Should you exchange currency before you leave or when you arrive at your destination?

Not sure whether to sort your travel money before leaving Australia or once you arrive? Here's what Aussie travellers need to know to make the best decision. 

 

Many Australians put a lot of thought into flights, accommodation, and daily itineraries — but often leave travel money to the last minute. The question of when and where to exchange your currency isn’t just about convenience — it can affect your entire travel budget, safety, and peace of mind. 

 

Sorting your travel money in advance offers multiple benefits — from better rates to less stress. Let’s take a closer look:

When you reserve your currency online with a trusted provider like Prosegur Change, you lock in your exchange rate with 0% commission. This protects you from rate fluctuations and avoids airport kiosk markups or foreign ATM surprises.

Having your cash ready means one less thing to worry about. No scrambling in a new country, no last-minute stress. Especially helpful when arriving late at night or during public holidays when currency services may be closed.

Not every airport or currency booth stocks less common currencies. If you're heading to Southeast Asia, South America or even Eastern Europe, it's safer to book your currency — like Thai Baht, Indonesian Rupiah or Hungarian Forint — before you go.

You’ll be carrying cash during your journey, so plan accordingly. Use a secure travel wallet and avoid carrying all your cash in one place.

Also, if exchange rates drop after booking, you won’t benefit — but the certainty of knowing your exact cost can be worth it.

 

Some travellers prefer the flexibility of exchanging money after landing. This may work in certain situations — but comes with some potential pitfalls.

In popular tourist destinations, currency exchange booths and ATMs are often available — especially in major cities. You might have time to shop around (if you're not in a rush).

Depending on your destination, local exchange outlets may offer slightly better retail rates. But this is hit or miss — and rarely the case at airports, hotels, or tourist hotspots.

You might also face hidden fees, card surcharges, or foreign ATM limits. Plus, availability isn’t guaranteed — especially outside business hours or in rural areas.

 

A bit of planning can go a long way. Here’s how to get the best of both worlds: 

Before you go: 

• Reserve your currency online in Australia to secure a better rate and avoid last-minute stress. 
• Use Prosegur Change’s branch locator to pick up your order at the airport or a convenient location. 

While abroad: 

• Use a mix of cash and card — cash for smaller expenses and places that don’t accept cards (like local markets), and card for larger or emergency purchases. 
• Avoid airport kiosks and hotel front desks for currency exchange. 
• Withdraw from ATMs only if you understand the foreign transaction fees involved. 

 

At Prosegur Change, we make it easy to prepare for your trip with confidence: 

• Reserve online in just a few clicks. 
• Lock in your exchange rate with 0% commission. 
• Pick up from one of our 15+ branches, including major Australian airports. 
• Trusted by Prosegur, with over 30 years of experience helping Aussie travellers. 

With more than 50 currencies available — including exotic ones — you can rest assured that your money will be ready when you are. 

 

Still unsure? Here are answers to frequent Aussie questions about exchanging money before flying: 

 

When it comes to your travel money, timing matters. Exchanging your currency before departure means peace of mind, locked-in rates, and more time to enjoy your destination. 

Reserve your foreign currency today with Prosegur Change and travel smarter, safer, and stress-free. 

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