Cards to the rescue in tough times
Credit cards may not always receive the best press coverage but, behind the headlines, UK consumers are increasingly using plastic to get themselves out of difficult life experiences.
A new study by Capital One reveals that 3.4 million Britons have been rescued in tough times overseas by making recourse to their credit cards, with 4.8 million people helped out in comparable situations at home.
Abroad, Britons say their cards aided them with unexpected medical bills, lost possessions and emergency legal assistance, sometimes even assisting them to secure interpreters at short notice.
Back in Britain, credit cards have proved a vital shield against bad business transactions, with company dispute processes enabling consumers to reclaim money they thought had disappeared with the collapse of a firm or similar purchase nightmares.
More than three million UK residents say their cards got them out of such unpleasant situations or helped them claim refunds successfully.
Consumers seeking to guard themselves against a host of disconcerting and costly experiences can find out information on the most competitive credit card deals by looking online. | 
