Don’t Get Ripped Off by Bureau de Change at the Airports

Heading abroad soon? One of the easiest ways to lose money before your holiday even begins is by exchanging your currency at the airport. Airport bureau de change services may seem convenient, but they’re notorious for offering some of the worst exchange rates on the market.

Let’s explore why airport rates are so high, what to avoid, and how to get better deals on your travel money.

Why Are Airport Exchange Rates So Poor?

If you’ve ever glanced at the rates displayed at airport kiosks, you may have noticed how much worse they are compared to high street or online options. Here’s why:

•  Convenience Comes at a Cost
  Airport bureau de change services prey on travellers who need currency at the last minute. Knowing you’re in a rush, they charge higher margins to maximise their profits.
  
• High Overheads
  Operating in prime airport locations comes with significant costs—rent, staffing, and security. These expenses are passed on to the customer in the form of poor exchange rates.
• Lack of Competition
  Once you’re through security, your options are limited. Without other exchange services to compete with, airport bureaus can afford to keep their rates high.

How Much Could You Be Losing?

Let’s break it down. Say you’re exchanging £500 for euros. An online provider might offer you €580, while an airport bureau could give you just €540 for the same amount. That’s a difference of €40—enough for a lovely meal or a couple of rounds of drinks on holiday!

How to Avoid Airport Rip-Offs

The good news is that with a little planning, you can dodge the high costs of airport bureau de change. Here’s how:

1. Order Your Currency Online

Websites like CompareTravelCash.co.uk make it easy to compare exchange rates from multiple providers. Many online services offer competitive rates and secure home delivery, so you can get your travel money sorted well before your trip.

2. Use a Travel Money Card

Prepaid travel cards let you lock in competitive exchange rates ahead of time. They’re also safer than carrying large amounts of cash and can be topped up as needed.

3. Check Your Bank Options

Some UK banks offer favourable exchange rates when you use your debit or credit card abroad, however online specialty travel money providers generally offer a better rate than banks. Just be sure to confirm the fees and rates before relying on this option. Check out rates from all the providers here, we make finding the best rate easy!

4. Plan Ahead

The biggest mistake travellers make is leaving currency to the last minute. By planning at least a week ahead, you’ll have time to shop around and find the best deal.

5. Avoid Airport Kiosks Altogether

If you really need cash at the airport, withdraw from an ATM using a card with low foreign transaction fees. This is often cheaper than using the airport bureau de change.

What If You Forget to Plan?

We’ve all been there—life gets busy, and suddenly it’s the day of your flight. If you haven’t sorted your currency in advance, avoid converting large amounts at the airport. Instead, take out just enough for immediate expenses, and use better options once you reach your destination.

It Pays to Plan

Airport bureau de change services may be convenient, but they’re rarely cost-effective. By planning ahead and using tools like CompareTravelCash.co.uk, you can secure better exchange rates and keep more money in your pocket for the things that matter—like making memories on your trip!

Don’t let poor planning eat into your holiday budget. Take control of your travel money today, and leave the airport kiosks behind.

Pro Tip: Compare rates early and set a reminder to order your currency a week before your trip. Your wallet will thank you!