Top 5 Airports with the Best Currency Exchange Rates

International travelers require exchanging currencies for utilization in their respective countries. However, they also look for affordable charges when availing of this facility. At airports, they can access many centers that provide such services in accordance with their requirements. There are top 5 airports with the best currency exchange rates for travelers. These centers are majorly run by Travelex, Seaway Bank, and ICE or International Currency Exchange in locations like Denver, Chicago, Washington, etc. Though there are no fixed or pre-defined charges observed at all times, Seattle Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, John F. Kennedy International Airport, and others have money exchange centers that focus on affordability.

What are the Top Airports with the Best Currency Exchange Rates?

To exchange currencies affordably like CAD or Canadian Dollar, Japanese Yen or JPY, SEA is the best airport. Aside from these, others such as Midway Airport, Los Angeles Airport, etc., also offer this facility at great rates. Though there are changes in the prices, largely, they remain pocket-friendly. 

1. Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW)

At Chicago Midway Airport in Illinois, several currencies can be exchanged. There is one currency exchange center functional here. Featured by Seaway Bank, this center provides the service at reasonable rates. Depending on different determinants, the charges fluctuate but remain affordable.

Tip: To inquire about the exact charges, dial the phone number 773 735 2810.

2. Seattle-Tacoma International Airport/SEA

Ensuring excellent rates, SEA or Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, Washington, US, offers 4 centers for currency exchange. ICE or International Currency Exchange runs its centers at the Main Terminal. Being one of the top airports with the best currency exchange rates, these centers are often approached by fliers.

3. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)

JFK Airport, NY, has certain currency exchange centers, run by different providers. These include CXI Currency Exchange, Travelex, and others. Across various terminals of John F. Kennedy International Airport, these centers enable exchanging foreign currencies at the best costs.

4. LAX or Los Angeles International Airport

Passengers heading to international destinations via LAX, California, United States, can approach general currency exchange centers at most terminals. Los Angeles International Airport houses around 10 centers throughout. Usually, 1 USD can be exchanged to receive 0.964463 GBP or British Pound. For others, contact the providers to know the charge applicable.

5. Denver International Airport (DEN)

Operational in Colorado, DEN is among the top airports with the best currency exchange rates. At DEN Jeppesen Terminal, the main center is functional for money exchange facilities. For great deals and discounts, fliers can dial (720) 730-IFLY (4359) or write to info@flydenver.com.

Tips to Get the Best Airport Currency Exchange Rates

No matter which airport a traveller is at, they can follow these simple, reliable tips to get the most value when exchanging currency:

• Passengers should check rates at a few different exchange counters at the airport to see who offers the best deal.
• Exchange only a small amount of money at the airport and wait to exchange more in the city if the rates are better there.
• Look up the current exchange rate using trusted websites like XE.com or OANDA to know if the offered rate is fair.
• Before exchanging, flyers should always ask if there are any extra fees or commissions.
• Using a multi-currency travel card or a forex card can help lock in better rates before the trip and make spending easier.

Alternative Options for Currency Exchange

Instead of trying to find the perfect exchange rate at the airport, travellers can focus on these smart and reliable steps:

• Use a Debit Card at a Local ATM: ATMs usually give travellers the interbank rate, which is the same rate banks use with each other and is the closest to the real market rate.
• Travel Credit Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees: For purchases, flyers can use credit cards that don’t charge foreign transaction fees. These cards usually give great exchange rates through Visa or Mastercard and are easy to use. They also don’t need to carry a lot of cash and get better protection against fraud compared to debit cards or cash.
• Prepaid Travel Money Cards: Passengers can load these cards with multiple currencies before their trip, often locking in an exchange rate. This protects them from rate fluctuations. Many offer competitive exchange rates and lower fees than traditional debit/credit cards for foreign transactions.
• Order Currency Online Before The Trip: Many online currency exchange services, like Travelex or certain banks, let travellers order foreign currency ahead of time at better rates than airport currency exchange booths. They can either pick it up at a branch or even get it delivered to their home in some cases.
• Exchange a Small Amount Before Going to the Airport (for Immediate Needs): If passengers need some local cash right after they land, like for a taxi or small purchases, it’s best to exchange a small amount (around $50 to $100) before they leave. They can do this at their home bank or through an online service. The rates may not be the best, but they are usually better than the airport’s.

To Conclude

Money exchange is vital when flying internationally. In countries like the United States, there are many airports that offer this service at the best prices. Airports like LAX, DEN, JFK, etc., are the most preferable for accessing numerous centers and getting foreign currency conveniently.

Frequently Asked Question