Cash warning for Spain, Greece and Turkey this summer
Two in five (38%) Brits have experienced being caught short of cash while abroad, with Spain, the USA, Turkey, Greece, and France being the top destinations where UK holidaymakers have been caught out.
While many of us are used to tapping and paying at home, nearly two in five (38%) Brits admit they've been caught short by trying to rely on cards abroad. Often just when they needed it most. It's a helpful reminder that a little preparation can go a long way in making sure your holiday runs as smoothly as possible.
The research highlighted that only a third (33%) had researched how cash reliant their destination was before flying, meaning many could end up being caught short while abroad.
Whether it's the food stalls of a Spanish market, a souvenir shop in Greece, or a taxi ride in Turkey, many everyday experiences abroad still demand physical currency.
What's the best card to spend abroad? Is cash a winner? Change currency now or when you get there? These and far more summer holiday travel money questions answered in my new podcast below... https://t.co/ysVU9gXGK6 — Martin Lewis (@MartinSLewis) June 26, 2025
Tesco Insurance and Money Services' research found the top locations where Brits had experienced being caught short of cash:
Spain
USA
Turkey
Greece
France
Austria
For many travellers cash is still king and they are simply more comfortable with the certainty carrying cash brings. Well over half (57%) use cash for taxis and tipping, while almost half (48%) say it's just more convenient than cards.
For a third (33%), cash is an essential safety net in case of emergencies. A fifth (21%) are motivated by a desire to avoid foreign card charges, or because they know from experience that cash is more widely accepted in their chosen destination.
Ban Mahsoub, Partnerships Director, at Tesco Insurance and Money Services says: 'While we're all used to paying with our phones and cards at home, travelling abroad often means going back to basics. Being caught without cash can turn a relaxing holiday into a stressful experience, whether you're trying to buy something at a market or simply pay for a taxi.
"The best approach is a 'hybrid wallet', bring your cards, but make sure you've got some local currency too. A little preparation can make all the difference between a smooth trip and an unexpected hassle.'
Research showed these were the worst places to be stuck without cash on holiday (Image: Tesco)
Amelia Murray, a money expert at Be Clever With Your Cash, agrees: 'There's still a blind spot when it comes to cash. Many people assume that having a fee-free card is enough, but that can be a false economy if you end up using an ATM abroad that charges or get stung by poor exchange rates.
'It's not about carrying wads of cash, it's about being prepared for those moments when a card simply won't cut it.'
She suggested packing a 'cash cushion' – a small amount of local currency that could be useful for tipping, local travel, or if holidaymakers end up somewhere that does not accept cards.
She also suggested that holidaymakers make sure they understand their card's policy on fees and currency conversion before they travel.
To help Brits avoid those holiday cash blind spots, it is worth making a plan for managing your money abroad:
Don't leave it until the airport
Airport exchange rates are notoriously poor, and exchange bureaus abroad often come with high transaction fees. Sorting your currency in advance not only means you're likely to get a much better exchange rate, but also gives you peace of mind in case you arrive and can't immediately access an ATM or bureau.
It also means you won't get caught out abroad without cash when you need it most or stung by unexpected ATM fees. Customers with a Tesco Clubcard are eligible for Clubcard Prices discount on travel money when buying their currency in a Tesco store or online. For even more convenience, Tesco Travel Money also offers home delivery.
Double-check the currency
It sounds so simple, but always confirm the currency used at your destination, especially if you're travelling to regions where multiple currencies are accepted or if you're crossing borders during your trip. A quick check can save you hassle later.
Bring small and large notes if possible
Local markets, taxis, and small independent shops often struggle to break large notes, especially for small purchases. Having a mix of smaller bills makes everyday transactions much easier, helps with tipping, and avoids awkward situations.
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Withdrawing cash
If you don't like the idea of carrying too much cash with you but want to avoid card fees for withdrawing cash abroad, a Multi-currency Cash Passport could be a good option. This is a prepaid travel money card that you can buy in store at Tesco's Travel Money Bureaux or online and load with up to 10 currencies before you go.
Don't forget your leftover cash
If you have cash left over at the end of your holiday, you could send it to one of Tesco's in-store Travel Money Bureaux and they'll buy it back – even if you bought it elsewhere -. Customers who purchase Tesco's Buy Back Promise when ordering their travel money through them can even return the currency at the rate they bought it, which may save them money.
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