comparison site for travel money

Get the best exchange rates on your travel money

Use our comparison site, our expert tips and country guides to make your money go further

Get the best exchange rates

From Australian dollars to UAE dinars ; get the best travel money deal by comparing the exchange rates from the UK’s top currency brands.

Travel Money Tips

Follow our expert tips when travelling abroad and we guarantee to save you money

Use a travel money comparison site to buy your currency

Always take cash and cards

Check the cost of posting cash to your home vs click and collect

Always understand debit and credit card charges

Always pay in local currency

Check overseas ATM charges before pressing 'enter'

Buy your travel money before you go to the airport

Always ‘haggle’ if you go to a bureau de change

Travel Money Country Guides

If you want to know more about how travel money works for a particular country, see our travel money guides below for some of your favourite destinations.

United States

Frequently asked questions.

What you need to know about using your debit and contactless card abroad

What you need to know about using your credit card abroad

What you need to know about exchange rates

What you need to know about using a pre paid card

• Money Transfer
• Rate Alerts

Xe Currency Converter

Check live foreign currency exchange rates

Xe Live Exchange Rates

The world's most popular currency tools, xe international money transfer.

Send money online fast, secure and easy. Live tracking and notifications + flexible delivery and payment options.

Xe Currency Charts

Create a chart for any currency pair in the world to see their currency history. These currency charts use live mid-market rates, are easy to use, and are very reliable.

Xe Rate Alerts

Need to know when a currency hits a specific rate? The Xe Rate Alerts will let you know when the rate you need is triggered on your selected currency pairs.

Xe Currency Data API

Powering commercial grade rates at 300+ companies worldwide

Xe Currency Tools

Recommended by 65,000+ verified customers.

Download the Xe App

Check live rates, send money securely, set rate alerts, receive notifications and more.

Over 113 million downloads worldwide

Daily market updates straight to your inbox

Currency profiles, the original currency exchange rates calculator.

Since 1995, the Xe Currency Converter has provided free mid-market exchange rates for millions of users. Our latest currency calculator is a direct descendent of the fast and reliable original "Universal Currency Calculator" and of course it's still free! Learn more about Xe , our latest money transfer services, and how we became known as the world's currency data authority.

Best Travel Money Exchange Rates Compared & Reviewed

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.

Compare Travel Money Exchange Rates

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.)

What’s in this guide?

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.

You may also be interested in:

Before you go!

Find your perfect account in under 1 minute.

Tell us what is most important to you and we'll match you with expert and user reviews of top rated financial service providers.

Compare our best travel money deals

Get maximum value for your travel money, currency calculator.

Join our personal finance newsletter for top deals and insight

You can unsubscribe at any time - privacy notice .

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.

Learn more about travel money

About the author

Didn't find what you were looking for?

Below you can find a list of currencies to exchange

Other products that you might need for your trip

We’ve been featured in

Customer Reviews

Hub of information!

Super accessible and easy to use

Very helpful

• Turkish Lira
• Australian Dollars
• Canadian Dollars
• Polish Zloty
• VIEW ALL CURRENCIES
• canadian dollars
• ALL BUY BACKS
• US Dollar Card
• Multi-currency Card

Compare euro travel money rates

• buy Currency

What Currency do you want to buy?

How much do you want to spend.

Barclays Travel Money is only available to Barclays debit card or Barclaycard holders. Their rates tend to be very poor when compared to other online travel money providers.

Order Limits and Fees

Company Name: Barclays Bank UK PLC

Payment Options: Barclays debit card or Barclaycard

Address: 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP

Minimum Order: £50

Maximum Order: £2,500

Minimum order amount for free delivery: £50

Debit Card Charge: NA

Credit Card Charge: NA

Collection available: ✔

What is the Best Euro Exchange Rate Today?

The best place to buy euros today is Covent Garden FX.

The worst exchange rate is 1.1314. The difference between the highest and the lowest exchange rate is 3.11. This means that if you are buying £750 worth of euros you will get €27.22 more euros by buying with the best provider.

This shows you it pays to shop around and get the best euro rates!

Euro exchange rate over the last week.

This shows you the pound sterling to euro exchange rate recorded daily from our UK suppliers over the last week.

In the last 7 days, the exchange rate for euros has fallen by 0.09%.

If you were to order £1,000 today you would get €1.10 less euros for your money than last week.

How do we source the data above? We receive rate feeds travel money suppliers and aggreate the data each evening we save the average rate that occured during the day, and also include the current best rate

How to get the best euro exchange rate.

We compare pound to euro rates from many of the UK’s best companies including exclusively online providers as well as some of the well-known high street banks and supermarket travel money services. Our clever algorithms ensure you find the best place to buy euros.

Compare Travel cash is a free compare travel money service that takes the pain and effort out of finding the best exchange rates for buying euro online. Don't forget the price we quote is the price you pay, we calculate the amount including any fees and delivery costs!

Buying Euros online FAQs

Hundreds of customers safely buy euros through online travel money providers sites every day 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 transferring money to any company. Compare Travel Cash undertake comprehensive checks on all of our online travel money 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 research before placing an order with any company.

The Euro , the official currency of the Eurozone, has become a symbol of economic unity and integration across the European Union. Since its introduction in 1999, the Euro has gained widespread acceptance and is used by millions in 19 of the 27 EU member countries.

Euro banknotes come in seven denominations, each featuring unique designs that reflect the architectural heritage of different historical periods. The denominations are 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 euros. The design of the banknotes incorporates various security elements to prevent counterfeiting while showcasing the rich cultural diversity of the Eurozone.

The front of each banknote features windows and gateways, symbolizing the European spirit of openness and cooperation. The reverse side highlights bridges, representing communication and connections between the people of Europe. Additionally, watermarks, holograms, and other security features make Euro banknotes among the most secure currencies globally.

Euro coins, on the other hand, are issued in eight denominations: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, as well as 1 and 2 euros. The common side of all euro coins features a map of Europe, emphasizing the unity of the continent. The national side, however, varies from country to country, showcasing individual cultural and historical symbols.

Euro coins are composed of two alloys – a centre made of nickel brass, nickel, and copper, and an outer ring made of nickel brass. Each denomination has a distinct colour and size, aiding easy identification. The edges of the coins also carry specific grooves or lettering, making them accessible to the visually impaired.

Ensuring the integrity of the Euro currency is of utmost importance. Euro banknotes employ advanced security features such as holograms, watermarks, security threads, and microprinting. These elements make counterfeiting extremely difficult and help maintain confidence in the currency.

The Eurozone also continuously updates its security features to stay ahead of counterfeiters. Technological advancements, including colour-changing ink and enhanced holograms, contribute to the ongoing battle against fraud.

Choose the travel money provider you would like to buy euros from, then:

Not Usually! We constantly update our exchange rates as they change for each supplier, we try to do this in almost real-time, (in normal circumstances not more than 1-minute difference). Also, we sometimes have exclusive offers that you won't find by going direct.

Of course, most companies offer a buyback service for your unused currency! If you want to exchange your leftover euros into pounds you can see the best buy back rate on euros and many other currencies using our buy back comparison tool . Remember most buybacks are only possible for notes, not euro coins.

The euro is the official currency of 19 of the 27 EU member countries. The following countries use the Euro as their single currency: Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain. There are also 4 states outside of the EU that use the euro: Andorra, Monaco, San Marino and Vatican City.

Each provider will have different rules on the maximum amount of currency you can buy.

Some providers will allow you to order large amounts, but we suggest you check the terms and conditions before you place an order if you are ordering a large amount.

Also, consider that currently you are only allowed to carry 10,000 euros. If you take more than this you have a legal obligation to inform customs. Note, this amount is per person so if you are travelling with more cash than this you can distribute it to your fellow travellers.

You will only be able to order notes, not coins.

If you require specific denominations consult with the provider first to ensure they offer this service when changing your Pounds to Euros. Most will charge for this, but we find most providers supply a mixed selection of denominations. If a supplier does not specifically offer this service, contact them and ask them if they can provide the Euro denominations you require, they may do this for free depending on their stock levels!

The short answer is, that it is very difficult to time your order of Euros correctly to attain the best exchange rate. There are so many factors affecting the Euro exchange rate it is impossible to pin down a time when rates are best.

The prudent thing to do is to research to find the best Pounds to Euros exchange rate using our comparison engine and obtain the best rate you can on the day you want to buy your currency. If you are short on time and need your currency on a specific date, we suggest buying with time to spare. All providers will use Royal Mail special delivery and in recent times we have seen delays in some cases, so leave as much time as you can to ensure you have your currency comfortably before your departure date.

Buying Euros in Europe is almost always more expensive.

To avoid any surprises and to ensure you have a hassle-free trip we suggest buying Euros before you travel.

Join newsletter

• Best Euro Rate
• Best US Dollars Rate
• Best Turkish Lira Rate
• Best Australian Dollars Rate
• Best Thai Baht Rate
• Best UAE Dirham Rate
• Best Canadian Dollars Rate
• Best Polish Zloty Rate
• Buy Travel Money
• Sell US Dollars
• Sell Turkish Lira
• Sell Australian Dollars
• Sell Thai Baht
• Sell UAE dirham
• Sell Canadian Dollars
• Sell Polish Zloty
• Currency Online Group
• Covent Garden FX
• The Currency Club
• Sterling FX
• Sainsburys Bank
• Post Office
• Marks and Spencer
• Hays Travel
• No1 Currency
• Rapid Travel Money
• Best Supermarket Euros
• Privacy Policy

@2024 Comparison Technology Ltd, 71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2H 9JQ | Company Registrtion Number 12065287

• Buy US Dollars
• Buy travel money
• sell unused travel cash

CompareTravelCash.co.uk is a price comparison service that's designed to help you save money – whilst we do our best to ensure the site is 100% up-to-date, we cannot guarantee this. We advise you to carry out your own due diligence before buying or selling travel money.

Cheap Holiday Money At Your Fingertips

Find The Best Travel Money Rates

Our rates are updated hourly and sorted by the best currency exchange rates at the moment of inquiry. We pride ourselves on being one of the industry’s most comprehensive and accurate sites, but we recommend double-checking the rates before placing an order.

View Our Top Travel Money Providers:

*These are estimates based on the companies’ public information and our research. For 100% accuracy, you will need to create an account with each company.

View our Per Currency Comparison of Travel Money Rates:

Pound to Euro

Pound to Dollar

Pound to “Aussie” Dollar

Pound to Canadian Dollar

Pound to Turkish Lira

Pound to Costa Rican Colon

Pound to “Kiwi” Dollar

Pound to Sri Lankan Rupee

Pound to Indian Rupee

Pound to Thai Baht

Comparing Travel Money Options: Since 2018

With travel money, finding the best travel money provider for your needs could be complicated. For once, the amount of currency required impacts the rates you are getting. Additionally, some providers are cheaper for particular currency pairs and more expensive for others. Finally, some people value rates, while others care about quality of service and reliability (and are willing to pay more for it).

This is why we have established CompareTravelMoney.net, to provide travellers with all the information they require to make a sober choice. For each currency, we have a separate list of recommended providers with specific rates which apply to the amount you are willing to exchange.

Websites like CompareTravelMoney.net don’t charge money off clients (you will not get better rates by approaching them yourself; on the contrary). We only take a small fee for each client we refer over to a travel money company. In fact, we encourage competitiveness in the niche, and as a whole, what we do helps people get better and better rates each year for their currency.

Happy Travels!

Be sure to read through our About Us and Terms and Conditions . We have covered international money transfers  for bank account transfers in a separate guide, but we are unable to present rates from these companies.

Travel money guide

Compare fees, convenience, rewards and more between three key payment methods..

• Online shopping

Traveling overseas involves a lot of planning — and that includes your money.

What is travel money?

Travel money, for lack of a better term, essentially means the options of credit cards, debit cards, prepaid cards and foreign currency — all designed for travel and foreign transactions. Each form of travel money has different pros and cons, so you’ll want to compare and contrast before choosing which’ll be best for you and your itinerary.

Compare travel money options

Compare the fees, convenience, rewards and more between prepaid travel cards, credit cards, debit cards and foreign currency while planning how you’re going to pay for food, souvenirs and other goods on your next trip.

How to decide which type of travel money is best for you?

Prepaid travel cards, credit cards and debit cards can all be effective ways to pay while you’re traveling. In fact, a combination of the three might be the safest and most convenient way to have all your bases covered. But the travel money you should embrace as your primary payment method depends on your situation:

Pick a credit card if…

• You travel frequently and want to earn rewards. Whether you’re a hotel fiend, a frequent flyer or just love earning cash back, a travel credit card can be the gift that keeps on giving — as long as you keep spending. Just make sure you have a plan for paying your balance in time.
• You want a safety net in case of emergencies. Even if it isn’t your primary payment method, keeping a travel credit card in your back pocket can help cover any unexpected expenses.

Pick a prepaid travel card if…

• You’re on a strict budget. A prepaid travel card can help ensure you don’t overspend, since you can only spend what you’ve already loaded onto the card.
• You want to lock in an exchange rate. Avoid unpleasant surprises by knowing exactly how much your US dollars are worth from the get-go.

Pick a debit card if…

• You plan on frequenting ATMs. If you like the feeling of cold, hard cash in your hands — or will be shopping at markets that only accept cash — you should consider a travel debit card that comes with zero ATM fees.
• You want direct access to your checking account. A travel debit card can be more convenient than a prepaid travel card, since you don’t need to preload money. It’s also ideal if you want to avoid racking up a credit card bill.

Travel credit cards

Browse travel credit cards to find an option with perks that match your travel style — just make sure you have a plan to pay it off.

• Access to credit. Credit access comes in handy for emergencies.
• Rewards. Earning cash back lets you have something to look forward to when you come home.
• Extras. Some cards come with complimentary travel insurance, purchase protection and concierge services.
• Availability. Some travel credit cards are banned in countries like Cuba, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Sudan and Syria due to economic sanctions.
• Lack of access to cash. You could be charged with hefty fees for using a travel credit card when you withdraw cash at an ATM.
• Inactivity fee. Some card issuers will charge you a monthly fee if you don’t use the prepaid card frequently enough.

40+ currencies supported

• 4.85% APY on USD balances
• $0 monthly fees
• Up to $100 free ATMs withdrawals worldwide
• Hold and convert 40+ currencies

Up to $300 cash bonus

• 0.50% APY on checking balance
• Up to 4.50% APY on savings
• $0 account or overdraft fees
• Get up to a $300 bonus with direct deposits of $5,000 or more

Free ATM transactions

• $50 waivable monthly fee
• 0% foreign transaction fee
• Securely move money domestically and globally
• 5 monthly out-of-network ATM reimbursements
• Free international HSBC ATM transactions

Prepaid travel money cards

Prepaid travel money cards are great for budgeting, since you can only spend what’s already on the card — but that could actually be a drawback in the event of an emergency.

• Lock in exchange rates. These cares allow you to lock in rates so you won’t be surprised by the fluctuating value of your US dollars.
• Earn cashback. Select cards like the Prepaid Travel Card by Mastercard can earn you some rewards.
• Use it worldwide. Most prepaid travel cards are either Visa or Mastercard, which are widely accepted.
• Fees. you may have to pay for loading, reloading, currency conversion, withdrawing cash and more.
• ATM withdrawal limits . you may have to pay extra for withdrawing larger amounts of money.
• Not great for emergencies. since you only have a finite amount of cash you may need another source of money in case you run out.

Compare prepaid travel money cards

If you’re leaning toward a prepaid travel money card, compare some of our favorites before signing up.

Travel debit cards

Many travel debit cards waive foreign transaction fees and ATM withdrawal fees, setting you up for an easy breeze experience — as long as you don’t overdraw your checking account.

• Fewer fees. Withdraw cash and buy all the souvenirs you want without getting dinged for it.
• ATM availability worldwide. Choose a travel debit card that’s compatible with the highest number of ATMs.
• Fraud protection. Your bank can help with damage control if your card is lost or stolen.
• No cushion for emergencies. If you make large purchases, they could drain your account, which may lead to overdraft fees.
• Long card replacement wait. If you lose your card it may take up to two weeks to get a new one.

Traveler’s checks

Traveler’s checks were once a widely used form of travel money, but they’re going the way of the dinosaur. You can weigh up whether they’re worth your time below — but we’d advise looking elsewhere.

• Secure. Traveler’s checks are an extremely secure method to spend money overseas.
• Safe. They can be easily replaced if lost or stolen.
• Initial cost. You might be charged a purchasing fee when you first pick up your traveler’s check.
• Acceptance. Traveler’s checks aren’t accepted as widely as other payment methods.
• Can be bulky and awkward to carry. Plus, you’ll have to go to the effort of getting them cashed rather than having immediate access to your cash like you would with a card.

Comprehensive guide to using debit cards overseas

Foreign cash

Holding a certain amount of foreign cash provides you with convenience and payment flexibility. Some stops on your destination may be cash-only and having extra on you can provide a smooth transition to wherever your destination may be.

Knowing how the dollar has performed against foreign currency in the past few years and months will enable you to get the best exchange rate for your foreign exchange transaction. Our travel money guides will inform you on some of the ways to access cash and ATMs worldwide.

Is it safe to travel with cash?

Yes! In fact, it’s usually safer to travel with some cash than none at all — though you don’t need to take large sums along with you. To keep your cash safe while traveling, avoid keeping it all in one place. Instead, divide it between your suitcase, purse and other safe places so that if some gets stolen you still have backup cash.

Keep in mind that carrying more than $10,000 at a time could actually be a headache, since you’ll need to declare it on your customs form to explain why you’re traveling with so much money.

5 places to do a foreign currency exchange

The best place to exchange your foreign currency is at your bank or credit union BEFORE you travel.

• Bank. Call your local branch beforehand to see if their services line up with what you need. Most nationwide banks, like PNC, offer competitive rates and no transaction fees.
• Credit unions. Similar to banks, credit unions generally offer competitive exchange rates and limited or no transaction fees.

But if you’re already in a foreign destination, your best bet is to use a travel debit card to withdraw funds at an ATM.

• Debit card. You should be able to withdraw cash from an international ATM with decent exchange rates and fees ranging from 1% to 3%.

Airport kiosks and currency exchange stores should only be used as a last resort.

• Airport kiosk. After disembarking from the plane, you can exchange your currency at the airport. But fees are high and exchange rates will be less-than-favorable.
• Currency exchange store. You can find exchange stories in most international cities, but again, the fees will be working against you.

Destination money guides

For your next international trip, plan ahead by knowing how much to bring, and which travel money option is best for you. Choose your destination to get the full guide:

• Czech Republic
• Hong Kong, China
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• South Korea

Amy Stoltenberg

Amy Stoltenberg managed newsletters at Finder, gathering the best articles each week to help subscribers save money and stretch their hard-earned dollars. She also handles the Twitter account, dabbling in Instagram and Facebook too. When she's not on the computer, you can find her exploring Los Angeles with a good book in tow. She studied writing at Savannah College of Art and Design and has been featured on the Zoe Report. See full bio

Kyle Morgan

Kyle Morgan is SEO manager at Forbes Advisor and a former editor and content strategist at Finder. He has written for the USA Today network and Relix magazine, among other publications. He holds a BA in journalism and media from Rutgers University. See full bio

Read more on this topic

How to pay, how much to bring and travel money suggestions for your trip to USA.

How to pay, how much to bring and travel money suggestions for your trip to New Zealand.

How to pay, how much to bring and travel money suggestions for your trip to Thailand.

How to pay, how much to bring and travel money suggestions for your trip to Vietnam.

How to pay, how much to bring and travel money suggestions for your trip to Mexico.

How to pay, how much to bring and travel money suggestions for your trip to Portugal.

How to pay, how much to bring and travel money suggestions for your trip to Germany.

How to pay, how much to bring and travel money suggestions for your trip to Ecuador.

How to pay, how much to bring and travel money suggestions for your trip to Canada.

How to pay, how much to bring and travel money suggestions for your trip to Japan.

Ask a question

Click here to cancel reply.

4 Responses

My son did some work overseas and was paid in Macedonian Denars. He’s having a terrible time getting this exchanged to US money. Where can he do this?

Hi Foxtrotrn,

Thank you for reaching out to finder.

Macedonian Denar is a closed currency which is a currency that you can only get in the country of origin and that is the reason why it is quite difficult to have it exchanged to US dollars.

The options that you have for foreign currency exchange are:

– International exchange kiosks which can be found in airports – Banks – Online foreign exchange companies such as World First, XE and other similar companies which offer exchange services online

I hope this helps.

Cheers, Charisse

Can I get dirhams–Moroccan currency–from any Chase branches?

Thanks for your inquiry. Please note that we are not affiliated with Chase or any company we feature on our site and so we can only offer you general advice.

Yes, Chase offers international money transfers including dirhams. Aside from using your bank, you can also compare currency exchange companies that you can use to save on your next exchange.

Best regards, Rench

How likely would you be to recommend Finder to a friend or colleague?

Our goal is to create the best possible product, and your thoughts, ideas and suggestions play a major role in helping us identify opportunities to improve.

Advertiser Disclosure

finder.com is an independent comparison platform and information service that aims to provide you with the tools you need to make better decisions. While we are independent, the offers that appear on this site are from companies from which finder.com receives compensation. We may receive compensation from our partners for placement of their products or services. We may also receive compensation if you click on certain links posted on our site. While compensation arrangements may affect the order, position or placement of product information, it doesn't influence our assessment of those products. Please don't interpret the order in which products appear on our Site as any endorsement or recommendation from us. finder.com compares a wide range of products, providers and services but we don't provide information on all available products, providers or services. Please appreciate that there may be other options available to you than the products, providers or services covered by our service.

We update our data regularly, but information can change between updates. Confirm details with the provider you're interested in before making a decision.

Learn how we maintain accuracy on our site.

• Home   ›  
• Travel Money   ›  

Get the best euro exchange rate

Compare the latest euro exchange rates from the UK's top currency providers

How to get the best euro exchange rate

If you're travelling to Europe, it's important to shop around and compare currency suppliers to maximise your chances of getting a good deal. We can help you to find the best euro exchange rate by comparing a wide range of UK travel money suppliers who have euros in stock and ready to order online now. Our comparisons automatically factor in all costs and commission, so all you need to do is tell us how much you want to spend and we'll show you the top suppliers who fit the bill.

Are you looking to get the best euro exchange rate for your next trip abroad? At Compare Holiday Money, we compare the euro rates from dozens of top UK foreign exchange providers to help you find the most competitive currency deals online and on the high street.

We continuously scan and track the latest euro rates from a wide range of currency providers to help you find the companies offering the best deals. Our clever currency comparisons automatically factor in all costs and charges like delivery fees and commission, so all you need to do is tell us how much you want to spend and we'll show you the best euro rates available to buy online right now.

Compare deals

Some of the best travel money deals are only available when you buy online. By using a comparison site, you're more likely to see the full range of deals on offer and get the best rate.

Some of the best travel money deals are only available from specialist online currency providers who offer better euro rates than high street bureaux de change.

Always place your order online, even if you plan to collect your currency in person. Most supermarkets and high street currency suppliers offer better exchange rates if you order online beforehand.

Most supermarkets and currency suppliers offer better rates if you buy or reserve your currency online. If you're planning to buy euros in store, place your order online beforehand to guarantee the online rate.

Combine orders

If you're travelling with others, consider placing one large currency order instead of buying individually. Many currency suppliers offer enhanced rates that improve as you order more.

You'll often get better rates the more you order. If you're travelling with a group, consider placing one large currency order instead of everyone buying euros individually.

Remember, exchange rates aren't the only important factor when finding the best euro deal. Delivery costs, commission and payment surcharges can all affect the amount of money you'll receive. See our comprehensive euro travel money comparisons to find the absolute best deal with all costs and charges factored in.

Online foreign exchange providers who specialise in travel money usually offer the best euro exchange rates, and you'll get the best deals when you buy online for home delivery. If waiting isn't an option, or if you'd rather buy your euros in person, supermarkets typically offer the best euro rates on the high street - but don't just walk in off the street unannounced. Reserve your euros online (ideally the day before you want to collect them) as most supermarkets offer enhanced exchange rates on their website compared to the rates they advertise in store. By ordering online you'll lock-in the better online rate and can collect your euros in person at a time that's convenient for you.

Euro rate trend

Over the past 30 days, the Euro rate is up 0.63% from 1.1667 on 9 Aug to 1.1741 today. This means one pound will buy more Euros today than it would have a month ago. Right now, £750 is worth approximately €880.58 which is €5.55 more than you'd have got on 9 Aug.

These are the average Euro rates taken from our panel of UK travel money providers at the end of each day. You can explore this further on our British pound to Euro currency chart .

We found 17 foreign exchange providers offering euros today. The table below shows the results ordered by best euro rate, assuming you wanted to buy £750 worth of euros for home delivery.

Remember, exchange rates aren't the only important factor when it comes to getting a good currency deal. Delivery fees, payment surcharges and other hidden costs can all affect the amount of money you'll receive. See our euro travel money comparisons to help you find the best euro rate today.

Timing is key if you want to maximise your euros, but the best time to buy will depend on the current market conditions and your personal travel plans.

If you have a fixed travel date, you should start to monitor the euro rates as soon as possible in the period leading up to your departure so that you've got time to buy when the rate is looking favourable. For example, if the euro rate has been steadily increasing over several weeks or months, it could be a good time to buy while the rate is high.

Some people prefer to buy half of their euros as soon as they've booked their holiday, and the remaining half just before they depart. This can be a good way of maximising your holiday money if the exchange rate continues to rise after you've bought, but will also help to minimise your losses if the rate drops.

You could also consider signing up to our newsletter and we'll email the latest rates to you each month.

If you need your euros sooner and don't have time to wait for the rates to improve, you can still save money by comparing rates from a range of different providers before you buy. Online travel money suppliers usually have better euro rates than high street exchanges, but supermarkets are a good compromise if you want to collect your currency in person and still get a decent rate. Just remember to buy or reserve your euros first before you collect them from the store so you benefit from the supplier's better online rate.

Euro banknotes and coins

Over 340 million people use the euro every day according to the European Central Bank, making it the second most-traded currency in the world after US dollars. Twenty out of 27 EU Member States have adopted the euro as their official currency, and euros are used officially and unofficially in many non-EU countries and territories throughout Europe such as Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City.

Euros are governed and issued by the European Central Bank which is based in Frankfurt, but the actual production of euro banknotes and coins is handled by various national banks throughout the Eurozone. Spain and Greece are responsible for printing €5 and €10 banknotes, Germany prints €100 notes, and the other EU member states are responsible for printing €20 and €50 notes.

One euro (€) can be subdivided into 100 cents (c). There are seven denominations of euro banknotes in circulation: €5, €10, €20, €50 and €100 which are frequently used, plus €200 and €500 notes which are no longer printed but are still in circulation and remain legal tender. The designs printed on each banknote are intended to be symbolic of the European Union's identity and unity, as well as highlighting the diversity and richness of different European cultures. The front of each banknote features architectural styles from different periods in Europe's history, including Classical, Gothic, Renaissance and modern, while the reverse side features bridges that represent communication and cooperation between the different countries within the European Union.

Euro coins are available in eight denominations: 1c, 2c, 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, €1 and €2. Each EU member state is responsible for minting its own coins, and can choose their own design for the 'tails' side. For example, German coins feature the 'Bundesadler' or Federal Eagle which has been the German coat of arms since 1950, while French coins depict Marianne; an important symbol of French national identity. Next time you've got a handful of euro coins, take a look at the tails side and see if you can guess which EU country they came from!

There's no evidence to suggest that you'll get a better deal if you buy your euros in Europe. While there may be better exchange rates available in some locations, your options for shopping around may be limited once you arrive, and there's no guarantee the exchange rates will be any better than they are in the UK.

Exchange rates aside, here are some other reasons to avoid buying your euros in Europe:

• You may have to pay commission or other hidden fees to a currency exchange that you wouldn't have paid in the UK
• Your bank may charge you a foreign transaction fee if you use it to buy euros when you're abroad
• It can be harder to spot scammers and fraudulent currency exchanges in Europe

Lastly, it can be handy to have some cash on you when you arrive at your destination so you can pay for any immediate expenses like food, transport and tips. You don't want to be searching for the nearest currency exchange when you've just landed and you're desperate for a cup of tea - or a cocktail!

Twenty out of 27 EU member states have adopted the euro as their official currency. These are: Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia and Spain.

The following European countries and territories who are not part of the EU also use the euro as their official currency: Andorra, Kosovo, Monaco, Montenegro, San Marino and Vatican City, French Guiana and Martinique, the Azores, Canary Islands, and Madeira.

Tips for saving money while visiting Europe

The most budget-friendly destinations in Europe are generally those located in the east such as Latvia, Lithuania and Estonia. In contrast: Luxembourg, Ireland and France usually top the list as some of the most expensive holiday destinations. Regardless of where you're planning to visit, you can save money during your trip by following some simple tips:

• Research your accommodation: Hotels can be expensive, so one way of saving money is to look for more budget-friendly accommodation such as hostels, holiday rentals, or even campsites. AirBnB can be an affordable option too, especially if you rent a room instead of an entire apartment; and you'll get to experience what it's like to live like a local. Salud!
• Use public transport: Make the most of any metro systems, buses, or trams to get around instead of relying on private taxis or rental cars. Many European countries also offer national and regional travel passes for public transport which can work out significantly cheaper than buying individual tickets.
• Eat like a local: Opt for local restaurants or street food vendors that offer authentic cuisine at lower prices. Avoid dining at expensive tourist restaurants, and try cooking your own meals if your accommodation has a kitchen. Not only is this a great way to save money, but it can also be a fun cultural experience to shop around in European supermarkets and cook with local ingredients.
• Plan your itinerary: Look out for free attractions such as museums, parks, churches and historical sites, and plan your itinerary around these. Many cities in Europe also offer free walking tours which can be a great way to get an overview of a new location while learning about its culture and history.
• Find discount vouchers: Many tourist attractions and activities offer discount vouchers and codes that can save you money on entry fees and other perks. Look for vouchers online; sign up to newsletters and follow the social media accounts of places you're planning to visit.
• Take cash: Using cash will help you to stick to a budget more easily than paying by card, and you'll also avoid foreign transaction fees. If you do take a card with you, look out for ATMs that are affiliated with your UK bank to avoid ATM fees, and if you're asked whether you want to pay in pounds or euros - always choose euros. If you pay in pounds the merchant can set their own exchange rate which won't be in your favour.

Choosing the right payment method

Sending money to a company you might not have heard of before can be unsettling. We routinely check all the companies that feature in our comparisons to make sure they meet our strict listing criteria, but it's still worth knowing how your money is protected in the unlikely event a company goes bust and you don't receive your order.

Bank transfer

Your money is not protected if you pay by bank transfer. If the company goes bust and you've paid by bank transfer, it's unlikely you'll get your money back. For this reason, we recommend you pay by debit or credit card wherever possible because they offer more financial protection.

Debit cards are the most popular payment method and they offer some financial protection. If you pay by debit card and the company goes bust, you can instruct your bank to make a chargeback request to recover your money from the company's bank. This isn't a legal right, and a refund isn't guaranteed, but if you make a chargeback request your bank is obliged to try and recover your money.

Credit card

Credit cards offer full financial protection, and your money is protected by law under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act. Section 75 states that your card issuer must refund you in full if you don't receive your order. Be aware that many credit cards charge a cash advance fee (typically around 3%) for buying currency, so you may have to weigh up the benefits of full financial protection with the extra cost of using a credit card.

We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. Please confirm you're happy to receive these cookies in line with our Privacy & Cookie Policy .

Sunday 8th. September 2024

Follow us on twitter keep an eye on the latest rates & get the latest deals.

Travel Money Finder

Make the most of your travel money, search & compare the best uk foreign currency exchange rates, impartial results from multiple suppliers, up to 80 currencies tracked.

Rates Watch

Sun. 8th. September 2024 3:30am

GOV.UK Travel Advice

Popular Currencies

Best value bureaux.

Prepaid Currency Cards

Currencies Information

Helping you make the most out of your money

Searching Money Mentor . . .

The best and cheapest travel money providers.

Updated July 30, 2024

In this guide

If you’re going abroad, it’s never a bad idea to carry some of the local currency. Since it’s normally cheaper to organise your cash before you jet off, we list some of the best and cheapest providers around.

If you’re holidaying overseas to catch some sun or you’re on an urgent business trip abroad, there are a variety of ways to spend your money. One of these is to exchange your cash for foreign currency to provide a great alternative to card payments.

But making sure your wallet is topped up with the right notes is different to choosing the right credit card. In this article we explain:

What is the best option for travel money?

Is a prepaid card better than cash, how to get the best deals on a currency exchange.

Read more: How do exchange rates work?

While you’ll be able to make all your purchases on a card in many countries, it’s never a bad idea to have a backup spending option. It’s always useful to have cash. You might you lose your card or it could be declined and some places just do not have the facilities to accept cards.

However, if cash is stolen or lost to a scam there aren’t any protection schemes in place. A travel credit card, meanwhile, does offer some level of protection through Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act.

Our guide explains this law in more detail , but in essence it says that your credit card provider is jointly responsible if the goods you purchase are faulty or if you don’t receive a promised service. The protection only kicks in on spending between £100 and £30,000.

Read more: Consumer rights UK: what you need to know

Expert travel advice and inspiration

Make informed decisions about your next trip with the help of our award-winning travel writers. From city breaks and beach holidays to cruises and safaris, explore the world like never before.

Visit Times Travel

Instead of a travel credit card, you could choose to keep your spending on a prepaid card. Some people prefer the latter option because it’s easier to manage their cash. Once the money is spent there’s no risk of running into debt.

It’s important to remember that prepaid travel cards aren’t covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme, which means that if your provider goes bust you can’t claim compensation for your losses.

Still, these cards must adhere to some regulation. The Financial Conduct Authority requires your e-money institution to ringfence this money within a regulated bank so that it can’t be lent out.

If you do want this protection, then consider another card such as Chase* which enables fee-free spending abroad. Our guide explains and lists other alternatives. 

But when compared to cash, prepaid cards typically offer better rates – meaning you’ll get more for your money. Some people may wish to keep the bulk of their money on a prepaid card and have some cash on hand for emergencies.

If you’re planning to take some foreign currency with you on holiday, you can order your travel money online or via a high-street lender.

To help you figure out who to use, we list some of the best and cheapest providers below:

Post Office

M&S Bank

It’s almost always best to avoid using the bureau de change in the airport. By the time you get to the terminal, these providers know your options are limited and use this as a reason to increase their prices.

Last year Eurochange, a currency broker, released a survey which explored the difference in cost. It found that someone buying £1,000 worth of euros at three of the UK’s largest airports spends about £176 more than if they were to buy their currency through one of their high-street branches.

“These figures are striking and show how crucial it is for travellers to plan ahead when it comes to travel money,” said Charles Stewart, managing director at Eurochange.

Iain Donachie, head of money services at Tesco Bank, echoed this sentiment. He encouraged travellers to compare their options well before their departure – and if they come across a good deal they should take advantage of it.

“Plan ahead and buy your foreign currency online if you can, this is where you will find the best rates and give your spending money a little boost. It also means you will avoid receiving a poorer exchange rate at the airport,” he said.

When comparing your options, also consider checking your local supermarket for travel money offers and see if you can use your loyalty card to your advantage. Examples of loyalty schemes include Tesco’s Clubcard or Sainsbury’s Nectar card memberships, which sometimes can be used to gain better rates from their respective banks.

Read more: Tesco, Asda, Lidl and Sainsbury’s loyalty cards compared

Want to supercharge your pension savings?

Times Money Mentor shows you how in September with its free four-week newsletter course. Sign up now for a richer retirement. When you subscribe, you will also receive our weekly newsletter.

By entering your details, you agree these will be used according to our privacy policy . You can unsubscribe, although if you do you will stop receiving both newsletters.

You're now subscribed to Pension Power-up!

Look out for the first email on 3 September. You’ll also receive our regular weekly round-up of money matters.

How long does it take to receive my money?

This depends on a variety of factors such as your provider, the demand of the currency, and how you’ll have it delivered. Some providers allow you to collect your order within 60 seconds, while others will deliver it to your door within three to five working days.

Will the money be delivered to me?

Travel money brokers are not the only ones who will deliver money to your home. In our listings above you can see which providers offer this service.

Can I use a credit card to buy foreign currency?

Buying foreign currency on a credit card is often considered as a cash advance, which incurs its own fees and daily interest charges. So, to keep things cheaper, it’s often recommended you buy your travel money through other means.

Will I have to pay a commission on my currency exchange?

Some brokers charge a commission to buy foreign currency. This usually works out as a percentage of your purchase. For example, one broker charges 0.7% commission on its foreign exchanges. If you bought £1,000 worth of euros this works out to a £7 fee.

Important information

Some of the products promoted are from our affiliate partners from whom we receive compensation. While we aim to feature some of the best products available, we cannot review every product on the market.

How will the new Labour government impact the pound?

A new government coming in can impact the value of the pound because it has major implications for fiscal policy and the economy in general. This is how it all works. Any movement in value may not take place at the time of the election though. If the result is highly predictable due to one […]

The best and cheapest ways to send money abroad from the UK

Whether it be family in another country or buying property abroad, there are many reasons you may wish to send money overseas. We list the best and cheapest international money transfer providers on the market. According to the World Bank, sending $200 (or about £160) abroad from the UK in 2023 would cost around $11.94 […]

The best GBP to euro exchange rate today: Compare currency to British pounds

Planning your next trip abroad, tracking your UK pension or investments while living in Europe, or arranging an overseas property purchase; there are lots of reasons why you might want to keep an eye on the euro to pound (GBP) exchange rate.  Many things can affect the exchange rate – the amount of euros you’ll […]

Look out for the first email on 3 September. You'll also receive our regular weekly round-up of money matters.

You're now subscribed to Pension Power-up!