Money saving tips for Lions fans heading to South Africa

Rugby fans following the British Lions on their tour of South Africa will find that their money goes a lot further than in the UK, according to travel money expert M&S Money.

Thousands of supporters are expected to travel from Britain and Ireland to watch the team in the first test match against South Africa, which takes place on 20th June.

Fans have paid thousands of pounds to follow the team and will want to make the most of their money when on tour.

The South African currency, the rand, has strengthened in value against sterling since May 2008. On May 1 last year £1 bought R14.18 compared to R11.84 on May Day this year. However, the price of everyday items in South Africa remains much less than in the UK.

Research by M&S Money has found that a basket of everyday items costs an estimated £49.79 in South Africa. The same basket in the UK costs around £88.84.

Fans should expect to pay just over £1 for a cup of coffee from a South African café, while a bottle of lager is priced around £1.60. A three course meal for two including a bottle of wine is just under £40, while a glass of local wine is just under £1.70.

James Yerkess, M&S Travel Money Manager, said: ‘We have highlighted South Africa as being a popular holiday destination for Brits this year. Holidaymakers are looking around for countries where they are getting more for their money, and South Africa is a prime example.'

He added: ‘A trip to see the Lions play in South Africa is a dream for every British rugby fan. With package tours costing many hundreds of pounds, supporters will want to make the most of their cash when on tour. Simple steps like making sure you get currency before you reach the airport will mean supporters have even more cash when they arrive.'

M&S Money five money-saving travel tips for fans heading to South Africa:

1. Get more currency for your cash

The most important thing to remember is to get your foreign cash before you get to the airport. Rates on the high street are much more competitive.

If you are using an ATM look out for Dynamic Currency Conversion, rather than charging you in the local currency the bank may offer to convert your money into sterling. Don't do it until you have checked out using a currency conversion calculator to ensure you know what you are spending.

2. Important information about your Cards

Make sure your debit and credit cards are not about to expire while you are abroad. Organise your replacement cards before you go.

Make a note of card details and phone numbers of your card providers, you may need to contact them in an emergency. Leave a copy of these details at home with your traveller cheque numbers and insurance policy details, but keep another with you on your trip.

3. Don't forget insurance

Don't be tempted to save money but not taking our travel insurance - it could prove invaluable.

4. Car hire

If you want to make savings on car hire, book yours in advance. Start your search on the internet, but take care! Many car hire companies add in extras that won't appear on the quote, so the cheapest online may not be the cheapest when you come to pay. If it's not clear, check with the hire company before you buy.

5. Phoning home

Phoning home from abroad can be expensive. Check with your provider if there are special holiday tariffs which may help to keep the cost down.