Acquiring knowledge about the foreign currency/currencies you will be using while traveling abroad is, of course, important to your overall experience. The very best source for checking exchange rates, predicting exchange trends and converting world currencies is OANDA.

We officially recommend that students travel with a debit card so they can easily access their funds instantly and at the day’s best exchange rate. It is also a good idea to travel with a credit card in case you need to make travel or other arrangements immediately.

Although it is not necessarily recommended, some students may choose to acquire foreign currency before leaving the U.S. You may do this at your local bank. Please be advised that your bank will likely assess your account with a nominal exchange fee for the currency conversion.

As always, please feel free to contact Tori Luwisch (valuwisc@loyno.edu) in the Office of International and Comparative Programs with any questions or concerns.