Roberta Aguirre
When travelling, it is often convenient to use euros in England's airports. While some shops and duty-free stores accept euros, they may provide change in pounds, and the exchange rate may not be favourable. It is recommended to compare rates and acquire local currency before travelling, such as through online orders or banks, to avoid higher fees at airport exchange services. Additionally, using a travel credit card or a card with no foreign transaction fees can be a more convenient and cost-effective alternative to carrying cash.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can Euros be used in England airports? | Yes, but the exchange rate may not be favorable. |
| Where can Euros be used? | Some shops and restaurants at Heathrow Airport accept Euros. |
| Where can you get a better exchange rate? | At exchange places outside the airport, online, at your destination, or at a local bank. |
| Are there alternatives to exchanging cash? | Using a travel credit card, such as Revolut or Monzo, which offer better exchange rates and lower fees. |
| What can be done with leftover Euros in coins? | Donate to charity collection boxes at the airport or give to flight attendants, who often collect odd change for charity. |
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What You'll Learn
Euro exchange rates at England airports
While it is possible to exchange euros at currency exchange offices at England's airports, it is generally not recommended due to the unfavourable exchange rates and additional fees.
For example, a survey conducted by eurochange in 2024 compared the rates for buying 1000 euros at Edinburgh, Birmingham, Luton, Stansted, and Heathrow airports. The results showed that, on average, customers lost £169 when converting 1000 euros at these airport exchange offices compared to eurochange high street branches. Similarly, their 2023 survey found that customers lost £176 on average when exchanging £1000 at Gatwick South, Birmingham, and Heathrow airports compared to their high street branches.
Another survey by eurochange, conducted in August 2022, found that customers could save £172 on average by exchanging £1000 into euros at their high street branches instead of airport exchange offices. Additionally, their online rates offer even better value, and customers can secure these rates and avoid the hassle of airport foot traffic by ordering their currency in advance for click-and-collect.
Some travellers have reported being quoted an exchange rate of £110 for 100 euros at Manchester Airport, which is considered unfavourable. They recommend getting cash anywhere except the airport or using a card with favourable exchange rates, such as Revolut or Monzo, for purchases and withdrawals abroad.
If you must exchange currency at the airport, it is recommended to compare rates between different airports and exchange offices to find the most competitive offer. Additionally, ordering online for click-and-collect at the airport can help secure more favourable rates.
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Using euros at airport duty-free shops
Euros can be used at all major airports in England, including London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester, Birmingham, and East Midlands Airport. Some smaller airports also accept euros. While it is possible to use euros at airport duty-free shops, it is important to note that you may encounter unfavourable exchange rates. The exchange rate will depend on the store's policies, and you may receive your change in the local currency.
It is recommended to use a fee-free debit card or ATM to withdraw money as needed or a fee-free credit card for purchases to avoid high transaction fees. If you need to exchange currency, it is best to do so before arriving at the airport, as currency exchange kiosks at airports often offer poor exchange rates and may charge additional fees.
Additionally, when bringing goods into the UK for personal use, you should be aware of any tax and duty exemptions. You can bring a certain amount of goods within your personal allowance without paying tax or duty. However, if you exceed your allowance, you may have to pay import VAT and customs duty on the total value of the goods.
When using euros at the airport, it is generally required to have your passport ready for a simple and easy currency exchange process.
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Exchanging euros for pounds at England airports
When travelling, it is always recommended to carry the local currency. In England, that would be the Pound Sterling. Euros may be accepted at some stores in English airports, but the exchange rate will not be favourable. It is best to exchange your euros for pounds before travelling.
If you are landing at Heathrow Airport, you can order over 50 currencies, including pounds, from Travelex. You can pre-order online and collect your currency from one of their stores or ATMs before or after security in Terminals 2, 3, 4, and 5. You can also order just four hours before collection if you are ordering euros, US dollars, or Travelex pre-paid cards.
Similarly, at Edinburgh Airport, Travelex offers click-and-collect services for over 50 currencies, including pounds. You can also use their ATMs located throughout the airport for instant cash in euros or pounds.
If you are landing at Manchester Airport, it is recommended that you exchange your currency before arriving at the airport, as the exchange rate there is not favourable.
In general, it is advisable to compare exchange rates online or get your currency exchanged at your destination. Some sources also recommend getting a card, like Revolut or Monzo, which offers very competitive exchange rates and can be used abroad with no additional fees.
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Using cards vs cash when travelling abroad
When travelling abroad, there are several options for accessing your money, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. These include using a credit card, debit card, prepaid card, or cash.
Credit Cards
Credit cards can be a convenient option when travelling, as they provide benefits such as flexibility and protection if your card is lost or stolen. Some credit card companies have partnerships with banks abroad and offer lower (or zero) foreign transaction fees, especially for credit cards intended for travel. However, credit cards may also come with high international transaction fees or currency conversion fees, and it's easy to overspend and return home with unwanted debt. It's important to do your research and check with your card issuer to understand the fees associated with using your credit card abroad. Additionally, some vendors may ask if you want to pay in local or foreign currency when using a credit card. It's generally recommended to select the local currency to get the closest to the fair market rate.
Debit Cards
Using a debit card can be a good alternative, as it allows you to pay using the money you already have without carrying large amounts of cash. However, some checking accounts may charge fees for using your debit card at ATMs abroad, and foreign ATM operators may also charge fees. It's important to be aware of these potential fees and plan accordingly. Additionally, using a debit card may give you access to local cash through ATMs at your destination, but be mindful that ATM fees and exchange rates can be unfavourable.
Prepaid Cards
Prepaid cards, such as those offered by Visa, Mastercard, or other large credit card companies, can be loaded with money before your trip and used for purchases or to withdraw cash. They provide a way to control your spending and avoid overspending, as you can only use the funds you have loaded onto the card. Prepaid cards may also have lower fees compared to traditional credit or debit cards, but it's important to read the fine print and understand any associated fees, such as loading fees, purchase fees, or cash-out fees.
Cash
Using cash when travelling has the advantage of being widely accepted and may be necessary in places where credit or debit cards are not commonly accepted. Exchanging cash before your trip can help you avoid unfavourable exchange rates at airports or foreign ATMs. It is recommended to compare exchange rates and fees at different institutions, such as banks or currency exchange counters, to get the best rate. Additionally, having cash on hand can be useful for local markets, tips, or when you need a small amount of money for purchases. However, carrying large amounts of cash can be risky, and it may be challenging to determine how much cash you will need for your trip.
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Exchanging euros for pounds in London
While it is possible to use euros at London airports, the exchange rate is often poor. It is recommended that you exchange your euros for pounds before arriving at the airport. You can do this at a local bank, which typically offers the most favourable exchange rates, or at the post office, which usually has good rates. You can also compare rates online.
If you are looking to exchange euros for pounds in London, you can use a currency exchange service such as eurochange, which has over 240 branches across the UK. You can exchange your euros in person at one of their branches or use their online sell-back service. They offer great rates and expert support with no hidden fees.
Another option is to use a digital service such as Revolut, which allows you to exchange currencies with some of the lowest fees around. You can download the app, add money to your account in euros, and then convert it to British pounds.
It is worth noting that exchange rates fluctuate constantly, so it is a good idea to keep an eye on current market trends and compare different providers to find the best rate.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the airport and the store. Some stores in English airports may accept euros but could charge an exchange rate fee. It is recommended to use a fee-free debit card or credit card instead.
Most English airports have currency exchange huts, such as Travelex, where you can exchange euros for pounds.
Yes, you will likely get a better exchange rate if you exchange your euros before arriving at the airport.
