What's the most frugal way to spend abroad?

[ceejay74]

The last time I went to England I wasn't the frugal gal I am today. So I used credit cards and ATMs indiscriminately, not really wondering which was a better deal. But we're going again in May, and I want to keep finances charges and poor exchange rates to a minimum. Has anyone done the homework or tested various theories? What's the cheapest way to spend my money in England?

[sweeps]

Normally I would never say this, but Capital One is the way to go. If you use CapOne's credit card abroad, you do not pay any currency conversion fee AND they don't even pass along the 1% fee charged by M/C and Visa.

Compare that to the 2% and 3% fees that other companies charge.

[sweeps]

Choosing the right currency for your trip

[ummabdullah]

Obviously the currency exchange really hurts americans traveling abroad at the moment. And unfortunately their is very little one can do about it.

however, their are a few tips..

One is try shopping at tescos for food and bread. Most of the mini tescos found all over the country including London have freshly baked bread and croissants which are some of the most delicious I have ever tasted. They also have tons of sale items on some older stock.

Another way to cut down on the food budget is by grabbing a pasty for less than a £.70. It is a very filling lunch time sandwhich and paired with some veg and fruit will make a very satisfying meal.

Also don't worry about the water as it is fantastic in the uk. Very clean and healthy. And their is absolutely no need to waste your money on bottled water.

[speakmato]

Like ummabdullah said, being as frugal there as you are here can make it easier. But in my book it's a bit boring to be overly frugal while on vacation (assuming that you're on vacation). Ideally I establish a daily spending limit and do whatever I like within that limit. Otherwise I don't go actively looking for the cheapest place to do. But then you might be staying a while, in which case you're really looking to save.