Airport Atms: Availability And Accessibility For Travelers

Most major airports have ATMs, but it's important to be cautious when using them. Airports are increasingly replacing bank-owned ATMs with those owned by exchange services, which often offer unfavourable exchange rates and additional fees. For example, Gatwick Airport in London has replaced its bank ATMs with Travelex ATMs, which offer a free withdrawal but charge a poor exchange rate, resulting in a loss of about 10 to 11%. Similar issues have been reported at other European airports, including Amsterdam/Schiphol, Copenhagen/Kastrup, London/Heathrow, Madrid/Barajas, Milan/Malpensa, Paris/De Gaulle, Rome/Fiumichino, and Zurich. Therefore, it is recommended to research the ATM options at your arrival airport and, if possible, use a legitimate bank ATM to avoid excessive fees.

ATM locations at the airport

When travelling, accessing cash can be challenging, and one of the easiest solutions is to use an ATM at the airport. Most airports house many ATM machines, but finding them can be difficult, especially if you are new to the place. Here is some information on ATM locations at specific airports, as well as some general tips for locating and using airport ATMs.

Bradley International Airport

Bradley International Airport in Connecticut has six Webster Bank ATM machines located within Terminal A. There is one ATM on the baggage claim floor, one on the ticketing floor level, and four within the concourse, post-security. The ATM on the baggage floor level is near door #3, across from the Delta Baggage Claim Carousel. The ATM on the ticketing floor level is pre-security, near door #3, across from the Aer Lingus ticket counter. Within the concourse, there are three ATMs near Gates 1-12 and one near gates 20-30.

New York Kennedy Airport (JFK)

JFK Airport houses several ATMs from different banks. HSBC ATMs can be found near the airport entrance and at Terminal 7. The Cardtronics ATM is located at Terminal 4. J.P. Morgan and Chase Bank ATMs are located at Terminal 5 and Terminal 6, respectively. All of these ATMs are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport

This airport has multiple Bank of America ATM locations, including at Level 1 Baggage Claim across from Door 5, near Gate F5, near the entrance to the E Concourse, Level 1 East End near elevator B, Level 2 West End near Door 24, Level 3 near Indigenous, and near Gates A1, B1, C1, and D1.

General Tips for Locating Airport ATMs

ATMs at airports are usually located in both the arrival and departure areas, as travellers often need cash upon arrival or before departure. If you are having trouble locating an ATM, you can search online, ask your bank in advance, or approach the customer service desks at the airport for assistance. Additionally, be aware that foreign ATMs may charge fees or have different card compatibility, so it is important to inform your bank of your travel plans and understand any potential charges.

Foreign transaction fees

To avoid foreign transaction fees, consider the following options:

• Use a travel credit card: Instead of withdrawing cash from ATMs, use a travel credit card that waives foreign transaction fees. This can include cards such as the Platinum Card from American Express, Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, and Citi Strata Premier Card.
• Choose a bank that doesn't charge foreign ATM fees: Banks like Capital One 360, HSBC, and USAA don't charge foreign transaction fees or foreign ATM fees.
• Use a bank that reimburses ATM fees: Banks like USAA and Wells Fargo may reimburse you for out-of-network ATM fees, depending on your account type.
• Use your bank network's ATMs or partner ATMs: If your bank operates ATMs worldwide, such as HSBC, use those whenever possible. If your bank doesn't operate outside your home country, check if it's part of any fee-free ATM networks.
• Pay in local currency: When given the option, choose to pay or withdraw in the local currency instead of your home currency, as your bank may offer a better conversion rate.
• Use your debit card to get cash back at a store: Instead of withdrawing cash from an ATM, you can request cash back when making a purchase with your debit card at certain stores.

In addition to foreign transaction fees, be mindful of dynamic currency conversion fees (DCC fees). When withdrawing money from a foreign ATM or making a purchase, you may be asked if you want the transaction to be converted into your home currency. It's usually best to decline, as your bank will typically provide a more favourable exchange rate.

Currency exchange services

When it comes to finding currency exchange services at an airport, here are some tips to consider:

• Search online in advance by typing your airport name or code. Many websites provide directories of airport amenities, including currency exchange services.
• Currency exchange services are typically located in both the arrival and departure areas of an airport, as these are strategic locations for travellers who need local currency.
• If you're unsure, don't hesitate to ask the customer service staff at the airport. They are usually adept at speaking English and will be able to direct you to the correct location.
• Be mindful of fees and charges. Different banks and currency exchange services may have varying rates and charges for their services. It's always a good idea to be aware of these in advance to budget accordingly.
• If you have a preferred bank, it's worth contacting them before your trip to inquire about their currency exchange policies and any partnerships they may have with foreign banks. This can help you locate the most cost-effective and convenient options for exchanging currency at your destination airport.

Informing your bank about travel plans

When travelling, it's important to inform your bank about your travel plans. This is because banks are vigilant about protecting you from identity theft and they may assume your card is being used fraudulently if they spot transactions in an unfamiliar location. This can result in your card being shut off. By letting your bank know that you're going away, they can add a record to your account and share it with their fraud detection system. This prevents your "abnormal" spending patterns from triggering a block on your card.

• Contact your bank in advance: It is recommended to notify your bank about your travel plans as early as possible. This will help ensure that your transactions are not declined when you are abroad.
• Provide detailed information: When informing your bank, provide as much detail as possible about your travel plans, including your destination, the dates of your trip, and any countries you plan to visit.
• Use online banking: Many banks offer online travel notification services. Log in to your online banking account and look for "travel notice" options. If you can't find this option, contact your bank directly.
• Call or visit your bank: If you don't have access to online banking, you can call your bank's customer service line or visit a branch in person to set up a travel alert on your account.
• Notify multiple banks: If you have accounts with multiple banks, be sure to notify each one about your travel plans.
• Update your contact information: Make sure your bank has your correct email address and mobile phone number so that they can reach you while you are travelling.

In addition to informing your bank, there are a few other financial precautions you should take when travelling:

• Have multiple payment methods: Bring at least two credit or debit cards with you in case one is lost or stolen.
• Make copies of important documents: Make copies of your passport, credit cards, and other travel documents. Leave one copy with a trusted contact and bring the other copy with you.
• Plan for cash withdrawals: If travelling internationally, order foreign currency in advance or inform yourself about ATM locations and fees at your destination.

ATM safety

When it comes to ATM safety at the airport, there are several precautions you can take to ensure a smooth and secure transaction. Here are some detailed instructions to follow:

Before Your Trip:

• Contact your bank: Inform your local bank about your travel plans. This way, you can learn about any partnerships they have with overseas banks, which may provide access to favourable services. You can also ask about ATM locations at your destination and clarify whether your card will be recognised internationally.
• Adjust your withdrawal limit: If needed, request a higher withdrawal limit to accommodate for potential differences in currency exchange and cash withdrawal policies abroad.
• Understand fees: Be aware that fees and charges may apply when using foreign ATMs, especially at the airport. These charges may come from the foreign bank or your own bank, or both. Understanding these potential fees will help you budget and avoid surprises.

At the ATM:

• Check for affiliation: Before using a foreign ATM, ensure that it is affiliated with your bank to avoid unnecessary charges and issues with card recognition.
• Inspect the ATM: Always be cautious when using an ATM. Check for any attached devices or bugs that could be used to steal your card information. Look out for rocking or moving parts, especially on the keypad, as this could indicate tampering. If something seems amiss, find another machine.
• Be discreet: Avoid flashing cash or jewellery after withdrawing money. Be mindful of your surroundings, and if possible, withdraw cash during the day in busy areas to reduce the risk of robbery.

Additional Tips:

• Notify your bank of your travels: Foreign transactions may trigger a fraud alert, resulting in your card being locked. A quick notification to your bank can prevent this inconvenience.
• Carry customer service numbers: In case of card-related issues, having your bank's customer service contact information can help you resolve problems promptly.
• Compare currency exchange services: Airport exchange services may offer less favourable rates than other options. Consider comparing rates and using ATMs or exchange services outside the airport if feasible.

By following these guidelines, you can enhance your ATM safety at the airport and have a more secure travel experience.

Frequently asked questions