Are you visiting Seattle for the first time and are looking for currency exchange? Many visitors prefer a quick currency exchange in Seattle at the airports and hotels, but it is not always the best option. Hence, we have tailored a comprehensive guide to understanding the nitty-gritty of the Currency Exchange in Seattle. It will not only save you from unfavorable exchange rates but also help prepare for your next trip.
Seattle’s Currency: All You Need to Know about the Us Dollar
Source
On visiting any foreign land, it is often best to know about its local currency and denominations. Being the largest city in Washington, USA, Seattle uses the dollar as its currency. It is one of the major currencies in the world and owing to the market forces, the value of USD often fluctuates. Symbolized as-$, the American dollar does not just consist of paper money but also includes coins. The paper money comes in seven denominations: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100, whereas the coins come in denominations, ranging from 1 to 50 cents. One cent is known as the penny, 5 cents is nickel, 10 cents is the dime, and 25 cents is a quarter.
Currency Exchange in Seattle: Where and How?
Seattle houses two gigantic Foreign Exchange services: Travelex and Currency Exchange International. Both these outlets offer the best rates for currency exchange in Seattle. Moreover, there are also numerous Financial Centers and ATMs for currency exchange in Seattle.
4 Places for Currency Exchange in Seattle
1. Travelex Currency Services
Source
Travelex Currency Services is one of the world’s leading independent foreign exchange services. Not only can one pick their desired currency from across 200 Travelex stores, but it can also be home delivered. Along with the currency exchange services, Travelex also provides Travelex Money Card and cashes traveler cheques.
1. Address: 400 Pine St, Seattle, WA 98101 Contact information: (206) 682-4525
2. Address: 17802 Air Cargo Rd, Seattle, WA 98158 Contact Information: (206) 248-0401
Timings: 10.00 AM to 6.00 PM, Sunday-Closed Website: www.travelex.com
2. Currency Exchange International
Source
Spread across several locations in the United States, the Currency Exchange International aims to provide the best quality foreign exchange service across Seattle. With a service network of over 100 retail locations, some company-owned and others affiliated, their services are available seven days a week. Not only does Currency Exchange International offer foreign currency exchange, but it also provides Prepaid MasterCard, Multi-Currency Cash Passport to its clients.
The CXI is also known to cash US traveler cheque, American Express Foreign, and selling of Canadian Maple Leaf Coins, American Eagle Coins gold bullions, and Royal Canadian Mint Bars. With a quick exchange process and unbeatable rates, in comparison to the local banks and airport rates, the CXI accounts for the best foreign currency exchange service in Seattle.
2. Address: 184th Street Southwest, Alderwood Mall Parkway, Lynnwood, WA 98037 Contact Information: (425) 670-0622
Timings: 11.00 AM to 7.00 PM, Sunday: 12.00-6.00 PM Website: ceifx.com
3. Wells Fargo
Source
From exchanging currency to international wires, Wells Fargo takes care of every traveling need. Wells Fargo customers can easily exchange their currencies at competitive rates and at across more than 100 countries. They also offer Foreign currency drafts that are payable in selected foreign countries.
Timings: 9.00 AM to 5.00 PM, Sat-Sun: Closed Website: www.wellsfargo.com
4. Bank of America
Source
Bank of America is another option for currency exchange in Seattle. Tourists with a checking/savings account can easily order foreign currency through online banking or the mobile app. Another advantage is that if you are a Bank of America Preferred Rewards client, it entails discounted exchange rates. Also, customers with BOA credit cards can order currency at the nearest financial center.
5. Address: 525 S Jackson St, Seattle, WA 98104 Contact Information: (206) 358-1500
Timings: Monday-Friday 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Sunday- Closed Website: www.bankofamerica.com
7 Tips for Currency Exchange in Seattle
Source
One must understand how the exchange rates work, instead of just rushing to the nearest exchange service while visiting a country for the first time. Hence, we have narrowed down insightful facts that will help you streamline the process and avoid paying more than expected.
1. Carry Some Foreign Currency with You
Source
It is one of the best practices to carry small denominations of foreign money with you before landing your destination overseas. This money is useful while paying for the tips. The best way to get this amount is to get your money exchanged in your home country with the local banks. Anyhow you will be doing the rest of the currency exchange overseas, so why not carry a handy amount in your pocket.
2. Download a Currency Conversion App
Source
Downloading a currency converting app before boarding your plane gives a clear idea about the amount you want to exchange and its new currency value. It is always best to know if you are getting a good deal while exchanging your currency.
3. Find the Right Credit Card
Source
Some credit cards do not offer a currency exchange fee. While some cards deduct a 2-3 percent fee on every purchase made on the credit card, some do not. Find the list of such credit cards here: creditcards.com.
4. Avoid Airport and Hotel Currency Exchanges
Source
Urgent cash needs might force tourists to exchange currency at airports and hotels. The exchange rates at airports and Hotels are rarely a good deal. Either way, if one plans to do so, several kiosks are available at the Seattle Tacoma International Airport. Hotels also offer currency exchange, but be aware of high exchange rates.
5. ATM Withdrawals Are the Cheapest
Source
ATM withdrawals might be the cheapest way to get foreign currency, but it is advisable to know any applicable charges in advance. Some banks may offer foreign currency at reduced rates or ATM withdrawals that are free of cost. In addition to the currency exchange fee, some banks may charge a flat fee on using your debit card in a foreign ATM. Call your bank in advance and check for all the details.
6. Check for the Real Rate or the Mid-market Rate
Source
Not many are aware of the mid-market rate or the real rate. Bankers are willing to sell and purchase a currency for a particular price. The average of this price is the market rate or real rate. It is the fairest price that one can get for their foreign currency exchange. For more information on the rates, visit: www.transferwise.com
7. Spend All Your Foreign Currency, Not Stock It!
Source
It is always advisable to spend most of your foreign currency and not be stuck with it. As when you have some foreign money left, you will have to get it exchanged twice. More currency exchange leads it to be less valuable. Moreover, it is like paying double the exchange rate. Either share this saved money as a souvenir with a friend or your family members, who might plan to travel overseas in the future.
An itinerary is incomplete without the proper knowledge of Currency Exchange outlets at any foreign land that one plans to visit. Now that you understand the essentials of currency exchange in Seattle, we hope that this streamlines your process of managing money and makes your trip to the Emerald City all the more fun and enjoyable!
