Credit cards 'essential travel item'

Credit cards are seen as a crucial item for Australians to take away on holiday with them, according to a new study.

In research carried out by online holiday firm travel.com.au, some 13.4 per cent of those questioned claimed that credit cards, debit cards and money are the most essential things that a holidaymaker can pack into their bags, the Daily Telegraph reports.

Following debit and credit cards on the list were passport and travel documents, which 11.9 per cent of respondents believe to be of greatest importance, with clean clothes coming third.

The likes of toiletries, cameras and guidebooks also populated the top ten list.

However, it appears that men may be most likely to pack credit cards, as Lisa Ferrari, general manager of travel.com.au, points out that males are "more inclined to select essentials" when going away.

Speaking to the West Australian last month, Insight Vacations holiday specialist managing director Lorraine Sharp claimed that before going away borrowers should check if they can use their credit card while abroad and how much it would cost for them to do so.

Written by Joe Letts