Getting Euros in US

[rimau]

Has anyone gotten euros from an on-line company? Are the rates a lot better than from a bank?

[calliopecruiser]

I never have, but I wouldn't risk it for the small amount I carry with me. My recommendation would be to get the bulk of your Euros from an ATM in Europe, and only carry enough for a cab to your hotel and a couple of coffees you may want on the way.

[Zach1213]

I too say don't bother. I did that once and it was a waste of money and time. Much easier and cheaper to just stop at the ATM after clearing immigration/customs at the airport. Just alert your bank ahead of time that you will be using your card abroad.

[Keith1010]

I would wait till you arrive to Europe and get in then. If you must get some now, check with your local bank.

 

Keith

[paul929207]

Check with your bank and the online company to see which is best if you want to get Euros before you leave. As others have said, I use my ATM card in Europe.

[skandls]

If you are flying - there are money exchanges at international airports. The rates are not very good but to get a little for the first taxi and bathroom change they work well.

[maryann ns]

There is no need to use money exchanges. There are always ATMs at airports. If you are not sure you can easily check before you go.

[Dayenu]

Once I landed in a European airport where only one ATM was working, and this ATM had a long line of backpackers. Add to this the jetlag...

 

We order local currency enough for one day from our bank. Yes, we lose money on exchange rate, but for $50-$100 we think it's negligeable (sorry if misspelled) - so we don't have to worry about paying for taxi or shuttle, getting an ice-cream or coffee, etc...

 

After that, ATMs.

[Azulann]

I always get some local currency from my bank before a trip outside the US. i get some smaller demoninations for taixs small purchases.

Then I use the ATM machine only once or twice and take out the max for the day.

[marco]

You'll get a better rate using ATM's and I've never NOT seen an ATM in ANY airport in Europe.

[grandmacani]

If you would want to have some spare Euros in the pocket, AAA has what they call a tip pack. just enough small denominations to pick up a bus, taxi or give a tip. I havent purchased one yet but will just to have some small change.

[CapeCodCruiser]

I always bring some home with me so I have some for the start of my next trip! Honey...we have to go back to Europe - I have these Euros to spend!:D