Cash and Currency Tips


Do I need a credit card?  Will they charge me a fee?  How much cash should I have on hand?  Where do I get Euros before I leave?


Euros
We recommend you have some Euros with you during your trip to France (at least ~ €300, if you're planning on using a credit card for most purchases).  Although you can use a credit card in most places, not everyone will take one (at the marchés, for example).  Plus it will be great practice to count money in French!

Currency Calculator

Getting Euros before you go is fairly easy.  Start with your bank.  Oftentimes for their customers, they will not charge a large fee (or maybe none at all) to order foreign currency.

Another option is AAA.  If you have an account with them, you can order Euros online or at a branch for a direct conversion USD to Euro without any fees or commission.  You just pay shipping charges.

You can also get cash advances on your credit card at an ATM while in France if necessary, but they may charge a fee.  Check with your credit card issuer before you leave.  Avoid changing money at the airport, tourist offices, or exchange bureaus, which typically have the worst rates.


Credit Cards
There are a few credit cards available in the US which do not charge an international transaction fee and may reimburse you for ATM service fees.

  • Chase Freedom Unlimited
  • Capital One Venture Rewards
  • Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
  • Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards
  • Wells Fargo Propel American Express 

In the past, you would have to call your credit card company to let them know you'd be traveling.  However, with today's cards having chips in them, it is not always necessary.  It is better to be safe than sorry and give them a quick call anyway.

As a side note, you will be able to pay for the dorm with a credit card.


This information is current at the date of publication but may not be correct at the time of your travel.  Please do your own research before making a decision on how to proceed.

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