Yusra3
VIP Contributor
Planning a trip abroad? Getting the best exchange rates on your foreign currency can save you a lot of money. Follow these tips to get the most bang for your buck when exchanging your travel money:
Research exchange rates online
Sites like Oanda allow you to track historical and current currency rates. This allows you to find the ideal time to exchange your money based on market fluctuations.
Use comparison tools
Websites like TravelMoneyMax enable you to compare exchange rates across providers. Find the best rate for your currency without having to manually check individual providers.
Don’t exchange at airports
Airport exchange desks typically offer the worst rates and highest fees. Wait until you reach your destination to swap money.
Withdraw foreign cash from ATMs
Using debit cards and ATM networks like Cirrus or Maestro to withdraw funds abroad often provides better rates. Just watch for withdrawal fees.
Open a fee-free currency account
Accounts like Wise allow you to hold foreign currency, exchange at competitive rates, and spend abroad with minimal fees.
Use a travel rewards credit card
Cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees help avoid exchange costs. Just be sure to pay it off.
Exchange larger sums at once
You typically get a better deal exchanging one large amount versus many small amounts over time.
Ask your bank about fees
Learn if your bank charges you to use your card abroad or exchange currency so there are no surprises.
Shop around for exchange places at your destination
Airport exchanges usually have the worst rates - shop around town when you arrive.
Check exchange rates daily and pounce when favorable
Timing your exchange right as rates fluctuate can make your money go further.
With some savvy preparation and research, you can get the best bang for your buck when obtaining foreign currency for your travels.
Research exchange rates online
Sites like Oanda allow you to track historical and current currency rates. This allows you to find the ideal time to exchange your money based on market fluctuations.
Use comparison tools
Websites like TravelMoneyMax enable you to compare exchange rates across providers. Find the best rate for your currency without having to manually check individual providers.
Don’t exchange at airports
Airport exchange desks typically offer the worst rates and highest fees. Wait until you reach your destination to swap money.
Withdraw foreign cash from ATMs
Using debit cards and ATM networks like Cirrus or Maestro to withdraw funds abroad often provides better rates. Just watch for withdrawal fees.
Open a fee-free currency account
Accounts like Wise allow you to hold foreign currency, exchange at competitive rates, and spend abroad with minimal fees.
Use a travel rewards credit card
Cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees help avoid exchange costs. Just be sure to pay it off.
Exchange larger sums at once
You typically get a better deal exchanging one large amount versus many small amounts over time.
Ask your bank about fees
Learn if your bank charges you to use your card abroad or exchange currency so there are no surprises.
Shop around for exchange places at your destination
Airport exchanges usually have the worst rates - shop around town when you arrive.
Check exchange rates daily and pounce when favorable
Timing your exchange right as rates fluctuate can make your money go further.
With some savvy preparation and research, you can get the best bang for your buck when obtaining foreign currency for your travels.