Some hot tips

I2. DON’T FALL FOR “NO COMMISSION”

IF HEADING off on a winter getaway or planning next summer’s big break, there is a plane-load of ways to keep costs down.

1. UNBEATABLE RATES

The cheapest way to spend in a foreign currency is with specialist overseas credit card. Most plastic expensively adds a 3 per cent load, so spend £100 of euros and it costs £103, plus sometimes extra fees on top.

However, four credit cards are loadfree worldwide with no annual fees: Halifax Clarity, Post Office, Saga (for the over-50s) and, for Nationwide FlexAccount/FlexDirect holders only, its Select card. These smash bureaux de change with near-perfect rates. See www.moneysavingexpert.com/travelcards.

If you have a decent credit score, pocket one just to use abroad. Yet always set up a monthly direct debit to fully repay, to minimise the 11.9-16.9 per cent representative APRs. While the above cards are cheaper, if you don’t have time or want cash instead, it’s off to a bureau de change. Many try to flog their wares with a “no commission” banner. Frankly, that is nonsense. They make their money in two ways: commission and the rate they give. So while “no commission” sounds cheaper, often you get a worse rate. The worst place to get foreign currency is the airport. At the very least, book online for pick-up for improved rates. Use TravelMoneyMax. com tool to find the best rates for every country.

3. WEAR YOUR LUGGAGE

Taking luggage on a budget flight can cost £100-per case return. So pack smart. Up to 10kg or more can usually go in hand luggage. If you are a little over, why not take a large coat and stuff socks and undies in the pockets? To push it further, Rufus Roo suitcase jackets with enormous pockets, carry up to 10kg extra and cost £33.90 including postage.

4. HIRING A CAR? ACT NOW

Book car hire as early as possible to get it for as little as £10/day. Start at comparison sites Kayak.co.uk and Carrentals.co.uk to find the cheapest hire.

5. CONSIDER AN ANNUAL CARHIRE EXCESS POLICY

Once you have hired a car, you will often face firms’ frighteners that you have only basic insurance but “have a scratch and there’s £500 excess to pay” to flog extra cover. Yet special standalone policies to cover the excess for a year’s trips are available from £38. Try comparison site Moneymaxim.co.uk

6. CHECK YOUR EHIC CARD

The free European Health Insurance Card gives you access to EU (plus a few other) state-run hospitals or GPs like a local. In other words, if it is free for them, it is free for you. Yet over 4 million