Airport Currency Exchange: Why to Avoid It

Airport currency exchange desks charge some of the worst rates in the world — often 10-15% above the interbank rate. Here are the better alternatives.

Airport currency exchange kiosks exploit a captive audience of freshly-landed travellers who need local cash immediately. The rates at Heathrow, JFK, Changi, and Dubai International are consistently 8–15% worse than the mid-market rate. On a £500 exchange, that is £40–75 in unnecessary charges.

Why Airport Rates Are So Bad

• High rents for airport locations passed on in worse rates
• Captive market — arriving travellers cannot easily comparison shop
• DCC offered at most airport ATMs — always decline to avoid double markup
• No regulation of exchange rates for bureaux de change

What to Do Instead

• Use a Revolut, Wise, or Steyble card directly — zero fee, real rate at every ATM and merchant
• Order online for collection at Post Office before departure — 2–4% better than walk-in
• Use local bank ATMs at destination — rates close to interbank
• Pay by card wherever possible — eliminates cash exchange entirely

The One Exception

If you genuinely need local cash on arrival, withdraw at an ATM inside the airport arrivals hall after clearing customs — using a fee-free international card. This is safer and cheaper than using exchange desks, while still getting you cash when you need it.