Currency Exchange At Vancouver Airport: What You Need To Know

If you're looking to exchange currency at Vancouver International Airport (YVR), you're in luck! The airport offers currency exchange services through International Currency Exchange (ICE), with 11 locations throughout the terminal. These include both pre-security and post-security options in the Domestic, International, and US areas of the airport. ICE offers competitive exchange rates and is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making it convenient for travellers to access currency exchange services at any time. Additionally, Vancouver Airport also has an ATM operated by the Royal Bank of Canada in the International Terminal on Level 3 before security.

Vancouver Airport currency exchange locations

Yes, Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has several currency exchange locations. ICE Currency Exchange has 11 locations within the airport, including:

• Domestic – Gate C29 (after security)
• Domestic – Level 3 (before security)
• Domestic – Gate B17 (after security)
• International – Gate D53 (after security)
• International – Level 2 (before and after security)
• International – Level 3 (before security)
• International – Gate D70 (after security)
• US – Gate E90 (after security)
• US – Level 3 (before security)
• US – Gate E84 (after security)

The ICE Currency Exchange locations offer services such as foreign currency exchange, travel insurance, SIM cards, pre-paid CAD credit cards, fax, and photocopy services. They also offer an online foreign currency reservation service called "Click and Collect", where you can get the best rate and only pay upon pickup.

In addition to the ICE Currency Exchange locations, there are a few alternative ways to get foreign currency. You can use an ATM at your destination to withdraw cash in the local currency. However, it is important to check with your bank beforehand to understand the associated fees. Alternatively, if you have friends or family abroad, you can use a service like Wise to send money to their bank accounts in various countries, including Canada.

Currency exchange operating hours

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) has currency exchange services provided by International Currency Exchange (ICE). ICE has 11 locations across the airport, with varying operating hours.

The ICE location before security in the international terminal (Level 3) operates 24 hours a day, the only branch in British Columbia to do so. This branch is located inside the first International Departure Gate when coming up the ramp.

The other 10 locations and their contact numbers are as follows:

• Domestic - Gate C29 - After Security: +1-604-656-1714
• Domestic - Level 3 - Before Security: +1-604-656-1708
• Domestic - Gate B17 - After Security: +1-604-656-1709
• International - Gate D53 - After Security: +1-604-656-1707
• International - Level 2 - Before Security
• International - Level 2 - After Security
• International - Level 3 - Before Security: +1-604-656-1704
• International - Gate D70 - After Security: +1-604-244-7528
• US - Gate E90 - After Security: +1-604-656-1706
• US - Level 3 - Before Security: +1-604-656-1705
• US - Gate E84 - After Security: +1-604-656-1704

The operating hours for these locations vary according to the flight schedule, so it is recommended to check online before visiting the airport.

Currency exchange alternatives

While Vancouver International Airport (YVR) does have currency exchange services, it's worth noting that airport currency exchange services often come with higher fees and less competitive exchange rates compared to other options. Here are some alternatives to consider:

ATM withdrawals:

Using an ATM at your destination can be a good way to obtain local currency. Check the terms and conditions of your card before travelling to understand the associated costs. Keep an eye out for Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) and additional fees from your bank or the ATM provider.

Online reservation and pick-up:

ICE Currency Exchange, the provider at YVR, offers an online foreign currency reservation service called "Click and Collect". You can reserve online and benefit from their best rates, only paying at pick-up. This can be more convenient and cost-effective than exchanging currency at the airport.

Digital options:

Some exchange providers at YVR may offer digital currency exchange options, allowing you to exchange currency using your smartphone or other digital devices. For example, Remitbee offers competitive rates and the ability to send and receive funds internationally.

Currency exchange outside the airport:

If you have the time, consider comparing rates offered by different exchange providers outside the airport. Shopping around may help you find more favourable rates and save on fees.

Currency exchange rates

• Domestic - Gate C29 - After Security
• Domestic - Level 3 - Before Security
• International - Level 2 - Before Security
• International - Level 3 - Before Security
• US - Level 3 - Before Security

ICE also offers online foreign currency reservation services, allowing customers to reserve online and collect their currency at the airport. While ICE does not publish its exchange rates online, it claims to offer great rates for several different currencies.

In addition to ICE, Vancouver Airport also has an ATM operated by the Royal Bank of Canada in the International Terminal on Level 3 before security. ATM exchange rates are usually set by the network that issued your card (e.g. Visa or Mastercard) and can be a good option for getting local currency, provided you are not charged high fees by your bank or the ATM provider.

If you are looking for the most fair exchange rate, consider using a service like Wise, which always exchanges Canadian dollars at the mid-market exchange rate.

Currency exchange fees

Currency exchange services are a common necessity for travellers, but they rarely come for free. Fees can significantly impact how much money you receive, so it's important to know what to expect.

Commission Fees

Many currency exchange services charge a commission fee, which is generally either a percentage of the transaction or a flat rate. Banks, for example, may charge a 1-3% commission on foreign currency exchanges.

Service Fees

Service fees are common in airport exchange booths and tourist-heavy locations, where convenience drives up the price. These cover handling and administrative costs.

Foreign Transaction Fees

Foreign transaction fees are incurred when withdrawing currency from a foreign ATM or making purchases with a credit card abroad. These are typically around 1-3%.

Minimum Fees

Certain providers impose minimum fees, which can disproportionately affect those exchanging small amounts of currency. Banks often have minimum exchange amounts for foreign currencies.

Conversion Fees

When exchanging non-local currency for another foreign currency, fees can be higher due to double conversion charges.

Reducing Currency Exchange Fees

To avoid high fees, it is recommended to exchange currency at your bank or credit union, which will likely offer better rates and lower fees. Some banks may even waive fees for premium account holders. Exchanging currency at home will also help you to avoid the higher fees associated with foreign exchange abroad. Online platforms like Wise (formerly TransferWise), OFX and Revolut often provide better rates and lower fees than banks or airport kiosks.

Frequently asked questions