Holidaymakers often believe they are more than financially prepared for their travels, but one money expert suggests a simple trick could save you thousands while protecting you against fraud. Mat The Money Man, who goes by @thequidsquid on TikTok, has revealed the £3,000 holiday trick that you probably don't know about

"If you go on holiday and don't bring one of these, you could be in serious trouble," he warned in the video.

More than 9.4 million tourists have been caught out by holiday fraud over the last five years, rendering financial protection absolutely vital. Mat clarifies that travel credit cards typically offer greater security than debit cards due to Section 75 protection under UK legislation.

Any transaction between £100 and £30,000 receives coverage, enabling you to reclaim funds if difficulties arise - a safeguard debit cards seldom offer.

He also highlights further advantages, including superior exchange rates and cashback on foreign transactions. "So if you get scammed, you can claim that money straight back," he notes, emphasising how the average individual spends approximately £1,320 on two extended holidays annually.

According to Compare the Market, a standard European break costs £1,000 to £2,000 per person, whilst longer-distance journeys can surpass £2,000 per person based on flights and lodging. For many, the blend of fraud protection, exchange rate advantages, and possible cashback renders travel credit cards an invaluable resource. Mat says overall holiday savings could hit £3,633.

Experts warn, however, that not all travel credit cards offer the same benefits. MoneyHelper points out that whilst these cards frequently come with no foreign transaction charges and complimentary insurance, shoppers should scrutinise annual fees, interest rates, and exchange rate terms before committing.

The "catch" is straightforward yet vital: you must possess the appropriate card and genuinely utilise it throughout your journey to access the savings and safeguards. Without it, you risk forfeiting thousands of pounds and the additional security a travel credit card can deliver.

For travellers seeking reassurance and the opportunity to make substantial savings, a travel credit card could prove invaluable - but only if you remember to pack it and employ it properly.

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