Jazmin Li
If you're looking to convert US cash to euros at Boston Airport, it's important to be aware that airport exchange rates are often poor and come with high fees. While it's possible to exchange currency at Boston Airport, you may want to consider other options to get the best value for your money.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Currency exchange options at Boston Airport | Over-the-counter service, online pre-order, and ATM withdrawals |
| Recommended currency exchange options | Multi-currency cards (Wise, Revolut), travel cards, Currency Exchange International, Rockland Trust Bank, TD Bank Foreign Exchange Centers, ATMs (Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Citizens Bank) |
| Exchange rates at Boston Airport | Not the best option, high fees, and hiked-up exchange rates |
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What You'll Learn
Currency exchange at Boston Airport
If you're looking to exchange currency at Boston Airport, you have several options, including over-the-counter services, online pre-order, and ATMs. However, it's worth noting that airport exchanges generally offer unfavourable rates compared to other methods. Here are some specific options and details to consider:
Over-the-Counter Service
You can visit a currency exchange location at the airport, such as Travelex Currency Services, and exchange your money on the spot. This option is convenient and fast, especially if you need cash immediately upon landing. However, it tends to be more expensive due to high fees and uncompetitive exchange rates.
Online Pre-Order
Some providers, like CXI, allow you to order foreign currency online and then collect it at the airport. This method can often secure you a better exchange rate compared to on-the-spot exchanges, and you're guaranteed that the currency you need will be available.
ATMs
Using an ATM at the airport is another option for accessing local currency. ATMs are readily available and can offer fair exchange rates. However, be mindful of potential fees charged by your card issuer or bank for foreign currency transactions and withdrawals. If you choose to use an ATM, it's recommended to select the option to be charged in the local currency to avoid additional fees.
Multi-Currency Cards
Consider using a multi-currency card from providers like Wise or Revolut. These cards allow you to hold foreign currencies in a digital account and then make payments or withdrawals in the local currency. Wise, for example, provides conversions at the mid-market exchange rate without any markups or hidden fees.
While Boston Airport does offer currency exchange services, it is generally recommended to explore alternatives to achieve more favourable rates and avoid excessive fees. Planning ahead and comparing different options can help you make the most of your money during your trip.
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Currency exchange in Boston
Currency exchange at Boston Airport
It is possible to exchange currency at Boston International Airport (BOS). However, sources suggest that airport exchanges should be avoided due to poor rates.
If you're looking to exchange currency in Boston, there are several options available to you. Recommended currency exchange stores in Boston include Currency Exchange International in Copley Place, Rockland Trust Bank, and TD Bank's Foreign Exchange Centres.
Currency Exchange International
Currency Exchange International in Copley Place buys and sells more than 80 foreign currencies from around the world. They offer exchange rates that are better than local banks and airport exchange rates. They are open seven days a week and you can reserve your foreign currency for free online or over the phone.
Rockland Trust Bank
Rockland Trust Bank has dozens of locations across the greater Boston area where you can exchange foreign currency. You can place foreign currency orders that can be delivered to a specific branch within a few days. It is advised to call in advance to confirm an order and better understand the timing.
TD Bank Foreign Exchange Centres
There are several TD Bank Foreign Exchange Centres in the Boston area, including locations in Boston, Cambridge, and Andover. They have up to 15 foreign currencies available for immediate exchange, including euros, pounds, Canadian dollars, pesos, and yen.
ATMs
If you're a foreign traveller, using your credit or debit card at an ATM can be the cheapest way to exchange money as they generally offer the lowest exchange rates between your home currency and US dollars. However, be mindful of potential fees. It is recommended to research your card issuer or bank's policy on overseas withdrawals, as there may be extra fees involved.
Cards with no foreign transaction fees
If you're an American who travels abroad regularly, it can be useful to open an account at an online financial institution such as Capital One 360 or Charles Schwab, which does not charge a transaction fee for using an overseas ATM. A credit card with no foreign transaction fee that lets you withdraw cash from an ATM is also a good option to have when travelling.
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Using cards in Europe
While it is possible to convert US dollars to euros at Boston Airport, sources suggest that it is not a good idea due to the poor rates and high fees. Instead, it is recommended that you use cards in Europe, as they offer better security, ease of tracking expenses, and potentially better exchange rates.
If you're travelling to Europe, it's a good idea to carry a credit card with no foreign transaction fees, which lets you withdraw cash from an ATM. Cards are widely accepted throughout Europe, and you can use them to make purchases or withdraw cash from ATMs. Credit cards are a convenient and secure way to pay, and you can also earn rewards on your purchases.
US-issued Visa and Mastercard credit cards, along with familiar payment apps, typically work fine in Europe. If your card has the tap-to-pay symbol (four curved lines, like a Wi-Fi symbol on its side), you can pay by simply tapping it against a contactless reader—no PIN or signature is required. This is the easiest way to pay and is available in much of Europe. You can also pay with your phone or smartwatch if it's linked to a credit card via an app such as Apple Pay or Google Pay.
If your card does not have a chip, it's worth requesting a new one before your trip, as machines that can read a card's magnetic stripe are being phased out in Europe. European credit cards generally use chip-and-PIN technology, so if your card does not have a chip, most merchants will ask for a signature.
Before you leave, check your bank's policy on overseas withdrawals, as there may be extra fees involved. Many banks charge a foreign transaction fee of around 1-3% of the withdrawal amount, and some ATMs also charge extra fees. If given the option, always choose to be charged in the local currency.
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Currency exchange rates
Airport Exchange Counters
Exchange counters at Boston Airport offer the convenience of exchanging currency on the spot. However, these services tend to charge high rates and fees, resulting in a more expensive transaction.
ATMs
Using an ATM at the airport or in Boston is generally a more cost-effective option. ATMs typically offer lower exchange rates between your home currency and the US dollar. However, it is important to be mindful of potential fees, as some card issuers may charge extra for overseas withdrawals and foreign currency transactions.
Banks
Exchanging currency at banks in Boston, such as Currency Exchange International, Rockland Trust Bank, or TD Bank, can offer better rates than the airport. These banks have foreign exchange centres and branches across the city, providing convenient access for travellers.
Cards
Using a card for transactions instead of exchanging large amounts of cash can be beneficial, as some cards offer competitive exchange rates and no foreign transaction fees. Cards provide better security and ease of tracking expenses, but it is important to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid potential card blocks due to fraud concerns.
Online Services
Online services like Wise (formerly TransferWise) and Revolut offer multi-currency cards that allow you to hold foreign currencies in a digital account and make payments or withdrawals in the local currency. These services often provide conversions at mid-market exchange rates without markups or hidden fees, ensuring you get a good deal.
In summary, while it is possible to exchange US cash to euros at Boston Airport, you may find more favourable currency exchange rates and lower fees by using ATMs, banks, cards, or online services in Boston or your home country before travelling.
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Currency exchange tools
There are several online currency exchange tools that you can use to check the latest foreign exchange rates. For example, OANDA's currency calculator tools use OANDA Rates™, which are compiled from leading market data contributors. OANDA's currency converter is free and offers accurate and reliable foreign exchange rates. It also provides access to historical FX data and rates, with over 31 years of historical data for over 38,000 forex pairs and rates from over 200 currencies.
Xe Currency Converter is another popular tool that provides real-time, accurate, and reliable data for hundreds of currencies. It sources its rates directly from financial data providers and reputable banks. The Xe Currency Data API also allows you to analyze rate trends for any currency over a few days, weeks, months, or years.
Fiscal Data’s Currency Exchange Rates Converter Tool is another option that provides accurate and reliable currency exchange rates based on trusted U.S. Treasury data. This tool is designed for federal agency reporting purposes and can also be used for the IRS Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR) reporting.
In addition to these online tools, there are other ways to get foreign currency. For example, you can exchange your money at a bank or a currency exchange store, such as Currency Exchange International in Copley Place, Boston. Banks typically offer better exchange rates than currency exchange stores, and some banks may offer competitive rates for foreign exchange. However, it is generally recommended to avoid exchanging money at airports due to poor rates.
Using a credit or debit card at an ATM in the foreign country is another option, as this generally offers the lowest exchange rates. However, it is important to research your card issuer or bank's policy on overseas withdrawals, as there may be extra fees involved. Additionally, some banks may charge a foreign transaction fee, which can range from 1% to 3% of the withdrawal amount.
Overall, by using currency exchange tools and considering the various options for exchanging money, you can make informed decisions and get the most out of your foreign currency.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can exchange US dollars for euros at Boston International Airport (BOS). However, it is recommended that you compare exchange rates before doing so, as airport exchange rates are often unfavourable.
You can exchange currency at Currency Exchange International in Copley Place, Rockland Trust Bank, or TD Bank's Foreign Exchange Centers. You can also use your credit or debit card at an ATM, which generally offers better exchange rates.
Recommended exchange options in Boston include Currency Exchange International in Copley Place, Rockland Trust Bank, and TD Bank's Foreign Exchange Centers. ATMs are also a good option, as they offer fair exchange rates and are widely available.
It is recommended that you research the exchange rate in advance and compare rates between different providers. You should also be mindful of potential fees associated with currency exchange, such as service charges, conversion fees, and ATM fees.
