Jazmin Li
If you're looking to exchange currency at Seattle Airport, it's important to know that you might not get a great exchange rate. While it's possible to exchange currency at Seattle Tacoma International Airport, with kiosks available in the main terminal, next to baggage reclaim and on concourse A, you may find that using an ATM or shopping around at foreign exchange companies in Seattle could get you a better deal. It's worth noting that Seattle's official currency is the US dollar, and while some hotels may offer currency exchange, they may also charge higher fees.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Currency exchange available at Seattle Airport | Yes |
| Recommended | No, due to poor exchange rates |
| Alternative options | Using an ATM, exchanging currency at a bank, exchanging currency at a hotel, using a foreign exchange company |
| Best option | Using an ATM in Seattle and paying in USD |
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What You'll Learn
Currency exchange kiosks at Seattle Tacoma International Airport
If you need to exchange currency at Seattle Tacoma International Airport, you can do so at one of the currency exchange kiosks located in the airport. However, it is important to note that exchanging currency at airports is rarely a good deal due to higher fees and less favourable exchange rates.
There are four foreign exchange kiosks at Seattle Tacoma International Airport. Two kiosks are located in the main terminal, with one next to baggage reclaim and the other on concourse A. The other two kiosks are located in the South Satellite and Central Terminal South areas of the airport. The kiosks are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and offer services such as balance inquiries, cash withdrawals, cash/check deposits, and money transfers.
If you are looking for a more favourable exchange rate, it is recommended to use an ATM or make arrangements in advance with your bank. Withdrawing money from an ATM is often one of the cheapest ways to get foreign currency, but it is important to be aware of any foreign ATM fees and charges. Some banks have agreements with foreign banks that allow their customers to make withdrawals at a reduced cost or free of charge.
Additionally, if you are exchanging US dollars for euros, it is worth noting that you may not find ATMs in Seattle that dispense euros. In this case, your best option may be to bring the euros with you and exchange them at the airport kiosks, keeping in mind the potentially higher fees and unfavourable rates.
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Higher fees and poor exchange rates at the airport
While exchanging currency at the airport is convenient, it is rarely a good deal due to higher fees and poor exchange rates. Airport exchange desks are usually located right in the heart of the airport, making it easy for travellers to grab the local currency they need as soon as they land. However, these desks set their own exchange rates, which are often higher than what you would find elsewhere.
For example, the exchange rate at Seattle Tacoma International Airport has been described as "the worst" on Tripadvisor, with one user reporting that exchanging $289 for 200 euros was the "worst rate" they had ever got, and they travelled often.
Airport currency exchange rates are influenced by market trends, demand, and service provider fees. Due to these additional charges, airport currency exchange rates are often less favourable than other exchange options available in the open market. Exchange counters at airports charge steep rents, staff salaries, and maintenance, which are passed down to consumers through higher exchange fees. These expenses, coupled with the high demand and limited competition at airports, result in higher markups.
Therefore, it is advisable to plan ahead and explore other options before heading to the airport. Local banks often offer competitive exchange rates and lower fees than those found at airports. Withdrawing money from an ATM is also often one of the cheapest ways to get foreign currency, provided travellers are aware of any foreign ATM fees and charges.
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ATM withdrawals as a cheaper alternative
While it is possible to exchange currency at Seattle Tacoma International Airport, this option is not recommended due to the high exchange rates and fees.
Withdrawing money from an ATM is often a much cheaper way to obtain foreign currency. However, it is important to be aware of any foreign ATM fees and charges. Before your trip, it is a good idea to contact your bank to understand any applicable charges for using your debit card in a foreign ATM. Some banks may offer foreign currency at reduced rates or even waive fees for ATM withdrawals.
When using an ATM in Seattle, always opt to be charged in USD rather than your home currency to avoid unfavourable exchange rates. Additionally, consider spending all your USD during your trip, as buying back your home currency can result in additional charges.
If you are looking for specific places to exchange currency in Seattle, Travelex and Currency Exchange International (CXI) are two well-known foreign exchange companies with outlets across the city. CXI has been praised for its quick exchange process and unbeatable rates compared to local banks and airport rates.
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$19.99
Banks offering currency exchange services
While it is possible to exchange currency at Seattle Airport, it is generally advised against due to poor exchange rates. If you are looking for banks offering currency exchange services, there are a few options in Seattle.
Wells Fargo
Wells Fargo offers currency exchange services to its customers at competitive rates across more than 100 countries. They also offer foreign currency drafts payable in selected foreign countries. There are several Wells Fargo branches in Seattle, including:
- 999 3rd Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
- 2800 3rd Ave, Seattle, WA 98121
- 1620 4th Ave, Ste 1, Seattle, WA 98101
- 3042 NE 45th St, Seattle, WA 98105
- 3100 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, WA 98144
Bank of America
Bank of America is another option for currency exchange in Seattle. As part of the Global ATM Alliance, Bank of America offers fee-free withdrawals to customers of other banks that are part of the alliance.
Currency Exchange International (CXI)
CXI offers foreign currency exchange services at unbeatable rates compared to local banks and airport rates. They also cash traveller's cheques and sell gold bullion coins. CXI has several locations in Seattle, including:
- 2800 Southcenter Mall, Tukwila 98188
- 184th Street Southwest, Alderwood Mall Parkway, Lynnwood, WA 98037
Travelex
Travelex is another well-known foreign currency exchange company in Seattle.
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Foreign exchange companies
If you're looking to exchange currency at Seattle Airport, you may want to consider using a foreign exchange company. While exchanging currency at the airport is rarely a good deal due to higher fees and less favourable exchange rates, foreign exchange companies may offer a better alternative.
Two well-known foreign currency exchange companies in Seattle are Currency Exchange International (CXI) and Travelex. CXI has many convenient locations across the United States and offers foreign currency exchange, cashing of traveller's cheques, and the sale of gold bullion coins. They have multiple locations in Seattle, including two company-owned branches in the city centre and at the airport. CXI offers foreign currency on demand for the most popular international currencies and can also reserve specific currencies ahead of time. They are known for their quick exchange process and competitive rates compared to local banks and airport rates.
Another option is Travelex, which also has a presence in Seattle. While they do not provide specific location information, they claim to offer the best deals on foreign currency.
It is recommended to shop around and compare the offered rates to the mid-market rate before committing to a foreign exchange company. Additionally, consider using an ATM or withdrawing cash in your home country before travelling, as these options may provide more favourable exchange rates and lower fees.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can buy euros at Seattle Tacoma International Airport (SEA). There are several kiosks available, with two in the main terminal, one next to baggage reclaim and another on concourse A.
Exchange rates at airports are rarely a good deal and are often very unfavourable. It is recommended that you use an ATM instead, but be sure to pay for transactions in USD while in Seattle and avoid having the ATM's bank perform the conversion for you.
Yes, you can exchange currency at banks and hotels, but these may also have high exchange rates. The two best-known foreign currency exchange companies in Seattle are Currency Exchange International and Travelex.
It is recommended that you inform your bank that you are travelling to the US and the dates of your travel. Some banks may charge a fee for using your card abroad or block your card, assuming it has been stolen.
