Planning a trip to Europe and wondering Where Can You Get Euros In The Us? Securing your foreign currency before you travel is a crucial step, but navigating the options can feel overwhelming. While airport kiosks and hotels might seem convenient, they often come with hefty fees and unfavorable exchange rates. The good news is, there are smarter, more cost-effective ways to obtain Euros right here in the United States.
This guide will walk you through the various avenues for getting Euros in the US, from traditional methods like banks and currency exchange services to modern, savvy solutions like the Wise Multi-Currency Card. We’ll help you understand the pros and cons of each option, empowering you to make the best choice for your travel needs and ensuring you get the most Euros for your dollars.
Traditional Options: Banks and Credit Unions
Many people first consider their local bank or credit union when looking to get Euros in the US. Indeed, most major banks offer foreign currency exchange services. However, it’s essential to understand the nuances of this route to avoid unnecessary costs.
Banks: A Familiar but Potentially Costly Route
Banks like Wells Fargo, Citi, and Bank of America are common starting points for those seeking to buy Euros in the US. They offer the convenience of ordering currency online, by phone, or in person.
- Wells Fargo¹: Existing customers can order Euros online, in a branch, or by phone. Delivery options include home delivery (2-7 days, availability dependent on location) and branch pick-up.
- Citi²: Citi account holders can order over 50 foreign currencies, including Euros, by phone. Next business day delivery to your address is available with fees starting at $10 (waived for certain account holders). Branch delivery is free. Citi claims to offer “competitive currency exchange rates.”
- Bank of America³: BoA customers can purchase Euros online with no stated fees, but as mentioned, charges are often embedded within the exchange rate. Same-day shipping is available for orders placed before 2 pm. Delivery fees may apply for orders under $1,000, or branch pickup is an option where available.
Key Considerations when using Banks:
- Exchange Rates: Banks often don’t offer the most favorable exchange rates. They typically add a margin to the mid-market exchange rate (the real exchange rate you see on Google or XE.com), which is where their profit lies. This margin can significantly reduce the amount of Euros you receive for your dollars.
- Fees: While some banks advertise “no fees,” this often means the fees are incorporated into the less favorable exchange rate. Always scrutinize the total cost, considering both stated fees and the exchange rate offered.
- Customer Requirement: Generally, you need to be an existing customer of the bank to use their foreign currency exchange services.
- Time: Ordering through banks can take several days for delivery or branch pickup. Plan ahead to ensure you receive your Euros in time for your trip.
To maximize value when using banks:
- Compare Exchange Rates: Always compare the bank’s offered exchange rate to the mid-market rate before committing.
- Inquire about all Fees: Ask for a complete breakdown of all fees involved, including service fees and delivery charges.
Currency Exchange Services: Convenience at a Price
Currency exchange services, also known as travel money providers, offer another avenue to get Euros in the US. Companies like Currency Exchange International (CXI) provide a quick and accessible way to exchange currency, often with options for online ordering and home delivery or branch pickup.
Currency Exchange International (CXI)⁴:
CXI is a prominent player in the US currency exchange market, boasting numerous branches and online ordering capabilities.
- Best Rate Guarantee: CXI claims to match or beat exchange rates from local banks or airports (conditions apply), which could be beneficial if you find a better rate elsewhere.
- Fast Delivery: Online orders can be delivered as quickly as the next day in certain areas, offering speed and convenience.
- Transparency Concerns: Exchange rates and fees are not readily available online, requiring users to sign up or visit a branch for details. This lack of transparency can make it difficult to compare CXI’s rates with other options upfront.
- Variable Rates: Exchange rates may differ between CXI branch locations, so it’s worth checking rates at multiple branches if possible.
Key Considerations for Currency Exchange Services:
- Convenience vs. Cost: Currency exchange services prioritize convenience. While they may be faster than banks, their exchange rates and fees can still be less competitive than alternative solutions.
- Hidden Costs: Be vigilant about hidden fees and unfavorable exchange rates. Always ask for the exact exchange rate and any applicable commissions or service charges before proceeding.
- Location: While CXI and similar services have branches, they may not be conveniently located for everyone, potentially requiring extra travel.
The Smart Traveler’s Choice: Wise Multi-Currency Card
Beyond traditional banks and currency exchange services, a modern and increasingly popular solution to get Euros in the US (and spend them in Europe) is the Wise Multi-Currency Card. This card offers a fundamentally different approach to foreign currency, potentially saving you significant money and hassle.
Wise Multi-Currency Card: A Game Changer for Euro Travel:
- Spend and Withdraw Euros Directly: The Wise card allows you to spend and withdraw cash in Euros (and 175 other countries) without needing to exchange currency in advance.
- Mid-Market Exchange Rate: Wise uses the mid-market exchange rate for currency conversions, the fairest rate available, without hidden markups. This alone can lead to substantial savings compared to banks and exchange services.
- Low, Transparent Fees⁵: Wise charges only a small, transparent conversion fee, or no fee at all if you already hold Euros in your Wise account. You’ll know exactly what you’re paying upfront.
- Free ATM Withdrawals: You can withdraw up to $100 USD equivalent in foreign currency per month for free from international ATMs.
- Convenience and Flexibility: Manage your account and card through the Wise app, easily converting currencies and tracking your spending.
Why the Wise Multi-Currency Card is a Superior Option:
- Cost-Effective: By utilizing the mid-market exchange rate and low fees, Wise typically offers a much cheaper way to access Euros compared to banks and exchange services, especially over time and multiple transactions.
- Transparent Pricing: Wise is upfront about its fees and exchange rates, eliminating hidden costs and surprises.
- Global Convenience: The card works in 175 countries, making it an ideal travel companion for international trips beyond just Europe.
- Security: Avoid carrying large amounts of cash by using your Wise card for everyday spending.
In conclusion, when considering where can you get Euros in the US, the Wise Multi-Currency Card stands out as a leading option for savvy travelers. It bypasses the traditional, often expensive, routes of banks and exchange services, offering a more transparent, cost-effective, and convenient way to manage your Euros and other foreign currencies.
Order a Wise Multi-Currency Card today
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest way to get euros in the US?
Comparing exchange rates and fees is crucial. While banks and currency exchange services are options, the Wise Multi-Currency Card often emerges as the cheapest method due to its use of the mid-market exchange rate and low, transparent fees.
Can you get euros at the US Post Office?
No, the US Postal Service (USPS) provides international money transfer services but does not sell foreign currency directly.
Can you get Euros from US banks?
Yes, many US banks offer Euro exchange services, and some provide home delivery for added convenience (often with associated fees).
Should I exchange money before I travel to Europe?
Unless you are using a multi-currency card like the Wise card, exchanging currency before traveling to Europe is generally advisable. Airports and hotels typically offer very unfavorable exchange rates and charge high fees, making them expensive places to exchange currency upon arrival.
Sources used for this article:
Sources checked on 18-Jan-2023.
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