Last Updated on October, 2024
When planning a trip to China, please manage your money wisely to avoid disappointments. To do so, you should understand how to get the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (Chinese currency) in the U.S.
Several options, like Wise and traditional banks, offer convenient ways to exchange currency without hidden fees.
Budgeting for accommodation, meals, and daily expenses ensures a smooth journey. Whether you prefer a structured tour or independent exploration, preparing ahead will help you make the most of your travel budget.
Excited to know more? Continue reading…
| Service | Exchange Rate | $1,000 USD = ¥ | Delivery Time | Notes |
| Wise Travel Card | 7.2059 | ¥7,138.60 CNY | 14–21 business days | Order for $9, enjoy mid-market rates |
| Wells Fargo Travel Money | 6.7421 | ¥6,742.10 CNY | 2–7 business days | 70 currencies, sell unused notes back |
| Xchange of America Travel Money | 6.6667 | ¥6,666.67 CNY | Overnight (if in stock) | 60 currencies, FedEx overnight shipping |
| Banks & Currency Exchanges | 5.6% margin* | Ask in store | Varies | Margin on exchange rate; check in-store |
Contents
- Best Places to Get Chinese Yuan Renminbi in the US
- Where to Exchange USD to CNY?
- How to Get Chinese Yuan Renminbi in the U.S.?
- Get a Chinese Yuan Renminbi Travel Money Card
- Order Chinese Yuan Renminbi to Your Doorstep
- Buy Chinese Yuan Renminbi
- How to Get the Best USD to CNY Exchange Rates?
- Budget Planning for China
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Best Places to Get Chinese Yuan Renminbi in the US
1. Wise (Multi-currency Account)
Wise offers a travel card that provides competitive exchange rates without hidden fees. You can use the card globally, withdraw cash from ATMs, and avoid the stress of carrying cash using a Wise multi-currency account.
It’s a secure and convenient option for travelers.
Features of Wise:
If you’re keen on Wise, our thorough review is right here for you to read.
2. Wells Fargo Travel Money
Wells Fargo allows you to order foreign currency, including the Chinese Yuan Renminbi, online or at select branches. They provide reliable services, but it’s essential to check for any fees and compare their rates with other providers.
3. Xchange of America Travel Money
Xchange of America offers an easy online ordering system for foreign currencies. You can pick up your currency at a local branch or prefer the home delivery option. They aim to provide competitive rates and convenient service.
4. Banks & Currency Exchanges
RMB Central banks and currency conversion services across the U.S. offer the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY). It’s wise to compare rates and fees among various banks (including People’s Bank of China) and specialized currency conversion providers to ensure you get the best deal.
Where to Exchange USD to CNY?
There are several options for buying the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (Chinese currency) in the U.S. You can order online for delivery to your home or pick up at a branch. Banks and currency exchange offices, including those at airports, provide these services.
For convenience, consider a travel money card like Wise. The Wise card has a one-time $9 fee and uses mid-market exchange rates with low, transparent fees in over 150 countries. You can manage it with your phone and use ATMs abroad.
Alternatively, order Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY) online from providers like Xchange of America, which delivers to your home. For instant access, visit a bank (like People’s Bank of China) or currency conversions like CXI.
How to Get Chinese Yuan Renminbi in the U.S.?
There are several options for buying the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY) before leaving the U.S. Shop around to get the best deal for your needs.
Use a comparison tool to:
Get a Chinese Yuan Renminbi Travel Money Card
GUESS WHAT? You can order a travel money card like Wise or Revolut in the U.S., add money in USD, and convert it to Chinese Yuan Renminbi (China’s currency) within your multi-currency account.
These cards allow you to spend your Chinese Yuan Renminbi balance without extra fees once you arrive at your destination. You can also make ATM withdrawals wherever you need cash. If you have leftover travel funds after your visit, you can instantly convert it back to USD for use at home or keep it for your next visit.
Travel money cards are secure, affordable, and easy to use. They offer instant official currency exchange or automatic conversion when you pay. You can start using a digital card immediately, even before the physical card arrives. This flexibility makes managing your money seamless and efficient.
| Wise | Revolut |
| This card charges no spending fees if you have enough balance in the currency | Revolut cards also have no spending fees for a balanced currency |
| It allows for two withdrawals up to $100 per month without any charges, then incurs a fee of $1.50 plus 2% | It offers some withdrawals within plan limits without any charges, with fair usage fees applying afterward |
| The Wise card uses mid-market rates with conversion fees starting from 0.35% | The card allows some free weekday conversions within plan limits |
| Card Delivery takes 14–21 days, and a virtual card is available instantly | Card Delivery takes 7–8 days, and has an instant virtual card option |
Order Chinese Yuan Renminbi to Your Doorstep
Listen, you can conveniently buy CNY (Chinese Yuan Renminbi) online and get a home delivery, eliminating the need to visit a physical store.
This service ensures you get the currency you need without worrying about its availability at conversion offices. Services like Xchange of America and CXI offer a wide range of currencies, though fees and exchange rates may vary.
Plus, ordering online provides a broad selection of currencies, and some services can deliver your money in just a day or two:
Note: To buy Chinese Yuan online, visit the CXI website, enter the desired amount, pay via card or bank transfer, and provide your shipping address. Ensure someone is available to sign for the delivery upon arrival.
Buy Chinese Yuan Renminbi
At the Bank
Some banks allow official currency conversion at branch locations, often requiring an existing bank account and advance ordering due to limited stock. They may offer buy-back services but at different conversion rates.
Wells Fargo, for example, provides travel money services at major branches with varying fees and possible conversion rate markups.
To buy Chinese Yuan, log into online banking, navigate to travel money, enter the amount, pay, and collect at the branch.
At the Airport
If you’re running late, you can buy the Chinese Yuan Renminbi at major airports. However, options are limited, and fees can be higher than in city centers. Conversion rates often include a high markup and limited competition can lead to steep prices.
At Foreign Currency Exchange Offices
To buy Chinese Yuan Renminbi in person, visit an exchange office with USD cash or a card. Their own exchange rates include markups and vary by provider, so compare options.
This method provides instant access to travel money, though not all currencies are stocked, and selling back unused money may incur losses.
How to Get the Best USD to CNY Exchange Rates?
TRUST ME. Exchange rates vary by provider and are influenced by currency, amount, payment method, and digital vs. physical cash exchange. The mid-market exchange rate, seen in Google currency converters, serves as a benchmark but is rarely offered directly by banks and exchanges, which add markups.
To get the best US Dollars to Chinese Yuan Renminbi rate, use comparison tools and then:
Do you want to know some examples? Here you go:
Budget Planning for China
Yes, planning a trip to China can vary in cost based on what you want to do, where you stay, and how long you’ll be there. It’s smart to decide on a budget in Chinese Yuan early on. Accommodation is a big expense, starting around $68 per night.
You’ll also need money for food, about $23 per meal.
Transportation costs roughly $16 a day. If you prefer a stress-free trip, consider a guided tour where activities are planned for you. Budgeting around $17 daily will help cover other expenses like currency exchange and tips, ensuring you enjoy your trip without financial stress.
Relevant guides:
Conclusion
So, that’s all. I’ve covered everything I promised. ALWAYS choose a reliable provider that fits your needs and budget. From travel money cards to online orders, the options are diverse.
Once equipped with the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY), you can confidently explore China’s wonders while managing expenses effectively. Therefore, plan well, stay informed about better exchange rates, and enjoy your trip without financial worries.
FAQs
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