Managing your money

It’s important to think about how you’re going to manage your money while you’re abroad. 

Opening an overseas bank account is a good option, but might not be suitable if your stay is short. Another option is to top up a temporary travel credit card, or simply check what restrictions your current bank has on using your own card abroad.

If you get charged per transaction, think about withdrawing money from a cash machine to last you a couple of weeks. 

If you are planning on using your card abroad, remember to let your bank know or they might block payments as an anti-fraud measure.

Finally, take some foreign currency so you can find your feet without having to worry about accessing your bank account.

What to budget for

• Travel to your destination
• Local travel when you’re there
• Accommodation
• Food and drink
• Social activities
• Sightseeing
• Insurance
• Passport (if you need a new one)
• Visa (if you need one)
• Travel and medical supplies
• Course materials
• Vaccinations
• An emergency fund

Insurance

Sheffield Hallam University travel insurance

We provide travel insurance for your trip overseas (in relation to your course). 

Please read the information below, then fill out the Travel Insurance Request Form (DOCX, 16.2KB) and send it to TIRequests@shu.ac.uk. The team will need at least 5 working days to process your request.

The travel insurance includes cover for the following:

• emergency medical expenses
• search and rescue expenses
• emergency repatriation expenses
• cancellation and curtailment of trip (due to unforeseen circumstances)
• personal possessions cover (the excess on the policy is £500)

Please note that the travel insurance only covers emergency medical appointments - you will not be able to claim for routine medical care. If you do require routine medication you should take enough with you for the duration of your trip.

At the end of your study abroad, placement or project overseas you’re entitled to cover for up to three personal days. If your trip has more than three personal days or holidays you’ll need your own travel insurance to cover this period. It is your responsibility if you do take out your own insurance policy for any personal days or holidays to check that you are covered for any activities that you plan on undertaking.

It’s also a good idea to book refundable tickets wherever possible.

Remember to carry a copy of your passport and insurance policy with you at all times, so you can prove your identity and show proof of insurance in an emergency. Please also make a note of the travel insurance emergency telephone number which is +44 (0)1273 552 922.

Country specific information

The University’s travel insurance does not cover travel to the following countries:
• Afghanistan • Algeria • Chad • China • Crimea • Iran • Iraq • Israel • Mali • Mauritania • Nigeria • North Korea • North Sudan • Russia • Somalia • Syria • The Occupied Palestinian Territories • Ukraine • Venezuela • Yemen

Certain other countries also need referral to the insurers. Please contact the University’s Insurance Manager before booking travel to the following countries:
• Cuba • Mexico • Pakistan

The University does not allow travel to any areas that the Foreign and Commonwealth Office advises against “All” or “All but essential” travel to.

UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)

You should also apply for a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC). This provides you with limited state healthcare for a low fee, and sometimes even for free.

Accommodation

Travel essentials