The action-packed Cricket World Cup will be held in England and Wales between 30th May and 14th July this year. If you’re planning a trip to the UK to see the matches and bask in the elusive English summer, perhaps you would like to know about the various ways money changes hands there. While it is wise to keep some of your money in Pound Sterling, or ‘quid’ as it is fondly called, let’s look at some alternative ways of payment in the UK.
- Web-based wallets/e-wallets: Most of these wallets are compatible with Android and iOS devices. International digital wallets offer a complete mobile payment solution which offers assured cashback on all your bill payments. And on your trip to England, Digital Wallets can be handy in booking flight tickets, get that international calling recharge on your phone and make money transfer to any mobile phone or email ID whenever required! You can link these wallets to your bank account Debit Card and Credit Card. Paying your BnB host or your hotel in England shouldn’t need hard cash; transferring the money through these wallets is easy.
- International cards – HDFC Bank offers two Multicurrency Forex Cards tailored to meet your UK travel needs:
- HDFC Bank Multicurrency ForexPlus Card offers contactless NFC technology which is secured with PIN and chip. It charges £1 for ATM withdrawals, apart from a minimal issuance fee of Rs 500, loading fee of Rs 75, and reissuance fee of Rs 100 (excluding taxes). So, if you want to do a bit of shopping in Manchester’s Arndale Centre after watching the India-England match, don’t forget to carry your HDFC Bank Multicurrency ForexPlus Card.
- MakeMyTrip HDFC Bank ForexPlus Card assures worry-free travel with emergency cash assistance, lounge access, and free insurance cover up to Rs 25 lakh. The charges for issuance, reload, and reissuance are the same as with the HDFC Bank Multicurrency ForexPlus Card. Your travel concerns are addressed comprehensively by this card – air accident, lost luggage, loss of cash, and loss of passport are all covered.
- Money transfer services – Money transfer service providers can come in handy in case you need cash in an emergency. Western Union and MoneyGram have a global presence; you can receive money through them from back home, should the need arise. You can collect the money sent from the local UK office of the service provider.
- Prepaid cards – If you are planning to watch India play Australia in London, make sure you buy an Oyster Card, which is valid for all public transport in the Greater London area. You can get one from any tube station for £5. Other cities too have their travel cards. There are various other Prepaid Cards you can recharge and use for shopping, eating out, and even for hotel stay. Pick one that offers free top-up and zero transaction charges. However, you will miss out on the CashBack and Reward Points that you will get from using your HDFC Bank Credit Card.
With a customised HDFC Bank Multicurrency ForexPlus Card in your wallet, PayZapp app on your phone, and London’s popular travel card in your pocket, you are ready to handle any expenses you make in England and Wales. For good measure, throw in a Prepaid Card and a money transfer app on your phone, and you will be ready to enjoy the cricket carnival this summer!
Looking to apply for a ForexPlus Card by HDFC Bank? Get started here!
Want to travel safe? Know these handy tips now!
* Terms & conditions apply. Forex Card approvals are at sole discretion of HDFC Bank Ltd
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