Foreign Currency Exchange

Passport? Check. Bags packed? Almost. But before you head to the airport, don’t forget one of the easiest things to overlook: having the right currency in your wallet. When you’re leaving the country, the Community Currency Exchange Association (CCEA) makes it easy to exchange currency close to home. Just got back? You can exchange leftover foreign currency, too.

Benefits of Using CCEA for Foreign Currency Exchange

When you have a big international trip coming up, a little planning goes a long way. Start your trip on a good note. Have money in your pocket for taxis, tips, and small purchases the moment you land. You won’t have to find an ATM or currency exchange before you can get settled. That’s one less thing to figure out after a long flight.

Don’t have time for one more errand before your trip? CCEA’s member locations make it easy. With locations across Illinois, you can stop by somewhere nearby while you’re out running errands or heading home from work. Heading out of town in a few days? We got you covered. Just got back from your trip? Turn in your leftover foreign currency for American dollars.

Going someplace that’s not a common travel destination? CCEA member locations can order foreign currency that isn’t currently in stock. Stop in ahead of time, and let us know what you need. We’ll order your currency and help you get ready for the trip. Call ahead to ask about availability and see how long the order will take. That way, you can plan ahead and have your money ready before you leave.

How Foreign Currency Exchange Works

Getting your travel money ready is simple.

Step 1: Bring what you need. Have your U.S. dollars ready if you’re buying foreign currency, or bring your leftover foreign currency if you’re exchanging it back. Identification or other requirements may vary by transaction, so check with your local location before you visit.

Step 2: Stop by a CCEA member location near you. Walk in at your own convenience. No appointment needed.

Step 3: Tell us what you’re looking for. Buying foreign currency? Exchanging it back? Need to order a currency that isn’t in stock? Let your local CCEA member location know what you’re looking for. Complete the exchange, and leave with the currency you need. One more thing checked off your travel list.

Foreign Currency Exchange FAQs

Should I exchange currency before traveling?

Need to flag a taxi once you land at your destination? Want to have a quick lunch before you settle at your hotel? You can handle your currency exchange before you leave instead of figuring it out after you arrive.

What currencies are available? 

Common currencies readily available include euros, Canadian dollars, British pounds, and Mexican pesos. Availability can vary, so call your local CCEA member location before you visit to ask whether the currency you need is in stock.

How much foreign currency should I exchange?

Think about where you’re going and what you’ll need cash for. Taxis? Tips? Meals? Small purchases? Get a little cash ready before you leave so you’re not figuring it out after you land.

Get Ready for Your Next Trip!

Big trip coming up? Stop by your local CCEA member location and get what you need before you go. Find a location near you today.