Don't use card abroad this Valentine's Day, says Nationwide

Couples looking to celebrate Valentine's Day abroad this year have been warned not to spend more than they need to by a high street bank.

According to Nationwide, using a credit card in a foreign country can carry an unwanted cost for consumers.

It explains that most lenders charge people around three per cent for using plastic abroad, with people in the UK paying around £27 million in charges last February.

Divisional director at the bank, Jeremy Wood, stated that people heading away for a romantic break should make sure that they are aware of the conditions that come with using their cards in advance.

"Couples who are planning to go abroad for a romantic getaway this Valentine's Day should be aware of the hidden charges that most card providers impose, which are both costly and unnecessary," he said.

Valentine's Day is the second most popular day on which to send a card, after Christmas.

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