Whilst you might be concerned about the exchange rate you'll be benefitting from another thing to be aware of is the charge an exchange outlet will make to convert the money for you. It's important to be aware of the exchange rates but with the money market changing hourly it won't make a huge difference unless you are changing thousands at a time.
Most experts agree that travellers are actually better off looking for a place that will change money inexpensively. Below are listed some of your options. |
| |
| On The High Street |
| |
| Your high street offers many different options of changing your money. Whether you choose a bank, travel agent or even the Post Office the choice is wide and varied so make sure you get the best rate and the lowest charges. |
| |
| Airport or Hotel Facilities |
| |
| Airports and hotels offer facilities to exchange your money however experts advise only using these options if you absolutely have to as often are not cost effective to do so. |
| |
| Credit Card Foreign Exchange Services |
| |
Most credit cards can offer their customers a foreign exchange service against their card. Usually the rates are good and the charges can be low.
However, do be careful that the transaction isn't processed instantly and that you therefore don't benefit from the rate of the day that could have tempted you in the first place.
Or think about using Traveller's Cheques - considered by many as old fashioned, they do offer good benefits like free of charge exchange charges. Plus they're easily replaced if lost or stolen, unlike cash! |
| |
| Banks Overseas |
| |
Banks overseas often offer good rates and low charges. But do find out if the rate is determined by supply and demand, so you could not get favourable rates and charges if you are somewhere remote.
Or, if the rate is set by the Government and therefore could be worse than you are expecting. Therefore do some research in advance as to what your overseas bank is charging and use our online currency converter at the top of this page. |
| |
| Cash Machines (ATMS) |
| |
Cash machines are ideal to use if you only want to take out money as and when you need it. And an excellent choice if you aren't happy travelling with all your spending money at one time.
Do check with your Bank though if they apply any charges to each cash withdrawal and card transaction you make. Also tell them you are planning to use your card in case they freeze your card as strange 'shopping' transactions are identified. |
| |
| Use the link below to locate a VISA ATM anywhere in the world: |
| |
| International VISA ATM Locator - click |
| |
|
| |
