Is It Better to Exchange Currency Before You Travel or in London?

Many travellers like the reassurance of having some cash ready before they set off. This can be especially useful for covering taxis, tips, or small expenses when you first land. Having money in your pocket straight away means you don't need to worry about finding a bureau the moment you arrive.

That said, there are some limitations to exchanging everything before your journey. Carrying large sums of cash while travelling increases the risk of losing it or having it stolen, which can quickly turn into a stressful situation. Exchanging all of your money in advance also removes the flexibility to benefit from London's competitive rates, which are often better than those available abroad.

Because of this, many people choose to exchange only a small amount before they leave. This way, they have money to hand for immediate expenses but still keep most of their funds to exchange in London where the market is more competitive.

London is a global financial centre and one of the best places in the world to exchange money. The city has a wide choice of specialist bureaux like Sterling FX, who are dedicated to providing transparent and competitive rates. Unlike the limited options you might find in airports or tourist kiosks abroad, London offers a diverse market where you can compare rates and choose a provider you trust.

If you are exchanging euros in particular, it's worth checking Sterling FX's best euro rate on the high street, which regularly beats banks and airports.

Exchanging in London also gives you flexibility. You can decide how much to exchange once you have a clearer picture of your spending needs and take advantage of real-time rates. For visitors, this means excellent value and convenience. For Londoners preparing to travel abroad, it means being able to secure a good deal without having to go far from home.

For many travellers, the ideal solution is to combine both approaches. Exchanging a small amount before departure ensures you are covered for essentials as soon as you arrive, while leaving the bulk of your currency exchange until you are in London allows you to take advantage of excellent rates.

Sterling FX makes this process straightforward by publishing live exchange rates online, so you can check prices in advance and plan accordingly. This means you can enjoy peace of mind before your trip, while still keeping the flexibility to get great value in London.

It's not uncommon to return from a trip with leftover notes and coins. Rather than letting them sit unused in a drawer, you can sell your travel money back at competitive rates. Sterling FX offers a currency buy-back service, making it easy to turn unused cash back into pounds. This means you never have to worry about exchanging too much, as you can simply sell back what you don't spend.

Sterling FX also offers a convenient Click & Collect service. This allows you to order your currency online in advance and then pick it up in person at their London branch. It's a simple way to secure today's rates and avoid the uncertainty of leaving everything until the last minute. For busy travellers or those carrying larger sums, Click & Collect combines the ease of online booking with the reassurance of in-store service.

Sterling FX's London branch is located at:

105 Edgware Road
Marble Arch
London
W2 2HX

The bureau is close to several major Underground stations, including Marble Arch, Edgware Road and Baker Street, making it easy to reach from anywhere in the city.

Telephone: +44 (0)20 7723 3000
Fax: +44 (0)20 7723 063

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to exchanging money. It is always best to avoid last-minute exchanges at airports, where rates are typically less competitive. Checking live prices before you visit a bureau will give you confidence that you are securing good value. Choosing a trusted provider such as Sterling FX means you know exactly what you are getting, with no hidden surprises. For larger sums, ordering in advance is a smart way to lock in a favourable rate and collect it when it suits you.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether to exchange currency before you travel or once you are in London. Having some cash in hand before departure can make the start of your journey smoother, but London stands out as one of the best cities in the world for competitive exchange rates and trusted service.

By combining the two approaches and relying on reputable providers such as Sterling FX, you can enjoy both convenience and excellent value, ensuring your money goes further on your next trip abroad. Start planning your trip with confidence today by checking the latest live rates at Sterling FX.