Last Updated on October, 2024
Are you planning a trip to Canada and need Canadian Dollars while in the U.S.? I’ve got you covered with the best ways to get your hands on CAD without stress.
Whether you prefer online convenience, bank transactions, or airport pickup, I’ll guide you through the options. From exchanging currency rates to comparing fees, here’s everything you need to know to make your travel money go further.
Continue reading.
Contents
- Comparison Between the Top Choices
- Best Places to Get Canadian Dollars in the US
- Where to Exchange Money in the U.S.?
- How to Get CAD in the U.S.?
- Get a Canadian Dollar Travel Money Card
- Order Canadian Dollars Online to Your Doorstep
- Buy Canadian Dollars
- How to Get the Best USD to CAD Exchange Rate?
- Budget for an Overseas Trip to Canada
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Comparison Between the Top Choices
| Service | Reviews | Exchange Rate | 1000 USD Gets You | Order Details |
| Wise Travel Card | 226,823 | 1.3761 | 1,371.57 CAD | Order online for $9 USD Delivered in 14 – 21 business days |
| Wells Fargo Travel Money | 1,188 | 1.3059 | 1,305.90 CAD | Order online or in a branch Delivered in 2 – 7 days |
| Xchange of America Travel Money | 4,758 | 1.2500 | 1,250.00 CAD | Order online In-stock currencies shipped overnight with FedEx |
| Banks & Currency Exchanges | – | 5.6% margin* | Ask in store | Exchange rates vary Ask in store for details |
Best Places to Get Canadian Dollars in the US
Wise
Wise App is a financial technology application that offers services related to money transfers and financial management. Initially known as TransferWise, it was rebranded to Wise in 2021.
Wise offers a quick online service to convert USD to CAD at low fees and competitive exchange rates. You can transfer money directly to Canadian bank accounts in other countries (including the U.S.), making it a convenient option for digital foreign currency transactions.
Here, you can expand your knowledge about the Wise platform.
Wells Fargo Travel Money
Wells Fargo provides foreign currency exchange services, including Canadian dollars, through its branches and online. You can order online and pick it up at a local branch or have the cash delivered to your home.
Xchange of America
Xchange Of America specializes in foreign currency exchange, including Canadian dollars. They offer competitive rates, a variety of denominations, and the option to order online with home delivery or pickup at partner locations.
Banks & Money Exchanges
Many bank and money exchange services across the U.S. offer Canadian dollars. Large banks like Chase, Bank of America and local money exchange stores provide options for ordering online or buying in person at branches and kiosks.
Where to Exchange Money in the U.S.?
You have several choices to exchange Canadian dollars in the U.S. You can order online for home delivery or pick up at a branch. Options include buying from a bank, money exchange office, or at the airport.
For convenience, consider a travel money card like Wise, which can be topped up in U.S. dollars and used abroad.
How to Get CAD in the U.S.?
You have many options if you need to buy Canadian Dollars in the U.S..
Are you clear?
Get a Canadian Dollar Travel Money Card
Order a travel money card like Wise or Revolut in the U.S., add money in USD, and convert it to Canadian Dollars in your multi-currency account. Spend your CADs with no extra fees and make ATM withdrawals when needed.
After your trip, convert leftover travel money back to U.S. dollars instantly or save it for next time. These cards are secure, cheap, and easy to use, offering great rates, low fees, and the flexibility to manage your money with your phone.
Note: You can use a digital card before your physical card arrives.
| Provider | Spending Fees | ATM Withdrawals | Exchange Rates | Delivery |
| Wise card | No fee if you have enough balance in the currency | 2 free withdrawals up to $100/month, then $1.50+ 2% | Mid-market rate, conversion from 0.35% | 14-21 days; virtual card availability instantly |
| Revolut card | No fee if you have enough balance in the currency | Some free withdrawals within plan limits | Some free weekday conversions within plan limits; fair usage fees apply after that | 7-8 days; virtual card availability instantly |
How to Buy Canadian Dollars With a Travel Money Card?
It’s not as hard as you think. Here you’re:
Order Canadian Dollars Online to Your Doorstep
GUESS WHAT? Several providers allow you to order Canadian Dollars online and have them delivered to your home, offering convenience, especially when someone is available to receive the package.
This method avoids the uncertainty of visiting an exchange office and discovering the currency you need isn’t in stock.
By going for this service, you skip the need to visit a physical store to obtain your travel funds. Providers typically offer a broad range of currencies for home delivery, and some can deliver your money within one or two days.
The good news is that this approach saves time and ensures you get the online currency you require, though fees and exchange rates may differ.
Buy Canadian Dollars
At the Bank
Banks vary in their rules and processes for money exchange at their branches. Typically, you’ll need to have an account with the bank to exchange currency. It’s advisable to order foreign currency ahead of time as banks may not always have a large stock available.
Some banks provide a buy bank service for unused travel money, though the exchange rate for selling it back might differ, resulting in receiving less money than what was initially spent.
When banks offer travel money services:
For precise information, contact the main branches of your local bank or call ahead to ensure availability.
At the Airport
If you find yourself planning late, buying Canadian Dollars at the airport is usually an option. Major airports generally have money exchange counters catering to travelers. However, choices may be limited, and fees can be higher than city locations.
Key considerations include:
Foreign Currency Conversion Offices
Another option is to visit an exchange office to purchase Canadian Dollars in person. Simply choose a convenient location, bring cash in U.S. Dollars or use a card where accepted.
Exchange offices set their own rates and fees, so comparing options is crucial. However, this method offers the advantage of immediate access to the currency you need.
Considerations:
This approach provides quick access to travel money, but it’s wise to shop around for the best rates and terms.
How to Get the Best USD to CAD Exchange Rate?
Exchange rates vary among providers, influenced by factors like the currency pair, exchange amount, payment method, and whether it’s for digital or physical cash.
Unlike the mid-market rate – seen in online converters or Google searches – banks provide currency exchange services, which typically apply an additional fee, known as a markup, for retail transactions.
Here’s how to find the best rate:
For example:
Budget for an Overseas Trip to Canada
Planning a trip to Canada involves setting a budget in Canadian Dollars ahead of time to account for varying costs based on your activities, accommodations, and duration of stay.
Accommodation and activities are the most expensive aspects, with additional considerations for currency exchange rates, food, transport, and incidental expenses like tipping.
On average, hotel prices range widely, starting at approximately $186. For convenience, organized tours eliminate the need for individual activity planning or allocate about $24 daily for independent exploration.
Relevant guide:
Conclusion
Now that you know how and where to get Canadian Dollars in the U.S., you’re ready to plan your Canadian adventure.
Whether you go for a travel card, doorstep delivery, or a bank visit, managing your currency exchange can be simple with the proper knowledge. Budget wisely, consider your expenses, and explore Canada knowing your currency is sorted.
FAQs
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