Hi I'm in NZ until further notice. My money is payed into a UK bank. Every time I take money out over here I get a bank charge and what appears to be a bad exchange rate. I wish to keep my UK bank account. Are there any cheaper options? BTW I'm with first direct and they don't have any traveling options. Cheers FC
I use a Caxtoncard (Euro) and am very happy with it: good rates too.
I use Citibank foreign currency saving accounts, US dollar, Canadian dollar and Euro accounts. Move money online from my UK bank account. Then draw cash from ATMs.
More details at
As you're already in NZ, it's a bit late now to set up anything in the UK that requires opening new accounts etc.
First Direct is part of HSBC, so if you can get to a branch of HSBC in NZ you may find you get a better rate at their ATM's. I believe they have branches in Auckland, but I'm not sure how extensive their branch network is around the rest of the country.
Chris
Many thanks for the feedback. Before posting I changed my UK bank account details to reflect my present location. Now those banks are saying that I can only get a card if my current account is registered in the UK. I think the only way round this is to get a freind to get a card and post it to me. Cheers again FC
If you plan on moving overseas it's a good idea to leave at least a couple of credit cards with a UK address if possible. That allows you to maintain a UK credit history if you ever want to apply for new accounts. I've lived outside the UK for many years and have a bank account and a few credit cards registered at a family member's house in the UK. I've also made sure I've kept a utility bill there which is useful as you often need to be able to show evidence of a UK address.
Chris
BeanSmart website is not affiliated with any of the manufacturers or service providers discussed here. All logos and trade names are the property of their respective owners.