The pound (GBP) is currently at a 9 month low against the dollar (USD). The rate is currently sitting around 1.30-1.31, which means you're looking at about 1.27 at retail. The sad news about this low rate is - for those of us who are going to Disney World over the summer - it makes an already pricey holiday even more pricey. The low exchange rate is due to the general political climate, uncertainty around Brexit, and interest rates not yet being raised due to economic data.
Although the exchange rate is out of your control, if you're doing Disney on a tight budget, the low rate may hurt you more than others. Even though there is nothing you can do about the exchange rate, there are a few methods to making sure you get the most bang for your buck (or more fitting - buck for your bang).
Take Advantage Of Spikes
If you're going in August or September, the rate will most likely be sitting around this level until then (although I do not know, and nobody really knows, people can only speculate, it's important to not take this as advice, you should always do your own research). The Bank of England meet on August 2nd, and unless they raise rates or give guidance than they could raise rates, the exchange rate may improve slightly. Although that possibility could still be priced into the current rate, nobody really knows. So on days where there is good news articles on the BBC about Brexit or President Trump saying he may not tariff a country so hard, the pound may spike a point or two (or go in the opposite direction). If you're buying cash to take on holiday, take advantage of these stories, as the pound (as well as stocks and shares) are traded on the open market and can move up (or down) on good (or bad) news.
Use 0% Cards
You may have the luxury of not caring what the rate is. In that case just get hold of a currency card or 0% credit card and just enjoy your holiday! Be careful using your normal credit and debit cards because the high majority do charge quite hefty fees. The Post Office Travel credit card, Santander Zero credit card or the Nationwide Select credit card are good examples of cads with no abroad fees. When using your card abroad, it uses whatever the exchange rate is for that day (whether the rates go up or down). To lock in your rate so you know exactly what you'll have to spend before you go, you'll have to go the cash or travel money card route.
Travel Money Card
When booking your holiday you may have been told about the operator's travel money card. These are generally good. It works like cash, where you top it up on a day of your choice, using the rate of that day. But watch out for ATM fees on these cards.
Don't Buy At The Airport
Please, please do not buy your currency at the airport. The rates are even worse. Make sure you buy before you go.
For The Best Cash Rates
To get the best possible cash rates, it's best to avoid the high street. However, if you take advantage of Post Office click&collect, you can order online with online prices and collect at your nearest post office.
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