What is travel money?

Travel money is the foreign currency you take on holiday with you in order to purchase things abroad.

Traditionally, you would buy travel money at a bureau de change. They would quote an exchange rate for a given currency and that would determine the price in pounds.

These days, you can get travel money ordered directly to your house and you can buy travel debit cards .

Where is the best place to get travel money?

The best travel money rates are found online. You can shop around for the best deals on multiple websites, comparing exchange rates, delivery fees and promotional offers.

If you would rather buy your currency in person, high-street supermarkets such as Sainsbury's, ASDA and Tesco often have currency exchanges inside their stores. It's always worth visiting a few different stores to get a sense of who is offering the best rates.

Should I use cash or a travel card? We always recommend taking a card with you on holiday rather than lots and lots of cash. More often than not, the best exchange rates are found on travel cards, making them the cheapest way to spend money abroad. For instance, with a Starling card you get the Mastercard exchange rate with zero fees, and with a Wise card you get the market exchange rate.

Why you can trust Exiap to compare travel money

Over 100,000 monthly users use Exiap, saving thousands by finding and comparing exchange rates and fees for their next holiday. All it takes is a few taps or clicks to compare and select the lowest fees and rates available.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can compare travel money for the following currencies on Exiap: Bulgarian Lev , Chinese Yuan , Croatian Kuna , Czech Koruna , Danish Krone , Euros , Icelandic Krona , Indonesian Rupiah , Japanese Yen , Korean Won , Malaysian Ringgit , Norwegian Krone , Polish Zloty , Romanian Leu , South African Rand , Swedish Krona , Thai Baht , Turkish Lira and Vietnamese Dong .

We rank the best travel money providers for major currencies such as Euros and Lira based on their exchange rates and fees.

The provider that gets you the most foreign currency for your pound sterling comes top of our comparison table - period!

To get the best rates in physical currency exchanges, make sure you get quotes from a few different exchanges. Show the best quote to the exchange with the second-best quote and ask if they can beat it.

You have a few options with leftover travel cash: 1) Store it away for a future holiday 2) Take it to an exchange to convert it back into GBP

If you choose the latter option, you may be hit by 'buy-back rates'. These are the rates offered by exchanges to take back unused Euros, Lira and other foreign currencies. Often then are much worse than what you originally bought the currency for.

That's why we always recommend using a travel card. You can convert back and forth between pounds and foreign currencies at the market exchange rate, meaning you don't get punished for not spending all your travel cash!

Compare Currency - Travel Money Comparison

Find the best exchange rates online and on the highstreet. Compare travel money and save money on your next holiday today with our easy (and free!) travel money comparison tools.

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Our data is updated every 10 minutes, to compare the leading travel money providers. We do the hard work for you, meaning you can buy online with confidence at the best rates available!

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Compare & Save

By comparing the best exchange rates and ordering your currency in advance, you can get more travel money than buying abroad or at the airport.

Find The Right Provider

With so many different providers on the market it can be hard to know where to buy or sell your currency. Read our reviews to find the right one for you.

Buy & Sell Online

Finding the best rate before your holiday can save you money, but you can also get more money back when selling your left over currency when you return.

How To Compare

Find the best rates in minutes.

How to use our simple currency comparison tools.

Step 1 - Pick Your Currency

Find the currency you are looking to buy or sellon our site and begin comparing the rates offered.

Step 2 - Compare Providers

Our providers are sorted by the best rate by default, but sometimes you may have specific needs like delivery times or on the high street. So you can select which ever currency provider works best for you.

Step 3 - Buy or Sell Currency

Simply click through to your preferred provider and place an order for holiday money. Then sit back, relax and enjoy your holiday!

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Travel money comparison faqs.

There are several benefits to ordering your currency online. For one, it’s much quicker than taking time to wait in line on the high street.

Is it easy to can order the amount of currency that you need — no more and no less.

And it’s free to order online. Many online currency exchange companies offer discounts, which can save you some money or give you that extra money to spend on your holiday.

One of the best things about ordering your currency online is that you can do it at any time of day or night. The currency is delivered right to your door, so there’s no need to go anywhere to pick it up.

No! We are completely free and will never charge you any extra for your currency, so you can be sure you are getting the best deal.

We have developed a number of simple tools to help you quickly compare and find the best rates from a number of providers across the country.

Compare Exchange Rates Compare Buyback Rates Compare by Provider

While there is no set limit to how much you can order, you may find that orders of over £2500 are sent in separate packages. This is so they are covered by insurance policies via special delivery Royal mail services.

This may vary by provider so best to check with your supplier prior to ordering any large amounts.

Currency buy back rates are how much you can sell any remaining currency back into British Pounds (or other currencies of choice). Some providers give guaranteed buyback rates when you purchase the currency from them. In other cases it can be beneficial to show around.

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Compare Travel Money

Find the best travel money rates across top currencies and discover the best deal for your holiday spending.

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We're on a mission to improve the finances of the nation by helping you to spend wisely and save money

Finding the best travel money deal for you.

By Laura Rettie , Personal Finance Journalist.

Discover the best travel money rates for top currencies and get the best deal for your holiday spending.

What is travel money?

It’s money used for spending when you’re in a country with a different currency.

There are several ways to spend abroad, including prepaid travel cards and credit cards , as well as paying in cash with foreign currency which can be a good option because it’s widely available and makes it easier to budget.

Here are some of the places you can order travel currency:

• The Post Office
• Supermarkets
• Travel agents
• Exchange bureaus
• Online currency services

You can collect travel money from most foreign exchanges and most places will deliver it to your door if preferred

How does travel money work?

The amount of foreign currency you’ll get for pound sterling depends on the exchange rate.

For instance, a euro exchange rate of 1.1432 would give you €1.14 cents for each £1.00 you exchange. So if you buy £300 worth of euros you’d get €342.96 in return.

Travel money exchange rates fluctuate so if you’re planning a trip abroad, it’s worth checking the daily exchange rate to help plan your purchase and get the best deals on foreign currency.

Can you buy holiday money online?

Yes, you can buy travel money online. In fact, often the best travel money rates are available when you order travel money online.

A quick online search will provide you with a choice of holiday money exchanges or travel money comparison sites, allowing you to order currency and get it delivered to your door quickly and cheaply.

It’s easy to order currency online, you simply need to:

• Select the currency you need
•  Confirm the exchange rate offered
• Choose a delivery date
• Pay for your travel money

Online travel money orders are tracked and will require a signature on delivery.

Where is the best place to buy travel money?

The best place to get your travel money depends on what your travel money needs are:

For example:

• the type of currency you need, e.g. euros or dollars
• how much you want to spend
• how quickly you need it

If you need holiday currency the same day, then it’s best to pop into your bank, a supermarket or a post office that has a travel money bureau. If you want a currency like euros or dollars, it’s more likely they’ll have the travel money you want.

Often the worse place to buy your travel money is actually at the airport where the exchange rates aren’t as competitive.

However, if you’re looking for the cheapest deal and can wait a couple of days then an online currency exchange is likely to offer the lowest travel money rate.

Each holiday money provider will offer a different exchange rate, so always shop around and check rates and charges before you go ahead. Travel money comparison websites are a great way to compare currency rates and get the best deals.

Bear in mind, If you order travel money online the rate may be good, but there could be hidden costs and home delivery charges so you’ll need to take this into account when you’re making a comparison.

How do I get the best exchange rate?

Travel money and exchange rates can seem quite complicated but here are a few tips to make sure you get the best travel money rates.

• Shop around and compare rates from different travel money providers.
• Order online and collect your order in person to avoid delivery costs.
• The more currency you order, the better the rate, so order for friends and family at the same time.
• Some providers deliver for free, others charge according to how much currency you buy, so check delivery charges and compare the total cost.
• Be alert to hidden charges like commission fees but bear in mind that commission-free doesn’t mean it's the cheapest deal. Check the rates too.
• Don’t buy your currency at the airport or high street exchange bureaus on holiday because you’ll get a poor exchange rate.
• Don’t buy foreign currency on a credit card - it's always better to pay for foreign currency with a debit card because buying foregin currency on your credit card will be treated as a cash withdrawal, meaning you'll be charged a fee, interest and a transaction fee by the travel money company on top.

What is the safest way to take money on holiday?

Travel money is easy to buy and makes budgeting simple, but it’s not always the safest way to spend on holiday.

Foreign currency can get lost or stolen and you’re left with little protection if something goes wrong. Travel insurance may cover your losses, but there are often exclusions and limits on how much you can claim back.

The safest way to spend abroad is to take a prepaid travel money card or use a credit or debit card designed for spending abroad. This allows you to freeze the card if it gets lost or stolen and may offer financial protection if you’re the victim of fraud or a dispute abroad.

What are the benefits of buying travel money?

Historically travel money has always been the most popular way to spend on holiday.

Despite the fact that more and more of us are moving towards a cashless society at home, taking foreign currency on holiday is still a good way to spend abroad.

The benefits are:

• It’s quick and easy to buy
• It’s accepted almost everywhere
• There are no hidden charges if you pay in cash
• You can track your spending
• It’ll help you stay within budget

What are the disadvantages of buying holiday money?

Despite the simplicity of spending travel cash on holiday, taking travel money abroad can have its drawbacks.

Here’s what to watch for:

• You won’t always get the best exchange rates compared to some travel credit and debit cards
• It can be lost or stolen easily
• You’re unprotected if scammed or mis-sold
• Large amounts make you a target for theft
• You may end up with too much or too little
• You won’t benefit if the pound gets stronger

Are there any alternatives to taking cash on holiday?

Aside from travel money, there are several other ways you can spend abroad - each with its own pros and cons.

Prepaid currency cards

You can load the currency you need onto one of these cards before your trip and use it like a debit card. It’s safe and portable and you won’t be able to spend more than what’s added to the card.

• Transaction fees are lower than a credit card
• Simply top it up if you need to
• Your cash may be protected if you lose it
• Some cards let you load multiple currencies
• You may be charged when you make some transactions
• It could be expensive to top up abroad
• You’ll need to apply for the card and wait for delivery
• Cash withdrawals could be costly

Travel credit or debit cards

Using a specialist travel credit card, or bank account designed for spending abroad, is almost always the cheapest way to spend overseas.

• Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted worldwide and when they’re designed for spending abroad you can get near perfect exchange rates
• Carrying a card is more convenient and safer than carrying cash
• You can freeze your card instantly via an app if it’s lost or stolen
• You have access to more funds if you need money in an emergency
• Zero foreign transaction fees
• Some travel credit cards offer rewards such as discounts on flights
• You get Section 75 and chargeback protection
• Some travel credit and debit cards allow you to track your spending via an app
• Some retailers may not accept certain cards depending where in the world you are - it’s always best to do your research before you travel
• Easy to overspend
• You may need a good or excellent credit score to be approved for one
• Only worth it if you travel frequently
• Travel credit cards can charge high APR’s if you don’t pay off your balance in full every month

Standard credit or debit cards

You can take your standard debit or credit card away with you for peace of mind and added protection, but there could be hidden fees and charges that you don’t know about until you return home. Your bank may charge you a non-sterling transaction fee, fees for withdrawing cash and add interest on top.

• Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted worldwide
• It’s more convenient and safer than carrying cash
• You can put a stop on your card if it’s lost or stolen
• You have access to more funds if you need them
• Some credit cards offer zero foreign transaction fees or travel perks
• You get Section 75 and chargeback protection in the EU
• You may be charged for every transaction you make
• Some retailers and restaurants may not take certain debit cards
• You’ll be charged fees and interest on cash withdrawals
• You could overspend and get overdrawn on your debit card
• It’s harder to keep track of spending and transaction fees

The information provided does not constitute financial advice, it’s always important to do your own research to ensure a financial product is right for your circumstances. If you’re unsure you should contact an independent financial advisor.

Frequently asked questions

Yes, most travel money providers will buy back your foreign currency at a buy back rate with 0% commission. The larger providers may also offer a travel money refund guarantee if your holiday is cancelled.

Some holiday money exchanges will buy back your currency at the ‘spot rate’ which is the rate that foreign currency is sold and bought in the currency market.

It depends on the country you’re travelling to and the currencies you want to exchange. It’s best to do your homework on the specific country you are visiting and the currencies you are planning to convert.

According to travel advice from Gov.uk, you must declare cash of £10,000 or more to customs if you’re carrying it between Great Britain and a country outside of the UK.

If you’re travelling as a family or group with more than £10,000 in total you still need to make a declaration.

Before you leave the country, if you're carrying more than £10,000 you’ll need to declare any:

• Notes and coins
• Travellers’ cheques
• Cheques that are signed but not made out to a person or organisation

A commission is a service charge and some holiday money firms charge a commission to exchange pound sterling into a foreign currency.

This commission is usually charged as a percentage of the exchange amount or as a flat fee. Always check the commission fees and include it in the total cost when you’re comparing travel money rates.

Yes, many travel money providers advertise they’re a commission-free exchange to stay competitive.

However, this can sometimes mean their exchange rate is not as good as others so compare the total costs before assuming you have the best deal. It’s also important to remember to take into account any delivery costs or other hidden charges.

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Compare Travel Money Exchange Rates

Order travel money online and get the best rate on your foreign currency. Whether you are looking for euros, dollars, or one of the many currencies our top travel money providers offer, we will always find you the best rate when you buy currency.

Best Travel Money Rates

✔ We compare exchange rates from all the UK's top travel money providers.

✔ We search out the best rates for Euros, Dollars, and over 80+ other popular foreign currencies.

✔ We list all the best online travel money suppliers that can deliver currency to your door.

✔ We help you to save money by getting the best exchange rate today!

✔ Our clever algorithm not only finds the best exchange rates but the amounts we show you include delivery cost and any other charges meaning the price you see is the price you pay.

Why buy currency online?

If you are one of the millions of jetsetters of the UK or just love getting away on the occasional holiday, buying your currency online is a great way of saving money. Knowing where to get your travel money can be daunting; finding out where to get the best exchange rate can seem like an intimidating task. That’s where we come in! Compare Travel Cash compare exchange rates from all the UK's top travel money providers. Our rates include all the fees so there are no hidden surprises.

Buying currency online is the best way to make sure you get the best exchange rate. You more often than not get a better deal buying currency online than you do on the high street and almost definitely better than buying currency in the airport.

Get the best Exchange Rate on your Travel Money

We can help you save money and get the best deal when buying currency. Every few minutes we compare the exchange rates of foreign currencies from all over the globe, so whether you want Euros, Dollars, Lira, Koruna, Rand, and many more currencies, we have you covered. Researching today's best exchange rates from the UK's best travel money providers to show you the best deals and offers in one place.

TOURIST EXCHANGE RATES FAQ

The tourist rate or holiday money exchange rate is the rate at which foreign currency is sold to consumers. Basically, it's the rate foreign currency is sold in exchange for local currency. For example, if you were heading to Spain, you would exchange your pounds to euros using the tourist rate.

The exchange rate used by banks and big financial institutions is different and called the interbank rate, this changes continually throughout the day. Travel money suppliers make their money on the difference between the interbank rate and the tourist rate, this is why it is so important to compare travel money rates to get the most up to date information and today's best rates.

Most of our travel money providers offer 0% commission when you buy currency online. Historically the older fashioned bureau de change and banks would charge the exchange rate + commission + handling fees which made things super complicated when trying to work out the cheapest way to buy holiday money. With modern technology and the ability to update currency exchange rates anywhere in the world instantly, travel money suppliers consolidate any charges into the tourist exchange rate they offer you. Basically they make their money on the difference between the interbank rate and the exchange rate they offer you.

All of the travel money prices we quote include any fees and commissions, including delivery to your home!

Hundreds of customers buy travel money through online travel money providers sites every day and have a great experience. However, as with ordering anything online, the process is never completely risk-free and you should always take care when transferring money to any company.

Compare Travel Cash undertake comprehensive checks on all of our online travel money providers and monitor them to make sure they meet our high standards and continue to do so. Having said that, no company is guaranteed not to come into trouble and we cannot guarantee the solvency of any of the providers listed on our website. We always recommend that you conduct your own due diligence before placing an order with any company.

All of the travel money prices we quote include all the charges including any commissions, fees, and delivery charges. The exchange fee we quote is the price you will pay. No hidden charges.

Every few minutes Compare Travel Cash updates the rates to bring you the most up to date information and the latest best rates for travel money.

Most of the world's currencies are bought and sold by banks and financial institutions based on flexible exchange rates, meaning their prices fluctuate continuously based on the supply and demand in the foreign exchange market. High demand for a currency or a shortage in its supply will cause an increase in price. If that all sounds very technical, there's no need to worry, we do all the research for you so you always know you are getting the best rate and latest information when you buy currency online.

Many of our online travel money providers update their rates almost instantly inline with the market. Those who don't update their currency exchange rates so regularly do not tend to offer the best rates for currency exchange as they have to factor in enough of a margin to cover the fluctuations.

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CompareTravelCash.co.uk is a travel money comparison service that's designed to help you save money – whilst we do our best to ensure the site is 100% up-to-date, we cannot guarantee this. We advise you to carry out your own due diligence before buying or selling travel money.

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Compare Currency Exchange Rates

Compare exchange rates on over 40 global currencies against the high street and airport providers. So whether you are selling currency, buying travel money online, or sending money abroad, see how much you can save and always get the best exchange rate when you transact. Go here to buy euros .

These rates are available only when you pay online - rates in branch will differ

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*We capture the exchange rates being offered by airports and high street providers once a month and calculate what spread they are taking off the live interbank rate. We then compare that to what rates we are offering to calculate the savings you can make if you use us.

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*Your potential saving has been calculated using our exchange rate and the most expensive provider's rate in the market at a given point in time.

The Currency Club offers members access to the interbank exchange rate for complete transparency before confirming the best exchange rate on offer. Ensuring you can compare easily and get the best value for money.

Most foreign exchange companies take a spread or margin off the interbank rate and then offer you a revised exchange rate. Without clarity over the live interbank exchange rate at the time when you want to transact, that margin can vary drastically where initially you may feel you are getting the best value, and all of a sudden, this changes significantly as they increase their margin without your knowledge. The Currency Club offers complete transparency. On every transaction, we give you the option to view the interbank or real exchange rate alongside our best exchange rate so you can see fairly how the rate is alongside the interbank market. Our transparent approach enables you to work out the overall cost when comparing and you can consistently see our fair exchange rates.

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Compare Travel Money and Best Currency Exchange Rates

Travel money is the currency that helps you on your travels abroad and by getting the best exchange rates you can get the most from your money. The travel money you require will depend on the country you are travelling to. Carrying travel money is a wise decision. However, it is crucial to compare travel money from the best currency exchange platforms to make the most of your money. It will help you fetch the best deals. You can also get some of the best high street buy back currency rates with us online.

Compare Currency Exchange Tips

Here are some of the effective tips that will help you fetch the best value for travel money:

Check the total cost

Besides considering the exchange rate, look for the entire cost of buying the foreign currency. The best deal will be a unique mix of exchange rate and low commission along with decent value on credit card charges, handling costs, and delivery fees. Upon buying over a particular amount, you can also get a discount.

Travel money comparison

It is very important to compare travel money. In this context, check the time when the exchange platform extends the prepaid currency card or cash. In case you have to travel the very next day, you cannot wait for a week. For instance, if you have to buy euros online urgently, choose a platform that will be able to deliver the travel money on time.

Another parameter to consider is how you want to get the travel money delivered. You can choose to get it delivered to your residential address or get it from the airport.

Cross-check the advertised rate

Also, ensure that the advertised rate on the platform is still available at the time you are buying travel money. Lastly, check whether you have to bear any extra charge for using a credit card. For example, if you are looking to buy Turkish Lira , first compare the exchange rate. See if the rate that is shown is still available. Also, look for any additional charges on your credit card. This can help you get the best money exchange rate.

Know the drawbacks of comparison sites

Being too reliable on comparison sites while buying travel money might not help. There are comparison sites that will endorse certain foreign currency providers. These sites might have a relationship with particular providers. Such recommendations can be misleading and you can end up making a wrong decision.

How does buying travel money work?

Here are the steps that are involved when one has to get travel money:

Choose the currency: From the vast range of offers, choose the currency you need to obtain while travelling overseas. You have to mention the amount of currency you need.

Check travel money compare options: Check all the terms and conditions with extra charges. This will assist in making an informed decision.

Confirm the exchange rate: The exchange rates keep fluctuating with time. Once you settle for a provider and confirm your order, and choose an exchange rate. If you want to buy UAE Dirham , always make sure to check the best currency exchange rates before placing an order.

Payment and confirmation: You have to initiate the payment; only then currency will be dispatched. You will get the dispatch notification and tracking details over email.

Delivery of the travel money: Finally you will receive the travel money at the provided address.

Ways to get the best deals on a currency exchange

Different currency exchange platforms have different offerings. So, it is important to consider the following factors and make an informed choice.

Look beyond the overall cost: You should also focus on the commission fees and delivery charges besides considering the best currency exchange rates.

Pay with a debit card: Avoid using credit cards as it will attract certain charges. Also, choose to shop around beforehand.

Top travel tips that can help

Check some essential travel money tips before you set on your next vacation:

1. Know the amount of cash you will need Taking a lot of cash might not be a wise choice. Also, you can face a financial crunch if you are not carrying sufficient cash. The cash amount must be a little more than what you actually need.

2. Avoid carrying multiple large notes You can come across scenarios where having notes of large denominations might be disadvantageous for you. Cabs, small shops, and even some retailers are not likely to accept large notes.

3. Do not use credit cards to get travel money Buying any foreign currency with a credit card will attract daily interest. Also, you may incur additional fees. It is also recommended to not rely exclusively on plastic money when you're abroad. Further, you must be aware of the best exchange rates to make the most of your trip. Head onto The Currency club for the best possible rates.

Frequently asked questions

Can i order travel money online.

Yes, you can order travel money online. Multiple currency exchange platforms extend this provision. Then, you have the money delivered to your address.

Can all currencies be obtained as travel money?

There are certain currencies of countries that cannot be bought or changed due to local restrictions. In such cases, either you can change your GBP or other currencies in that country. You can also withdraw cash in the currency of the country.

How much money will I have to carry while travelling to a foreign country?

The minimum fund that is allowed to take in and out varies from one country to another. Before travelling to a country, gather all the information about it as you might have to show it as proof of financial stability.

Where can I get the best money exchange rates?

To get the best online currency exchange, you have to conduct currency exchange comparisons across different currency exchange service providers. Check for the associated charges as well.

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Compare euro travel money rates

Get the best euro exchange rate by comparing travel money deals from the UK's top foreign exchange providers

Best euro exchange rate

Over 340 million people use the euro every day according to the European Central Bank, making it the second most-traded currency in the world after US dollars. Twenty out of 27 EU Member States have adopted the euro as their official currency, and euros are used officially and unofficially in many non-EU countries and territories throughout Europe such as Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.

If you're travelling to Europe, it's important to shop around and compare currency suppliers to maximise your chances of getting a good deal. We can help you to find the best euro exchange rate by comparing a wide range of UK travel money suppliers who have euros in stock and ready to order online now. Our comparisons automatically factor in all costs and commission, so all you need to do is tell us how much you want to spend and we'll show you the top suppliers who fit the bill.

Compare before you buy

Some of the best travel money deals are only available when you buy online. By using a comparison site, you're more likely to see the full range of deals on offer and get the best rate.

Order online

Always place your order online, even if you plan to collect your currency in person. Most supermarkets and high street currency suppliers offer better exchange rates if you order online beforehand.

Combine orders

If you're travelling with others, consider placing one large currency order instead of buying individually. Many currency suppliers offer enhanced rates that improve as you order more.

The best euro exchange rate right now is 1.1537 from Travel FX . This is based on a comparison of 18 currency suppliers and assumes you were buying £750 worth of euros for home delivery.

The best euro exchange rates are usually offered by online travel money companies who have lower operating costs than traditional 'bricks and mortar' stores, and can therefore offer better currency deals than their high street counterparts.

For supermarkets and companies who sell travel money online and on the high street, it's generally cheaper to place your order online and collect it from the store rather than turning up out of the blue and ordering over the counter. Many stores set their 'walk-in' exchange rates lower than their online rates because they can. By ordering online you're guaranteed to get the online rate and you can collect your order from the store as usual.

Euro rate trend

Over the past 30 days, the Euro rate is up 0.35% from 1.1537 on 12 Mar to 1.1577 today. This means one pound will buy more Euros today than it would have a month ago. Right now, £750 is worth approximately €868.28 which is €3 more than you'd have got on 12 Mar.

These are the average Euro rates taken from our panel of UK travel money providers at the end of each day. You can explore this further on our British pound to Euro currency chart .

Timing is key if you want to maximise your euros, but the best time to buy will depend on the current market conditions and your personal travel plans.

If you have a fixed travel date, you should start to monitor the euro rates as soon as possible in the period leading up to your departure so that you've got time to buy when the rate is looking favourable. For example, if the euro rate has been steadily increasing over several weeks or months, it could be a good time to buy while the rate is high.

Some people prefer to buy half of their euros as soon as they've booked their holiday, and the remaining half just before they depart. This can be a good way of maximising your holiday money if the exchange rate continues to rise after you've bought, but will also help to minimise your losses if the rate drops.

You could also consider signing up to our newsletter and we'll email the latest rates to you each month.

If you need your euros sooner and don't have time to wait for the rates to improve, you can still save money by comparing rates from a range of different providers before you buy. Online travel money suppliers usually have better euro rates than high street exchanges, but supermarkets are a good compromise if you want to collect your currency in person and still get a decent rate. Just remember to buy or reserve your euros first before you collect them from the store so you benefit from the supplier's better online rate.

Euro banknotes and coins

Euros are governed and issued by the European Central Bank which is based in Frankfurt, but the actual production of euro banknotes and coins is handled by various national banks throughout the Eurozone. Spain and Greece are responsible for printing €5 and €10 banknotes, Germany prints €100 notes, and the other EU member states are responsible for printing €20 and €50 notes.

One euro (€) can be subdivided into 100 cents (c). There are seven denominations of euro banknotes in circulation: €5, €10, €20, €50 and €100 which are frequently used, plus €200 and €500 notes which are no longer printed but are still in circulation and remain legal tender. The designs printed on each banknote are intended to be symbolic of the European Union's identity and unity, as well as highlighting the diversity and richness of different European cultures. The front of each banknote features architectural styles from different periods in Europe's history, including Classical, Gothic, Renaissance and modern, while the reverse side features bridges that represent communication and cooperation between the different countries within the European Union.

Euro coins are available in eight denominations: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1 and €2. Each EU member state is responsible for minting its own coins, and can choose their own design for the 'tails' side. For example, German coins feature the 'Bundesadler' or Federal Eagle which has been the German coat of arms since 1950, while French coins depict Marianne; an important symbol of French national identity. Next time you've got a handful of euro coins, take a look at the tails side and see if you can guess which EU country they came from!

There's no evidence to suggest that you'll get a better deal if you buy your euros in Europe. While there may be better exchange rates available in some locations, your options for shopping around may be limited once you arrive, and there's no guarantee the exchange rates will be any better than they are in the UK.

Exchange rates aside, here are some other reasons to avoid buying your euros in Europe:

• You may have to pay commission or other hidden fees to a currency exchange that you wouldn't have paid in the UK
• Your bank may charge you a foreign transaction fee if you use it to buy euros when you're abroad
• It can be harder to spot scammers and fraudulent currency exchanges in Europe

Lastly, it can be handy to have some cash on you when you arrive at your destination so you can pay for any immediate expenses like food, transport and tips. You don't want to be searching for the nearest currency exchange when you've just landed and you're desperate for a cup of tea - or a cocktail!

Twenty out of 27 EU member states have adoped the euro as their official currency. These are: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.

The following European countries and territories who are not part of the EU also use the euro as their official currency: Andorra, Kosovo, Monaco, Montenegro, San Marino and Vatican City, French Guiana and Martinique, the Azores, Canary Islands, and Madeira.

Tips for saving money while visiting Europe

The most budget-friendly destinations in Europe are generally those located in the east such as Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. In contrast: Luxembourg, Ireland and France usually top the list as some of the most expensive holiday destinations. Regardless of where you're planning to visit, you can save money during your trip by following some simple tips:

• Research your accommodation: Hotels can be expensive, so one way of saving money is to look for more budget-friendly accommodation such as hostels, holiday rentals, or even campsites. AirBnB can be an affordable option too, especially if you rent a room instead of an entire apartment; and you'll get to experience what it's like to live like a local. Salud!
• Use public transport: Make the most of any metro systems, buses, or trams to get around instead of relying on private taxis or rental cars. Many European countries also offer national and regional travel passes for public transport which can work out significantly cheaper than buying individual tickets.
• Eat like a local: Opt for local restaurants or street food vendors that offer authentic cuisine at lower prices. Avoid dining at expensive tourist restaurants, and try cooking your own meals if your accommodation has a kitchen. Not only is this a great way to save money, but it can also be a fun cultural experience to shop around in European supermarkets and cook with local ingredients.
• Plan your itinerary: Look out for free attractions such as museums, parks, churches and historical sites, and plan your itinerary around these. Many cities in Europe also offer free walking tours which can be a great way to get an overview of a new location while learning about its culture and history.
• Find discount vouchers: Many tourist attractions and activities offer discount vouchers and codes that can save you money on entry fees and other perks. Look for vouchers online; sign up to newsletters and follow the social media accounts of places you're planning to visit.
• Take cash: Using cash will help you to stick to a budget more easily than paying by card, and you'll also avoid foreign transaction fees. If you do take a card with you, look out for ATMs that are affiliated with your UK bank to avoid ATM fees, and if you're asked whether you want to pay in pounds or euros - always choose euros. If you pay in pounds the merchant can set their own exchange rate which won't be in your favour.

Choosing the right payment method

Sending money to a company you might not have heard of before can be unsettling. We routinely check all the companies that feature in our comparisons to make sure they meet our strict listing criteria, but it's still worth knowing how your money is protected in the unlikely event a company goes bust and you don't receive your order.

Bank transfer

Your money is not protected if you pay by bank transfer. If the company goes bust and you've paid by bank transfer, it's unlikely you'll get your money back. For this reason, we recommend you pay by debit or credit card wherever possible because they offer more financial protection.

Debit cards are the most popular payment method and they offer some financial protection. If you pay by debit card and the company goes bust, you can instruct your bank to make a chargeback request to recover your money from the company's bank. This isn't a legal right, and a refund isn't guaranteed, but if you make a chargeback request your bank is obliged to try and recover your money.

Credit card

Credit cards offer full financial protection, and your money is protected by law under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. Section 75 states that your card issuer must refund you in full if you don't receive your order. Be aware that many credit cards charge a cash advance fee (typically around 3%) for buying currency, so you may have to weigh up the benefits of full financial protection with the extra cost of using a credit card.

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Cheap Holiday Money At Your Fingertips

Find The Best Travel Money Rates

Our rates are updated hourly and sorted by the best currency exchange rates at the moment of inquiry. We pride ourselves on being one of the industry’s most comprehensive and accurate sites, but we recommend double-checking the rates before placing an order.

Best Travel Money Rates Provider (Wise):

Additional providers:.

* This is a comparison of more than 30 recommended travel money providers (doesn’t include other companies which have been included in some of the comparison tables on the site but have not made it into our “recommended” list).

* We do not guarantee the accuracy of quotes, but you can go ahead and check us out. If the provider is offering a different quote than what we featured, go and check other providers (sometimes the rates fluctuate heavily which causes some discrepancies but it’s rare). We feel this holiday money rate comparison is more accurate than most.

* Customer rating component is taken from CompareHolidayMoney with their permission.

View our Per Currency Comparison of top travel money providers:

Pound to Euro

Pound to Dollar

Pound to “Aussie” Dollar

Pound to Canadian Dollar

Pound to Turkish Lira

Pound to Costa Rican Colon

Pound to “Kiwi” Dollar

Pound to Sri Lankan Rupee

Pound to Indian Rupee

Pound to Thai Baht

Finding the best travel money provider

With travel money, finding the best travel money provider for your needs could be complicated. For once, the amount of currency required impacts the rates you are getting. Additionally, some providers are cheaper for particular currency pairs and more expensive for others. Finally, some people value rates, while others care about quality of service and reliability (and are willing to pay more for it).

This is why we have established CompareTravelMoney.net, to provide travellers with all the information they require to make a sober choice. For each currency, we have a separate list of recommended providers with specific rates which apply to the amount you are willing to exchange.

Websites like ours don’t charge money off clients (you will not get better rates by approaching them yourself; on the contrary). We only take a small fee for each client we refer over to a travel money company. In fact, we encourage competitiveness in the niche, and as a whole, what we do helps people get better and better rates each year for their currency.

Happy Travels!

Be sure to read through our About Us and Terms and Conditions . We have covered international money transfers  for bank account transfers in a separate guide, but we are unable to present rates from these companies.

Compare Travel Money Exchange Rates

Making sure you find the best exchange rate should be a priority when planning any trip abroad. The process of comparing travel money rates can be confusing for some, so here are the main things to keep in mind.

What is the exchange rate?

The exchange rate is the way to calculate how much of one currency you will get in exchange for your own money. For example, an exchange rate of 1 would mean that for every one pound sterling, you would get one euro. A rate of 1.2 would mean that for every pound, you would get 1.20 euros. When comparing holiday money providers, look for the exchange rate which gives the highest pound-to-euro or pound-to-dollar rates.

The exchange rate is not a fixed rate. It can vary from day to day, and even from hour to hour. That is why it’s important to shop around and compare travel money quotes from a range of providers to be sure you are getting the most for your money.

What currency do I need?

If you are leaving the UK, you will need to exchange your pounds for the currency used in your destination. UK currency is often referred to as GBP (Great Britain Pounds) for currency exchange.

The majority of European countries have adopted the euro as their currency, with a few notable exceptions. If you are planning a trip to a country within the eurozone, it’s essential to check the GBP/EUR exchange rate to determine how much money you can exchange. Remember, the exchange rate can fluctuate, so it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on it both before and during your trip.

Travel money is available in every currency. Make sure you are searching for the correct exchange rate though, as more than one country uses the currency of the same name. Dollars are used in the USA, Canada and Australia, to name a few, and each will have a different rate!

How to get the best exchange rate on holiday currency?

Many factors affect the exchange rate on any given day. The amount of currency you will get for your pound will vary depending on which provider you buy it from, where you buy it – either online or on the high street, and even the physical location of the provider. This variability is crucial for those dealing in foreign exchange, be it for academic, personal, or professional reasons.

Money exchange companies located in or near popular tourist attractions tend to offer lower exchange rates. This is why you might be advised to steer clear of buying your currency at the airport. The captive market can mean providers get away with much lower rates!

Online or high street travel money?

Most high street banks and Post Offices offer currency exchange. However, generally, better deals are found with online providers.

Travel money fees

As well as the exchange rate, you will need to consider fees when choosing a travel money provider. Travel money providers charge a fee for converting currency. By comparing the rates from several providers, you can find the lowest fee.

Be aware though that the provider with the lowest fee might not always be offering the best exchange rate! This is where online comparison can help. You can see at a glance how much holiday money your pounds will buy and choose the best for you.

How much money should I exchange?

No one can tell you exactly how much money to exchange. Everyone’s needs are different, depending on whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure.

Most holiday money companies will have a maximum limit on the amount you can exchange. In most cases, this will be around £2500, although some providers allow transactions of up to £7,500. If you are travelling for business or buying from suppliers abroad, exchanging a larger amount could be more cost-effective once fees are taken into account.

How do I get my travel money?

This will depend on where you buy it from. High street providers usually offer the choice to pick up your holiday money from a local branch or deliver it directly to your home. There’s usually a small additional fee of up to £10 or free home delivery.

Travel money FAQs

Am i protected.

The best protection is to buy your currency from an authorised by the FCA provider or reputable and established broker. If your provider folds before you take delivery of your travel money, you will not be protected. Make sure you collect or arrange delivery of your funds as soon as possible after purchasing to avoid being left out of pocket.

How to find the best exchange rate?

How much holiday money you will be able to buy can vary hugely from day to day . The best way to get the most for your money is to shop around and compare travel money quotes from as wide a range of providers as possible. It doesn’t have to be time-consuming when done online and could save you money.

Do I have to order travel money in advance?

When you choose to buy your currency is completely up to you. Buying in advance can allow you to take advantage of a good exchange rate or deal, and gives the greatest flexibility on how to collect/deliver your cash.

Can I use my credit card for travel currency?

Yes. You can pay for your holiday money with either a credit or debit card. Be aware that using a credit card will incur fees from both the card provider AND the currency provider, so might not be the cheapest way to get your holiday money.

Why use online travel money comparison sites?

Online travel money sites usually offer better exchange rates than high street providers. This is because of the increased competition online. The other benefit of an online currency comparison is that you can see rates from many different providers at a glance, all in one place.

Make your holiday spending go further with Best Travel Money

Best Travel Money is a trusted and valuable service that compares travel money rates on more than 70 currencies from 25 of the UK’s best foreign currency providers. Our mission is to save you money by providing you with access to the best rates available for buying and selling travel money. To ensure you always have access to the latest and best rates, we update our currency prices every 10 minutes so you always know where to find the best deals. In addition to showing you the best currency rates, we also explain about the best cards to use when abroad.

The idea for this site came about when we were searching for travel money advice when planning our personal trips abroad. We found websites offering travel money comparisons, others with card comparisons, and some with country payment insights but we did not find this all in one place with any degree of prominence or focus.

We aim to give you everything you need to know about travel money in one easy to use website. With over 100 years of experience in our leadership team across banking, payments, cards and travel money we have used this knowledge to create a unique and meaningful service for our customers.

If you have any feedback, please contact us at [email protected] . where we would love to hear about your best travel money tips and suggestions for content to share with our customers.

Tony Gibbons

Co-Founder and Director

Tony has over 30 years’ experience in the banking, payments, and foreign exchange areas, and has held several senior appointments at Lloyds TSB Bank, Visa and eurochange.

Having helped establish the use of debit cards with UK consumers early in his career, he has seen them develop over time into mobile payments, contactless and of course internationally. He has worked on credit cards, savings, loans and current account products and has a very good understanding of how banking and payments work. None the less in his last position as Managing Director of a foreign exchange business that made him think that there was an opportunity to build a new business helping customers understand how money works when they are on holiday abroad.

Tony has been an FCA Approved Person, and has a degree in psychology and is a Chartered Marketer.

Linkedin 

Mark Austin

Mark is a payments business leader with a track record of launching innovative mass market products at scale. His expertise includes business development, marketing and product management

He was previously an Executive Director at Visa where he led major initiatives such as the roll out of contactless and mobile payments across Europe. At Visa, he led the team that grew the contactless product from concept to mass adoption and also delivered the ground breaking acceptance of Visa cards on Transport for London’s bus and underground network. Mark is a qualified Chartered Banker and prior to joining Visa held senior marketing and product roles at Lloyds, RBS and Tesco Bank. In addition to his current role at Best Travel Money he is a Non-Executive Director for London Community Bank and is Chair of the Hypermobility Syndromes Association.

His personal interests including attending live music events and lower league football. He is a season ticket holder at Southend United and in recent years has grown to appreciate the merits of non-league football!

Graham Pilkington

Graham has nearly 35 years in the financial services industry working as a Director with some of the UKs major financial services brands including Lloyds TSB, Alliance & Leicester, Santander and Nationwide Building Society.

His roles have all been in the customer facing side of the business, with at some time being responsible for every financial services product, including cards and travel money, as well as marketing communications, brand and digital. Also Graham was an FCA approved person and worked as a non executive director on the Visa Board, the Council of Mortgage Lenders and as a Pension Trustee.

It was in his last role as Managing Director of a privately owned financial services business, a major part of which was a foreign exchange business that Graham recognised an opportunity to develop something different that could truly inform customers on the best way to make the most of their money when travelling abroad.

His hobbies include travelling ( he has a son living in New Zealand so has no choice ), football, golf, tennis and as a result of lockdown become a reluctant gardener.

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Compare the Best Holiday Money Rates in the UK in 2024

François Briod

Co-Founder of Monito and money transfer expert, François has been helping Monito’s users navigate the jungle of money transfer fees, bad exchange rates and tricks for the last ten years.

Jarrod Suda

A writer and editor at Monito, Jarrod is passionate about helping people apply today’s powerful finance technologies to their lives. He brings his background in international affairs and his experiences living in Japan to provide readers with comprehensive information that also acknowledges the local context.

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In the United Kingdom, online travel money orders from Compare the Market, MoneySuperMarket, and even Post Office Travel Money are extremely popular for getting travel money for your next holiday abroad. However, there are hidden fees involved that we will detail in this guide.

Whether you’re travelling for business or pleasure, we’ll answer all the questions you have on buying foreign currency in the UK and help you find the best ways to make your money go further. While travel debit cards with no international transaction fees such as Starling Bank and travel money cards such as Revolut have a slight technical difference, we will explain why these two options are the best way get holiday money in the UK in 2024.

UK Holiday Money Comparison: 4 Best Currency Exchange Rates

• 01. Top Choice: Multi-currency travel money card scroll down
• 02. Recommended: Travel debit card scroll down
• 03. Optional: Travel money pick-up or delivery scroll down
• 04. Worst Case: High-street or bureaux de change scroll down
• 05. Our top 5 exchange rate tips for UK travel money scroll down

Compare Holiday Money in the UK

Compare holiday money in the uk: 4 ways to order.

Thanks to travel debit cards and the innovation of multi-currency accounts , there are now few advantages to ordering travel money in the UK from a travel money provider (which you might find from a place like MoneySuperMarket).

Travel money exchanges in the UK have been useful to get physical bills of foreign cash before your flight. However, its almost always cheaper to simply get cash at an ATM while on your holiday abroad. Furthermore, most retails and merchants these days accept card payments. There are travel cards that waive foreign transaction fees too — and they lower your risk of loss or theft when travelling with large amounts of cash.

In this list below, we compare four methods to get travel money if you are in the UK. Let's jump in:

1. Get a Multi-Currency Card For Overseas Travel Money

When typical travel money providers sell you foreign currency, they apply a weaker exchange rate than the real mid-market rate . This markup is known as an exchange rate margin , which they pocket as a profit. As we go down the list, we will see this hidden fee get more and more costly.

The Wise Multi-Currency Account and Revolut are our recommendations for the best way to get travel money in the UK because they both offer the best exchange rates on the market.

Revolut is our top choice for travel money in the UK because it charges zero fees for first £1,000 per month that you exchange. The platform works entirely by desktop or smartphone, and they send you a debit card to access your travel money. After the fair usage limit, Revolut charges 1% of the total for Standard plan customers. If you upgrade to their Premium, Metal, or Ultra plans, then you the fair usage limit will be completely lifted.

What's just as impressive is Revolut's exchange rate fees. While markups vary by currency and increase on the weekends, the average markup is a minuscule 0.2%. For euros (€), the most popular currency used for travel money in the UK, Revolut sometimes applies an exchange rate that is actually stronger than the European Central Bank's mid-market rate. This means that you may gain when you exchange your GBP to EUR for your next holiday in the Eurozone.*

You can use Revolut's debit card to use at ATMs for local cash. As a Standard customer, you'd get £200 month of fee-free withdrawals.

*The GBP to EUR exchange rate shown in the image above is not guaranteed. The image was taken on 28/07/2023.

Learn more: Read our in-depth Revolut review  or  visit their website .

• Trust & Credibility 8.9
• Service & Quality 7.9
• Fees & Exchange Rates 8.3
• Customer Satisfaction 9.4

Wise Account

The power of the Wise multi-currency account comes from never charging hidden exchange rate margin fees. No matter which foreign currency you want, Wise will always apply the real mid-market exchange rate to your British pounds. Instead, it charges a transparent service fee that ranges from 0.3% to around 2% depending on the currency.

The Wise account lets you exchange, hold, and spend over 50 foreign currencies with its debit card. It even comes with checking account details for 10 countries, including a UK sort code, US account number, EU IBAN, and more. This means you can receive money locally from those countries with direct debits, SEPA payments, and other methods.

For holiday cash, you can use the Wise debit card for 2 free ATM withdrawals for a total of £200 per month.

Learn more: Read our in-depth Wise review  or  visit their website .

• Trust & Credibility 9.3
• Service & Quality 8.9
• Fees & Exchange Rates 7.6
• Customer Satisfaction 9.6

2. Get a Travel Debit Card That Waives Foreign Transaction Fees

While multi-currency cards like Revolut and Wise allow you to directly use the local currency to pay for goods on your travels, UK debit and credit cards use your GBP holdings. When you use a card issued by Visa, for example, Visa will covert the British pounds in your bank account into the local currency of your holiday destination.

The Visa and Mastercard currency conversion rates are very low (around 0.2%-0.5%), making debit and credit cards a viable option. You can track the Visa exchange rate here and the MasterCard exchange rate here . Just make sure to find cards that charge no international transaction fees . These fees, also called "foreign transaction fees", are a much higher percentage and add up very quickly.

Starling Bank

Starling Bank  stands out as one of the premier debit cards for international travel for customers in the UK, thanks to its absence of foreign transaction fees. If you solely have their GBP account, your Starling Bank card will apply the live exchange rate used by MasterCard, which closely aligns with the mid-market exchange rate. Moreover, Starling Bank provides EUR accounts for no additional cost, making it an ideal choice for traveling to countries that accept euros. In such instances, your Starling Bank debit card will access these account balances, allowing it to be recognised as a local Eurozone card.

One of the most compelling features of Starling Bank is its complete exemption from ATM fees, both domestically and internationally. Irrespective of the amount of cash withdrawn or the frequency of withdrawals, Starling Bank never imposes any fees for ATM transactions. While third-party fees may still apply, as determined by the ATM owner, this travel benefit solidifies Starling Bank's position as the top debit card for international travel for UK residents and citizens.

More info:  Read our in-depth  Starling Bank review  or  visit their website .

• Service & Quality 8.5
• Fees & Exchange Rates 10
• Customer Satisfaction 9.3

3. Order Online and Collect From a Travel Money Provider

Many businesses, including specialist currency providers and supermarkets, allow you to order your travel money online. This is normally known as a “Click and Collect” service. You can then visit a local store and pick up your foreign currency. Depending on the provider, your money could be ready the same day or you might need to visit a few days later to give them a chance to prepare your transaction. 

With some services, you’ll pay online, while others will allow you to pay when you pick up your travel money. You will normally need to take the debit or credit card you used to buy the currency and may also need to take another form of identification with you.

A “Click and Collect” service typically charges a £5 - £10 fixed fee and a 2% - 5% exchange rate margin.

Have Travel Money Delivered to Your Home

One convenient way to get travel money is to order it online and have it delivered to your home address. You can order through a currency exchange provider’s website, pay for your order and let them know where you would like it delivered. 

You should receive your travel money in a couple of business days, and most providers recommend ordering currency for delivery at least three working days before you’re due to travel. For security reasons, most providers will only send your travel money to the address associated with your debit or credit card, and somebody will need to be available to pay for the delivery. Depending on the amount you’re ordering, you may need to pay a fee for home delivery.

Pick Up at a UK Travel Money Provider

Many chains offer a pick-up service, and in some cities, you’ll find independent operators. This is cheaper than the delivery option because the provider will not charge you a delivery fee. There are multiple ways to pay for foreign currency at a local provider including credit cards, debit cards and cash. 

We have a complete guide to the best bureaux de change in London .

4. Visit a High Street Bank or Bureaux de Change

Exchanging money at high street bank or a currency exchange bureaux at an airport is usually the least favourable option for travellers. These establishments typically impose fixed service fees of £10 or more. Moreover, their exchange rates are often not transparent, leaving customers unaware of the actual margin being applied to their transactions. We have seen the markup charged by airports to exceed a staggering 17% or more, leading to substantial losses when converting money.

Be careful when confronted with banks or bureaux advertising "no fee" exchanges, as this often means that they are incorporating hidden exchange rate margins into their services. While these options may serve as a last resort during emergencies at airports, they are generally ill-advised to get travel money in the UK.

To ensure optimal value for your travel money, we highly recommend obtaining a travel debit card or multi-currency account with transparent and competitive rates.

Holiday Money Comparison

Have a look at our travel money comparison chart to find some of the best foreign currency exchange rates offered in the UK.

Last updated: 28/07/2023

Top 5 Exchange Rate Tips For Travel Money in the UK

Here are our essential facts to consider when doing travel money comparison in the UK for your next holiday:

• Cards Over Travel Cash: The right travel money cards consistently offers better rates than travel cash.
• Watch Out for Credit Card Fees: Credit cards charge extra fees to buy travel money on sites like MoneySuperMarket and Compare the Market.
• Avoid International Transaction Fees: It's worth the effort to find a debit card that waives foreign transaction fees for spending abroad.
• Minimise Cash Holding: If you use travel money, pick up your cash as soon as you can since there may be limited protection for your funds.
• Avoid Airport Currency Exchange: Refrain from changing cash at the airport, as rates are often the worst available on the market.

Here are our travel money comparison highlights for the UK:

• Revolut : Get a GBP and EUR account, plus hold and exchange over 20 foreign currencies with no fees for the first £1,000 per month.
• Starling Bank : Get a free GBP and EUR bank account and access both currencies with the Starling debit card, which waives all foreign transaction fees and charges no ATM withdrawal fees.

Travel Money Comparison UK FAQs

Yes. Here at Monito, we make it easy to compare providers so your money goes further. Our easy-to-use comparison tool help you compare travel money solutions, from click and collect services to the best multi-currency cards to spend money abroad without the hidden fees. We also provide in-depth reviews of travel money services , so you can understand their fees, exchange rates, how easy they are to use, what their customers think, mobile apps and much more. 

When you’re deciding how to get your foreign currency, there are several areas you might want to take into account:

• Fees: These can come as fixed fees, commissions, percentage fees, delivery fees, credit card fees or ongoing fees
• Exchange rates: The foreign currency exchange rate will impact how much travel money you get, and can vary significantly between providers 
• Services: the types of service a travel money provider offers, for example: Click and Collect, home delivery, local currency exchange or multi-currency cards
• Speed: How quickly you will receive your travel money
• Convenience: How easy it is to get your travel money
• Customer reviews: What other people think of the travel money provider
• Mobile apps: Whether the provider has a useful mobile app for ordering travel money on-the-go
• Credibility and security: The steps the travel provider takes to protect your personal and financial information

The types of fees you’ll need to pay do depend on the currency exchange business that you use. Typical types of fees include:

A travel money provider may charge you a fixed fee to exchange currency. On larger amounts, these fixed fees won’t make a big difference, but if you’re exchanging smaller amounts, they can take a bite out of how much you’ll receive.

Commissions and percentage fees

Some providers will charge a percentage of the total amount you exchange. This may be a more economical fee if you’re sending smaller amounts, but can quickly add up if you’re sending more.

Delivery fees

If you’re having travel money delivered to your home, then a U.K. travel money provider may charge you for this service. You’ll normally be charged if you order under a certain amount, typically if you exchange less than £500.

Ongoing fees

Certain premium services offered by traditional and mobile banks may charge a monthly fee for services, including a multi-currency card.

Credit card fees

If you pay for travel money with a credit card, it’s possible that your credit card provider will charge you extra since these types of transactions are often considered as “cash advances.” This could be charged as a percentage of the amount and may also result in additional interest. Check with your credit card company to understand what their fees are. If you want to avoid these fees, you could fund your transaction with cash,  a debit card or a bank transfer.

Overseas ATM/cash machine fees

If you withdraw money at an overseas cash machine, you may be charged additional fees. These might be charged whether you’re using your U.K. bank or credit card or a multi-currency card.

For example:

• Eurochange U.K. charges £1.50 per cash machine transaction
• Debenhams charges €2 per cash machine transaction
• Tesco Bank charges £1.50 per cash machine transaction
• Monese charges two percent of the transaction amount after a certain limit

Note that these fees are often in addition to fees charged by the cash machine operator.

Many U.K. travel money providers make most of their money on the difference between the exchange rate they offer to customers and the interbank exchange rate. The interbank rate is also known as the base, mid-market or standard exchange rate, which is the midpoint between the buying and the selling prices of the two currencies.

Here are some examples of what that difference can mean in terms of how much you’ll pay in “hidden” exchange rate markups and fees.

Debenhams travel money: Exchanging 1,000 U.K. pounds into Philippine pesos

• Base exchange rate, 1,000 GBP converts to 65,138 PHP
• Debenhams Travel Money exchange rate, 1000 GBP converts to 59,058 PHP
• The Debenhams Travel Money exchange rate is 9.4 percent more expensive, or around 94 GBP in exchange rate fees

Tesco travel money: Exchanging 1,000 U.K. pounds into Australian dollars

• Base exchange rate, 1,000 GBP converts to 1,862 AUD
• Tesco Bank Travel Money online exchange rate, 1,000 GBP converts to 1,819 AUD
• The Tesco Bank Travel Money exchange rate is 2.3 percent more expensive, or around 23 GBP in exchange rate fees

Eurochange U.K.: Exchanging 500 U.K. pounds into South African rand

• Base exchange rate, 1,000 GBP converts to 19,138 ZAR
• Eurochange UK exchange rate, 1,000 GBP converts to 18,396 ZAR
• The eurochange UK exchange rate is 3.9 percent more expensive, or around 38 GBP in exchange rate fees

We’ve seen markups of between two percent and 18 percent from travel money providers. That’s why it’s always worth comparing holiday money solutions before your trip.

Yes. Many providers will put an upper limit on how much you can exchange in a single transaction or over time. You can find details of these limits in our in-depth reviews.

Typically, yes. A reputable currency exchange business should be licensed and authorized by the Financial Conduct Authority. They should also have separate business operational accounts and accounts for processing foreign money exchange. All of the providers we feature on our website are licensed and authorized. You can find out more about other providers by reading our in-depth reviews.

It’s very unusual for something to go wrong with a currency exchange transaction. Your financial protection depends on how you pay for your travel money. If you pay via cash, you’ll likely get your foreign currency immediately. If you pay by bank transfer, you’re not normally protected. If you pay by debit card, you’re protected from fraud and non-receipt. The most complete protection comes if you use a credit card to fund your transaction, although that comes with other issues like higher fees. We recommend paying for most travel money with a debit card.

In many cases, you can sell your remaining foreign currency notes back to your travel money provider. Most providers indicate on their website how to return money to them. Note that you may get back less than what you sent, as the buyback rates are not as good as the selling exchange rates.

Something else that’s worth pointing out is the exchange rates offered by bureaux de change. These exchange rates often have a much higher markup than click and collect or home delivery exchange rates. Typically, bureaux de change will have different rates for buying and selling currencies, so make sure you’re comparing like with like. In most cases, we recommend a click and collect or home delivery service so you get better exchange rates.

You can learn about exchange rates and fees at London bureaux de change here . 

You can open an account with multiple providers in order to have backup cards and multiple limits (with 1x Wise card and 1x Revolut, you can withdraw 2x €200 for free at an ATM abroad for example). If you're not travelling alone, you can open multiple accounts with the same provider, so both you and your partner can have your own card for example.

Order your card in advance (at least two weeks) to make sure you receive it before your holidays. If you’re too late, some services offer a paid express delivery option (£19.99 for a Standard Revolut card for example).

From the United Kingdom? Revolut is not licensed as a bank in the UK. The content found on this page relating to its products and services is not intended exclusively for a UK readership and may therefore contain inaccuracies from the perspective of UK customers.

References Used In This Guide

1. Travel Money . MoneySuperMarket. Accessed 28 July 2023. 2. Travel Money . Post Office UK. Accessed 28 July 2023. 3. Travel Money. MoneySavingExpert. Accessed 28 July 2023. 4. UK Pricing. Revolut. Accessed 28 July 2023.

Travel Money Comparison UK Tips

Why Trust Monito?

You’re probably all too familiar with the often outrageous cost of sending money abroad. After facing this frustration themselves back in 2013, co-founders François, Laurent, and Pascal launched a real-time comparison engine to compare the best money transfer services across the globe. Today, Monito’s award-winning comparisons, reviews, and guides are trusted by around 8 million people each year and our recommendations are backed by millions of pricing data points and dozens of expert tests — all allowing you to make the savviest decisions with confidence.

Monito is trusted by 15+ million users across the globe.

Monito's experts spend hours researching and testing services so that you don't have to.

Our recommendations are always unbiased and independent.

Money latest: US burger chain expanding in UK; Spotify hiking prices again

American burger chain Wendy's will be recruiting for over 400 job roles as part of its expansion across the UK. Meanwhile, Spotify is raising prices again. Read about this and the rest of today's consumer and personal finance news in the Money blog, and leave a comment in the form below.

Thursday 11 April 2024 13:38, UK

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• Spotify to hike subscription price by up to £24 a year
• Minimum income for family visa rises by £10,000
• Britons can now 'work from home' in Italy for a year
• Wendy's creating 400 jobs as part of UK expansion
• Britons buying homes, having babies, getting married and retiring later - but one key life event is happening earlier
• 'WTF is going on with the price of olive oil?'
• Could I build a home gym for less than my gym membership?
• Basically...  Tax codes
• Cheap Eats : Great British Menu legend shares ultimate toastie recipe

Ask a question or make a comment

Rishi Sunak's post-Brexit rules for foreign workers are getting tough press in Italy this week - with claims they could mark the end of Italian waiters in London.

April saw the minimum salary requirement for a skilled worker visa increase from £26,200 to £38,700 - a near 50% rise as the government tries to reduce immigration.

Italian daily newspaper La Repubblica published an article on its site headlined "Italians in London, the long goodbye" after the new rule was brought in this month.

There were an estimated 342,000 Italians living in the UK in 2021, according to the latest Office for National Statistics census data.

La Repubblica said the new rule change would lead to the "end of the story" of Italy's "ancient roots" in the capital, which was founded by the Romans in 43 AD.

Separately, Italian journalist Antonio Polito wrote in the Corriere della Sera newspaper that the new salary for skilled workers was "an amount that no young novice can realistically earn".

"Thus London gives up one of its great assets, the fact of being an offshore and cosmopolitan city," he said.

Mr Sunak's post-Brexit rule change has worried hospitality bosses who are still struggling to get to grips with a post-COVID reality and rising costs. 

Conor Sheridan, founder of Nory and Mad Egg restaurant chain, previously told the Money blog that roughly 14% of his 15,000 UK employee base were on working visas that could be affected.

Trade body UKHospitality also said the changes would "further shrink the talent pool that the entire economy will be recruiting from".

As the migration law came in, Home Secretary James Cleverly said it was "time to turn off the taps and end the flow of cheap workers from abroad".

"We are refocusing our immigration system to prioritise the brightest and best who have the skills our economy needs, while reducing overall numbers," he said.

Several of the UK's biggest supermarkets closed their gender pay gap in the last year - while Morrisons saw the biggest rise, figures show.

Ocado and Lidl reduced their gap by the largest amounts in 2023-24 compared to the previous year, while Tesco, Asda, Aldi, Co-op, Iceland and Waitrose owner John Lewis also saw a reduction.

The data comes from the government's gender pay gap service and states the difference in hourly rates of pay. 

In contrast to other big-name brands, Morrisons saw its mean pay gap widen to 12.5% from 7.6%. M&S also saw a slight increase from 12.5% to 12.6%.

The mean figure gives the best overall view of the gender pay gap but includes extreme values which could skew the average.

Of the 11 biggest UK supermarkets, Co-op has the largest pay gap with 13.2%, followed by M&S and Morrisons.

An M&S spokesperson said: "We're committed to driving equal opportunities and making M&S a great place to work for women. Encouragingly our median pay gap has decreased, and women now make up more than 50% of our UK store management population, but we know there is more to do. 

"We're making progress with the launch of new initiatives, talent programmes, and policies, including our flexible working offer – Worklife, a Job Share Finder, and our industry-leading family leave offer."

A spokesperson for Co-op said: "We are committed to treating our colleague member owners fairly, and this includes driving equitable outcomes for female colleagues. We've seen a significant reduction in our gender pay gap since we started to report data in 2017, and this year's data shows further progress towards closing it.

"It's important to reiterate that we don't pay people differently based on their gender at Co-op. The gender pay gap is caused by us having fewer females in leadership role, where salaries are higher.

"Our focus on improving representation remains, as we know this is one of the key drivers causing the gender pay gap. Today, 40% of our leadership population are female - this is not enough, which is why we’ve launched a series of development programmes and have a coaching and mentoring offer to support women with career progression.

"We know there’s still much to do in this space and will hold ourselves to account and continue to strive for gender equality."

Morrisons has also been contacted for comment.

Every Thursday we look at a different savings option, explain the pros and cons, and reveal the best deals on the market (see table below for that).  This week we're talking about the best notice accounts. Savings Champion founder Anna Bowes  says this...

As with the rest of the savings market, the top notice account rates have started to fall. However, there are stalwarts like the Investec 90-day notice account that are holding steady and as a result offering savers an opportunity to earn a little more, while not having to tie up their cash for too long.

A relatively unused aspect of the savings market, notice accounts offer a bit of a halfway house, with the best rates available generally paying more than the top easy access rates, but will more flexibility of access than a fixed term bond.

Just as it sounds, these savings accounts require you to give notice in order to access your money without a penalty. The usual notice period ranges from 30 to 120 days, although there are some accounts on the market that require six months or even a year's notice.

By Sarah Taaffe-Maguire , business reporter

Another record month for Heathrow. Last month was the busiest ever March for the UK's biggest airport, the second record-breaking month in a row. 

It was also the busiest Easter weekend as Good Friday became the busiest ever direct departure day, when 118,000 people began their journey at the airport. 

It shows, despite cost of living pressures, lots of Britons were going on holiday.

More good news for Heathrow came earlier this week as planned strike action by 600 border force officers was called off to allow for negotiations in its dispute over working patterns. 

Oil prices are still high, hanging around $90. A barrel of Brent crude oil, the benchmark for oil prices, costs $90.66. The last time prices were this high was in the wake of the 7 October attacks and fears of conflict spreading throughout the Middle East. 

On the currency front, £1 buys $1.2538 and €1.1678.

How old is the average Briton when they buy their first home, or finish paying their mortgage, or retire?

These are some of the questions answered in a "Journeying Through Life" data dump from the Office for National Statistics.

Here are some of the key takeaways...

Home ownership - including the one life event that's happening earlier

People are buying homes later in life, perhaps unsurprisingly given how house prices have risen in the last decade or so.

In 2022, more than half of people owned their own home (either with a mortgage or outright) by the age of 36. 

That's a significant increase on 2004's figures - which showed the average age for home ownership was 32. 

This graph shows what proportion of people own homes at what age.

It isn't all doom and gloom on the homes front, however, with the age at which people own their home outright (ie mortgage paid off) dropping from 63 (in 2004) to 61 in 2020. 

This is pretty much the only life event happening earlier, however.

Retiring later

Again, this probably won't come as a huge surprise, but people are retiring later. 

The age where more than half of people were retired increased from 64 in 2011 to 66 in 2021. ​

There has been a bigger increase in average retirement age for women (from 61 years in 2011, to 66 years in 2021) than for men (from 65 in 2011 to 66 in 2021). 

The ONS says this is because the state pension age for women was increased from 60 to 66 during this time to match men.

Gender pay gap shrinking but still present

The latest data shows that men are still, on the whole, being paid more than women - although the gender pay gap is shown to be shrinking. 

For all employees, the gender pay gap was 14% in 2023 - compared with 20% in 2013.

Despite the gap shrinking, this graph shows that men's hourly wages are higher than women's at nearly all ages. 

The grey shaded area represents the pay gap. 

Another part of the data shows that males start work a touch earlier than women - with half of males in full-time employment by the age of 23 (compared with females at 24) in 2021. 

That data could be explained by the fact that more women attend university - some 319,000 females compared with 285,000 males in 2022.  

Moving out, marrying and having children

The age at which young people move out of their family homes is increasing, too.

In 2011, half of people were not living with their parents at the age of 21 - compared with 24 in 2022. 

More men live with their parents than women, with 61% of adults living at home in 2021 were male.

When it comes to having children, the average age at which women have their first baby has risen to 29.

That's up from an average of just 23 in 1970. 

And finally, marriage.

The median age at first marriage has been steadily increasing since the 1960s. 

For opposite sex couples married in 2020, the median age was 32 years for men and 30 years for women. For those entering into same-sex marriage, the median age was older, at 36 years for men and 32 years for women.

As well as getting married older, fewer people are getting married. In 2019, marriage rates had fallen to their lowest on record. For men, there were 18.6 marriages per 1,000 never-married men; for women, there were 17.2 marriages per 1,000 never-married women.

Spotify has announced it is hiking its subscription prices by up to £24 a year.

It is the second time in less than a year that the music streaming giant has increased its prices.

Here's how the prices will change...

Individual: £11.99 a month (up from £10.99 a month)  

Duo: £16.99 a month (up from £14.99 a month)  

Family: £19.99 a month (up from £17.99 a month) 

When will the change kick in?

The subscription price will change from May and if you are an existing customer Spotify will email you and give you one-month's notice of the change.

If you are on a free trial you will pay the old price for one month once your trial ends.

A Spotify spokesperson told Sky News: "So that we can keep innovating and delivering value to fans, the music industry, and creators on our platform, we occasionally update our prices. 

"We've begun communicating with existing subscribers in the UK to explain what this means for their account."

American burger chain Wendy's will be recruiting for over 400 job roles as part of its expansion across the UK.

The chain returned to the UK in 2021 after a 20-year break and has since opened just over 30 sites, including drive-throughs in Colchester, Peterborough, Derby and Brampton Hut.

But the chain, which was founded in Columbus, Ohio, in 1969, plans to open a further nine sites this year in Liverpool, Middlesbrough, and a second location in Sheffield.

New locations will include Liverpool, Middlesbrough and a second site in Sheffield.

Wendy's franchisee GH Burgers will open a first restaurant in Wood Green, London, this year.

There will also be restaurants in Southend-on-Sea, Colchester, Cambridge and Newcastle.

Michael Clarke, UK managing director for the Wendy's Company, told The Caterer : "We've seen great momentum in building Wendy's fandom in the UK, and the love and excitement for this iconic brand grows stronger with each new restaurant opening."

Changes to visa rules costing people thousands of pounds extra "destroy the notion of the UK as a place where families can thrive", campaigners have said.

The minimum income for family visas rises by more than £10,000 to £29,000 today. 

It will rise further to £38,700 early next year. 

Reunite Families UK claimed the values of family and love are being treated as "as yet another political football to be sacrificed in order to receive better poll or electoral results".

The government says the plans offer "an accelerated and comprehensive programme of reforms" to address "unsustainable" levels of legal migration to the UK.

Justifying its plans, the Home Office said the minimum amount had remained unchanged for more than a decade, and the new measures will help ensure families are self-sufficient and not relying on public funds.

'We just want to be with our families'

Argentinian Eugenia Morales said the uncertainty around her and her baby daughter being able to reunite with her husband in the UK had taken a toll.

The 30-year-old has been with her partner Connor White for three years but is unsure whether - after having their daughter in Argentina - she will be able to join him in England.

She said Mr White, who is based in West Sussex, cannot leave his eldest child from a previous relationship and has been working weekends in his construction job to try to boost his income to the required amount to sponsor his wife.

Ms Morales said she would be looking for a job in the UK and would not have access to benefits while applying on the family visa route anyway.

She told the PA news agency: "We don't want to be a burden to the [welfare] system, we just want to be with our families.

"It's an awful situation. We want to be together, we want the girls to grow up together but this is making it totally impossible."

Caroline Coombs, co-founder of Reunite Families UK, said people are feeling "punished" and "excluded" by the new rules.

Ms Coombs said: "This increase, together with the ones which will come into force in the next 12 months, destroy the notion of the UK as a place where families can thrive."

Athletics will become the first sport to introduce prize money at the Olympics this summer.

World Athletics, the international athletics federation, says it will pay Olympic gold medal winners $50,000 at the Paris games.

The athletics governing body said it is setting aside $2.4m (£1.89m) to pay the gold medallists across 48 events at Paris' track and field programme.

Read the full story here ...

The tweet below on the price of olive oil has gone viral - so we thought it was a good opportunity to resurface our feature from March that explains what's going on.

At the time, our  spending calculator  revealed the average price of a 500ml bottle of olive oil had risen from £3.54 in January 2021 to £7.45 now - an eyebrow-raising jump of 110.5%.

We spoke to experts about why - and here's what we learned...

Groves becomes graveyards

We start in Italy, where, according to a  survey by the polling firm Istituto Piepoli , 45% of consumers have rediscovered seed oil in the kitchen, and the industry is facing an existential crisis.

Mike Carlucci, managing director of the Italian food importer  Tenuta Marmorelle , says production in parts of Italy is becoming impossible due to a natural disaster that has nothing to do with the climate.

"The events of the past 10 years have made olive oil production in Puglia [which produces 40% of Italy's olive oil] almost impossible," he said. "This is due to the rising bacteria disease Xylella Fastidiosa."

The disease attacks and kills century-old olive trees, severely diminishing yields.

It spreads about 20km to 25km a year, Mike says, leaving a "graveyard of withered and barren trees which were once stunning beautiful olive groves".

Many producers have been forced to replace their trees with more resilient varieties but...

"Even if the new trees manage not to succumb to Xylella, it will be at least nine to 12 years before they produce a notable amount of oil," says Mike.

While prices are up across the continent, in the UK another factor is in play: Brexit.

"The cost of customs documentation leaving Europe and entering the UK is approximately £95 per shipment," says Mike.

"Transporters have all imposed a Brexit surcharge for extra admin duties performed by them in the importation of goods from Europe."

Pallets coming into the UK from the continent are now subject to more stringent fire resistance rules - meaning the cost of pallets has "tripled, even in some cases quadrupled".

'Never had a shortage like it'

Another issue, as has been widely reported, are the wildfires and droughts in southern Europe last year.

These weather events have lead people to extreme measures, according to Sarah Vachon, olive oil sommelier and founder of  citizensofsoil.com .

"You can ask the elders in the villages in Greece and they've never had a shortage like this," she says.

"I see lots of producers selling their previous harvest's oils, since they're able to get a high price for it and might have held on to it over the year. 

"This means the consumer is not getting fresh EVOO. And when it's not fresh, it not only loses its flavour, but it also loses a lot of the health benefits (namely antioxidants like polyphenols) which drop significantly over time."

On top of climate change, there's a flood of cheap sunflower oil coming from Ukraine - so while the price of olive oil is going up, the cost of alternatives are going down.

200 trees stolen overnight

The result is an industry in crisis - and organised criminals are taking advantage.

"Around half of the farmers I work with have a story to tell about thieves stealing their liquid gold," says Sarah.

"Sometimes it's the oil itself, or the olive fruit at the groves, or even an insane story from one of our producers about thieves coming in the night and uprooting 200 freshly planted trees."

Maria Dawson, managing director of the organic food seller Clearspring, says the industry is seeing "some of the lowest levels of olive oil production for five decades and unfortunately a shortage of supply".

The company has managed to secure a stable supply for the coming year, but Maria expects the market to remain uncertain - with no price reductions in the near future, even if 2025 brings better harvests.

Olive oil sommelier Sarah isn't hopeful, either.

"Olive oil is already facing record prices, and the way the climate is changing across the Mediterranean basin (which is warming 20% faster than the rest of the world), the shortages we've seen will likely continue."

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