Hi
I am going to Sri Lanka in about a months time and I'm not sure what will be better to use... my commonweath bank pre paid travel card or my bank debit card.
the travel card was great in thailand cause i could convert into thai baht and avoid fees but LKR being closed currency im not sure what is the best way to go...
I assume your prepaid card works in all ATMs.
Do you buy your SL rupees in advance, or do you carry the money as home country cash and only exchange when you withdraw. You need to find what rate you get. Also if you buy in advance you will be liable to currency fluctuations which may be good, may be bad.
Visa and MasterCard publish their exchange rates. You should be able to find out what your other card will give.
Also find out what charges apply to your debit card. This is often about 3%, but for some (like me) it's 0%.
You should then be able to work it out. Without knowing the figures, I can't see how anyone can advise.
Check with your bank how much they charge when you use them.
For me, the debit one is cheaper than the credit one if I use it in ATM.
Michel
Several countries now have credit-card providers who offer zero international fees and zero worldwide ATM withdrawal fees. Perhaps check what is available in your country.
I personally would never lock into a pre-paid travel card.
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