Make your money travel further this half term
Jet setters heading off for a half term holiday of sun or ski should add two crucial items to their pre-holiday check list says MoneySupermarket.com - getting the best value deal on holiday money, and getting the right insurance.
Sensible savings on travel money
According to analysis from MoneySupermarket, despite recent fluctuations on the value of GBP/EUR currency exchange rate, last minute holidaymakers who haven't yet sorted their travel money can still benefit from shopping around, saving up to £73 on the purchase of €1,000 before they jet off this half term.
MoneySupermarket found that by spending a few minutes to pre-order money online for same day collection in London could save up to £73 and will save people holding out for a last-minute Sterling rebound. Pre-ordering €1,000 online with central London collection with ICE would cost £862.07, compared to a direct purchase at Travelex Gatwick, costing £934.58. Yet travellers could save even more by getting organised with a debit or credit card designed for overseas usage. For example, comparing the cost of a direct purchase at the airport for €1,000 with someone spending the same amount in purchases abroad on the Norwich & Peterborough BS Gold Classic debit card would save an extra £79, or up to £82 for someone making five withdrawals for €1,000 on the Halifax Clarity credit card - a saving of over 10 per cent.
Bob Atkinson, travel expert at MoneySupermarket.com, said: "It comes as no surprise that travellers exchanging their travel money last minute at the airport could end up paying well over the odds. With exchange rates fluctuating daily, and the GBP/EUR rate at its lowest for 7 months, many holidaymakers heading off on a half term trip may be worried about how to make their money stretch further. But it's simple to get more bang for your holiday buck, with just a small amount of pre-planning.
"Using a credit or debit card designed for overseas use could be your best option. By applying and using a card designed for this type of spending, you can benefit from some of the best deals around, coupled with the safety of using a pin protected card. Those planning to use a debit or credit card should always check the small print to ensure they understand any charges before setting off abroad - or they could be greeted by a hefty bill on their return."
Get covered for ski and après-ski adventures
Ski and snowboard enthusiasts heading off to the slopes this half term should pay close attention to the detail of their insurance policy and ensure it includes winter sports protection such as piste closure, avalanche closure and off-piste skiing. It's also essential to check whether emergency transport to hospital and back home is included in policy wording under medical expenses.
A family of four hitting the slopes for a week in Europe can insure themselves for as little as £18 with OUL which covers winter sports equipment, piste closure, and off-piste skiing. For an additional £14 regular travellers could opt for an annual policy with Oinc.com which would provide protection for all trips planned over the year and also includes winter sports cover. In addition to adequate travel insurance, it may also be worth paying a small premium when in a resort for local insurance which covers rescue and transport on or off-piste. For example, skiers in France can purchase a Carré Neige pass for a few Euros per day which covers rescue and some basic doctor's bills.
Bob Atkinson, travel expert at MoneySupermarket, said: "Travel insurance is an essential item when planning any holiday and even more so for a trip involving adrenaline-fuelled winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Finding the best value travel insurance policy will give peace of mind as well as extra cash to enjoy the après-ski entertainment.
"Snow lovers should check that on top of the usual standard criteria such as cancellation, baggage cover and medical expenses, their policy includes winter sports protection such as cover for sports equipment, ski pass, or going off-piste. Families who travel more than once in a year may find annual travel insurance is a more cost effective option, but check the maximum number of days of skiing allowed under the policy. It is vital to check the small print on these policies as insurers will make certain stipulations in order for cover to remain valid, for example, wearing a helmet.
"As well as suitable travel insurance, travellers should also make sure they have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) when travelling within the EU. This will entitle you to state healthcare at a reduced cost, or in some instances for free. Each member of your family will need to own a card in order to be covered however this should be used alongside your insurance policy, not as a replacement."