How to get pound sterling before traveling to London
If you’ve ever traveled abroad, you know that getting the right currency can sometimes be a challenge. When you’re traveling to London it is no exception—you’ll need to have British pound sterling, or GBP, on hand to make your trip successful. It is always preferable to get your currency before you arrive rather than trying to exchange it at the airport when you land. In this article, we’ll look at how to get pound sterling before traveling to London.
Ordering Currency in Person
One of the most popular ways to get pound sterling prior to your trip is to order your currency in person from a bank. Many banks in the United States, Canada, and other countries sell British pound sterling. You will need to order the currency in advance of your trip and make sure you pick it up in person when it is ready. The advantage of ordering in person is that you can get the currency quickly and get good exchange rates.
If you’re ordering from a bank, make sure to bring your passport so that you can prove your identity. You also will need to present a form of payment, usually a credit or debit card. The bank will exchange your currency for the equivalent amount of British pound sterling. However, it is important to remember that banks have high fees for currency exchanges that can add up quickly when you’re exchanging a large amount of money.
Ordering Currency Online
Another popular option for obtaining pound sterling is to order it online. There are a number of online exchange services that offer currency conversion services. The advantage of ordering online is that you can often get better exchange rates than you would receive at a bank. Additionally, you can order the currency in advance of your trip, and it will be delivered right to your door. However, you should always look at the fees associated with the online service before you order, as they can vary significantly from provider to provider.
When ordering currency online, you will need to provide your payment information, as well as proof of identity. You will usually be asked to provide a copy of your passport or other form of government-issued ID. Once you’ve completed the paperwork, you will be able to order the currency and have it delivered to you. Depending on the provider, you may have the option to have the currency shipped to you, or to pick it up at a local branch.
Using ATMs
Another great option for obtaining pound sterling is to use a local ATM machine. Most ATM machines in London will dispense British pound sterling, and you can use your regular bank card to make a withdrawal. The exchange rate will usually be very competitive, and you can get the money quickly and conveniently without having to order it in advance. However, you may incur additional fees when using an ATM machine, so make sure to check with your bank before you begin your trip.
When using an ATM, it is important to make sure that the machine does accept the currency you’re trying to withdraw. Many machines will only dispense Euros, not pound sterling, so you should double check before you proceed. Additionally, you should also read the fine print associated with the machine to make sure you understand any fees or charges that may be charged.
Where to Exchange Currency
Once you’ve arrived in London, you may still need to exchange currency. If you need to exchange pound sterling for Euros, US dollars, or any other currency, there are a few options available. If you’re staying in a hotel, many of them offer currency exchange services. Additionally, there are a number of bureau de change (currency exchange) offices located around the city, where you can buy foreign currency for cash.
It is always best to shop around when exchanging currency, as the exchange rate can vary significantly from one provider to another. You should also read the fine print associated with the exchange to make sure you understand any fees or charges associated with the exchange.
Using Cash and Credit Cards
It is important to remember that using cash or credit cards is often the easiest and most convenient way to get British pound sterling in London. Most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept major credit cards, and you can withdraw cash from ATMs with a debit card. The exchange rate will depend on the card you use, but in general you can expect a competitive rate.
When using a credit or debit card, it is important to be aware of any fees or charges associated with the transaction. If you’re using a foreign credit or debit card, you may be charged an additional fee for the transaction. Additionally, any cash withdrawals you make from an ATM will usually have an associated fees. The good news is that you can get the best exchange rate when using a card, so make sure to factor this into your decision when deciding how to get British pound sterling before traveling to London.
Using Exchange Services
Finally, there are a number of exchange services available online that can help you exchange your currency for British pound sterling. These services are often convenient and offer competitive exchange rates. However, they may charge additional fees when converting your currency, so make sure to read the fine print before making your exchange.
When using an exchange service, you will usually have to provide proof of identity, as well as proof of address. Additionally, you will need to provide payment information to complete the transaction. The exchange service will usually mail the currency to you, or you can pick it up in person at a local branch.
Conclusion
Getting British pound sterling before traveling to London is essential for any successful trip abroad. With a little bit of planning and research, you can make sure that you have the currency on hand for any purchases you may need to make. Ordering in person, online, or through an exchange service are all viable options, but make sure you read the associated fees before you make your purchase. Additionally, using a credit or debit card is often the most convenient way to get the currency you need. With these tips in mind, you can make sure you have the right currency on hand for your next trip abroad.
