One of the most common travel mistakes is exchanging all your money at the airport. Airport counters are convenient, but they usually offer the worst rates.
Why airport exchange costs more
- Airport space is expensive to rent, so operating costs are high.
- There is little competition, and travelers in a hurry rarely compare rates.
- Discounts you can get through a bank app often do not apply at airport branches.
Where to exchange instead
Bank or app before you go: order online and pick up the cash at a branch or the airport. Major currencies often get the best rates this way.
City exchange shops abroad: in places with lots of competition, such as Southeast Asia, city shops offer excellent rates. Rates vary by shop, so compare two or three.
Airport counters: use them only for a small amount you need right away, such as a taxi or train ticket.
Reading rate boards
- "0% commission" can still hide a margin in the rate itself. Compare the amount you actually receive.
- The bigger the gap between the buy and sell rates, the more expensive the counter.
In the converter's Options you can change the airport surcharge to see how much an airport exchange costs you.