Headed to Europe this summer? Here’s how expert travelers get their local currency

When it comes to traveling in Europe, seasoned travelers know that every little detail (especially how you get your money) can impact your experience and budget. Whether you’re heading to the sun-drenched Greek islands or wandering the cobbled streets of Edinburgh, having access to local currency (Euros or British pounds) when you need it is key.

So how do expert travelers handle it? Here’s the insider playbook.

1. They Use ATMs—but Not Just Any ATM

Forget the airport kiosks and currency exchange counters with flashing “No Commission!” signs. Savvy travelers head straight to ATMs once they arrive in-country. Why? Because using a debit card at a local bank ATM often gives you the best exchange rate, usually much better than what you’d get at an exchange bureau.

Pro Tips:

• Use ATMs attached to major banks (like Santander, Barclays, BNP Paribas) to avoid extra fees.
• Avoid stand-alone ATMs in tourist areas. They’re more likely to charge high fees and offer poor exchange rates.
• When the ATM asks if you’d like to “accept” the conversion, click NO/DECLINE. This is asking if you’d like the machine’s conversion rate, which is often NOT in your favor. Clicking NO/DECLINING will default to your bank’s conversion rate. See #3 below

2. They Bring the Right Debit Card

Not all debit cards are created equal. Smart travelers carry a travel-friendly debit card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees or ATM withdrawal fees. Banks like Charles Schwab, Fidelity, SoFi, and certain credit unions reimburse ATM fees globally and offer strong currency conversion rates.

What to Look For:

• No foreign transaction fees
• ATM fee reimbursements
• Favorable exchange rate policy (not padded with hidden charges)
• NOTE: If you’re planning to use a credit card at an ATM, you will most likely need the credit card PIN number. Because the US doesn’t use CC PIN numbers, you probably don’t have it remembered or on hand. Call you bank before you depart to get the number!

3. They Say “No” to Dynamic Currency Conversion

Ever been asked at an ATM or while shopping if you want to be charged in your home currency instead of the local one? Expert travelers always say NO. This so-called “convenience” is known as Dynamic Currency Conversion, and it typically comes with terrible exchange rates.

Golden Rule: Always choose to be charged in local currency—Euros in the EU, pounds in the UK.

4. They Avoid Carrying Too Much Cash

These days, most of Europe is highly card-friendly, especially in the UK and Western Europe. Expert travelers rarely carry large amounts of cash, relying instead on contactless payments, mobile wallets (like Apple Pay or Google Pay), and travel credit cards with zero foreign transaction fees.

That said, having a small amount of local currency is still a smart move, especially for tipping, small vendors, taxis, or rural areas.

Pro Tip: Withdraw around €200 or £200 at a time to avoid multiple fees but still travel light.

5. They Never Exchange Money at the Airport

Getting Euros or GBP at the airport before you leave the US might seem smart, but it’s rarely the most cost-effective choice. Airport kiosks tend to offer poor rates and additional service fees. Some US banks also assess service fees.

Instead, wait until you’re in your destination and use a trusted ATM (ideally outside the airport for even better rates).

6. They Keep a Backup Plan

Things happen. Cards get lost or blocked. The pros always travel with:

• A second debit or credit card from a different bank
• A little emergency cash in USD or EUR
• Apps like Revolut, Wise, or N26 that offer instant currency exchange and virtual cards

Smart Money = Smart Travel

Getting local currency as an expert traveler isn’t about being complicated… it’s about being strategic. With the right tools in your wallet and a bit of planning, you’ll spend less time worrying about cash and more time enjoying Europe’s hidden gems.