
If you're planning a trip to Chicago and need to exchange currency, you're in luck because O'Hare Airport has several options for you to do so.
You can find currency exchange services at the airport's two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, with multiple locations throughout each.
The airport's currency exchange services are open from 5:30 AM to 11:30 PM, Monday through Friday, and from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM on weekends.
Whether you're looking to exchange US dollars for euros or another currency, the airport's exchange services can help you get the cash you need for your trip.
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Airport Currency Exchange
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) has 4 currency exchange locations, but be aware that airport exchange rates might not be the best option. Airport currency exchange services often have high fees, which can be hidden in the exchange rate.
You can find currency exchange services at various terminals, including Terminal 2, Terminal 3, and Terminal 5. The Travelex Currency Services branch is located near gate K11, and has a phone number of (773) 462-9976.
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Here's a list of the currency exchange options available at ORD:
Does Airport Offer Currency Exchange?
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) has four currency exchange locations, including Seaway Bank, Currency Exchange, seaway bank currency exchange, and Travelex Currency Services.
Seaway Bank is located in Terminal 2, while Currency Exchange and seaway bank currency exchange can be found in Terminals 3 and 1 Concourse B, respectively. Travelex Currency Services is near gate K11.
These currency exchange services might seem convenient, but keep in mind that they can be pricey. The overall costs of switching your funds at the airport can be on the high side due to fees and unfavorable exchange rates.
If you need to exchange currency at ORD, here are the details for the available options:
Should You Exchange Foreign Currency?
Exchanging foreign currency at airports can be a bad idea, as the exchange rates available are often less favorable than those found in city exchanges where competition drives the cost down.
Airport exchange rates are typically less competitive, which means you'll end up with less money in your pocket.
Currency Options
O'Hare Airport has over 60 currency exchange locations, including banks, currency exchange offices, and kiosks.
You can exchange currency at a bank, but be prepared for long lines and potentially lower exchange rates.
The currency exchange offices at O'Hare Airport are typically open 24/7, making it convenient for travelers with late or early flights.
The airport's currency exchange kiosks are a quick and easy option, but be aware that they often charge higher fees and lower exchange rates than the currency exchange offices.
Some currency exchange locations at O'Hare Airport also offer travel money cards and other financial services.
You can find currency exchange locations throughout the airport, including in Terminals 1, 2, and 3.
The exchange rates at O'Hare Airport's currency exchange offices are generally competitive with those found in downtown Chicago.
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Currency Services
Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) has 4 currency exchange locations, but be aware that fees can be high due to a lack of competition.
Seaway Bank has a location in Terminal 2, but it has a low Google rating of 1.3 out of 5 stars.
Currency Exchange has locations in International Terminal 5 and Terminal 3, also with a low rating of 1.6 out of 5 stars.
Seaway Bank Currency Exchange is located in Terminal 1 Concourse B, with the same rating as the previous one.
Travelex Currency Services is near gate K11 in Terminal 5, with a phone number (773) 462-9976 and a rating of 1 out of 5 stars.
If you need to find the exact location of the currency exchange at ORD Airport, you can refer to the official map of the airport, which shows the presence of banking services at each terminal.
Seaway National Bank provides currency exchange branches at various locations within the airport, including gates B9 and C18 in Terminal 1, the Main Hall in Terminal 2, gate K11 in Terminal 3, and the baggage level, lower and upper levels in Terminal 5.
To get the best deal when exchanging money, look for a provider that uses the mid-market exchange rate, which is the rate you'll see on Google and with a currency converter tool.
You have three options for exchanging money at Chicago O'Hare International Airport: Over-the-Counter Service, Online Pre-Order, and using an ATM to withdraw cash in the local currency.
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Money Transfer
At ORD, you have a few options for exchanging money, and each has its pros and cons.
One option is to visit a currency exchange location and exchange money on the spot. This can be a fast and convenient choice, but be aware that it can be pretty expensive due to high fees and hiked up exchange rates.
If you want to get a better exchange rate, consider ordering your foreign currency online for airport collection. Some providers, such as CXI, allow customers to do this, and it's a great way to guarantee that the exchange office will have the currency you need.
Using an ATM to withdraw cash in the local currency is another option, and ATMs are commonly available at the airport. Just make sure your card issuer doesn't impose high fees on foreign currency transactions and withdrawals.
Here are the options for exchanging money at ORD:
- Over-the-Counter Service: exchange money on the spot
- Online Pre-Order: order foreign currency online for airport collection
- ATMs: withdraw cash from an ATM
Travel Tips
Plan ahead and avoid exchanging currency at the airport to get a better deal. Planning in advance gives you more options and can mean you end up with more money in your wallet.
Compare exchange rates to find the best deal for your specific needs. You can get the mid-market exchange rate with a simple Google search and look for a provider that offers this rate.
Watch out for fees, including commission, exchange charge, and delivery costs. These fees can add up quickly and eat into your travel budget.
Use multi-currency accounts or travel cards to hold dozens of foreign currencies with low or no ongoing fees. Providers like Wise and Revolut let you add a balance in the currency you need and spend freely.
If you're not a U.S. resident, you may be charged steep transaction fees as a non-account-holder at a local bank. In this scenario, a currency exchange in the city may be a better option.
Here are some tips to keep in mind when using a currency exchange:
- Avoid exchanging currency at the airport.
- Compare exchange rates and fees before making a decision.
- Use a multi-currency account or travel card for convenience and cost savings.
- Consider using a currency exchange in the city if you're not a U.S. resident.
Restrictions and Considerations
You should be aware of the restrictions and considerations when exchanging currency at O'Hare Airport. There are no limitations on how much money you can take abroad or bring into the US, but if you plan to take over $10,000 in any form of currency, it will most likely need to be disclosed to US Customs and Border Protection.
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It's a good idea to call the exchange service in advance to ensure they have enough money in stock, especially if you're exchanging larger amounts. This can save you hassle and stress when you arrive at the airport.
Make sure to check if the exchange desk you plan to use stocks the currency you need, as not all desks may have it in stock.
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Sources
- https://www.exiap.com/guides/currency-exchanges-best-in-chicago-o-hare-international-airport-ord
- https://www.airlineports.com/ord-airport/currency-exchange/
- https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/090115/best-places-exchange-currency-chicago.asp
- https://www.ifly.com/airports/chicago-ohare-international-airport/ATM-banks-currency
- https://www.choosechicago.com/plan-your-trip/international-visitors/
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