Credit and debit card charges can be high, so holidaymakers should check the fees before setting off, it is claimed.

Holidaymakers should keep an eye out for hidden credit and debit card charges when heading abroad.

This is the warning of uSwitch.com, which carried out research on the matter and found Britons risk facing more than £457 million in fees when they use their plastic to withdraw cash during their trip.

Some 38 per cent of those quizzed said they make use of their cards when overseas, but 11 per cent do not understand the costs this could incur.

Personal finance expert Stefan Maryniak comments: “Sorting out your spending money is often the last thing on a holidaymakers list, but if you dont do it or leave it to the last minute it can cost you dear.”

He describes the hidden charges as the “holiday souvenir from hell”, however there are ways that people can avoid them.

Start thinking about spending money as soon as the trip is booked, Mr Maryniak suggests, as this leaves plenty of time to start putting cash aside.

Those who prefer the convenience and security associated with cards should check on fees before they jet off and shop around for different options, as some companies will not charge at all.

Debit cards tend to have lower charges than credit cards, so travel insurance policyholders and others who find they need to use their plastic should opt for the former items.

Mr Maryniak suggests an alternative is a pre-paid currency card, as these can be topped up and certain ones do not have any commission, as well as guaranteeing that users do not overspend because it is up to them how much they load.

David Bain, spokesman for FairFX, recently suggested this is a more secure option than taking large amounts of cash on holiday.

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