Buying Dollars

 
Please help!  I am going to America next Saturday.  Its my first time.
I know I can buy dollars through my bank, but was wondering if it might
be cheaper to use my debit card.  Its a Maestro/Cirrus.  Will I be able
to use it?  and will I be stung with exorbitant charges?  Any info
would be very gratefully recieved.  Many thanks in advance.




--
Mini

 

That totally depends on the exchange rate.  As your bank would control the
exchange rate on both transactions, there should (theoretically) be no
difference.  However, if you are thinking of using a ATM in America (the
United States), you might get hit with fees for using that ATM by both the
servicing bank (in the U.S.) and by YOUR OWN bank (back home).  I think your
best bet would be to check the exchange rates at various banks where you are
now.  Also, check the yellow pages for banks in the United States, near your
hotel.  Call a couple of them and ask them what the exchange rate is, and if
there are any other fees involved in the transaction.  -Dave

 Mini wrote:

id go to your banks website and see if theres a FAQ on something like
that. or call and ask?

 

Check with your bank about any currency conversion fees, but in all
likelihood, you'll get the most favorable currency conversion rate by
using your debit and credit cards in the states.

 On Sat, 29 Jul 2006 18:41:12 +0000, Mini


Use your home bank for USD purchases. The problems of finding a good
rate for UK pounds at a US bank is unlikely to be better than your
home bank.  The hassle of finding a suitable US financial institution
is not with the wee bit of exchange advantage you might get.  Carrying
cash avoids a lot of anxiety when on the move.