Can you exchange money at the Calgary airport?

Yes, exchanging money at Calgary International Airport (YYC) is a convenient option for travelers arriving in Canada. The airport accommodates various services of currency exchange, so you will have your Canadian dollars (CAD) as soon as you have left the airport and turned toward the city.

Currency Exchange Services at YYC

ICE (International Currency Exchange) is the main foreign exchange service at Calgary Airport. ICE has a number of kiosks in both the pre- and post-security portions of the airport. This makes it easier for anyone who is coming, leaving, or passing through to convert money. They have a lot of different currencies, such as the US dollar, the euro, the Japanese yen, the British pound, and more.

However, it’s advisable to exchange money during daytime hours, as some ICE kiosks may close early — particularly outside of peak flight periods or after 10 PM.

Traveler’s cheques are generally no longer accepted, even at ICE counters, and are considered outdated for modern travel.

There are Canadian banks in Calgary, but there are no full-service bank branches offering currency exchange services inside YYC. Only ATMs are available in the terminal for bank-related cash services. It's normally best to go to a bank office in the city center or a nearby area for higher rates or bigger trades.

Rates and Fees

Airport exchange rates are almost always less favorable than rates found in downtown Calgary or at local banks. This is true at YYC as well. Airport exchange rates typically include a higher margin, plus potential service fees or commissions, which can make them less favorable than rates found in downtown Calgary or local banks. Your exchange rate might be better in the city if you plan to exchange larger amounts of money.

Since airport exchange rates are typically less favorable, it’s wise to exchange only a small amount at the airport — just enough for initial expenses like transportation, tips, or snacks. For better rates, consider waiting until you reach downtown Calgary or a local bank.

ATMs as an Alternative

Another practical option is withdrawing Canadian dollars directly from airport ATMs using your debit or credit card. ATMs at YYC are plentiful and typically provide competitive exchange rates compared to currency exchange counters.

But remember to check up the possible international transaction cost you incur in your home bank and the ATM operator. However, ATMs often charge CAD $3–5 per transaction in Canada, and your home bank might also apply foreign transaction fees. It’s wise to check these charges beforehand

Some international cards may require pre-authorization or PIN usage, so ensure your card is enabled for overseas use and check your daily withdrawal limits before arriving.

Tips for Travelers

Check the operating hours of exchange kiosks, especially if arriving late at night, as some locations may close earlier despite extended airport hours.
In the airport, it can be considered to trade a small amount to be used immediately and then go to the city to find better deals.
Before approving a transaction, always ask for the total cost including commission fees or service charges.
Credit cards can also avoid the inconvenience of traveling with too much cash and sometimes can get good exchange rates especially when buying big items.
Opening Hours: ICE counters at YYC often have extended hours to match flight schedules, but some smaller counters may indeed close earlier. You can check ICE’s website for approximate rates before traveling, though rates may vary slightly at the counter.
Cash Declaration:
Remember that travelers must declare amounts over CAD $10,000 in cash or monetary instruments upon arrival into Canada. This applies even if it’s your own funds and not being spent.
Using Cards:
Credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted in Calgary, and using them may provide better exchange rates than cash exchange, especially for larger purchases.

In summary, exchanging money at Calgary Airport is easy and convenient, though you’ll typically pay a premium for that convenience. Planning ahead can help you manage costs while ensuring you have Canadian currency on hand for your arrival.

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