How to Find a Better Exchange Rate at Brisbane Airport
Beat the airport exchange rates with a prepaid travel card
The aiport can be the most convenient option for buying travel money, but that convenience comes at a price: worse exchange rates and hidden fees.
With a prepaid travel card from Wise, you get the market exchange rate (the one you see on Google) with low fees and complete transparency.
Currency Exchange at Brisbane Airport
There are two ways you can change money:
1. Order your currency ahead of time and pick it up at the airport
This is by far, the cheapest way to buy currency at Brisbane airport. The exchange rates are much better than buying it over the counter.
It's really easy:
- Order your currency online and choose a pick up location as Brisbane Airport
- Pay for it using BPAY (and avoid the card fee!)
- Pick up your ordered currency
Please keep in mind, you'll avoid the card fee if you choose BPAY. The rate is locked in on the day you book the transaction. You can choose your pick up date but if you use BPAY, you'll need to allow at least 3 business days. Also, they offer a better rate for amounts above $2000 but have a maximum transaction size of $5000.
2. Buy currency straight at the airport
- Costs are higher, and you will be offered a worse exchange rate than other options
Save on the exchange rate by using a travel card
Tips to help you get a better rate
- 1
Don't leave it unitl the last minute
Most of the time, the best exchange rates are either online or in Brisbane CBD. If you are prepared, you can compare exchange rates online or over the phone, find the best deal and arrange to either buy it in person or online (picking it up later). Even ordering it online and picking it up at Brisbane airport is much cheaper than buying it over the counter just before you fly out. - 2
Avoid the most common fees
Exchange shops don't usually charge commission over the counter, however their exchange rates are considerably worse than outside Brisbane airport. If you are going to buy foreign currency online, you need to allow 3-4 business days before your trip to allow time to pick it up in time.
- 3
Buy abroad instead?
In some cases, it could work out better to purchase your foreign exchange in the country you are going to rather than exchanging it before you leave. Good examples are popular spots in Thailand, London and New Zealand (depending on where you go). The downside is that it is a lot harder to find the best exchange rate when you away from home and you are running a higher risk of being scammed.
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