Millions of us are getting ready for our holidays. Whilst the countdown sets in, have we incorporated checking our banks charges for spending and withdrawing on our plastic abroad in our to do list?
In reality probably not. This is something we need to be aware of as it can make the difference of up to a £100 unknowingly spent on our holiday. This information can be checked upon whilst shopping in town for our essentials , by calling your branch or surfing the web so don't be caught short when your statement arrives. Save yourself!

Banks are increasing the cost of using plastic abroad. Its estimated that a staggering £355 million in charges will be paid by Brits using their credit cards abroad this year alone. The comparison website uswitch.com have estimated that £204 million of these charges are on purchases and £151 million on withdrawal fees.

Credit cards may seem like the easiest and safest way to pay, and if we're honest they are lighter than change, less hassle than walking to the exchange shop or getting and guarding travelers cheques with our lives. However using the 'wrong card' or simply being unaware of your cards fees can make a huge difference to your holiday spending. The moneysupermarket.com estimated that £541 million will be wasted on charges from credit and debit cards this year alone. Withdrawing money from the hole in the wall or paying in a shop incurs many hidden charges such as :

• The standard transaction fee = 2%
• Foreign Usage Loading Charge= 1% - 2.75%
• Hidden interest Charges.
• Higher interest rates on cash advances.
• Your holiday purchases not being included in your interest free period.

When paying on plastic in bars, restaurant or other amenities Say No to converting your bill into sterling. You may think that seeing how much you have spent in sterling will ensure you keep on track of what you are paying, especially if sangria has been involved. However the bank charge to make the conversion (Dynamic Currency Conversion) from foreign currency is not worth it and soon adds up! This conversion is not a free way of helping us 'English' understand. Print off a cash converter and keep it in your wallet. This is free! Organisations should ask your permission before they use dynamic currency conversion but, evidence has shown that not all are complying, so check all receipts.

Eddy Weatherill of the Independent Banking Advisory Service said:
"These fees for using cards overseas are just one of many stealth charges used by the banks. Generally, the charges are hidden away in the statement small print rather than being spelt out. Many people do not even know they are being charged when using their cards overseas."

Ensure you check your cards terms and conditions of use and charges abroad, look for ATM's abroad with free withdrawal and say no to dynamic currency conversion. Make sure if you get burnt this holiday it is only by the sun!

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