Before your flight from Montréal-Trudeau: where to exchange money?

Why avoid exchanging at the airport?

Airport counters serve travellers in a hurry who have no other choice. Their spread over the market rate is usually wider than an exchange office's in town. On a few hundred dollars, the difference adds up to tens of dollars. See our worked example.

The airport is still handy in a pinch for a small amount. For the rest, plan ahead.

Saint-Laurent, on your way to the airport

Our Saint-Laurent branch, at 991 Gohier St, is about 7 km as the crow flies from Montréal-Trudeau airport in Dorval.

Leaving on a Sunday or very early? Come the day before, or choose our Laval branch (open Sunday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.) or Brossard branch (open Sunday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

The three-step plan

1. A few days before you leave, reserve your currency online: choose the currency, amount, branch and pickup date.

2. The day before or the day you leave, come to the counter with your confirmation and valid photo ID. You pay there, in cash, by debit card or by Interac e-Transfer.

3. At the airport, all that's left is check-in.

The rate applied is the one on the day of pickup.

What to have in your pocket when you leave

• enough cash for your arrival: transport, meals, tips;

• a credit card for the rest, always choosing the local currency at the terminal (why?);

• if you're carrying C$10,000 or more, a report to the CBSA.

Frequently asked questions

Can I reserve the day before?

Yes, depending on the currency and amount. For a less common currency or a large amount, allow a few days.

And when I come back?

We buy back your foreign banknotes in good condition. See how to sell back your currency.