With many of us heading off to the sun this Summer, it's important to get the most out of spending using credit and debit cards and avoid some of the traps that can increase your charges and result in a hefty bill on your return. Here are 10 saving tips to consider here.

1. Pay in Local Currency

When using your credit or debit card overseas, some shops and restaurants may offer you the option of paying in pounds sterling. Don't do this! While you may avoid some charges, you will almost certainly get hit with a hugely uncompetitive exchange rate which is likely to cost you more.

2. Tell your Bank

If you head abroad your card may be stopped the first time you use it, as it is likely to trigger fraud warnings. Any unexpected overseas purchase will set alarm bells ringing, so tell your bank exactly when and where you are going.

3. Be aware of any spending pattern changes

Even if you tell your bank you are going overseas, your card could still be stopped if your bank suspects it is being used fraudulently. As a precaution leave mobile contact details with you bank and before making any large purchases contact your bank first.

4. Watch out for Card Charges when paying directly

Using you cards abroad can be expensive. Fees vary between banks so check exact charges before travelling. In most cases it is cheaper to use a credit card rather than a debit card provided you repay your bill in full at the end of the month and avoid interest charges.

5. Watch out for Charges at ATM Machines

Credit cards may be cheaper to use when paying direct, but debit cards are always a better bet at ATMs. So again, check these out before you go. Also, it is not usually cost-effective to withdraw modest sums on a daily basis; you are better off making fewer larger withdrawals.

6. Keep your Cards Safe

It's easy to let your guard down when you are overseas, but you should be more vigilant about card safety overseas, as tourists are often targeted by criminals and fraudsters.

7. Keep a Copy of your Bank's Phone Number

Make sure you have the 24-hour contact telephone numbers for each of your cards. Keep these separate from your cards so you can contact your bank for whatever reason.

8. Check Credit Limits

As many credit cards have reduced spending limits recently, it is worth double checking this before you go if you plan to use it for large payments, you may have less to spend than you think!

9. Use Credit Cards for Large Payments

You get additional legal protection if you buy goods on a credit card which applies to overseas purchases as well.

10. Take a Pre-Paid Card too

Banks also offer "pre-paid" cards for overseas travel. You simply load them up with currency before you travel and use them as you would a debit card. They are useful for those on a budget who don't like carrying around cash, as they can be cancelled if stolen.