Currency Exchange At Charlotte Airport: What You Need To Know

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) offers currency exchange services to its passengers. CXI - Currency Exchange International has two locations in the airport, one at the Atrium and one near Concourse D. The service is available from 6:30 am to 8:00 pm every day. It is recommended that passengers compare exchange rates and fees before exchanging currency at the airport.

Charlotte Douglas International Airport currency exchange locations

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) has two currency exchange locations: one in the Atrium and one near Concourse D. Both are operated by Currency Exchange International (CXI), a leading provider of foreign currency exchange services in North America.

The Atrium location can be contacted on (980) 236-8555, while the Concourse D location can be reached on (704) 503-9730. Both locations are open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

CXI provides foreign currency exchange services for all passengers and employees at CLT. They carry most major currencies and can order exotic currencies with at least three business days' notice. CXI offers Currency Price Protection, allowing travellers to secure the best buy-back rate.

In addition to the CXI locations, there are Bank of America ATMs located near gates A1, B7, C9, and D6, as well as in the D/E Connector near the American Airlines Admirals Club, the Atrium near Hissho Sushi and Red Mango, the Arrivals/Baggage Claim level near the Visitor Info Center, and the Express Deck Preferred.

Currency Exchange International

CXI provides foreign currency exchange for all CLT passengers and employees. It carries most major currencies at all times, and for some exotic currencies, you can call to place an order at least three business days in advance. CXI also offers Currency Price Protection, which allows travellers to secure the ultimate buy-back rate when they return with foreign currency from their trip.

CXI's courteous and knowledgeable staff offer fast and convenient currency exchange services. They accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. However, valid government identification is required for all credit and debit card transactions, and additional costs for credit card transactions apply.

CXI's airport locations are open every day from 6:30 am to 8:00 pm.

Currency exchange rates and costs

Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) has two currency exchange locations: Currency Exchange International (CXI) in the Atrium and Concourse D. CXI provides foreign currency exchange services for all passengers and employees, carrying most major currencies and some exotic currencies if ordered in advance.

When exchanging money, the amount of foreign currency received is determined by the exchange rate minus any fees. Exchange rates fluctuate with changes in global markets, and the rate to look out for is the mid-market exchange rate, which can be found on Google or with a currency converter tool. Unfortunately, airport exchange offices often quote unfavourable rates with added percentage fees, making it challenging to determine the true cost of the exchange.

At CLT, the currency exchange services may charge an exchange rate markup, commission, or an exchange fee. While some providers claim to have no fees, their exchange rates may include additional costs. To calculate the actual expense, it is essential to consider both the quoted fees and the rate used for conversion.

• Multi-currency cards: Providers like Wise or Revolut offer multi-currency accounts where you can hold foreign currencies and make payments or withdrawals. Wise, for example, provides conversions at the mid-market exchange rate without markups or hidden fees.
• Travel cards: These cards are designed to load popular foreign currencies for spending and withdrawal. They have limited features and support fewer currencies than multi-currency cards.
• ATMs: Withdrawing cash in the local currency upon arrival at your destination can offer a fair exchange rate, but it's important to consider any fees imposed by your card issuer for foreign transactions and withdrawals.

When exchanging currency, it is recommended to plan ahead, compare exchange rates, and watch out for various fees, including commission and exchange charges. Additionally, using multi-currency accounts or travel cards can provide more favourable rates and flexible spending options.

Currency exchange alternatives

Currency Exchange International (CXI) is available at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, with two locations: one at the Atrium and one near Concourse D. CXI provides foreign currency exchange for all passengers and employees, carrying most major currencies and some exotic currencies if ordered in advance.

If you are looking for alternatives to traditional currency exchange, there are several digital currency exchange platforms and services available. These include:

• Binance: a global cryptocurrency exchange with a wide variety of digital assets.
• Coinbase: a digital currency wallet and platform that supports cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin, ethereum, and litecoin.
• Kraken: a platform that supports various digital currencies, including Bitcoin, Ether, Monero, and Litecoin, as well as traditional currencies like the US Dollar, Canadian Dollar, and Euro.
• Bitstamp: a trusted and regulated exchange that supports Bitcoin, Ether, Litecoin, and traditional currencies like the US Dollar and Euro.
• LocalBitcoins: a service that connects you with people in your area looking to buy or sell Bitcoin; it is easy to use but may be riskier due to the lack of an intermediary exchange.

Additionally, there are alternative money transfer companies to traditional banks, such as:

• Wise (formerly TransferWise): a global transfer provider with over 7 million customers, offering cost-effective transactions, a large range of currencies, and fast delivery.
• WorldFirst: a company offering 130 currencies to exchange and low transfer fees for bigger transactions, although there are high minimum transfer amounts.
• OFX: an Australian company with over 1 million customers, offering 55 currencies, a highly-rated app, and convenient transfer times.
• PayPal's Xoom service: a flexible and secure option with excellent reviews, although it can be more expensive for international money transfers.
• Remitly: a US-based company that supports transfers to over 50 countries, with a focus on facilitating transfers for workers sending money back to their home country.

Security tips for carrying cash at airports

Carrying large amounts of cash through an airport can be nerve-wracking, but it is legal to travel with cash, and with the right preparation, your journey can go smoothly. Here are some security tips to follow:

• Be aware of currency exchange services at the airport: If you are travelling internationally, you may be able to exchange currency at the airport. For example, Charlotte Douglas International Airport offers foreign currency exchange services through CXI - Currency Exchange International. With prior notice, CXI can provide most major currencies, and some exotic ones. This can save you the trouble of carrying large amounts of cash through airport security.
• Know the reporting requirements: When travelling internationally, you must declare if you are carrying more than $10,000 USD or its foreign equivalent. This can be done by filling out a FinCEN Form 105. Failure to declare may result in your cash being seized, and civil or criminal penalties may be imposed.
• Have the right documentation: Keep documentation such as bank statements, withdrawal slips, or other proof of the legitimate source of your funds. This is important for both domestic and international travel, as it can help you avoid suspicion and prove that your cash is not connected to any illegal activity.
• Use discreet storage: To avoid broadcasting that you are carrying valuables, use discreet storage options such as money belts, hidden wallet compartments, or concealed bags.
• Divide your cash: Instead of keeping all your cash in one place, divide it into smaller amounts and store it in different envelopes, bags, or pockets within your luggage and clothing. This reduces the risk of loss or theft.
• Consider direct flights: Opting for direct flights means you have to pass through security fewer times, reducing the risk of theft or unwanted attention.
• Register your luggage: If the airline loses your checked luggage, having it registered will make it easier to track and recover.
• Consider shipping your cash: Using a secure shipping service such as FedEx or UPS to transport your cash can be a safer alternative to carrying it with you.
• Be prepared for additional screening: If you are carrying a large sum of cash, expect that you may be subjected to additional screening, questioning, and bag searches. Remain calm and provide honest responses if questioned about the source and purpose of your cash.
• Know your rights: Understand your legal rights before travelling, especially if you are concerned about potential detention or searches. You have the right to refuse warrantless searches and to decline to answer questions about the amount of cash you are carrying.

Frequently asked questions