Should You Exchange Currency Online or at the Airport?

Planning your trip and need to exchange currency before departure? There are numerous options available for obtaining the foreign currency you need, and it can be difficult to determine which is the most cost-effective.
In this article, we explain everything you need to know to choose between online exchange platforms and those located at airports.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Online platforms generally offer more competitive exchange rates, with no hidden fees, and can help you save significantly compared to traditional exchange bureaux.

• Exchanging currency online is simple, fast, and available 24/7. Some platforms even offer home delivery, avoiding the need to travel or queue.

• Despite its advantages, online currency exchange carries some risks: fluctuating rates and unreliable platforms. It’s important to choose a trusted provider.

• Airport currency exchange can be useful in an emergency or when you don’t have internet access, but it’s very expensive, with poor rates and often unclear fees.

• To maximise your travel budget, it's best to exchange currency online before departure. Airport exchange should only be a last resort.

 

Currency exchange has existed since the introduction of national currencies. The market where these exchanges take place is called the Forex. Historically, it was reserved for large financial institutions, central banks, and multinationals.

The rise of the internet in the 1990s and 2000s made online currency exchange possible. This option has since grown substantially, and online platforms offering this service are increasingly numerous.

Using an online exchange bureau offers several important advantages that can provide greater flexibility and help you make significant savings.

Firstly, exchanging currency online saves a considerable amount of time compared to visiting a physical bureau. You can order your currency in just a few clicks, at any time of day or night.
Some online bureaux also offer home delivery, meaning you can avoid unnecessary travel or lengthy queues.

The exchange rates offered by online bureaux are also more favourable than those provided by high-street bureaux or banks. At ChangeGroup, for example, we eliminate commissions so you can get more of the currency you want. It’s therefore a cost-effective way to exchange your GBP.

Lastly, online exchange platforms offer greater transparency regarding fees and commissions. You know exactly how much you’ll receive after the transaction, enabling you to make an informed decision.

Good to know: At ChangeGroup, we offer preferential rates on online orders and 0% commission. No hidden or extra charges – giving you full control of your travel budget while making real savings.

However, it’s important to be aware of a few drawbacks of online currency exchange.
Exchange rates can fluctuate significantly. Changing your money at the wrong time could result in a less favourable deal. Planning ahead is essential to decide the best moment to exchange.
Beware also of unreliable platforms that may take advantage of users. Make sure to choose a well-established and reputable provider to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Good to know: Choosing us means trusting a recognised company with over 30 years’ experience in currency exchange, operating in several countries including the UK, France, Spain, Australia and Finland.

International travel expanded rapidly in the 1950s and 60s, and since then airport currency exchange services have become widespread.

You’ll find many exchange bureaux in airports, where you can obtain the currency you need before departure or upon arrival.

There are a few contextual benefits to exchanging money at the airport.

Firstly, it’s ideal for last-minute currency needs, whether just before departure or once you’ve landed.
Some travellers also find it reassuring to deal with a real person, especially if they’re not comfortable with digital tools.

Airport exchange bureaux can also be convenient if you don’t have internet access, allowing you to obtain currency without relying on your phone or computer.

Despite offering some flexibility, exchanging currency at the airport comes with several disadvantages.

The exchange rates are generally much less favourable than those found online. You’ll end up with less foreign currency for the same amount compared to using a specialist online service. In addition to poor rates, airport bureaux often apply high transaction fees and hefty commissions, making it a far less economical option.

Furthermore, additional fees and commissions are not always clearly displayed, making it difficult to know exactly how much you’ll receive.

The range of available currencies is often more limited than online options – particularly when it comes to exotic currencies. So it’s worth checking in advance whether the currency you need is available.

Good to know: At ChangeGroup, we can exchange your money into over 60 different foreign currencies. You can view the full list of available currencies by checking our exchange rates.

Exchanging currency at the airport should be seen as a last resort, useful only for last-minute travel or emergencies. However, to get the best exchange rates and make the most of your travel budget, using an online exchange bureau is highly recommended.

To obtain your currency at the best rate, we recommend placing your order on our website. This way, you’ll benefit from preferential exchange rates and 0% commission – far more advantageous than what’s offered at airport bureaux. When ordering, you can choose to collect your currency at one of our branches or have it delivered directly to your home via our home delivery service.