M&S Travel Money insight reveals the value of the pound has increased against nine of the top ten currency destinations over the last 12 months, meaning families heading away for some winter sun may see their travel money go that little bit further, compared to the same time last year.

While sterling has gained ten percent or more on half of the destinations in the top ten, the Eurozone remains holidaymakers’ top currency destination, despite a smaller sterling gain of three per cent on last year.

For those looking to travel further afield, America remains the second most popular currency destination, with UK holidaymakers benefitting from the pound also increasing three per cent against the US dollar.

Barbados has dropped out of the top ten currency destinations for Brits heading abroad this February, compared to the same time last year, with Switzerland moving into the top ten currency destination, at tenth place, despite the Swiss Franc gaining three per cent on the pound.

The pound has seen the biggest movement against the long-haul destinations in the top ten, compared to the same time last year, with sterling gaining 10 percent on the Australian Dollar, the third most popular currency destination, and 13 per cent on the Thai Baht, the fourth most popular currency destination.

Sterling movements against M&S Travel Money’s top ten currency destinations:

Nic Moran, M&S Travel Money, said: “With Sterling gaining on many of our most popular currencies, holidaymakers looking for some winter sun should consider the total cost of their holiday, including exchange rates and local costs, to ensure they’re making their holiday budget stretch even further.”

Nic’s top travel money tips:

• Plan spending money early: Get your spending money organised ahead of time; order your currency online, or visit a high street bureau de change, to secure a rate in advance – and travel with both local currency and a credit card, to ensure you’re covered for all eventualities.

• Don’t leave yourself short when it comes to currency: Ensure you have enough cash for snacks, taxis and tipping, ATMs may not always be readily available.
• Consider local costs when budgeting: ensure you factor in the cost of things like meals, shopping and tipping; sterling gains on some destinations can mean your holiday budget goes further on arrival

The M&S in-store travel money bureaux, alongside its euro and dollar Click & Collect travel money service, means an M&S currency service is available in more than 450 M&S stores. The service offers a Click & Collect facility, so customers can order using their Smartphone or tablet – whether at home or in-store – and collect in as little as 15 minutes.

Top ten currencies 2024 YTD