Lois Larson
Gatwick Airport offers currency exchange services, allowing travellers to buy euros. However, it is recommended that travellers avoid buying currency at the airport due to unfavourable exchange rates and high fees. Travellers are advised to secure their currency ahead of time, either through online ordering with home delivery or pickup at a branch near Crawley. ATMs are also available at Gatwick Airport, but withdrawing in foreign currency may result in hidden fees and unfavourable exchange rates.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ability to pay in euros | Yes, but some stores may be cashless |
| Ability to withdraw euros from ATMs | Yes, but may be charged a hidden fee |
| Best place to exchange currency | Outside of the airport |
| Best way to obtain euros | Order currency online and get it delivered or pick it up from a branch before arriving at the airport |
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What You'll Learn
Gatwick Airport ATMs and card payments
Gatwick Airport has ATMs available in both terminals before and after security control. They accept all valid UK bank cards and do not charge any fees for withdrawing cash using a UK debit card. However, credit cards are usually a lot more expensive than debit cards, as fees are charged for cash-related transactions. Plus, interest will likely start accruing right away.
If you're landing at London Gatwick and withdrawing GBP to spend in the UK, no currency conversion will be needed. But if you're using a card linked to a foreign currency account, you may be offered the 'service' of currency conversion by the ATM, which will give you a poor exchange rate for your withdrawal. It is best to decline this option and be charged in the local currency instead.
ATMs in Gatwick that offer foreign currency are usually run by currency exchange companies, such as ChangeGroup. These can be pricey, and you may get a better rate outside of the airport, where there will be lots of free bank-operated ATMs to choose from.
You can pay with cash at Gatwick Airport, but some brands, stores, and restaurants may have switched to a cashless system, so it is worth having a debit or credit card with you as well.
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Currency exchange companies at Gatwick
Eurochange also has branches across the UK where you can buy euros in person. You can also get your currency delivered to your home address or pick it up from one of their branches near Crawley.
Travelex does not have a bureau de change in Gatwick Airport, but it can help you find your nearest Travelex currency exchange store or arrange delivery to your home.
It is also possible to withdraw euros and other currencies from ATMs in Gatwick, but these are likely to be run by currency exchange companies and may charge a hidden fee in the exchange rate. It is recommended to decline the option of currency conversion at the ATM as this will result in a much more unfavourable exchange rate.
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Getting euros at Gatwick vs. in London
If you're looking to get euros before your trip, there are a few options available to you, both at Gatwick Airport and in London. Here's a comparison of the two:
Gatwick Airport
At Gatwick Airport, you can find ATMs that dispense euros. However, keep in mind that these ATMs are often run by currency exchange companies, which may offer less favourable exchange rates and higher fees. Withdrawing in foreign currency can result in a "hidden" fee in the exchange rate. It is recommended to decline any dynamic currency conversion offers and withdraw in the local currency (GBP) to avoid additional fees. Additionally, some stores and restaurants at the airport may have switched to a cashless system, so it's advisable to also have a debit or credit card with you.
London
In London, you have the option to obtain euros from banks or currency exchange vendors. However, exchanging currency in London may result in unfavourable rates and additional fees, especially if you need to first exchange your currency to GBP and then to euros, incurring multiple commission fees. It is generally recommended to avoid exchanging currency at banks in London due to these potential drawbacks.
Recommendations
To get the best value for your money, it is suggested to either use an ATM in your destination country, such as in Paris at the CDG airport, or to exchange currency before arriving at Gatwick Airport. You can order foreign currency online and have it delivered to your home or pick it up from a branch near Crawley or on your way to the airport. This way, you can benefit from more competitive exchange rates and avoid the last-minute rush at the airport. Additionally, if you're travelling from Paddington train station, the ATMs near the left luggage office offer both GBP and euros.
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Declaring currency to customs
Gatwick Airport has currency exchange services and ATMs where you can withdraw foreign currency. However, it is recommended that you get your travel money sorted before arriving at the airport, as airport currency exchange services can be pricey. You can order your foreign currency online and have it delivered to your home address or pick it up from a vendor's branch near the airport.
When travelling through Gatwick Airport, you must declare any cash you are carrying that is equal to or above €10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies if you are entering the UK from a country outside the EU. This rule applies to anyone carrying cash through Gatwick Airport security, and failure to declare large amounts of cash may result in prosecution. To declare cash, you need to find customs, which should be clearly signposted as you exit the airport. The red channel is used for declaring large amounts of cash. You can pre-fill the required form on the HMRC government website.
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Ordering currency online
While it is possible to obtain euros at Gatwick Airport, it is generally recommended that you order your currency online beforehand. This is because you will often find better exchange rates before reaching the airport, as currency vendors in airports tend to hike up their prices, knowing that travellers have no other options.
Choose a Currency Exchange Service
Several companies offer online currency exchange services, including Currency Exchange International, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America. Compare their exchange rates and any associated fees to find the best deal for you.
Select Your Currency and Amount
On the chosen exchange service's website, select the currency you wish to purchase (in this case, euros) and specify the amount you need. Some services may have minimum and maximum order requirements for home delivery.
Place Your Order
Follow the website's instructions to place your order. You will typically need to provide your contact and payment details. Some services may offer different delivery options, such as standard or priority overnight delivery.
Receive Your Currency
Depending on the service and delivery option selected, you will either receive your currency at home or need to pick it up from a designated branch. For home delivery, a signature may be required upon receipt. When collecting from a branch, bring your confirmation email and payment details.
Additional Considerations
When ordering currency online, keep the following in mind:
- Plan ahead: Place your order with sufficient time to allow for processing and delivery or collection.
- Security: Only use reputable currency exchange services to ensure the security of your transaction.
- Payment methods: Different providers may accept different payment methods, so ensure you can meet their requirements.
- Exchange rate fluctuations: Exchange rates vary daily, so be aware of the rate offered at the time of your order.
By following these steps, you can secure your travel money conveniently and potentially benefit from more competitive exchange rates than those available at the airport.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can pay in euros at Gatwick Airport. However, it is recommended to buy your euros before arriving at the airport as airport currency exchange is often more expensive.
You can buy euros at one of the 10+ ChangeGroup currency exchange bureaus located in the North and South terminals within both departure and arrivals areas.
Yes, you may be able to withdraw euros from one of the 70 ATMs available across both terminals. However, you will likely be given an unfavourable exchange rate.
Yes, you can pre-order euros online and pick them up at the airport from one of two pre-paid, online order collection points located before security (one in each terminal).
Yes, you can pay with cash at Gatwick Airport. However, some brands, stores and restaurants may have switched to a cashless system, so it is recommended to also have a debit or credit card with you.
