Currency Conversion: Avoiding Hidden Fees When Traveling

The Real Exchange Rate

The "mid-market rate" is the true exchange rate between currencies—the one you see on Google. But you'll rarely get this rate when actually exchanging money.

Where Fees Hide

• Spread Markup: Exchange services buy low and sell high, pocketing the difference.
• Transaction Fees: Flat fees per exchange (e.g., $5 per transaction).
• ATM Fees: Both your bank and the foreign ATM may charge fees.
• Dynamic Currency Conversion: Merchants offering to charge in your home currency—always decline!

Best Practices

1. Compare rates before you travel.
2. Avoid airport exchanges—they have the worst rates.
3. Use a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card.
4. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently to minimize ATM fees.

Check Current Rates

See real-time exchange rates with our Currency Converter before making any exchanges.