Ruth Haines
Gatwick Airport has partnered with Moneycorp and ChangeGroup to provide currency exchange services at the airport. There are several branches of these services in the North and South terminals, both before and after security control. While it is possible to exchange currency at the airport, travellers are advised to shop around and may get better rates by ordering their currency in advance. ATMs at the airport accept all valid UK bank cards and major credit cards, but credit card companies may charge for this service.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Currency exchange providers at Gatwick Airport | Moneycorp, ChangeGroup, Travelex, International Currency Exchange |
| Number of branches/ATMs | 15+ branches, 70 ATMs |
| Currency exchange rates | Vary between providers; better rates online |
| Currency exchange options | In-person, online, prepaid currency cards |
| Payment options | Cash, credit/debit card |
| Currency availability | 50+ currencies |
| Additional services | BuyBack Guarantee, travel insurance, phone cards, travellers' cheques |
| Recommended currency exchange practice | Pre-order currency online for pick-up at the airport |
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What You'll Learn
Gatwick Airport currency exchange options
Gatwick Airport offers several currency exchange options for travellers. The airport has partnered with Moneycorp for onsite currency exchange services, with 18+ branches located in the North and South terminal departure and arrival halls. Moneycorp offers the convenience of 24/7 units in both terminals and the ability to pre-order currency online for pickup at the airport. However, airport currency exchange kiosks may not offer the most favourable exchange rates or the cheapest fees.
An alternative option is ChangeGroup, which has over 10 conveniently located bureaux de change at Gatwick Airport, also in the North and South terminals. ChangeGroup offers competitive exchange rates, 0% commission on online orders, and a BuyBack Guarantee for leftover currency. They also provide a home currency delivery service for a small fee.
Travellers can also consider exchanging currency online through services like Wise (now called Transferwise), which offers a multi-currency account and a travel money card to use in ATMs and pay in local currencies. By planning ahead and comparing exchange rates, travellers can often get a better deal on their currency exchange.
Additionally, Gatwick Airport provides access to over 70 ATMs across both terminals, where travellers can use their UK bank cards for cash withdrawals without incurring charges. Major credit cards are also accepted, but credit card companies may impose fees for this service. It is important to note that amounts exceeding €10,000 or its equivalent must be declared to UK customs when travelling between Great Britain and a country outside the UK.
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Moneycorp exchange rates
Gatwick Airport has partnered with Moneycorp to provide onsite currency exchange services. There are 18+ Moneycorp branches throughout the airport, located in the North and South terminal departure and arrival halls. Moneycorp has units that are open 24/7 in both terminals, allowing passengers to buy currency on the day of their travel.
While Moneycorp offers convenient currency exchange services, airport kiosks may not offer the best exchange rates or the cheapest fees. It is recommended that travellers pre-order their currency online in advance to get a better deal. Moneycorp allows travellers to pre-order currency online and pick it up at one of the airport counters.
Moneycorp offers a range of services to simplify the process of transferring money overseas and give customers peace of mind. They provide expert guidance on exchange rates and currency fluctuations, helping customers choose the best payment options. Moneycorp also offers same-day or next-day transfers for most major currencies, allowing customers to take advantage of favourable exchange rates.
Moneycorp's website displays indicative rates that are for informational purposes only and should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell financial products or services. These rates are based on interbank rates and should only be used as a guide. Moneycorp also provides a currency chart on its website, allowing customers to view historical currency rates and check the exchange rate for any currency pairing.
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Benefits of ordering currency online
Gatwick Airport has currency exchange services available at several Moneycorp branches across the airport. However, it is recommended to pre-order your currency online and pick it up at the airport, as you will get a better deal.
Better Exchange Rates
Ordering currency online often provides better exchange rates than airport kiosks. Airport currency exchange rates can be significantly higher than the current International Monetary Fund (IMF) rate, sometimes charging 14% or more above the IMF rate. By ordering online, you can compare rates from different providers and choose the most favourable one.
Cost Savings
Online currency exchange services often offer cost savings by eliminating additional fees associated with airport currency exchanges. Banks and credit card companies may charge foreign transaction fees when purchasing in a foreign currency. By using online services, you can avoid these extra charges and keep costs down.
Convenience and Ease
Ordering currency online is convenient and easy. You can browse, compare prices, and make purchases from the comfort of your home with just a few clicks. This saves you time and hassle, especially when compared to waiting in line at airport exchange counters.
Security
Online currency exchange services offer enhanced security for your transactions. By using trusted online platforms, you can ensure the safety of your funds and personal information. Additionally, some services provide features like a "BuyBack Guarantee," ensuring you don't lose out on any unspent cash.
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Currency exchange kiosks and ATMs
While currency exchange kiosks at the airport offer convenience, they may not offer the best exchange rates or the cheapest fees. It is recommended that travellers research the various payment options and exchange rates to get the best deal. One way to do this is by pre-ordering currency online and then picking it up at the airport, which can provide a better exchange rate. Additionally, using a credit or debit card while abroad may make spending easier, but it can be difficult to keep track of expenses, and there may be additional fees involved.
To get the best exchange rates, it is advisable to exchange money or obtain an international credit card before arriving at Gatwick Airport. Ordering currency in advance and having it delivered or picked up at a local store can often result in better rates and ensure availability, as some currencies may not be readily available at the airport.
For those who prefer to use a card instead of carrying foreign cash, options such as the Explorer multi-currency MasterCard® or a prepaid currency card can be considered. These cards can be loaded with multiple currencies and used like a regular credit or debit card, offering convenience and security.
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Customs and declaring currency
When travelling with currency, it is important to be aware of the customs requirements at your destination and any applicable currency declarations. At Gatwick Airport, customs is located as you exit the airport, and the red channel is used for declaring large amounts of cash.
In the UK, you must declare any cash or assets exceeding €10,000 (or its equivalent in other currencies) to UK customs if you are carrying it between Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) and a non-UK country. This declaration is made upon entering or exiting the country. Most countries require travellers to declare any large amounts of cash, and it is always recommended to research the specific requirements of your destination.
To pre-fill the required declaration form, visit the HMRC government website. This will save you time and ensure you have the necessary information ready when passing through customs. Keeping your money safe is also important, especially when travelling with large amounts of cash. Consider using a money belt or a bum bag that is worn close to the body and hidden under clothes.
When it comes to exchanging currency, Gatwick Airport offers several options. The airport has partnered with Moneycorp and Travelex for onsite currency exchange services, with branches located in both the North and South terminals. These services provide convenience but may not offer the most favourable exchange rates or the cheapest fees. It is recommended to research and compare exchange rates before choosing a currency exchange service.
To obtain the best exchange rates, it is generally advisable to exchange money or obtain an international credit card before arriving at Gatwick Airport. Ordering currency online in advance can often secure better rates, and it ensures the availability of the desired currency, as some currencies may not be available for purchase at the airport. Additionally, using a prepaid currency card or an overseas credit card can offer benefits such as locking in exchange rates and avoiding dynamic currency conversion fees.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can use US dollars at Gatwick Airport. There are 70 ATMs available across both terminals that accept all valid UK bank cards and major credit cards. However, your credit card company may charge for this service.
The best way to get foreign currency at Gatwick Airport is to pre-order your desired currency online and then pick it up at the airport. This will ensure you get the best exchange rate and avoid the higher fees associated with exchanging money at the airport.
There are several currency exchange providers at Gatwick Airport, including Moneycorp, ChangeGroup, International Currency Exchange, and Travelex. These providers have branches in both the North and South terminals, with some offering online ordering and pickup options.
Yes, there are several alternatives to carrying cash at Gatwick Airport. These include prepaid currency cards, traveller's cheques, and international debit or credit cards. Prepaid currency cards, such as the Explorer multi-currency MasterCard, allow you to load multiple currencies onto a single card and use it like a regular credit or debit card.
Yes, there are restrictions on carrying large amounts of cash at Gatwick Airport. If you are carrying €10,000 or more (or its equivalent in other currencies), you must declare it to UK customs when entering or exiting the country. This can be done through the red channel at airport customs.
