“How much should we take?” is one of the first questions after you’ve paid for flights and a place to stay. There’s no universal number — but you can get to a stress-free range in three steps, then buy smarter when you know what you need.
1. Start with pounds per day, not Instagram
Think in sterling per day per adult (kids lower, teens often not much less):
- B&B or self-catering — you’ll spend more on lunches, ice cream and supermarkets.
- Half-board or all-inclusive — you still want cash for taxis, tips, day trips and the odd meal out.
Round up slightly for peace of mind; the goal is avoiding ATM panic or multiple poor airport top-ups, not predicting every cocktail.
2. Split: cash for friction, card for volume
A pattern that works for most beach or city breaks:
- Cash for markets, small cafés, beach vendors, tips and “card machine is broken” moments.
- A decent travel card (low foreign fees) for hotels, bigger restaurants and shops.
If you’re heading to the euro countries, our euro travel money guide covers the cash–card balance in more detail. US theme-park or road-trip plans pair with the dollar guide.
3. Compare before you buy — the amount is fixed, the rate isn’t
Once you’ve got a sterling total in mind, where you buy matters as much as when. Two providers can quote a “similar” rate but leave you with different amounts in hand after delivery charges, minimum orders and collection rules.
That’s exactly what our holiday money comparison is for: enter what you want to spend, see who actually gives you the most euros, dollars or other currency on today’s terms, then click through to the provider that fits delivery or collection for your dates.
Don’t forget the journey to the plane
The holiday budget isn’t only what you spend abroad. Airport parking*, a lounge* if you’ve got long waits with kids, or travel insurance* if you’re finally taking the big trip — sorting those early often saves more than squeezing the last penny on a bureau rate.
You’ve already earned the week in the sun. Budget once, compare once, then stop refreshing exchange apps and start packing.