Debt warning for holiday rip-offs

Families who may already be adding to their debt problems simply by going on holiday could make them worse if they get stung by rip-offs whilst they're away.

The Post Office's Family Holiday Report shows that more than half (56 per cent) of families are concerned about debt racked up through using their mobile phones abroad, which is the biggest bugbear in the survey.

It's closely followed by the charges associated with using a debit or credit card whilst in a different country (52 per cent).

The report also suggests that varying prices across the continent could make the difference between needing debt help when families return home or not.

For instance, renting a sun-lounger can be more than six times as expensive in Italy as it is in Spain, and taking the family to a water park in Cyprus will cost the best part of £100 (£90.09), compared to just over £40 (£43.24) in Italy.

Kevin Still, director of Atlantic Finance, says: "Summer holiday expenditure and the kids going back to school can both represent major costs to most household budgets which can compound debt problems.

"The poor exchange rate with the Euro can make it very easy to go over a tight budget and holiday rip offs just add fuel to the fire. Having to use credit cards on holiday can lead to unpleasant surprises, especially."

Debt problems - raising children

28/02/2011

More people in the UK appear to be suffering from the debt problems brought about all because of the ...

Save to counter debt problems

13/01/2011

Consumers living in the UK who are currently trying to navigate the tough financial climate right no ...

Debt problems should be hit early

10/01/2011

Consumers struggling with debt problems should start the year as they mean to go on by tackling thei ...

Scots' debt problems – loan sharks

06/01/2011

The Scottish government is warning people who face debt problems north of the border not to be tempt ...