A consumer group has listed a number of steps consumers can take to ensure they do not run up large credit card bills when going on holiday.
Consumers should make sure they pick the right credit card when going abroad - otherwise it could end up costing them extra, according to Which? magazine.
The consumer group warned that most credit cards contain a "foreign exchange loading fee" when used abroad, which is usually between 2.75 and three percent of the transaction. Additionally, most cards feature a charge for withdrawing cash.
Which? advised also warned consumers to make sure their card provider knows that they plan on going out of the country. Much of the recent growth in card fraud has been down to cloned cards being used abroad and a provider may cancel the card if they see that it is being used in a different country.
Travellers should also buy foreign currency with cash or a Maestro card - Visa, MasterCard and Amex cards all incur additional charges, Which? warned.
"Thinking ahead and changing your money before you travel means you'll avoid getting stung at the airport - head to a city centre bureau de change or go online for the best deals," added Which? Money editor Martyn Hocking.
Finally, Which? advised consumers to use a Best Buy credit card from Nationwide, Saga or The Post Office, which don't impose charges for purchases made within the EU.
