Travelling for the Holidays? Expect an Extra Credit Charge
This year, approximately 2.4 million Britons are planning to travel over the holiday season. The three most popular destinations are Spain (17% of planned travel), the US (8% of planned travel), and France (6% of planned travel). According to the Post Office, 49% of these British travellers will be using their credit cards overseas.
The Post Office wants all to know, however, about a hidden charge many travellers are surprised with upon receiving their credit card statements post trip. The additional 2.75% that credit card providers charge in commission for each transaction made overseas can really add up for an entire vacation.
Gary Fitton, Post Office Director of Lending, summarized: “For many people, going abroad for Christmas is a great way to relax and not have to worry about cooking Christmas dinner. However…many people could be returning from their Christmas break with a lot more than just ‘memories and mementoes’ due to hidden card charges. Regardless of where people are travelling to this Christmas, we are urging holidaymakers to ensure the only baggage they return with is the luggage they are carrying and not unnecessary card charges.”
For this reason, the Post Office has released public statements to expose the hidden charge and allow Britons to plan for the extra cost before vacationing.