Roberta Aguirre
Vancouver Airport has several currency exchange locations, including an ATM operated by the Royal Bank of Canada in the International Terminal on level 3, before security. The airport's foreign currency services are managed by International Currency Exchange (ICE), which has multiple locations throughout the airport. While Vancouver's official currency is the Canadian dollar, some establishments may accept US dollars, but the exchange rate is typically not favourable. It is recommended to use a credit card or convert currency before travelling to Vancouver.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Currency in Vancouver | Canadian dollar |
| Currency in Vancouver Airport | Canadian dollar |
| US dollars in Vancouver | Some establishments accept US dollars, but it is not common |
| US dollars in Vancouver Airport | Not common, but some ATMs may accept US dollars |
| Best option | It is recommended to use Canadian dollars |
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What You'll Learn
Currency exchange at Vancouver Airport
Vancouver Airport has several currency exchange facilities, all run by the same provider, International Currency Exchange (ICE). You can find ICE kiosks in a few locations throughout the airport, including the International Departures Terminal on Level 3, before security. The operating hours of these kiosks vary according to the flight schedule, so it's recommended to check the details online before heading to the airport. The ICE kiosk before security in the international terminal is open 24 hours a day and offers foreign currency, travel cheques, calling cards, and photocopying services. You can also use their click-and-collect service to order your foreign currency online and pick it up at the airport.
It's important to note that airport currency exchange services often offer less favourable rates compared to other options due to limited competition. You may want to consider alternative ways to get foreign currency, such as using a service like Wise, which offers upfront fees and uses the mid-market rate for conversion. This can be more cost-effective than exchanging money at the airport.
Additionally, some establishments in Vancouver may accept US dollars, but the exchange rate may not be favourable. It is generally recommended to use Canadian dollars during your stay, which you can obtain at any bank or through ATMs available at the airport and throughout the city. Credit cards are also widely accepted and will automatically convert purchases for you.
If you have leftover Canadian dollars after your trip, some services, like CXI, offer to buy back protected currencies at their ultimate buy-back rate with no additional exchange fee.
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Using US dollars in Vancouver
Vancouver is located in Canada, where the official currency is the Canadian dollar. While Vancouver's airport does have ATMs and currency exchange services, it is recommended that you get your currency exchanged beforehand or use a credit card, as airport currency exchange services are typically not great value.
Some establishments in Vancouver may accept US dollars, but you won't get a good exchange rate. For example, one source notes that a Starbucks in Vancouver accepted their US dollars but at a 15% to 20% disadvantage. Another source mentions that they were able to use their US dollars with a taxi in Vancouver. It is generally recommended that you bring Canadian dollars with you when visiting Vancouver, as credit cards will automatically convert purchases for you.
If you need to exchange currency at Vancouver Airport, there are plenty of locations to do so, all of which are run by the same provider, International Currency Exchange (ICE). The operating hours of the different ICE locations vary according to the flight schedule, so it is recommended to check the details online before heading to the airport. There is also an ATM operated by the Royal Bank of Canada in the International Terminal on level 3, before security.
If you are looking to exchange currency before your trip, there are alternative options to using Vancouver Airport's currency exchange services. For example, you can use Wise, which allows you to hold dozens of different currencies and manage your balance online. You can receive payments in US dollars for the same cost as a domestic transfer, which is usually free. You can then easily convert the money in your account and send payments all over the world using the mid-market exchange rate with no hidden fees.
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Vancouver's official currency
While Vancouver's official currency is the Canadian dollar, some establishments in the city may accept US dollars. However, it is not recommended, as the exchange rate is typically not favourable. It is better to bring Canadian dollars, which can be easily obtained at any bank or through an ATM. Credit cards can also be used, as purchases will be automatically converted.
If you need to exchange money at Vancouver Airport, there are currency exchange services available, such as International Currency Exchange (ICE). However, airport currency exchange services typically offer lower value due to limited competition. It is recommended to check the fees and exchange rates carefully before committing to any currency exchange service at the airport.
Additionally, some online services, such as Wise, offer alternative options for exchanging money. These services may provide more competitive rates and allow you to receive and convert money conveniently before your trip.
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Credit card usage in Vancouver
Vancouver is in Canada, and the Canadian dollar is the local currency. While some establishments in Vancouver may accept US dollars, it is not common across the city, and you will not get a good exchange rate. It is better to bring Canadian dollars, which you can get at any bank, or use your credit card, which will automatically convert purchases for you.
If you are travelling to Vancouver, it is a good idea to use a credit card instead of cash. Credit cards are widely accepted across Canada, and you can use them for purchases and ATM withdrawals in Canadian dollars. However, the fees that apply depend on the card company and the type of account you have. It is recommended that you talk to your bank about the best credit cards for your trip and alert them of your upcoming use abroad.
ATMs in Vancouver will charge you a fee for using a foreign card, which is usually around $1.50 per transaction, in addition to any charges from your bank. It is best to limit the number of cash withdrawals you make to avoid these fees.
If you are looking for a credit card with no foreign exchange fees, Capital One is an option. You can also use the Wise multi-currency account, which allows you to hold dozens of different currencies and manage your balance online. With Wise, you can receive payments in US dollars for free and easily convert them to Canadian dollars using the mid-market exchange rate with no hidden fees.
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Alternative ways to get foreign currency
While Vancouver's currency is the Canadian dollar, some establishments may accept US dollars, but the exchange rate will not be in your favour. It is always better to convert your currency beforehand.
Banks and Credit Unions
Your bank or credit union will almost always be the best and cheapest option for exchanging currency. They generally offer reasonable exchange rates and the lowest fees. Some banks may offer free currency exchange to their premium customers. However, some banks may not buy back all currency types, and you may need to be an existing customer to use this service.
Online Bureaus and Currency Converters
Online bureaus or currency converters, such as Travelex, provide convenient foreign exchange services. Fintech companies like Wise and Revolut offer multicurrency accounts online and through mobile apps, allowing you to hold multiple currencies and make international payments more conveniently.
ATMs
Using a foreign ATM or your bank's ATMs overseas is another way to obtain local currency. It is recommended to use an ATM within the airport upon arrival. Additionally, some banks, such as Chase or Bank of America, have ATMs overseas or allow you to use their cards without fees.
Credit and Debit Cards
Using credit and debit cards is another option, as they are widely accepted and provide fraud protection and safety features. However, avoid using your credit card for a cash advance, as you will incur high fees and interest rates. It is advisable to inform your bank and credit card companies about your travel plans to avoid any concerns of fraud.
Airport Kiosks
While airport kiosks typically offer poor exchange rates and high fees, they can be used as a last resort if you have leftover foreign currency before departing the country.
Traveller's Checks
Although less common due to the widespread use of credit cards, traveller's checks are still an option for obtaining foreign currency.
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Frequently asked questions
The official currency of Canada is the Canadian dollar. While some establishments in Vancouver may accept US dollars, it is not common across the board. It is recommended to convert your US dollars to Canadian dollars before your trip or use a credit card, which will automatically convert purchases for you.
There are plenty of locations for currency exchange in Vancouver Airport, all managed by International Currency Exchange (ICE). There is also an ATM operated by the Royal Bank of Canada in the International Terminal on Level 3 before security.
Airport currency exchange services typically offer lower value due to limited competition. While the rates and fees may vary at Vancouver Airport, it is recommended to check them carefully before committing to an exchange.
Yes, you can consider using a service like Wise, which offers transparent fees and uses the mid-market exchange rate for conversion. You can also send money to a bank account in Canada in advance and withdraw Canadian dollars upon your arrival.
It is generally recommended to use Canadian dollars when paying for goods and services in Vancouver. Credit cards are also widely accepted and can automatically convert purchases to your home currency.
