Sachin Walls
London Luton Airport, located 45 kilometres from Central London, is a hub for low-cost airlines, connecting London to most major European cities. The airport offers currency exchange services, allowing travellers to swap their pounds for foreign currency. While this may seem convenient, airport currency exchange services often charge higher fees and offer less favourable exchange rates compared to other options. It is generally recommended to obtain foreign currency before arriving at the airport, either through online ordering, specialist accounts, or local exchange bureaus. Additionally, using certain credit cards abroad can provide good deals, but it is essential to research the specific terms and conditions offered by each card provider.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Currency exchange at Luton Airport | Available |
| Recommended | Not recommended due to high fees |
| Cheaper alternatives | Specialist accounts, credit cards, pre-paid cash cards, ordering currency in advance |
| Companies offering currency exchange at Luton Airport | The Change Group, International Currency Exchange (ICE), eurochange |
| Location of currency exchange at Luton Airport | Check-in area, departure lounge, baggage reclaim hall, arrivals hall |
| Services offered | Currency exchange, BT and international phone cards, travel insurance, international SIM cards |
| Contact details | The Change Group: 01582 431702 or 450687, International Currency Exchange: 01582 730700 |
| Distance of Luton Airport from Central London | 45 kilometres |
| Transport options to Central London | Train, direct bus, bus via Paddington train station, taxi, Uber, private shuttle service, car |
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What You'll Learn
Currency exchange at Luton Airport
ICE has an outlet in the check-in area of the airport. They offer different exchange rates depending on whether you book in advance or simply walk up to their counter. While this may be convenient, it is not likely to be the best exchange rate available. You can check the mid-market exchange rate online and compare it with the rate offered by ICE to ensure you are getting a good deal.
Another option for currency exchange at Luton Airport is The Change Group, which has outlets in the check-in area, the departure lounge, the baggage reclaim hall, and the arrivals hall. They offer over 60 foreign currencies with 0% commission when you exchange currency online and then collect it from one of their bureaux de change. They also offer a currency Buy-Back Guarantee, so you can sell back any leftover currency at the same rate you bought it.
If you are looking for euros specifically, eurochange has several branches located near Luton Airport where you can buy euros in person. They also offer home delivery or pickup from one of their branches.
Alternatively, you can avoid the hassle of exchanging cash altogether by opening a specialist account like the Wise multi-currency account. You can top up this account with pounds and then convert them to the local currency of your destination using the mid-market exchange rate. This option allows you to use your linked debit card or withdraw cash from ATMs when you arrive.
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Getting euros before arriving at Luton Airport
While it is possible to exchange your money for euros at London Luton Airport, it is generally recommended that you get your travel money before you arrive at the airport. There are several reasons for this.
First, by exchanging your money ahead of time, you can avoid the last-minute rush and the worry of not finding the currency you need at the airport. This means you can start your journey more relaxed and with one less thing to worry about. Additionally, airport kiosks may not always have the currency you need, especially if it is a less common one. Planning ahead means you can get exactly what you need without the stress.
Second, you are likely to find better exchange rates before you reach the airport. Currency vendors in the airport often hike their prices, knowing that travellers don't have another option. Exchanging your money before arriving at Luton Airport can, therefore, save you both time and money.
One option for getting euros before arriving at Luton Airport is to use a specialist account product like the Wise multi-currency account. With this option, you can top up your account with pounds and then convert to euros using the mid-market exchange rate. You can then spend using your linked debit card or withdraw cash from ATMs when you arrive at your destination.
Another option is to use a service like eurochange, which has over 240 branches located across the UK, including several that are local to Luton Airport. You can buy your euros in person at a eurochange branch or order them for home delivery. If you order before 3 pm, you can get next-day delivery, and delivery is free for orders of £600 and over.
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Using credit or debit cards abroad
While travelling abroad, using your credit or debit card can be a convenient way to pay for things. Credit cards are widely accepted across the world and can be used as a form of deposit, for example, when renting a car. However, there are some things to be aware of when using credit or debit cards abroad.
Firstly, let your bank or card issuer know that you will be travelling. This will prevent your card from being blocked due to suspicious activity. You should also check if your card needs to be activated for use abroad and do so if necessary.
Secondly, understand the fees associated with using your card abroad. Some cards charge a foreign transaction fee, which can range from 2% to 5% of the purchase amount. In addition, some banks and credit unions charge an International Service Assessment (ISA) fee, also known as a foreign transaction fee, on top of the ISA fee. These fees can add up quickly, so it is important to be aware of them before using your card abroad.
Thirdly, be mindful of your surroundings when using your card. Each card swipe exposes you to the risk of theft, so discreetly examine payment machines for any suspicious devices that could be used to steal your information. In the event of card loss or theft, freeze your card activity as soon as possible and contact your financial institution for support.
Finally, consider bringing multiple payment methods on your trip, including cash. This will ensure that you have a backup option in case there are issues with using your card.
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Currency exchange rates
London Luton Airport (LLA) offers currency exchange services, allowing travellers to swap their pounds for their desired currency. The airport has partnered with ChangeGroup, which has outlets in the check-in area, departure lounge, baggage reclaim hall, and arrivals hall. International Currency Exchange (ICE) also has a presence at the airport, with outlets in the check-in area.
It is important to note that currency exchange rates at airports may not be the most favourable. Vendors often hike their prices, knowing that travellers have limited choices. Therefore, it is generally recommended to secure your currency ahead of time, either through a specialist account, a local currency exchange branch, or by ordering online for home delivery. By doing so, you can take advantage of better exchange rates and avoid the last-minute rush at the airport.
If you choose to exchange currency at Luton Airport, it is worth noting that ICE offers different exchange rates depending on whether you book in advance or walk up to their counter. Booking in advance will typically provide you with a more favourable rate. Additionally, students can present their valid student cards to staff and may receive a discount on currency exchange services.
When it comes to currency exchange, it is always a good idea to do your research and compare rates. Exchange rates can fluctuate daily, so staying informed will help you make the most of your money. Additionally, consider the various methods of spending money abroad, such as cash, credit and debit cards, or prepaid cash cards, and choose the option that best suits your needs and provides the most favourable rates and terms.
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Currency exchange at Luton Airport for students
Currency exchange at Luton Airport is convenient, but it may not be the best option for students who want to save money. The airport has partnered with International Currency Exchange (ICE) to provide currency exchange services, and there are outlets located in the check-in area, the departure lounge, the baggage reclaim hall, and the arrivals hall. These outlets are open for all departing and arriving flights, and they offer BT and international phone cards and travel insurance in addition to currency exchange.
While it may be tempting to simply exchange your currency at the airport, students should be aware that airport currency exchange services often come with additional costs and may not offer the best exchange rates. To get a better deal, it is recommended that students explore other options, such as:
- Using a specialist account product like the Wise multi-currency account, which allows users to convert money at the mid-market exchange rate and provides a travel money card that can be used in multiple local currencies.
- Ordering a currency exchange card from the Post Office, which offers competitive exchange rates and can be loaded with the desired currency or GBP, which will then be converted when used abroad.
- Exchanging currency at a local branch of eurochange, which has over 240 branches across the UK, or ordering it for home delivery.
- Using a credit card that provides good deals for spending abroad, although this requires careful research into the various offers available.
By planning ahead and comparing exchange rates, students can often find better deals and avoid the last-minute rush at the airport. Additionally, students should be aware that exchange rates can change daily, so it is essential to stay informed about the latest rates to get the best value for money.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can spend euros at Luton Airport. There are ICE ATMs and Bureau de Change offices both on the airside and the landside, and you can get sterling pound and euro cash withdrawals commission-free or currency exchange at the lowest rates.
It is not advisable to exchange currency at the airport as you might pay a premium for the convenience. It is recommended to plan ahead and buy your travel money before arriving at the airport.
You can get euros from any of the over 240 eurochange branches located across the UK or through home delivery.
Yes, you can use specialist account products like the Wise multi-currency account. You can top up your account with pounds and then convert to euros at the mid-market exchange rate. You can then spend using your linked debit card or withdraw cash from ATMs when you arrive at your destination.
Yes, you can use your credit or debit card at Luton Airport. However, it is recommended to research the fees and charges that your card provider imposes for overseas transactions. Some credit cards may offer good deals for spending abroad, but these terms may change from time to time.
