Currency Exchange: Available At Miami Airport?

Miami International Airport, the 10th busiest airport in the US, offers currency exchange services at various locations throughout the airport. While it is convenient to exchange currency at the airport, it is important to note that airport currency exchanges often offer unfavourable exchange rates and high fees. In most cases, exchanging currency before arriving at the airport or using a ATM or prepaid travel card can result in better rates and lower fees. However, for those who require currency exchange services at Miami Airport, there are several options available, including currency exchange booths, ICE currency exchange desks, and a branch of Bank of America.

Currency exchange desks at Miami Airport

Currency exchange desks can be found at Miami International Airport, offering exchanges of more than 50 currencies. There are six ICE currency exchange desks, located in each of the North, Central, and South terminals, as well as a branch of Bank of America. While convenient, airport currency exchanges are known for offering low exchange rates and charging high fees.

If you're looking to get the best value for your money, it's recommended to plan in advance. Ordering your currency online before travelling can often get you a better exchange rate than on-the-spot exchanges at the airport. You can then collect your cash at the airport as you pass through. ICE offers this service at Miami Airport, but be sure to check their opening hours, as these vary depending on the location.

Another option is to withdraw cash from an ATM when you arrive at the airport. ATMs can be found throughout the airport, and you'll usually get a fair exchange rate, provided you don't get caught out by Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC). DCC is when you're asked if you want to be charged in your home currency rather than the local currency, which often results in a poor exchange rate and higher fees.

If you have a US bank account or a local bank account at your destination, you can avoid international ATM fees and other costs by making a low-cost international transfer to cover your spending money. You can then withdraw cash from fee-free ATMs when you arrive in the US. Alternatively, you can get a multi-currency debit card, which is linked to a borderless account that allows you to hold your cash in multiple currencies and switch between them as needed.

ATM withdrawals

Miami International Airport, the 10th busiest airport in the US, offers currency exchange services at six ICE currency exchange desks and a branch of Bank of America, located in each of the North, Central, and South terminals. However, airport currency exchanges are known for their unfavourable exchange rates and high fees.

If you need to withdraw cash, there are ATMs located throughout the airport. Using your foreign bank card at these ATMs will likely incur international ATM fees and other costs. If you have a US bank account or a local currency card for your destination, you can avoid these fees and withdraw cash from fee-free ATMs when you arrive in the US.

It is recommended to check with your bank about their policies on overseas withdrawals and transactions. If you are withdrawing cash from an ATM using your foreign bank card, be aware of Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC). With DCC, you are asked if you would like to be charged in your home currency rather than the local one, which often results in a poor exchange rate and higher fees.

To get a better exchange rate, consider ordering your cash online for collection at the airport or purchasing a prepaid travel money card before your trip. Alternatively, you can withdraw a small amount of dollars from an ATM at the airport and then exchange the rest of your currency in the city, where you may find more favourable rates.

Prepaid travel cards

Additionally, prepaid travel cards provide security and peace of mind. If the card is lost or stolen, it can be replaced, and the funds can be recovered. Some cards also offer insurance benefits, although these may vary by card issuer. It is always a good idea to check with the card issuer about the specific terms, conditions, and exclusions of the prepaid travel card.

When choosing a prepaid travel card, it is important to consider the associated fees and charges. Some cards may have loading fees, monthly fees, or foreign exchange fees. However, there are cards available that have no fees or charges for spending or withdrawing money from ATMs overseas. It is worth shopping around and comparing different cards to find the one that best suits your needs.

Currency exchange in Miami city

Miami International Airport (MIA) offers currency exchange services, with desks in each of the North, Central and South terminals, as well as a branch of Bank of America. However, it's worth noting that airport currency exchanges often come with high fees and unfavourable exchange rates.

If you're looking for a better deal, there are plenty of other options in Miami city itself. Lincoln Currency Exchange in Miami Beach/South Beach, for example, offers over 80 types of foreign currency and is conveniently located if you're heading straight from the airport to the beach. This branch is open until 9 pm every day except Sunday when it closes at 7 pm.

For those who speak Spanish or are looking to exchange dollars to euros, there is a currency exchange in the Dadeland Mall that promises to match or beat same-day exchange rates offered by local banks. This branch is also easily accessible from the airport.

If you're a local resident planning an overseas trip and you'd like to organise some foreign currency beforehand, First Citizens Bank in Coral Gables offers helpful customer service and rates that should be in line with market value.

Alternatively, you could consider ordering your cash online for collection at the airport or purchasing a prepaid travel money card, which often offers better exchange rates than on-the-spot exchanges.

Currency exchange online

Currency exchange services are available at Miami International Airport, with several options to choose from. However, airport currency exchanges are often criticised for their low exchange rates and high fees.

If you're looking to get the best value for your money, it's recommended to explore currency exchange online before your trip. This allows you to compare rates and find the most competitive deals. Several online platforms, such as OANDA and Xe, offer currency exchange services. They provide access to real-time exchange rates, historical data, and currency conversion tools for various world currencies, precious metals, and commodities. Some platforms also offer additional features, such as rate trend analysis and IBAN validation for international transfers.

By using these online services, you can order the desired currency in advance and have it delivered or made available for collection before your trip. This approach can help you secure a better exchange rate and avoid the potentially unfavourable rates and fees associated with airport currency exchanges.

Additionally, consider using a multi-currency debit card, such as the one offered by Wise, which allows you to hold your money in multiple currencies and make withdrawals or purchases at ATMs and shops with a transparent mid-market exchange rate and minimal fees.

Frequently asked questions