Currency payment options

In the later days, I found myself relying on Proxyman often. I am a Charles user and I have an outdated licence, but this time I decided to try Proxyman. I find the Proxyman’s Mac interface to be much better than Charles, and configuration easier. I decided to make a purchase and their online store page presented me with a choice between USD and GBP. GBP is selected by default.

I paid with USD, was charged £73.45. That’s a £2.65 win for me. I can’t promise your bank is the same, but do take note of the amount charged; it is likely that your bank has a more favourable rate.

I think it’s true for many things: when travelling outside the U.K. and using a U.K. bank, it is likely better to pay in a local currency. For example, when in France, and a payment terminal gives you an option to pay in GBP, always dismiss it. Some merchants give you control of the terminal, but some ask. And some will make this choice for you, unfortunately.