Five expert tips to get the best holiday cash exchange rates

Exchange rates have plunged in recent weeks, with some airport outlets now giving out less than a euro in exchange for a pound.

So how can you make sure that you get the best deal - and the most holiday spending money possible?

  • Video report by ITV News Consumer Editor Chris Choi

Money experts say shopping around key: if you leave it to the last minute you're likely to pay dearly for the convenience.

Harry Rose, editor of Which? Money, said that you could end up £122 worse off by choosing the most expensive option to buy €1,000 over a typical week's holiday.

He and fellow finance expert Ian Strafford-Taylor of FairFX offered their advice to get the best deals for holiday cash.

  • Plan ahead

Some of the worst exchange rates are at airport exchanges so don't leave it to the last minute.

Give yourself plenty of time to research the best offers out there and make sure you can actually get hold of your money before jetting off.

  • Consider credit cards

If you are able to get a credit card then they can be among the cheapest ways to buy holiday spending money.

Some cards will not charge fees for spending abroad and will offer a keen exchange rate.

Pre-paid cards are also a good option if you want to avoid borrowing money and want to keep and handle on your spending abroad.

  • Get online

Rates can vary considerably but the best offers are usually to be found with online services.

You can buy via websites and then either pick up the money in person or have it delivered to your home for a small extra fee - though you may have to be in to sign for it.

  • Research your existing cards

Forewarned is forearmed - avoid nasty surprises by getting in contact with your bank and finding out what the charges are on your current cards.

Check the exchange rate, fees for withdrawing abroad and charges for paying on cards overseas.

That way you'll be able to work out if you want to use your cards - and the most effective ways to do so.

  • Take several payment methods

Finally, make sure you don't leave yourself stuck if you get robbed or your card gets refused.

It's wise to take several payment methods such as cards, cash, and travellers cheques so you know that you're covered whatever happens.