Sweden is almost 100% cashless these days, with people using simple apps to pay for everything. Do we want the same in England? Some people prefer not using cash (especially post-pandemic for safety) and others don’t like using bank notes, as they are made with animal fat (many vegan fast food joints won’t use them).
But older people sometimes like using cash and one debt charity teaches people to live on cash for its CAP Money Course (apparently we spend a third less, as it teaches people not to spend money you don’t have). Other options like Bitcoin are likely only for techy nerds (the description as ‘a digital currency, created using encryption algorithms’ is good reason enough not to go near it!)
Many people also like using local currencies (these work like gift vouchers to support indie shops, you get back sterling cash as ‘change’). Only in a few towns at present, these are beautifully designed with security watermarks, and often illustrated by local artists.
If you are exchanging money to use abroad, switch from the bank to Currency Fair. This company has been around for 10 years and saved customers over £260 in transaction fees. Set up a free account (with verification), find the best rate – then exchange with a local person living in the country you are visiting. The money is then transferred to their account, working out quicker and 8 times cheaper.
