travel money exchange places

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Currency calculator.

Our currency calculator is a quick and easy way to check our latest foreign currency exchange rates.

What do I need to bring to collect my foreign currency?

The benefits of exchanging your holiday money with M&S Bank

Wide range of foreign currencies.

We offer a wide range of foreign currencies in our Bureaux, with more available to order online. It is easy to compare travel money with M&S Bank. See footnote * *

As well as the euro and US dollar , our range includes currencies such as the UAE dirham, Bulgarian lev , Turkish lira , Thai baht and Mexican peso .

Travel money sale now on!

Click & Collect sale on euro and US dollar available until 11 April 2023.

£150 minimum order. Exchange rates will still fluctuate daily during the sale period, but you’ll receive the best rate applicable on the date your order is placed. Rates shown when placing your order are sale rates. Offer subject to availability, buy back not included. Cancellation fee and full T&Cs apply.

SameDay Click & Collect

• Order between £150 and £2,500
• Euro and US dollars available to order and collect in over 450 stores *
• Order and collect euro , US dollars , Turkish lira , New Zealand dollar , Australian dollar , Thai baht , Canadian dollar , South African rand and UAE dirham, from our Bureau the same day

Find my nearest Click and Collect store

Click & Collect † See footnote †

• A wide range of currencies available to collect from our in store Bureaux See footnote * *
• Order and collect from the next day

Our best rates on euro and US dollar when you Click & Collect

To get an even better exchange rate on euro and US dollar , use our Click & Collect service. Pay now and lock in today's rate, then collect from a store at a time convenient for you.

CHANGE4CHANGE

If you would like to donate your unused foreign currency to charity we have Change4Change collection boxes in our Bureaux, with all the money we collect going to Breast Cancer Now. Since 2007, we have raised over £630,000 for the charity via your Change4Change donations.

Find a Bureau

Travel money buy-back service

When your holiday is over, we'll buy back your leftover holiday money at the buy-back rate on the day you return it to the Bureau de Change. That's all unused notes in any denomination we sell.

Find out more about M&S Travel Money Buy Back service

If you would like to donate your unused foreign currency to charity we have Change4Change collection boxes in our Bureau stores, with all the money we collect going to Breast Cancer Now. Since 2007, we have raised over £630,000 for the charity via your Change4Change donations.

Find a bureau

When your holiday is over, we'll buy back your leftover holiday money at the buy-back rate on the day you return it to the bureau de change. That's all unused notes in any denomination we sell. Proof of purchase may be required so please retain your receipt, just in case.

Up to 55 days' interest-free credit when purchasing with an M&S Credit Card See footnote ** **

Representative example: based on an assumed credit limit of £1,200, our 24.9% rate per annum (variable) for purchases gives a representative rate of 24.9% APR (variable). Credit is subject to status.

No cash advance fee when M&S Travel Money is purchased using an M&S Credit Card.

What you'll need to bring

To collect foreign currency you've purchased online, you will need:

• A valid UK photographic driving licence, passport or EU national identity card (Romanian & Greek National ID Cards are not accepted)
• Your card you used to place your order - both ID and payment card must have the same name
• Your order number (this can be found on your confirmation email)

To purchase foreign currency in one of our Bureaux, you will need:

• A valid UK photographic driving licence, passport or EU national identity card - both ID and payment card must have the same name

Find my nearest M&S Bureau de Change

Use the M&S Bank Bureau Finder to find your nearest M&S Bureau de Change and opening hours.

Find a Bureau de Change

Manage your existing travel insurance policy

Want to renew, change or cancel your policy or need to make a claim?

Find out more - about managing your travel insurance policy

Need some winter sun?

Planning a winter sunshine break? Use our handy guide to help with your planning.

Ready to hit the slopes?

Thinking about a skiing holiday in Europe, North America or Asia? Use our guide to help you with your trip.

Planning to travel with cash?

Our guide explains how much money you can take abroad.

Learn more about the euro

How many countries use the euro? When was the euro first introduced? Find out more.

Using your credit card abroad

Going on holiday? Get to grips with how you can use a credit card outside of the UK.

What is RFID blocking technology?

If you are concerned about having your passport or credit card skimmed whilst abroad learn more about RFID technology.

What influences exchange rates?

Discover what factors contribute to the exchange rates that you see today.

How to budget for long term travel

Going on a long-term trip? Read our guide on how to budget successfully to ensure you have the most memorable time possible.

Visiting a Christmas market?

Learn more about the many Christmas markets across Europe.

Frequently asked questions

Can i use a credit card to purchase travel money.

Yes, you can use a credit card to purchase travel money. However, please check with your card provider as they may apply fees or charges e.g. cash advance fees or other fees.

Our Bureaux accept the majority of UK issued major credit cards.

How much cash can I travel with?

You can learn more about taking cash in and out of Great Britain and declaring cash by visiting gov.uk .

Should I get foreign currency before I travel?

Buying your travel money before you travel can be an important part of pre-holiday preparation. You can use our Currency Converter to get the latest exchange rates across worldwide holiday destinations.

Where can I collect M&S Travel Money from?

You can collect M&S Travel Money from over 100 bureaux de change or from over 350 stores nationwide. You can find your nearest M&S Bureau de Change using our Bureau Finder .

Where can I get the best exchange rate?

Exchange rates change on a regular basis and vary depending on the currency you order. At M&S Bank, we offer our best rates for euro and US dollar via the Click & Collect service, where you can order your currency and collect from the next day in an M&S location local to you. If you order online before 4pm, you can collect the same day. For all other currencies, check our website for more information.

How much travel money can I order?

For orders placed via Click & Collect, there is a minimum £150 order and maximum of £2,500. For Bureau de Change walk-ups, there is no minimum order.

How do I confirm my Travel Money purchase using my M&S Credit Card?

There are three ways to verify your payments - you can use our M&S Banking App, a one-time passcode via text message or by using a card reader to verify your payment. Use our how-to videos or step-by-step guides to find out more.

Have a question about travel money or other travel products?

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Useful information

View exchange rates

Find out more about euro rates

Find out more about US dollar rates

Find out more about Australian dollar rates

Find out more about Canadian dollar rates

Find out more about New Zealand dollar rates

Find out about M&S Travel Insurance

Important documents

M&S Travel Money Terms and Conditions

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* Subject to availability

** With the M&S Credit Card, you'll receive up to 55 days' interest-free credit when you pay your balance in full and on time each month.

† Next Day collection is subject to availability. Please confirm your collection date and location at the checkout.

Where Is the Best Place to Exchange Foreign Currency?

When choosing where to exchange currency, don't get caught converting your dollars at unfavorable rates with high currency exchange fees.

Best Place to Exchange Foreign Currency

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Plan ahead of time for where you want to exchange foreign currency to avoid inflated exchange rates.

Key takeaways

• Before you leave the country, visit your bank or credit union so you can avoid paying ATM transaction costs and possibly receive a better exchange rate.
• The worst places to exchange your money for another currency are oftentimes the most convenient, like the airport.
• Using your credit cards, prepaid cards or even U.S. dollars for purchases can be good alternatives to exchanging currency.

Before you head off to the airport to catch a flight abroad, find out where to receive the best exchange rate for your money.

Some travelers prefer trading their U.S. dollars for euros or other currencies at their local bank so they have cash to tip taxi drivers or porters at the airport or buy a coffee or lunch. People who are traveling to more than one country with different currencies will find that planning ahead saves you the headache of exchanging money often.

The most expensive, yet most convenient and easily accessible, spots to exchange money include train stations, airports, hotels and tourist areas.

Here are the best places to exchange your money into the local currency before and after your vacation.

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Best Place to Exchange Currency Before and After Traveling

The fees may only be a few dollars, but they can add up quickly, especially if you are traveling for more than a few days. Head to your bank or credit union before you leave to avoid paying ATM transaction costs. You may even receive a better exchange rate.

Credit unions and banks will exchange your dollars into a foreign currency before and after your trip when you have a checking or savings account with them. You won't face trying to spend your remaining euros before the end of your trip and can convert them back to dollars when you get home.

Some banks such as Citibank and Bank of America may not charge a fee and will provide options such as conducting the transaction online or even mailing you the currency. If you need amounts of $1,000 or more, most banks require you to pick up the currency in person at a branch.

You can check out the exchange rates online and see which bank is offering the best one.

It's a good idea to call your local bank first to see whether they have the currency you are seeking. Not all branches exchange currency, and exchange rates between banks can vary greatly, says Vaneesha Dutra, an associate professor of finance at Howard University.

"Don't expect to get the exchange rate you saw when you Googled it, as banks add a profit margin to these transactions, which will reduce the actual amount of foreign currency you will receive per U.S. dollar," she says.

How to Exchange Currency

Start by checking with your bank online to see whether the currency you are seeking to exchange is available. If you're traveling to a country that has restrictions on its currency for political or economic issues, your bank may not be able to access the currency. Currency from many African and Eastern European countries can only be exchanged at those countries' banks and ATMs.

Here is a checklist:

• Contact a bank or credit union to make sure it has the currency or will accept foreign currency, and check what the fees are.
• Find exchange rates through your bank, credit union or websites such as xe.com .
• Check the bank's exchange rate to make sure it's fair.
• Arrange for pickup or delivery.

"The saying 'cash is king' certainly holds when traveling abroad," Dutra says. "When you land in Medellin, your taxi driver is going to want Colombian pesos. You will find commerce while abroad fairly manageable if you carry foreign currency and a credit card with favorable travel terms."

Where Else Can You Exchange?

After you've reached your destination, it's a good idea to obtain more cash to pay for shopping and meals at mom-and-pop locales.

Using your bank's ATM, or an ATM in its network, and exchange providers like Travelex are common options. Another option is to use companies such as Wise, which specializes in currency transfers and offers a debit card. The company allows you to keep more than 40 currencies in your account, so if you travel frequently, you can switch to whatever currency you need, says Nicholas Lembo, former global head of above the line marketing and communications at Wise.

Check whether your credit or debit card provider offers additional security features like sending a text message when a transaction is done or requiring additional authorizations when the value of a transaction is higher than normal, says Dirk Schrader, vice president of security research at Netwrix Corporation, a cybersecurity provider.

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Banks typically charge either a flat fee or a percentage, such as 1% to 3% of the amount you take out at an ATM in foreign currency. Determine your bank or credit union's policy on reimbursing ATM fees so you can plan ahead.

Download your bank's app ahead of time to help you locate nearby ATMs. Consider taking out a larger amount of cash if your bank charges a higher fee. If you use an ATM that is outside your bank's network, plan on paying extra fees.

Places to Avoid Exchanging Currency

The worst places to exchange your money for another currency are oftentimes the most convenient, such as:

• Airport kiosks.
• Tourist centers.

At those places, the conversion rates are usually not in your favor. Be aware of current exchange rates, especially if you cannot locate a local ATM, says Arica Tomlinson, a category managerof electronic displays and video distribution at GE Healthcare in Milwaukee.

"During a trip to Prague, I attempted to exchange some of my U.S. dollars for the local currency," she says. "For my $100, the currency exchange representative offered me the equivalent to $50 worth of koruna. After my protestations, they offered me an improved rate, but I took my money to a local bank for exchange instead."

If you have to exchange money in another country, plan on paying extra service fees and more for the exchange spread, the rate the business will give you when you are selling your U.S. dollars to them, says Derek Horstmeyer, a finance professor at George Mason University. The exchange spread could be 1% to 2%, he says.

Always be careful using mobile apps to transfer money in foreign countries, particularly apps that rely on texts, since there is the added risk of a potentially untrusted mobile infrastructure, says Sounil Yu, chief information security officer and head of research at JupiterOne, a Morrisville, North Carolina-based provider for cyber asset management and governance. "This is especially true if you are in the Eastern bloc or certain countries in Asia. Also, make sure that you don't download country-specific mobile applications for financial services, as that comes with additional unknown risks. In my opinion, airports are the worst place to exchange money, and banks are the best."

Alternatives to Exchanging Currency

• Credit cards.
• Prepaid cards.
• U.S. dollars.
• Mobile payment providers such as Google Pay, Android Pay or Apple Pay.

Using your credit cards, prepaid cards or even U.S. dollars for purchases can be good alternatives to exchanging currency. Even smaller businesses that are at a street food night market or festival will take electronic payments, and other countries such as Mexico or French Polynesia will accept the U.S. dollar. Your credit card company may also offer good exchange rates – check with it beforehand to see what the rates are. Paying for hotels, restaurants and rental cars with credit cards is often your best bet since they also offer protection on your purchases and additional reward points for transactions at various businesses.

It can be a good strategy to inform your credit card company about your trip when you ask about additional security features, Schrader says.

"Credit card or debit card details are stolen in milliseconds, using compromised ATMs or contactless readers, so a precaution can also be to reduce the limits on your cards for the period of travel, or even apply for an additional card just for the travel," he says.

Many credit or debit cards provide a 0% foreign transaction fee and are a good option to pay for dinner, a museum visit or sporting event tickets.

Using mobile payment providers also can help prevent fraud while you are traveling.

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Why you need currency exchange services

• How to find the best currency exchange
• Choosing a currency exchange service
• Online vs. physical services
• Exchange rate tips
• Currency exchange regulations

Preparing for currency exchange

How to find the best currency exchange near you.

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• When travelling, you'll want to figure out what you're doing for currency exchange ahead of time.
• Local banks or credit unions may be the most convenient and affordable place to exchange currency.
• Make sure to check your institution's exchange rates and service fees to get the best trade.

Traveling abroad can be an exciting experience, but it also requires some planning. In addition to making sure your passport is up to date, you'll want to think through how you'll get the foreign currency you'll need while you're away. When it comes to exchanging currency, the goal is to get the best currency exchange rates with the lowest fees.

One of the most common reasons you might need to exchange currency is if you're planning on traveling to another country. It might be tempting to worry about travel money exchange later so you can focus on planning more exciting parts of the trip. Unfortunately, this could cause you to pay much more in fees and bad foreign currency exchange rates.

Before you go on your trip, think about how much money you might need so you can exchange currency while still in your home country. That way, you'll get a better rate, and you won't have to worry about finding a place to exchange currency in another, unfamiliar country.

Business transactions

Depending on who you're doing business with, you might need to make business transactions in currencies you're not familiar with. Knowing where to go to get the correct currency for your transactions will help them go smoothly.

Trading opportunities

If you've ever wondered what forex is , the answer is simple: Forex stands for the foreign exchange market, and it's the name people use to discuss the trade of foreign currencies.

Davide Accomazzo, an instructor of finance at Pepperdine Graziadio Business School , warns that buying and selling foreign currencies is very different from other types of investing or trading you might be used to. 

"Currencies don't really have an expected positive rate of return," says Accomazzo. He says that this is different from something like mutual funds, where you're generally expected to receive some sort of profit over time. This can mean that currency exchange is a more volatile form of trading.

If you're interested in trading currencies, your best bet is to get an online brokerage account. You can also use brokerage accounts for things like stock trading and cryptocurrency exchange.

How to find the best currency exchange near you

Online search tools.

When trying to find a good place to exchange currency, something like a currency converter or an exchange rate calculator can give you an idea of what banks are generally trading these currencies for with each other. You can also check historical exchange rates to see how currencies have compared to each other over time. While this can be a good guide, Accomazzo warns that you probably won't find a bank willing to give you a rate that strong.

Many banks exchange foreign currency on a retail level, so make sure to check your bank's website and see if it offers exchange services for the currency you're interested in. Banks and credit unions tend to offer some of the best exchange rates, and most banks will give you the option of picking up your cash in a local branch or having it shipped to your home address.

Mobile apps

Google Maps can be helpful for finding currency exchange services with good reviews near you. If you use Google Maps, make sure to check if the bank has good reviews, does not charge service fees, and offers a competitive exchange rate.

If you're only looking for international money transfer, an online money exchange app might be a good option. 

With one popular online money exchange site Wise , you can also hold money in over 50 currencies with just one account. Plus, you'll get a debit card with no foreign transaction fees and can make up to $100 in free ATM withdrawals per month.

If your bank has a mobile app, you can also check that and see if it allows you to exchange currency online.

Factors to consider when choosing a currency exchange

Exchange rates.

When exchanging currency, you'll want to keep in mind the exchange rate you're being offered. Exchange rates come in pairs (for example, United States dollars to British pounds), and they tell you how much of the new currency you'll get for your dollar. For example, if you're starting with USD, you might be able to get 0.8 pounds for every one U.S. dollar you trade. 

Generally, these rates follow market trends. However, the exact exchange rate will depend on where you go, so make sure to check ahead of time whether the place you're going offers good rates.

Service fees

There are two types of fees you need to look out for when exchanging currency: service fees and foreign exchange fees.

Some banks, credit unions, and ATMs might charge you a service fee to exchange your funds. Always make sure to check what fees the institution you're working with charges ahead of time; even if one bank offers a better exchange rate than another bank, the deal might be worse overall because of high fees. Don't be afraid to ask for a fee breakdown before going through with the exchange, and keep an eye out for no fee currency exchange services.

These are different from foreign transaction fees , which are fees you'll pay if you use certain credit cards overseas. These are typically a percentage of the transaction you make with that card, and can build up over time. Make sure your card doesn't charge foreign transaction fees before you use it.

Location and convenience

While it's helpful to plan ahead of time for your trip, there are some options that allow you to exchange currency conveniently on the go without expensive fees. 

Many travel-focused credit cards have no foreign transaction fees in addition to offering rewards for travel expenses, like airline tickets and hotel reservations.

If you already have a credit card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees, this will usually be the simplest way for you to spend money abroad. There's no work to do ahead of time. You can just use your card as you normally would at home.

Also, some travel-friendly checking accounts may offer debit cards that have no foreign transaction fees.

You can also check to see if your bank has any ATMs in the country you'll be visiting. If you have to visit a nonbank ATM and you're given the option of processing the transaction in U.S. dollars or the foreign currency (called Dynamic Currency Conversion), choose the foreign currency. DCC exchange rates are often higher than the rates charged by card issuers themselves.

Online vs. physical currency exchange services

Pros and cons.

There are pros and cons to exchanging currency online and in person. 

If you exchange funds online, you'll have access to a greater variety of places to exchange money from. That means you may be able to get a better exchange rate than if you stick to local places. However, you'll have to check how you'll get the money you've exchanged for: they might ship it to you, or they might have you pick the money up at a local branch. Either way, there's probably going to be some waiting involved.

If you exchange funds in-person, you'll be limited to places that have physical locations near you. You'll also want to call ahead to make sure the place you're trading with has the right currency in high enough amounts for your purposes. However, you'll have someone to walk you through the currency exchange process, and you'll be able to walk right out with the money you traded for.

Tips for getting the best exchange rates

There are three things to keep in mind when looking for the best exchange rates: plan and exchange currency before traveling, compare services to see which one offers the best rate, and keep an eye out for hidden service fees.

The No. 1 best way to get a good exchange rate is to exchange money before you start traveling. Currency exchanges near airports and hotels tend to give low exchange rates because they know you need the money immediately. By having a plan beforehand, you're already getting a better deal than you would otherwise.

Always make sure to compare services before you decide on one. Check the banks and credit unions around you to see if any of them offer good exchange rates, and see if you can get a travel credit card or debit card that won't charge you foreign transaction fees. 

Finally, make sure you keep an eye out for hidden fees. Foreign transaction fees can add up, and high service fees might make a high exchange rate a worse deal.

Understanding currency exchange regulations

At a large-scale, interbank level, currency trading is "actually a relatively unregulated market," says Accomazzo. However, there's more regulation on a personal level because of anti-money laundering regulations. "There's a number of personal details that one has to reveal," Accomazzo says, "to make sure that it's not money laundering."

Check with the institution you're trading with ahead of time to see what requirements they have for currency trading, whether that's in the form of necessary identification, transaction limits, or otherwise.

Identification requirements

Most banks and credit unions will require some sort of identification from you to trade, such as a government-issued ID. Some might also require a proof of address. When you choose who you're trading with, make sure to call ahead and ask what you'll need to bring.

Transaction limits

Some banks and credit unions put limits on how much currency you can exchange at a time. If you're using an ATM, withdrawal fees might also limit how much you can withdraw.

If you're planning on exchanging a lot of currency, always call ahead to see if the bank is able to trade that much. And keep in mind that there are limits to how much physical currency you can bring into a country, if you're traveling.

"Every country is different, but you have a certain maximum amount that you can have in your pocket," Accomazzo says. "That does not apply to limits you have on a credit card, but in terms of actual physical cash, there are certain limits." 

Check the laws of the country you're traveling to ahead of time to make sure you're not bringing too much money with you.

Currency Exchange FAQs

The best way to find a nearby currency exchange is by using online search tools like Google Maps or currency exchange locator websites. If you use a mobile app that's dedicated to currency exchange, it might also provide real-time information on exchange rates. Make sure to check customer reviews to make sure you choose a reputable service.

You can compare rates at different currency exchange services without making transactions to ensure you get the best exchange rate. Some locations might offer better exchange rates for larger transactions, so make sure to ask about available deals or discounts.

Yes, many currency exchange services charge fees or commissions. These can vary significantly between locations. Always ask for a fee breakdown before going through with the exchange.

Generally, you need to provide a valid government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver's license. Some exchange services might also require proof of address or other documentation, especially if you're planning on exchanging a large sum. 

Yes, there are many services that offer online currency exchange. These platforms allow you to exchange money directly from your bank account. They will then send the foreign currency to your home or to a local bank branch for pickup. If you want to use one of these online services, keep in mind that they may offer different exchange rates than a physical location.

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Understanding Exchange Fees

• Exchanging Currency Home & Overseas
• Credit vs. Cash for Foreign Transactions

Other Travel Tips

Worst places to exchange currency, when to exchange currency, the bottom line.

• Personal Finance
• Budgeting & Savings

Where to Exchange Currency Without Paying High Fees

Brandon is a professor of finance and financial planning. CFP, RICP, and EA, and a doctorate in finance from Hampton University.

Tsuji / Getty Images

Travelers should look to convert their currency before embarking on a trip or know where to go to save on changing money while abroad. Trading currency at a hotel or even a currency kiosk in an airport or elsewhere in the country can be costly due to poor exchange rates and high fees. The best options are more likely to be associated with your local bank or credit union, so it's important to plan ahead when it comes to exchanging currency.

Key Takeaways

• Because of high currency exchange fees, travelers should consider converting their currency before traveling.
• Banks, credit unions, online bureaus, and currency converters provide convenient and often inexpensive currency exchange services.
• Once on foreign soil, the best means to convert currency is to use a foreign automated teller machine (ATM) or identify whether your bank has ATMs or banking affiliates nearby.
• Many credit and debit card issuers allow users to purchase items overseas using their cards without foreign transaction fees.

Currency exchange fees play a crucial role in the global financial landscape. These fees are the charges applied by financial institutions or currency exchange services for converting one currency to another. Financial institutions that provide currency exchange services take on the risk of price fluctuations; if they hold one currency and it goes down in value, they theoretically need to be compensated for holding this currency.

Behind the scenes of a currency exchange transaction, there are significant operational costs as well. Banks have to keep up with maintaining the necessary infrastructure and technology. Financial institutions also need to invest in secure and efficient systems to ensure they're using accurate exchange rates. Exchange fees help cover these operational costs.

Last, financial institutions are profit-driven entities. Banks and similar entities are in the business to make money. Offering currency exchange services is one way they generate revenue. While competition in the market helps keep fees competitive, financial institutions still need to generate sufficient income to remain sustainable and one way they do this is by charging fees for certain services.

Exchanging Currency at Home and Overseas

With the context of why fees occur behind us, let's start digging into how to avoid fees. You can begin by finding out what a fair exchange rate is for the country or countries you'll be visiting. Check key currency exchange websites first. The following are some of the best and least expensive places to convert currency:

• Local banks and credit unions usually offer the best rates.
• Major banks, such as Chase or Bank of America, often offer the added benefit of having ATMs overseas.
• Online peer-to-peer foreign currency exchanges
• Online bureaus or currency converters, such as Travelex, provide convenient foreign exchange services.

Ordering cash online will likely include delivery charges, and the exchange rate won’t be as good as with your bank; however, this is still a better option when compared with the must-avoid options below.

The best option for exchanging currency and saving fees is to use a foreign ATM or your own bank's ATMs overseas, if possible.

Piggybacking on the suggestion above, if you don’t have time to get the foreign currency before leaving or don’t want to carry a lot of cash, check to see if your bank has ATMs in the destination country or its cities . It may even have banking affiliates there. A key tip is to use an ATM within the airport as soon as you arrive.

When you’re back in the U.S., head to your bank or credit union to transfer any leftover foreign currency to U.S. dollars. It's important to note that some banks will not take foreign currency. As a last resort, if you have foreign currency left over before you depart the country you're visiting, look to convert it at an airport kiosk or a store before leaving.

Using Credit vs. Cash for Foreign Transactions

The world has become so digital that most people no longer walk around foreign countries with traveler's checks and money belts. That’s why you should take both a no-foreign-fee debit card and a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card with you. The likes of Chase, Bank of America, Capital One, and other major credit card issuers offer specific no-foreign-transaction-fee cards.

It is best to primarily use a no-transaction-fee credit card , rather than cash, on an overseas trip as it will likely offer fraud protection ; use currency only as a backup. You can replace lost or stolen credit cards, but lost cash can never be replaced.

However, don’t use your credit card for a cash advance to receive foreign currency. Doing so means you’ll get hit with a cash advance fee and a high interest rate that starts accruing immediately.

The widespread use and enhancement of technology have helped make using credit and debit cards possible in most parts of the world. However, there are exceptions, so it is worth investigating whether your destination accepts debit or specific cards before you go on a trip.

One thing to do before traveling abroad is to let your bank and credit card companies know of your travel plans, although some banks are moving away from encouraging this practice. That way, if you use your credit or debit card abroad, these companies won’t cut off access to your account due to concerns of fraud.

Also, avoid paying in U.S. dollars while outside the country when possible, even if a merchant offers to convert them for you. This includes paying with a credit or debit card. The merchant would likely convert at a rate that’s disadvantageous to you and charge fees. The same goes for paying with U.S. dollars in the form of cash.

Some places that you should avoid for exchanging currency are:

• Airport kiosks and stores when heading to a country (not to be confused with airport ATMs): Plan ahead, as airport kiosks generally charge some of the highest fees and have the worst exchange rates. When returning to the U.S. with foreign currency to trade in, however, this sometimes might be the only option.
• Traveler’s checks and prepaid debit cards: These are not efficient and often carry various transaction fees. They add little benefit in terms of security when compared with cash. Prepaid debit cards also come with card fees, foreign transaction costs, and ATM-use charges.  
• Hotels and tourist areas: Similar to airports, hotels and tourist-centric areas may provide convenience, but they generally charge higher fees for currency exchange. Locations such as Paris, Orlando , and Rome cater to tourists who may prioritize convenience over cost-effectiveness.
• Remote locations: In remote or less frequented destinations, currency exchange options may be limited, and providers may take advantage of the lack of competition by charging higher fees. It may also be more administratively burdensome to replenish and monitor these sites, so entities may charge higher fees in return.

Throughout this article, we've talked about it's best to optimize your foreign currency exchange before your trip. Even in international cities , you should avoid last-minute exchanges, and utilizing tools like limit orders or rate alerts in advance of your trip can help secure more favorable rates. Additionally, staying informed about economic events that may impact currency values allows for strategic timing.

There are a few other bits of advice on timing. The currency markets operate 24 hours a day during the business week, but they usually close over the weekends. During these market closures, there is no active trading, and as a result, liquidity tends to be lower. Lower liquidity can lead to wider bid-ask spreads, making it more expensive to execute currency transactions.

In addition, holidays can have a similar impact on currency markets. On public holidays, financial institutions and markets in specific countries may be closed, leading to decreased trading volumes and liquidity. This reduced liquidity can again result in wider spreads and less favorable exchange rates.

Where Can You Exchange Currency?

Banks, credit unions, and online currency exchange bureaus and converters provide convenient and often inexpensive currency exchange services. Also, your own bank's overseas ATM or a foreign bank's are ways to get local currency with a credit card or ATM card once you have arrived. Among the worst options are trading currency at a hotel or a currency kiosk in an airport or elsewhere in the country because these can be costly due to poor exchange rates and high fees.

What Are the Alternatives to Exchanging Currency?

Travelers can rely solely on their credit cards for purchases, if accepted everywhere in a country being visited. It's also still an option to bring traveler's checks, although these mostly have been supplanted by the widespread use of credit cards today. You can also choose to spend U.S. dollars in some instances while overseas, but this practice isn't recommended because the exchange rate given in a foreign country is often disadvantageous to the purchaser.

What Can I Do With Leftover Foreign Currency?

When you’re back home, you can go to your bank or credit union to transfer any leftover foreign currency into your own country's currency. Be aware that some banks will not take all foreign currencies. As a last resort, if you have foreign currency left over before you depart the country you're visiting, look to convert it at an airport kiosk or a store before leaving.

If you do a little homework before leaving for your trip by checking exchange rates, you’re likely to save. Remember to stick to ATMs and no-transfer-fee credit card spending, and avoid exchanging money at airport kiosks, hotels, and buying things with U.S. dollars to avoid costly exchange rates and fees.

Bank of America. " Foreign Currency Exchange ."

Bank of America. “ Placing A Foreign Currency Order FAQs ,” See “How can I exchange foreign currency for U.S. dollars?”

Chase. " No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards ."

Bank of America. " Credit Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fees ."

Capital One. " Credit Card Frequently Asked Questions ."

Chase. " Do I Need to Notify a Credit Card Company When Traveling? "

Wise. " Why You Should Not Exchange Currency at the Airport ."

Consumer Financial Protection Board. “ What Types of Fees Do Prepaid Cards Typically Charge? ”

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Best Places To Exchange Money [Best Rates, Fees, and Convenience]

Christy Rodriguez

Travel & Finance Content Contributor

88 Published Articles

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Senior Editor & Content Contributor

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Countries Visited: 41 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

How does currency exchange work, exchanging money before you leave, exchanging money while you’re abroad, exchanging money when you get home, best tips to tackle international spending, final thoughts.

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When planning a trip abroad, being able to pay for expenses is bound to be a primary concern. While using a credit card for your purchases can give you the best rate, we know it’s not always possible to pay with a credit card everywhere you go.

So, where is the best place to exchange money? Should you exchange money before you leave or while you’re on vacation? And what do you do with leftover currency when your trip is over? We’ll answer all these questions and give you some great tips for exchanging money on your next trip.

An exchange rate is the value at which one currency can be exchanged for another. Frequently, this value is variable and dependent on the market, but sometimes the value can be fixed, or pegged, to another currency.

Banks and currency exchange stores tack on some sort of charge in addition to the market rate, and these fees can vary significantly.

What does this mean for you? Your spending power on your vacation depends on the value of the U.S. dollar and the currency of the country you’ll be visiting. As these values fluctuate over time, planning a trip when the dollar is favorable can benefit you. Also, where you choose to exchange your money matters!

You have the best opportunity to get the best exchange rates before you ever leave home.

The best place to exchange money is at your local bank or credit union. You will get the best currency exchange rates as rates will closely resemble the market rates, with only minimal added costs added on.

You’ll obviously need to do this before you leave unless your bank has an international presence in the country you’ll be visiting, so plan ahead!

Before you head over to the bank, give them a call to see if they have your desired currency on hand. Depending on the currency you need, you may have to order it in advance. If it’s a common currency, sometimes banks will have it available immediately.

The pro of exchanging money before you leave is that you can hit the ground running when you arrive. You can also generally save some money if you get the money from your bank or credit union.

Knowing your destination’s currency conversion in relation to U.S. dollars is important! We recommend using an offline currency conversion app, such as Currency ( iOS ) or Currency Converter Plus ( Android ). You can also just plug it into Google, but it is helpful to have access abroad even if you don’t have an internet connection.

What Not To Do

You might be tempted to exchange money at the airport before you leave, but we generally recommend against this. Airport exchange kiosks and stores are convenient but also tack on big fees and unfavorable rates . This can end up costing you!

You might not need as much cash as you think. Most places accept credit cards, and then you could be stuck carrying excess cash around (and exchanging it back). Try not to take out more than you need.

Regarding traveler’s checks , while they have been popular in the past, they have fallen out of favor. It is increasingly difficult to find a place that will cash them — if your bank even offers them. We don’t recommend exchanging money for traveler’s checks as credit cards (and even debit cards) offer a level of security once only provided by traveler’s checks.

If you’ve already left home and need some tips on exchanging currency, we’ve got you covered!

If you’re wondering how to get local currency when traveling, the easiest way is by using your debit card at an ATM. It’s best to use your bank’s ATM network in order to avoid fees, but any ATM will work. These fees generally range from 1% to 3%. There are cards that will waive (or reimburse) international ATM withdrawal fees, though!

Try to limit your withdrawals and take out the maximum you think you’ll need each time, as there are per-transaction fees as well (generally about $5). In addition, if you’re planning to get money out abroad, knowing your ATM limit is important. You can call your bank to request an increase if it is low.

Also, consider using your credit card when you travel abroad. Most stores and restaurants accept credit cards, which is the easiest and most convenient way to get the best currency exchange rate! Just be sure to select “local currency” and not “pay in U.S. Dollars.”

If you’re looking for a card with no foreign transaction fees , consider popular rewards cards like the American Express ®  Gold Card or the Chase Sapphire Preferred ®  Card . Both cards also offer a ton of other valuable travel-related benefits!

Whatever you do, don’t get money from a foreign ATM using your credit card. This is considered a cash advance — the fees can be high, and the interest begins to accrue immediately.

Also, we don’t recommend using those currency exchange stores and kiosks (i.e. Travelex) you see at the airport, hotels, and other major tourist destinations. While they might seem convenient, the rates are not favorable, and the fees are much higher than other options.

For example, let’s say you have $100 to exchange for euros and the current market rate for the exchange is €92.64. Your bank might offer you €92, while a currency conversion kiosk might offer €87. Extra fees could also be tacked on that eat away further at your exchange’s value.

If you have some leftover cash, you’ll likely want to convert it back into U.S. dollars. The best way to exchange foreign currency for U.S. dollars will be at your bank or credit union. Unfortunately, they may not buy back all types of currency.

Those currency exchange stores and kiosks we advised against before might be a good option for less-common currencies. The fees are higher, but at least you won’t be stuck with currency you won’t use again!

Another option might be to donate currency to UNICEF’s Change for Good . American Airlines offers envelopes on its planes and at its Admirals Club and Flagship Lounge locations, but you can also mail currency to the following address:

Change for Good UNICEF USA 125 Maiden Lane New York, NY 10038

While exchanging money for cash is a good start, having a good plan in place for all your international spending is important. That’s because it’s just not feasible to pay for all your large expenses (such as hotels, train travel, etc.) with cash. Here is what we recommend:

• Use your debit card to get out cash from an ATM when you’re abroad or bring money from home.
• Bring along a credit card that has no foreign transaction fees and don’t use your credit card to get out cash from an ATM.
• When using your credit card, be sure you choose to pay in local currency.
• Avoid currency stores and kiosks if possible.
• Be aware of the current currency exchange rate to avoid any surprises!

Where you choose to exchange your currency can have an impact on how much money you’ll receive. The best rates are found at banks and credit unions. Even if you exchange money when you’re abroad, you can save money by using your debit card to take cash out of an ATM. Be sure to bring cards that are meant for international travel and you’ll be sure to save!

For rates and fees of the American Express ® Gold Card, click  here .

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best method of currency exchange.

The best method of currency exchange is using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees to pay in local currency. If you want to use cash, exchanging cash at a bank or credit union will be your best option.

How can I exchange currency without fees?

There is no way to exchange currency without fees. Banks will always charge some marginal rate to process your transaction. The best way to exchange currency by limiting your fees is at your bank or credit union.

Is it better to exchange currency at home or abroad?

While it can be cheaper to exchange money at your bank before you leave, you might be tempted to exchange too much cash. In this case, it might be better to use your debit card to take out cash from an ATM while you are abroad as you need it.

How can I exchange currency without losing money?

Unfortunately, when it comes to exchanging currency, it will always cost some money. There are ways to limit how much it costs, including exchanging the currency at your bank or using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees.

Is it better to exchange money or use a credit card?

Using a credit card will get you the best possible exchange rate, so we recommend using a credit card when you can. There are some instances that it is just more convenient to have cash (such as a small purchase with a local vendor). Having a good way to access both methods of payment is important when traveling.

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About Christy Rodriguez

After having “non-rev” privileges with Southwest Airlines, Christy dove into the world of points and miles so she could continue traveling for free. Her other passion is personal finance, and is a certified CPA.

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Best Travel Money Exchange Rates

This guide explains the cheapest and most expensive ways to buy travel money. It can help save you money if you are thinking about going abroad and trying to work out the best way to spend while you’re there.

Commission charges when you buy foreign currency have mostly been phased out. Now most currency operators make money on the difference between the interbank exchange rate and the rate they actually give you.

So the best way to know if you’re getting a good deal is to compare the actual exchange rate you’re getting.

For each of the currency exchange locations below we have used the euro as an example – but where you see a location giving a bad rate (versus the benchmark interbank rate) for euros, you can be pretty much guaranteed you’ll get a bad rate on any other currency at that place too.

Here are the ways to get the most for your money when buying foreign currency, ranked best to worse.

(All exchange rate figures accessed on 31 May 2023.)

1. Currency cards – BEST RATE

Currency cards are debit card-style payment cards designed to be used while you are on holiday or travelling outside the UK to pay for goods and services, usually anywhere you see the Visa or Mastercard symbol. They either come as regular debit cards with travel money functions, or as a separate card that connects to your current account.

Currency cards offer some of the best exchange rates around, and are available from, for example, Starling, Monzo, Revolut , and Curresea.

The euro rates for Monzo and Starling are based on the Mastercard rate so are the same:

• £1 = €1.152 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• On the (free) Curresea Essential plan the euro rate is:
• £1 = €1.152
• On the (paid for) Curresea Elite and Premium Plans the euro rate is:
• £1 = €1.163
• Ease : Currency cards are easy to apply for and usually arrive within a few days. If your bank already offers a travel card service as part of your account you may not even need to apply for a new card. Plus you don’t need to worry about changing up loads of cash before you go away.
• Safety : If you lose cash, it’s usually gone forever. If you lose your currency card you can cancel or freeze it in the app that comes with it to prevent anyone else using your holiday money.
• Virtual wallet: You can add most currency travel cards to your phone’s virtual wallet, so you can still pay if you only have your phone with you.
• Charges : Fees and charges to use your currency card abroad can vary significantly so it’s a good idea to compare different providers before you choose which one to go with. Be aware the card provider – typically either Visa or Mastercard – can add its own fees of 1% to 3% on top of transactions.
• ATM limits : Some card providers limit how much you can withdraw from an ATM in another currency, after which point more charges will kick in.
• No section 75 protection : Debit card payments and purchases are not covered by section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. But you might be able to make a claim for a refund under a voluntary scheme called ‘chargeback’.

2. Cash point abroad

Withdrawing cash from an ATM abroad can be a good option if you use one of the cards mentioned above, or a travel credit card. They are designed for use while travelling, so give the best rates on foreign exchange, and limit the fees and charges you pay while using them abroad. It is for this reason that cash point abroad is 2nd on this list.

Currensea , for example, as well as offering one of the best exchange rates, allows free ATM withdrawals of up to £500 using its Essential Card (2% fees over), and with its Premium Card (which costs £25 a year) you can make fee free ATM withdrawals up to £500 (1% over).

Just remember – if the ATM tells you a fee applies, always choose to be charged in the local currency of the country you’re in (this also applies to card purchases).

However beware – this is important – if you just take your normal debit card or credit card abroad you can expect high fees from both your bank and the ATM you withdraw cash from every time you use it.

For example, Barclays charges a 2.99% fee for using your standard debit card abroad when making purchases, withdrawing cash or for refunds.

So while you get a pretty decent exchange rate with Barclays (which uses the Visa rate), once the fee is added the real rate is much less. It works out as:

• Visa rate: £1 = €1.161 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate) before charges
• Barclays debit rate after 2.99% fee added £1 = €1.128
• Cheap if you use the right cards: Taking money out at an ATM abroad can be one of the cheapest ways to access cash if you use a card designed for travel that has fee-free options and a good exchange rate (see out Best Rated above).
• Don’t have to carry so much cash : Carrying huge wads of cash is a theft risk. Carrying a couple of cards (one for use and one for back up) is much safer.
• High costs if you use the wrong card : Avoid taking your regular debit or credit card abroad as to use it you will have to pay high fees.

3. Highstreet in the UK

UK highstreets offer a number of exchange rate options, from inside department stores like John Lewis, to specialist foreign exchange rate shops like No1 Currency. The rates will vary from place to place.

At No1 Currency, for example, the online rates are below, although the website says the in store rates may differ from what is advertised.

• £1 = €1.136 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €113.67

At John Lewis, on the same day the rate was a little lower.

• £1 = €1.133 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €113.38

At Marks & Spencer, the rate was:

• Click & Collect: £1 = €1.138 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
•  £100 = €113.80
• In-store bureau de change: £1 = €1.119
• £100 = €111.90

At a TUI branch the rate was:

• £1 = €1.139 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €113.90
• Click and collect rates : No1 Currency for example gives you a better rate if you order online then pick up in store, rather than have your currency delivered.
• Perks: For example at John Lewis you can earn points when you pay for currency with your Partnership Credit Card.
• Delivery charges : No1 Currency only offers free delivery for orders of £800 or more. At John Lewis the minimum for free home delivery is over £500.
• Minimum orders online: John Lewis, for example, has a £250 minimum for online orders.

4. Online with a supermarket

Most supermarkets sell travel money these days and it can be a convenient way to pick up some currency while you do your weekly shop. You can buy on the day or order online to collect.

As an added bonus, supermarkets offer a better rate on foreign currency for their loyalty card holders, pushing supermarkets up the ranking in terms of rates.

• Standard rate: £1 = €1.130 (vs €1.16 interbank rate)
• £100 = €113
• Tesco Clubcard rate:  €1.135
• £100 = €113.50

Sainsbury’s

• £1 = €1.131 (vs €1.16 interbank rate)
• £100 =  €113.17
• Sainsbury’s Nectar card rate: €1.1340
• £100 = €113.40
• Loyalty perks and points : Loyalty card holders get better exchange rates, plus you can earn loyalty points when you pay for the currency just like any other purchase.
• Convenience : Order online then pick up when you do your weekly shop.
• Minimum order amounts: For example Tesco has a minimum order amount of £400 worth of currency when you buy online, and a minimum of £500 to have a free home delivery. There is no minimum order amount for Sainsbury’s but a £4.99 fee to have currency bought online delivered at home.

5. Post office

The Post Office is a handy one-stop-shop for lots of holiday related things, from travel insurance to international driving permits, and including travel money. While the Post Office doesn’t offer the best rates on the market, it does have several other advantages that could make it a good option, especially if you are in a hurry.

• £1 = €1.116 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €111
• Rate increases : Order online for the best rates on every currency. The more you buy, the better the rate.
• Fast pick up service : You can pick up euros and US dollars from your nearest branch in as little as 2 hours, from selected branches. Order by 2pm (1pm Saturday) to collect the same day, from 2 hours later. Order after 2pm (1pm Saturday) to collect the next working day, from 11am. Or you can choose delivery to your home.
• Refund policy : Will refund 100% of the holiday money you bought if your trip abroad is cancelled
• Queuing : With a number of Post Offices closing, and banks shutting branches that force Post Offices to do more services with less, queues to get you travel money in person can be long.
• Limited currencies: Post Office in my experience don’t carry that much currency and only in a few of the most common types. Beware buying last minute – if you try to just pop in on the day to buy your currency without pre-ordering you may find they have run out, or don’t stock it.
• Buying limits : The minimum you can buy online of a currency is £400 worth, and the maximum is £2,500.

6. At the airport

The only times I have bought currency at the airport it has been out of desperation and from a lack of forward planning – and I have always regretted it. It is typically one of the most expensive (i.e. worst exchange rate) places to buy foreign currency.

But if you’re in a panic because you forgot to get out any cash before your trip, it is at least convenient to be able to grab some foreign currency before your flight.

Two of the most common foreign exchange kiosks you’ll find at UK and global airports are Travelex and Eurochange. The rates below are for their online services – rates in the airport are likely to be worse.

Travelex (online)

• £1 = €1.130 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)

Eurochange (online)

• £1 = €1.131 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €113.10
• Location : If in the rush to get away you forgot to pick up any currency, airport foreign exchange kiosks offer a last minute lifeline.
• Availability of currencies: Because of their location, currency kiosks in international airports tend to be well stocked in multiple currencies, even the less common ones.
• Switching currency : If you are visiting multiple countries on a trip but don’t want to carry large amounts of currency, changing up just what you need at each airport you pass through is an option.
• Expense : You will never get the best foreign exchange rate at an airport.
• Lack of comparison : Even if there is more than one currency store at the airport, they all tend to offer the same rates. Once you’re there you have no other options, you have to take what you can get.

7. Online with a bank

Buying travel money from your local bank might seem like the obvious choice, but surprisingly the rates on offer are likely among the worst you’ll get anywhere in the UK. However the limits on how much you can purchase can be higher (though you won’t get a better rate the more you buy so why bother?)

• £1 = €1.105 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €110.51
• £1 = €1.106 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)
• £100 = €110.67
• High purchase limits : At Barclays, for example, you can order up to £5,000 per person within a 90-day period, and a maximum of £2,500 from that amount can be sent for home delivery to a single residential address.
• Fee free deliveries : HSBC, for example, offers fee-free deliveries on your travel money to HSBC Full and Cash Service branches or to your home. Other banks may charge.
• Limited to customers : You may find you have to be a customer. For example, you’ll need a Barclays debit card or Barclaycard to place your order for currency online there.
• Expensive : Among the worst rates for currency exchange you’ll find anywhere in the UK.

8. Bureau de change abroad – WORST RATE

Bureau de changes abroad are typically in tourist hotspots. And what do we know about tourist hotspots? Rife for pickpockets and overinflated prices. This is the attitude you should take to foreign currency shops in these locations.

One example that proves the ‘expensive option’ point is Ria Money Transfer & Currency Exchange, situated in the busy Plaza de Callao in central Madrid, Spain.

Ria’s exchange rate on 31 May 2023 was:

• £1.00 = €0.99 (vs €1.16 inter bank rate)

Convenient : If you really need cash while you’re abroad, maybe because you’re in a place where your cards are not widely accepted, a local bureau de change may be a lifeline – just expect to pay heavily for that life raft.

• Cost, cost, cost: Buying foreign currency from a currency shop or kiosk in a tourist hotspot (where you are most likely to find them) is an extremely expensive way of getting your hands on cash. Avoid if at all possible.
• Theft risk : Pickpockets may hang around bureau de change just like they hang around ATMs, because they know you have just withdrawn what is probably a large amount of money. Secure your cash hidden away before you leave the kiosk.

Is it still worth getting travel cash ahead of your holidays?

Yes. Absolutely. Cards aren’t accepted everywhere, as I found to my detriment when I arrived in Buenos Aires and tried to take out local currency on my credit card at the foreign exchange desk at the airport.

“Absolutely not possible”, I was told. A combination of a lack of provision to buy currency on credit card there, and the Argentinian peso being just too volatile for credit card providers to let you buy it on their service.

All I had in hard currency was US$100 in Argetininian pesos I had changed in the airport at Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, where I had just come from, and a US$100 bill. Luckily I’d pre-paid my Buenos Aires hotel in advance, and I could easily find restaurants that would accept my credit card. But taxis only took cash, so I spent a lot of time walking – thinking about how I should have brought more pesos with me.

We’ve answered some of the most commonly asked questions when it comes to travel money.

Yes, in most cases. Cash withdrawal fees will probably apply of around 3%, just like they would at home for taking cash out on a credit card, and these will be on top of any currency conversion fees.

Be aware though – in countries with a highly fluctuating exchange rate, like Argentina, you may not be able to buy foreign cash with your credit card (not even at the bureau de change at the airport, for example). You still may be able to pay for goods and services with your credit cards, but check how widely they are accepted before you travel.

Yes, on the whole. When buying travel money online, like with buying anything online, you’re best off sticking to well known brands, whether that be banks, supermarkets, or currency exchange stores.

A large institution or well known brand is less likely to go bust, and that is important because foreign exchange is not a regulated service. This means your cash is not protected if the company you tried to get your foreign currency from closes suddenly.

Yes. Most places that sell you travel money will buy it back from you. But just like when you’re swapping your pounds for foreign currency, when you swap it back you should compare the exchange rates on offer. As a general rule, a location that offers a good rate one way, offers a good rate the other way.

Travel money providers – from the currency shops and bureau de change, to the banks and supermarkets, anywhere basically that sells currency – make money by giving you slightly less than the central banks give them for the foreign money you want to buy.

For example, if a currency provider tells you they will give you €1.131 for every pound you give them, but the central bank rate for euros is €1.157 per pound, the difference is €0.026, which they pocket. This may not sound much, but multiplied over millions of transactions a  year, it adds up.

Compare, compare, compare the single unit price – which means the £1 for a €1 rate, or whichever currency you choose, versus the interbank rate, which you can get by just Googling “1 GBP in EUR”.

Places that sell currency, online or in a shop, have to show you the exchange rate for that day. While it’s probably not practical to go traipsing around comparing shops, it’s easy enough to do so online. If you run up against minimum purchase amounts online, still go with the company providing the best rate but visit their location in person.

Also try not to get yourself in a position where you’re desperate to buy foreign currency, either at home or abroad. This means having enough cash on you in remote locations, and tourist hotspots, and before you travel (to avoid the airport currency shops).

Laura Miller has been a financial journalist for more than 10 years, and was on staff at the Telegraph before going freelance in 2019. Her experience includes hosting podcasts and panels, and she writes for the Times and Sunday Times, Daily Mail, Mail on Sunday and the Sun, as well as trade titles. She now lives by the sea in Aberystwyth, west Wales.

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How much do you want to spend, what currency do you want to sell, how much do you want to sell, buy currency, sell currency, why use a travel money comparison site.

Have you ever started researching the best rates between different travel money providers?

We know it can be overwhelming: the different suppliers, their different offers and of course, the ever-changing currency exchange rates. It's a lot of information to process and compile!

Our comparison site takes the stress out of researching and does it all for you. FInd the travel money supplier that will get you the best rate today.

• ✓ Compare Travel Cash is a non-biased travel money comparison site.
• ✓ To ensure our independence, we always use transparent, objective and verifiable criteria in our comparisons.
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Frequently asked questions

It's a great idea to buy your currency online to ensure you get the best exchange rate. You can often get much better deals online compared to what you can find on the high street or the airport. In fact ccording to recent surveys, 9 out of 10 tourists find that exchanging money at airports is the most expensive option.

The best thing about buying your travel money online through a comparison site is seeing all currency prices in one place, so whether you are buying euros , buying dollars or other currencies you get the best rate for your travel money and more importantly save time!

The quickest way to get the best currency exchange rate is by using our comparison tool . We compare the latest information from all the best travel money providers in the market to show you the best currency exchange rates.

Keep an eye out for the following when searching for the best currency exchange deals so you can choose the best option for buying your holiday money:

• High exchange rate - The higher the exchange rate number, the more holiday money you will get to the pound
• Delivery Charges - different currency providers charge different amounts for delivering your holiday money to your door
• Special offer - We will let you know if the providers are offering travel money deals

Commission is the fee that travel money providers charge for the service to exchange your money into foreign currency . The charge is usually included in the exchange rate they advertise. You will see that many foreign exchange companies advertise 0% commission, they are still charging you by including the charge in the rates.

All the travel money prices we quote include any fees and commissions, including delivery!

The simple answer is yes! Usually, the minimum order amount for foreign currency is £100, and the maximum is usually £7,500, although some providers allow you to exchange more.

Travel money is normally sent via special delivery service with Royal Mail. Travel cash orders worth more than £2,500 will be sent via a courier or multiple Royal Mail packages. This is for insurance reasons, making sure your travel money is safe.

This depends on the currency provider. Some providers offer next-day delivery, sending your travel money using Royal Mail's Special Delivery Guaranteed by 1pm service. There will be an extra cost for this and you can see how much when you compare the holiday money prices.

Don't forget, many foreign currency providers also allow you to pre-order currency and you can collect it in store, this means you can avoid delivery charges.

Most do, any holiday money that you have leftover after your trip abroad can be sold using a buy-back service that will convert it back to pounds. Our comparison tool will show you the providers offering the best buy-back rates .

Every few of minutes we compare the exchange rates and latest currency deals from the best travel money providers in the UK. You can see instantly who is offering the best deals and choose a service that suits your needs best.

Also, if you've come home from a trip abroad and have leftover currency, we compare many foreign currency buy back companies, showing the best rates to convert your foreign currency back into pounds.

Hundreds of customers order travel money through our site daily and have a great experience. However, as with ordering anything online, the process is never completely risk-free and you should always take care when transfering money to any company.

We undertake comprehensive checks on all of our providers and monitor them to make sure they meet our high standards and continue to do so. Having said that, no company is guaranteed not to come into trouble and we cannot guarantee the solvency of any of the providers listed on our website. We always recommend that you conduct your own due diligence before placing an order with any company.

There are many destinations where taking some local currency is extremely useful to make sure you are covered in places where credit cards are not accepted. Many of the smaller retailers globally will not allow credit cards, so cash is the only option.

Read our blog post on taking cash on holiday .

The best time to buy any travel money is when the pound is performing strongly relative to the currency you are buying, this means it will have a higher exchange rate, so will give you more currency for your money. The amount you receive is calculated by multiplying the exchange rate by the amount of pounds you want to spend, so the higher the exchange rate, the more foreign currency you get.

Exchange rates are constantly changing but we show you the historical exchange rate performance for each of the currencies so you can have more of an idea of whether now is a good time to buy your travel money.

Exchange rates tend to be very similar wherever you are in the world to those offered in the UK, however waiting until you are away means you may be stuck with poor exchange rates, fewer options of places to offer competitive rates or even worse, you may have to pay big additional fees and commissions. By buying your travel money in the UK there are no hidden fees, charges or nasty surprises, you know exactly how much you are getting.

Once you have found the best rate, place an order on the currency suppliers’ site, and pay for your currency.Each currency supplier has different payment options, including bank transfer, debit card, with some suppliers offering payment by Apple pay and Android pay. Once your order has been confirmed your order will be prepared and your currency sent to you by registered delivery, some suppliers even offer next-day delivery.

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Today’s best exchange rates

How do you get the best holiday money exchange rate, use our currency converter, high exchange rates, delivery charges, special offers, pros and cons, five golden rules of travel money, 1. know how much cash you'll need.

Carrying around a large amount of cash isn't the safest thing to do. At the same time, not having enough cash can cause a lot headaches too. It's a good idea to take a little more than you think you'll need.

But it's also good sense to have a backup prepaid , debit or travel credit card that you can rely on - assuming you're going to a destination that widely accepts card transactions.

2. Shop around

Not all currency exchange companies are created equal. Some may have good exchange rates, but higher fees. Others may have higher rates, but no fees. You have to make sure which one offers the best value to you.

This is why it’s worth comparing the deals on offer from several companies before ordering your travel money. Factor in the fees and the exchange rate and see where you end up better off. Often the amount of money you're exchanging can be a deciding factor.

3. Don't buy your travel money at the airport

Airport holiday money providers have notoriously high prices because they offer a last-chance solution for those who are just about to board a plane. By planning ahead you can save a small fortune.

4. Don't carry too many large notes

Notes of large denominations can be tricky, as small shops and taxi cabs, which are more likely to require cash, might not have enough change to accept a large note.

Some retailers are also often wary of accepting large notes. Smaller notes and change can also be handy when it comes to tipping or buying small everyday items.

5. Don't use your credit card to buy travel money

Avoid buying foreign currency with a credit card as credit card providers treat the transaction as a 'cash advance' . Not only will you be charged daily interest, you're also likely to be hit with a fee.

Budgeting for your holiday

How much travel money you need to take depends on your plans. You'll need to budget for your holiday to make sure you don't run out of money before the end.

Deciding how much money to take depends on were you're going, whether debit or credit card usage is prevalent, and if you want to have some local currency on hand for emergencies.

Having some cash is extremely important, as there's always a possibility your cards could get declined or blocked for some reason, and it may take some time to resolve the issue.

Also, some countries still rely predominantly on cash transactions, so you should factor that into how much cash you decide to take.

What are the top alternatives to buying travel money?

Travel credit cards.

Travel credit cards - i.e. the ones with  no foreign transaction fees  - offer two key advantages over travel money:

Great exchange rates  - when you spend on a travel credit card you get the Mastercard or Visa exchange rate, which is about the best you can find as a regular consumer

Purchase protection  – for purchases costing between £100 and £30,000 you're covered by  Section 75 of the consumer credit act , meaning if something goes wrong you can make a claim with your card provider should the vendor fail to pay up

However, not everywhere accepts travel credit cards and using them at a cash machine abroad can come with hefty fees. It can also be easier to overspend on a credit card, leaving you with debts on which interest is charged.

Travel money cards

Currency cards and travel bank accounts let you spend overseas without being charged a foreign transaction fee. Their key strengths are:

Great exchange rates  - you card provider will pass on the Mastercard or Visa rate to you without adding extra charges

No charges for ATM use overseas  - if you need extra cash on holiday, you can withdraw it without being charged by your provider. Watch out for local ATM fees though, as these might still apply 

The downsides include that there can be limits on how much you can withdraw abroad using a travel money card, and that they're not accepted quite as widely as cash. Some travel current accounts also come with fees.

Prepaid travel cards

Prepaid travel cards  can be loaded with currency and used abroad without paying foreign exchange fees. You can load a prepaid card with a specific foreign currency or a variety of different currencies, depending on your travel plans. The key advantages are:

Low or no fees to use abroad  – prepaid travel card providers charge far less than traditional banks for overseas usage

Safer than carrying cash  - you can cancel or freeze the card if it's lost or stolen, protecting your balance

However, you’ll need to watch out for general usage fees, which often apply when you load the card with cash and may also be charged monthly.

Can you get commission-free travel currency?

Yes and no. It depends on how you define it. Commission refers to the service fee that a currency exchange broker charges for exchanging your money.

Many companies advertise 0% commission to exchange money online or on the high street, but, instead of charging commission, they offer a less competitive exchange rate. This is why you need to compare the whole deal rather than just opting for a zero-fee travel money deal.

Are there restrictions on getting currency delivered?

When you buy your currency online, it's normally sent via Royal Mail's Special Delivery service. This means you have to sign for the package. Cash orders that exceed £2,500 will be sent in batches because that's the maximum value that can be insured for each delivery.

Can you get next-day delivery for currency?

Some travel money providers do offer next-day delivery. These brokers send out currency using Royal Mail's Special Delivery Guaranteed by 1pm service.

Our comparison shows which operators offer this option and how much they charge for it. With some companies, you also have the option to pre-order your travel money for collection in person from a local branch, meaning you don't have to pay for delivery.

Will anyone buy my currency back?

If you've got leftover travel money from a trip abroad, you can use a  buy-back service  to convert it back into pounds.

The buy-back rate tells you how much sterling you'll get back.

Remember to factor in the rate and delivery costs, and compare exchange rates. You can check out the best euro-to-pound exchange rate by looking at our comparison table.

About our comparison

Who do we include in this comparison.

We include every company that gives you the option of buying euros online. Discover  how our website works .

How do we make money from our comparison?

We have commercial agreements with some of the companies in this comparison. We get paid commission if we help you take out one of their products or services.  Find out more here .

You do not pay any extra and the deal you get is not affected.

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Delivery options, available branches and fees may vary by value and currency. Branch rates will differ from online rates. T&Cs apply .

Why get your holiday cash from Post Office?

• Order online, buy in branch, or choose delivery to your home or local branch 
• 100% refund guarantee* if your holiday’s cancelled, at the same exchange rate, excluding bank and delivery charges. Just send your receipts and evidence of cancellation to us within 28 days of purchase. *T&Cs apply
• Order euros or US dollars to collect in branch in as little as 2 hours

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Rate correct as of 09/06/2024

Travel Money Card (TMC) rates may differ. Branch rates may vary. Delivery methods may vary. Terms and conditions apply

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Manage your holiday funds on a Travel Money Card with our free travel app. Top it up, freeze it, swap currencies, view your PIN and more.

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Our revamped travel app’s out now. It makes buying, topping up and managing Travel Money Cards with up to 22 currencies a breeze. Buying and accessing Travel Insurance on the move effortless. And it puts holiday extras like airport hotels, lounge access and more at your fingertips. All with an improved user experience. Find out what’s changed .

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9 Travel Hacks to Save Money on Your Next Trip to Japan

Whether it’s experimenting with food at convenience stores or shopping at ¥100 shops, here are some budget travel hacks you’ll need on your next trip to Japan!

As someone who’s been to Japan multiple times, I can tell you that it’s not cheap. I once spent ~S$2,000 on a one-week trip there (excluding flights) 😱 So on subsequent trips, I’d usually try to budget on things like transport and activities, which didn’t let me enjoy my trip to the fullest.

But now, thanks to the Internet (and TikTok), I’ve found other ways to save money without sacrificing my happiness and comfort 🥰 From getting the right train passes to convenience store tips, check out these nine travel hacks for your next trip to Japan. You’re welcome 😉

Bonus: Read till the end for travel deals, promos and cashback to help you save more on your trip with DBS/POSB Cards!

1) Leverage single ticket/regional train passes

On my previous trips to Japan, I often used JR passes to save costs on travelling across multiple cities and regions. However, Whole JR Pass prices have increased by more than 30% since October 2023 😱

So if you’re only planning to visit a few places rather than hopping on and off across Japan, consider using single shinkansen tickets (point A to B) and then adding on regional passes (within a certain region).

While prices for regional passes have also increased, it’s still not too expensive. The total cost of your journey might also be more affordable than getting a Whole Japan JR Pass!

One super helpful tool is the Japan Rail Pass Calculator — input your itinerary and cities you’ll be covering and it’ll help you calculate if the Whole Japan JR Pass is worth it.

*Pro-tip: DBS/POSB Cardmembers and PayLah! users get 15% off shinkansen tickets with a minimum spend of S$250 (capped at S$40) on Klook! Simply key in the promo codes below when checking out: – For DBS/POSB Cards: JPTRAINSWITHDBS – For DBS PayLah!: JPTRAINSWITHPL

*Note: Valid till 30 June 2024 and limited redemptions only! T&Cs apply .

Read also: JR Pass Budget Alternatives — Is the JR Pass, Single Shinkansen Tickets or Regional Passes More Worth It?

2) Take advantage of exchange rates

As we all know, exchange rates fluctuate quite a bit. So here’s a hack to secure a good rate when travelling in Japan.

If you have a DBS Visa Debit Card , link it to your multi-currency accounts and you can exchange up to 11 foreign currencies (AUD, USD, EUR, JPY, etc) instantly. This means that once the exchange rate is favourable, you can convert it to yen and keep it in your digital wallet to spend when in Japan!

The best part? There’s an upsized 5% cashback on foreign currency spend this June.

3) Try convenience store food hacks


Photo credit: SoraNews24

Don’t go to fancy restaurants to eat in Japan, DIY your own at the convenience store! A few viral food hack videos on TikTok show how to mix and match cheap convenience store food to upgrade your meal. For instance, slapping fried chicken between two pieces of pancakes — ta-da , a McDonald’s McGriddles for only ~S$3?!

Another is getting cup noodles and “ zhng-ing ” it up with string cheese and onigiri (rice balls) — you’ll get both ramen and rice in one meal! Or leave some leftover broth after eating your cup noodles, then mix in an egg. Microwave it for 3 to 4 minutes and poof, homemade chawanmushi (steamed eggs). Trust us, these meals cost way less than a bowl of Ichiran ramen (from ~S$10), but taste just as good or even better!

Do you have any other convenience store hacks to share with us? Let us know in the comments below 😋

4) Pay attention to travel deals

This may be common sense but don’t underestimate the power of travel deals! After all, more savings on flights and hotels = more money to spend on shopping #girlmath

And good news for DBS/POSB Cardmembers, here are some exclusive deals :

*Note: Terms and conditions apply, do check the website for more details.

5) Shop at ¥100 stores or places with tax refunds

Photo credit: Wikimedia Commons

Instead of shopping at popular tourist spots like Shibuya 109 or Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street , get your souvenirs at ¥100 (~S$0.90) shops!

Everyone is probably familiar with Daiso , but other options include Seria , Watts , and Can Do . These local ¥100 shops sell everything from traditional Japanese items like Tenugui (traditional hand towels) and Otedama (similar to our Five Stones ), to anime merch and even clothes. Seria also sells materials like liquid resin, yarn and decorative ornaments so you can DIY your own handicrafts!

Another way to save money while shopping is to look for places with tax refunds — check out this list of shops or look out for the “free tax refund signs”. Some well-known shops include Don Quijote , BIC CAMERA and Daimaru Shinsaibashi . Just remember to bring along your passport so you can get refunded on the spot!

6) Buy food and drinks from supermarkets instead of vending machines

Vending machines are iconic in Japan — you’ll find one in almost every corner of the city! While it may be tempting to grab a drink or snack from these machines (because they’re so convenient), just chotto -a-minute. Get it from a supermarket instead.

Items in vending machines are usually a little more expensive compared to the supermarket. For example, a can of coffee might cost ¥100 – ¥150, while in the supermarket it could be ¥80 – ¥90. Yes, the difference may seem small but if you add it up every day, you can actually save quite a bit!

And if you’re wondering about convenience stores… supermarkets might still be cheaper too! Most local supermarkets have discounts of up to 50% off 1 to 2 hours before closing. So while the prices for bentos are similar, you can practically get it at half price thanks to the promos.

7) Maximise earnings with the right payment method


Most shops in Japan accept credit card payments, unless you’re in the more remote or rural areas. So when paying for things like food, transport and shopping, use this chance to maximise as much earnings as you can!

Here are rewards exclusively for DBS/POSB Cardmembers:

DBS Altitude Card — earn up to 2.2 miles per S$1 retail spend. FYI, DBS Points earned on the DBS Altitude Card don’t expire, so you can earn miles anywhere and redeem them at any time! And if you don’t own a DBS Altitude Card yet, sign up by 15 July 2024 to unlock up to 60,000 miles* for your next trip ✈️ *T&Cs apply.

DBS Visa Debit Card — for daily spending such as food and transport. You can earn upsized 5% cashback for the month of June on all overseas spend!

8) Consider different accommodation options

Honestly, you don’t need to stay in a five-star hotel. Japan has tons of budget-friendly accommodations that are both safe and clean: Capsule hotels, minshukus (guest houses) and homestays. Where you stay depends on your own needs and preferences so here’s a simple breakdown 👇

From a “library” full of manga (comics) to a futuristic theme, there are many quirky capsule hotels to choose from! They’re small but usually at a convenient location (near train stations) and offer free toiletries — some go for as low as ~S$40 per night.

Photo credit: Booking.com

Alternatively, opt for a minshuku or guest house. It’s like a family-run bed-and-breakfast accommodation but in a traditional Japanese house setting. Rooms are fitted with tatami flooring and futons , and facilities like bathrooms and dining areas are usually shared with other guests. A night can cost around S$40 – S$100 depending on the location.

Another option is a homestay , where you’ll live with a Japanese host family. Some may charge a small fee or even offer you free lodging in exchange for other benefits such as helping to cook and clean, teaching their children English, and more.

*Pro-tip: Book your accommodations via various platforms with a DBS/POSB Card. Get 10% off Japan hotel and ryokan bookings via Rakuten Travel or up to 10% cashback on Booking.com (in the form of Booking.com credits)!

9) Search Tabelog for cheap & good food recommendations

Tripadvisor is my usual go-to for activity and food recommendations around the world, but sometimes it’s outdated or doesn’t cover the lesser-known local shops.

So for Japan, I recommend using Tabelog — it has an extensive list of restaurants to browse through according to the prefecture, type of cuisine, budget, and even the scenario (with family, a date, girls-only party, alone etc) 😂 And yes, it’s in English!

Well… except for its reviews (most of them are in Japanese), but that’s easily solved with Google Translate . Having said that, it only adds to the credibility of the review, because hey the locals would know best 😉 Besides finding out how the food tastes, you can also make reservations directly on the site to skip the queues!

Here’s how to save even more on your next Japan trip

I love travelling to Japan — its beautiful sceneries, rich culture and oishii food have got a hold on my heart… but sadly also a hole in my wallet. Thankfully, I’ve learnt from my previous experiences different ways to save what I can! So with this list of budget travel hacks, I hope it’ll help you save on your next trip to Japan too!

And if you’re looking for even more savings, here’s a roundup of perks just for DBS/POSB Cardmembers:

– 15% off shinkansen tickets with a minimum spend of S$250 on Klook – Discounts and cashback on flight, hotel and activity bookings (up to S$100 off!) – Snagging favourable exchange rates ahead of time with DBS Visa Debit Card and Multi-Currency Accounts – 5% cashback on foreign currency spends with DBS Visa Debit Card for the month of June – Earning up to 2.2 miles per S$1 retail spend with the DBS Altitude Card (earn Miles for Life with DBS Points that don’t expire)

Look out for more travel deals on the “Deals” icon via the DBS PayLah! app ✨

Any other Japan travel hacks to share with us? Let us know in the comments below!

This post was brought to you by DBS Singapore .

For more travel inspiration, follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram , and  YouTube . 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Travel Intern (@thetravelintern)

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Perm, Russia General info on the city of Perm A short intro... Perm is the most Eastern city of Europe, and therefore its province is often referred to as Eurasia. Having a population of 1 million, Perm' is one of the largest cities in Russia and the second largest in the Urals. The city was formerly called Molotov, after the minister of foreign affairs during Joseph Stalin's ruling. Perm stretches 65 km along the impressive Kama River - Europe's 4th largest river by length. The Perm province, "Permskiy Krai", or "Prikamye", is around two-third the size of the United Kingdom and covers a great area in the very heart of the Ural Mountains. Perm is internationally known as the name for the geological period (290 - 245 million years ago) in which the Ural Mountain Range was formed. In contrary to the Urals, Perm itself is rather young. Although the first settlement of Perm dates back to 16th century, officially it got its city status in 1723. Citizens still loudly celebrate Perm's birthday on 12th of June, with street parades, concerts and fireworks throughout the whole city! In spite of being a relatively young city, Perm played an important role in the history of Russia. Not the least part of this role was played by Ermak, who was from the Perm Province. Ermak, by order of the Stroganov family, gathered an army here and led it through the Urals, later to succesfully conquer Siberia for Russia. Afterwards, when a road was needed to connect Siberia with the west, construction was started in Perm, which was at that time the capital of the Ural region. The new road, together with the construction of the Trans Siberian Railroad, allowed development of the places east of the Urals - current big cities such as Ekaterinburg, Omsk and Novosibirsk, were merely peasant or miners' towns by that time. Nowadays, Perm basically owes its existence to two factors. Firstly the large amounts of natural resources (minerals, oil and timber) that are present in the region, and secondly (but not less important): its location. The mighty Kama River, the Great Trans Siberian Railroad and main motorways from Moscow/Kazan to Siberia all cross in Perm, making Perm a main Russian transportation hub. The city is the doorway from Europe to Asia and to Siberia in particular. During Soviet times, Perm was a proper fortress because of the huge military industry in its region. All artillery and rocket vehicles, as well as (intercontinental) ballistic rocket launching systems, engines for MiG jetfighters and canons of all ranges were (and in less proportions still are) produced in Perm. The Soviets did an excellent job in hiding Perm and keeping it secret. Most people from outside the Urals simply did not know of the existence of the - at that time - 1 million citizens of Perm. Until the end of the cold war, Perm did not appear on certain Soviet-made maps, nor did the roads towards it. Nowadays, Perm is obviously accessible to all. Actually, it currently is one of Russia's fastest growing cities because of its economical prosperity. Click here for specific information for visitors: Perm sightseeing / excursions and Perm hotels . Perm - 101% Russian, yet multicultural For Russian standards, Perm is one of the most multicultural places in the whole country; it is a home of many ethnic groups who have lived together in Perm ever since its existence. While taking a walk through Perm’s huge central bazaar one can easily distinguish Russians at the many typical small kiosks, Georgians and Armenians selling their original spicy kebabs and shoarmas straight from the barbecue and Tatars operating from most of the simple but colorful jewelry stands. Furthermore, Russian orthodox churches, a mosque, a synagogue and several Catholic churches (some dating from the 17th century) all exist next to each other in Perm. The multicultural character of Perm also shows in its dining possibilities; one does never have to go far to experience the Russian, Uzbek, Georgian or Caucasian cuisine. In spite of its multicultural character, Perm is “Russian till the bone”. Wide avenues, big squares and parks, many statues, dominant Soviet architecture, countless little kiosks, huge theatres and trolley busses everywhere - all make Perm as Russian as Russian can be. Being some 1400 kilometers away from the big influential cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg, Perm is a relaxed place, where people have kept the typical Russian way of life and traditions. The Perm opera and ballet theatre After St. Petersburg and Moscow, Perm is Russia's leading city for opera and ballet theatre. Not only has the city got a wide range of stages and theatres, its educational bodies like the Russian Academy of Theatre Art and Institute for Culture and Art as well as its many international relations in theatre performances and education still give Perm the name of theatre city. One of the most famous stages is the Chaikovsky Opera and Ballet Theatre Perm. Among its repertoire are internationally known performances (for example Romeo and Juliet, Cleopatra, Aida, Cinderella, Le Nozze di Figaro) as well as Russian ones: most works of Chaikovsky have been staged here. Since 1948 the Perm Opera and Ballet Theatre has been on tours throughout the whole world, performing in countries such as UK, Japan, New Zealand, Australia, Hungary, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, Germany and China. During its history, the theatre has received numerous (inter)national prizes. Another leading stage is the Perm Academic Drama Theatre, founded in 1927. Like the Perm Opera and Ballet Theatre, the Acamedic Drama Theatre has staged the world’s most prestigious Drama plays (for instance Ostrovsky, Shakespeare, Gorky and Tolstoy) and has it won many prizes for its work. Museums The Perm Art Gallery boasts a large collection of arts. Apart from numerous paintings of Flemish, French and Italian masters, it also has modern art collections on exhibition. The museum's collection is among the very largest ones in Russia. The museum is located in a former cathedral, now a landmark of Perm in the centre of the city. For those who are interested in the history and the culture of the Urals, the Regional Museum of Local Studies and History (founded in 1890) is definitely worth to visit. The museum boasts a wide variety of armory, coinage, pottery, handicrafts, archeology and minerals. It also tells about the Permian period, the geological era in which the Urals were formed. The partly open-air artillery museum at the northern end of the city centre displays all generations of rocket and artillery (vehicles), as constructed in Perm, as well as a wide range of information of the history of the industry. Actually, the city is known for its large war industry ever since late 1800’s. All cannons and artillery of former Soviet Union as well as engines for Tupolev and MiG aircrafts were (and in less amounts still are) manufactured in Perm. The museum offers detailed information on its wide range of warfare. The outside part of the museum can be entered free of charge at any time. This museum is a part of our city excursion . “ Khokhlovka ” (Open-air museum of and Wooden Architecture and Ethnography) is in fact a collection of original structures as they existed in the 17th century. Inside the buildings, all kinds of tools, handicrafts and clothes of that time are exposed. The guide will take you around the museum, telling about the hard life 300 years ago. You will be amazed by the beauty of the site; Khokhlovka is located on a green hill and offers great views over the Kama river and nearby villages. Architecture As for architecture, most profound buildings are situated in the city centre. The heart of the city is very unlike what one can expect from a city of over one million inhabitants. It completely lacks the usual modern glass buildings and tall skyscrapers that make up for most big cities’ centres. In fact, Perm’s centre is mostly made up by colorful, classic 3-storied mansions of Soviet architecture, making the centre breath a rather relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. Among the most prominent buildings in the city are the centrally located "Young people's theatre", the Feodalyevskaya Church and the Dyagiliev Mansion. Furthermore, the Perm I train station is worth a look, as it is proper ancient (17th century). In the provincial towns surrounding Perm, such as Kungur, Solikamsk, Usolye and Osa, architectural highlights are dominated by mansions and factories which were built by the Stroganovs and Demidovs in the 17th century. In similar style, a large number of remarkable churches and cathedrals can be found throughout the Perm Province. Famous people In spite of Perm being a relatively unknown city, the city and its region brought forward many famous people. Ballet impressario Sergei Dyaghilev was born in Perm and spent early years of his life here. He became a sensation in Europe during 2 decades of his "Ballets Russes". Dyaghilev's former mansion in the centre of Perm is now a museum. Chaikovsky, one of the greatest composers ever, was born in a small town just south of Perm. Furthermore, Perm was home of Popov, the inventor of radio, and of Boris Pasternak, who wrote Dr. Zhivago here. The Stroganovs, the Demidovs and Tatishchevs in Perm make up for Russia's famous industrials. Ballet impresario Sergei Diaghilev wrote history when he produced the ballet sensation "The Rites of Spring" in Paris in the early years of the 20th century. Sports For those who are more into sports rather than theatre, Perm has many possibilities. Especially in weekends, the offer is large. Football games of Amkar (promoted to Russia’s premier league in 2003) and “Molot-Prikamiye” (see club logo on the right) ice hockey matches take place frequently. Click here for all matches of Perm sports teams. Shopping Shopping in Perm is an experience on its own. Like most other cities in Russia, Perm has not got obvious Western-style shopping streets, although the central “Komsomolsky Prospekt” is steadily developing into one. New and modern stores are appearing in and around this proper avenue at a fast rate, among which mostly fashion, jewelry and dining places. For daily needs, the huge central bazaar is the most popular place. For any tourist, a visit to this site of countless little stands, shops and kiosks simply cannot be missed. The whole city comes together here, making the bazaar probably the most vivid place in Perm. Fruits, vegetables, clothes, cleaning products, tools, audio, sunglasses, kebabs, carpets, almost ANYthing can be purchased here, and usually for very little money too. The large building in the centre of the bazaar is the place where all kinds of meat and milk products are sold. For those looking for cheap clothing, the Chinese-Vietnamese market is the place to go. Decent but cheap is the main subject among the mainly Chinese trade-people at the market. Furthermore, several smaller markets (“rinki”) can be found all over the city, mainly at the crossings of major streets. A number of shopping malls serve those who like to have everything in one building. The biggest one is “Univermag” on the corner of Lenina and Komsomolsky Prospekt. Just across the road are many bakeries, cafés and kebab stands for a short break and a quick snack. Public Transport Perm has an extensive public transport system, operated by busses, taxi busses, trolley busses and trams. They take you to wherever you want to go in the city, even to far outskirts. The standard fare for any means of public transport is 13 rubles, to be paid to the conductor on entrance. Taxi busses start around 6:30 am and stop at 21 pm. All the other transport starts at 5:30 am and goes until 0:30 am. Taxis, naturally, drive 24 hours. If you do not know the city well, it might be difficult for you to find your way through the complicated public transport network. The best thing you can do is to ask the hotel receptionists or your host family which bus or tram number you need. Just remember the name of the stop you departed from, so it will be easy for people to give you directions back, just in case you are not sure which one to take. It is also possible to buy a city transport map at any paper/magazine kiosk, they cost around 2 euro. Events in Perm Events in form of sports and theatre take place nearly every day, one shall not get bored! Most interesting performances of ballet, drama and opera are staged at the Drama Theatre, which is located on Lenina Street, at the central square. The Perm Academic Theatre offers all kinds of famous plays, both Russian and international, and has a full events calendar every day of the month. Matches of Molot Prikamye (ice hockey) take place at the Molot Stadium, which is loacated in the eastern part of Perm. Amkar plays Russian premier league football in stadium "Zvezda", which is in the city centre. Celebrations throughout the city often take place on Russian national holidays: December 31st, New Year January 7th, Orthodox Christmas February 23rd, Day of Defender of Motherland (fireworks) March 8th, Women's Day May 1st, Spring and Labour Day May 9th, Victory Day (military parades in city centre) June 12th, Independence Day and birthday Perm city! (huge fireworks at midnight) November 4th, National Accord Day Furthermore, several occasional as well as annual music, theatre, folklore and anniversary festivals take place in Perm and its region. There is always something to celebrate in Perm! Perm city map A map of Perm city centre, as well as a province map, you'll find on a seperate page. Click here for Perm city map . Perm Weather & Climate Russia is renowned for its long and cold winters. In case of Perm in particular, this is only partly true. Perm has a temperate continental climate: winters are by far not as harsh (average day temperature in January is -15C) when compared to the more eastern parts of the country. Summers are usually very sunny and warm, averagely +25C in July- and August day times. During those months, many citizens can be found sunbathing on the Kama beaches. Current weather:   -->

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For a lot of people, buying car insurance is like buying sliced bread. It’s not the most exciting purchase, and the options all seem similar. So thrifty shoppers might simply reach for the cheapest thing on the shelf. But like cheap bread, cheap car insurance may leave you wishing you spent a little more on quality.

“The cheapest is not always the best,” warns Jessica McNally, an agency owner with Goosehead Insurance in Dallas. That’s because there are lots of factors that make up a car insurance company. And while price is one of them, it’s best to look at the bigger picture.

Here’s what to look for when picking the best car insurance company.

1. Choose a financially stable company

The best car insurance companies have plenty of money on hand to pay for customers’ claims. It’s important to check an insurer’s financial stability before buying a policy, especially if it’s a smaller insurer you’ve never heard of.

There are several independent agencies that evaluate the financial strength of insurance companies. One example is A.M. Best. You can use its online search tool to find an insurer’s financial strength rating. Companies with a rating of A or higher are considered to have an excellent ability to pay out customer claims.

2. Check customer satisfaction ratings and reviews

Not every insurer is customer-first. That’s why it’s important to research the customer satisfaction of insurers you’re considering.

You can turn to surveys from companies like J.D. Power to find insurers with the best customer satisfaction scores [0] J.D. Power . Auto Insurance Customer Satisfaction Plummets as Rates Continue to Surge, J.D. Power Finds . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources . Or, if you don’t mind doing a little detective work, you can compare customer complaints against insurers by using the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ website . But take other people’s emotionally charged comments about companies or agents you might read online with a grain of salt, McNally advises.

3. Look for convenience

A great auto insurer should offer multiple ways to manage a policy. For example, some insurers allow customers to use a mobile app to file and track claims. But it’s hard to tell how simple it’ll be to file a claim or perform other essential tasks, like paying your premium, before becoming a customer.

Some telltale signs that an insurer will be easy to work with are high mobile app ratings, flexible customer service hours and an easy-to-use website with helpful content. Consider asking a company representative to walk you through the claims process to learn what you’ll need to do if you have to file a claim. And pay attention to how the company communicates with you. "If they don't properly communicate, well, that's a warning sign," says Michael DeLong, a research and advocacy associate for the nonprofit Consumer Federation of America.

4. Pick an affordable company

Car insurance premiums are stretching to record-breaking heights [0] U.S. BUREAU OF LABOR STATISTICS . Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources , and almost half of U.S. consumers shopped for a new car insurance policy in the past year, according to an April 2024 report by J.D. Power [0] J.D. Power . Half of Auto Insurance Customers Currently Shopping for New Policies, J.D. Power Finds . Accessed May 21, 2024. View all sources . The best car insurance companies offer competitive rates and a variety of potential discounts.

It’s not hard to get car insurance quotes online from many companies. Make sure you compare the same coverage options throughout the quote-gathering process. And don’t forget to look for car insurance discounts, like breaks for being a good driver, paying your premium in full or driving a new car.

More tips to find the best car insurance

When shopping for the best car insurance, keep the following tips in mind.

Assess your needs. Before buying car insurance, take a moment to reflect on what’s important to you and your family. For example, maybe you prioritize affordability and a well-polished mobile app, but don’t need accident forgiveness .  

Consider small insurers. There are lots of small insurance companies you’ve probably never heard of. These regional insurers may provide lower rates and better customer service than the big companies you see advertised on TV.

Work with an independent agent. While it may be easy to get quotes yourself, independent car insurance agents and brokers can streamline the process. These experts vet companies and compile quotes from small and large insurers on your behalf. Independent agents and brokers can especially come in handy if you have a less-than-perfect driving record and can’t find insurance on your own.

Do your research. Search online for recent mentions of a company in the news before buying a policy, recommends DeLong. If you find a company has lots of recent lawsuits against it, you may want to think twice about signing on the dotted line. “And if they've had to pay out settlements, that's an even bigger red flag,” DeLong says.

Shop around once a year. Make a practice of shopping for car insurance every year — especially if price is important to you. Insurers adjust car insurance rates regularly, so what might have been the most affordable option last year may no longer be a bargain.

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