Can I get euros from the Post Office without ordering

We’ve previously covered the best credit and debit cards for foreign travel and if you have more than a week before your trip, we’d suggest you order one of our recommend cards.

Sometimes, though you just need currency hurry, and one of the quickest and easiest places to get it before you travel is from your local Post Office. Especially if it’s euros or dollars that you need.

In this article we’re going to look at how you can get euros from the Post Office without ordering, the ID requirements, exchange rates, and of course in true Money Saving Answers style, alternatives that will save you money.

Can I get euros from the Post Office without ordering?

Yes, but it depends on the branch and availability at the time. All branches that have a bureau de change will allow to you to buy euros without ordering in advance, but they may not be able to provide the amount you require. It’s also worth pointing out that you’ll get a worse rate if you don’t pre-order.

If you need large amounts it’s always best to pre-order the amount you need. This can be done online, or in person.

Do I need ID to buy euros at post office?

Yes. Buying or exchanging euros at the Post Offices means you’ll have to present a valid Government issued ID such as your passport or driving licence. EU/EEA national ID cards are also accepted as well as Irelands Passport Card.

Can I pre-order euros from the Post Office?

Absolutely, and you’ll get the best rates this way. Not only do pre-orders lock in the exchange rate, it also ensures that the branch you visit has enough euros to meet your requirements.

Even if you’re in a hurry, you can still pre-order, as any orders before 2pm can be collected within 2 hours of ordering. While orders after the 2pm cut off will be available the next day.

See the Post Office travel website for more information and to order your currency.

TIP: If ordering online be careful. Paying with a credit card instead of a debit card, may be seen as cash advance by your credit card company, and as such attract a higher rate of interest. 

Can I order euros from the Post Office for home delivery?

You can order euros or other foreign currencies from the Post Office for home delivery. There’s a minimum order of £400 equivalent, to have the currency delivered, but if your order is over that amount then you won’t pay any delivery fees.

Orders are sent Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed by 1pm, but in more rural areas might not be delivered until 17:30.

How are the exchange rates?

If you’re considering buying euros from the Post Office then the exchange rate is often secondary to the convenience of being able to pick up travel currency from your local highstreet. That being said, we all like to know we’re getting a fair deal.

The Post Office rates on euros are typically 1.5-2% off the mid-market rate. So assuming a mid-market rate of £1 to €1.1549, changing £1,000 to euros at the Post Office you could expect to get roughly €1,140. That’s up to €14 less then if you get if using a specialist travel card.

Check XE.com to ensure you’re up to date with the exchange rate, before committing to exchanging at the Post Office.

How can I save money?

Buying foreign currency from the Post Office might be convenient, but it’s certainly not the cheapest or most cost effective way to ensure financial readiness for your trip.

There are a number of ways you can save money on foreign exchange fees, but what’s available to you depends on when you take action.

A week or more before your trip?

If you have more than week before your trip, use one of our best buy travel credit cards or best buy travel debit cards and withdraw euros from an ATM abroad. This will ensure get you always get the best rate available.

The Post Office itself offers a pre-pay travel debit card, but you’d be better off with a card from Trading 212 (which offers 0.5% cashabck), or Monzo (which has a £10 sign up bonus).

If you don’t want to open a new account, and would prefer to spend directly from your main high street bank current account, then Currensea is a great solution.

We have a full review of Currensea here, but essentially it acts a layer between your foreign spending, and your UK bank account. Spend euros or other currencies via your Currensea card and it debits your bank account in pounds (via direct debit), thus avoiding the foreign exchange and loading fees charged by the big banks.

Two days or more before your trip?

If you have two days of more before your trip, and  are willing to have your currency delivered you may be able to use specialist currency exchange firms online. A the time of writing, the Post Office sells euros at €1.136 to £1. The best online bureau de change offers €1.143 to £1. Exchanging £1,000 at this better rate would see you gain €7.

There are however a number of caveats with approach. Firstly many of these exchange services are not FCA authorised so there is often little protection should something go wrong.

Some charge a delivery fee for currency below a certain amount, which could wipe out any gains from the better exchange rate. There can also be fees for using your debit card to buy the currency rather than doing a bank transfer.

On the day of travel

Even if you need your currency in a hurry you can still save money on the high street, by swapping your pounds for euros at Eurochange rather than the Post Office. Typically Eurochange outlets offer better rates than the Post Office, but again it pays to order in advance if you can.

FAQ – Getting Euros from the Post Office Without Ordering

What’s the fastest way to get euros from the Post Office?
The quickest method is to visit a branch with a bureau de change. Remember, rates are better when you pre-order.

Are there any fees for buying euros directly at the Post Office?
No additional fees are charged for currency exchange, but the rates for instant exchanges are typically higher than pre-ordered rates.

How do Post Office euro exchange rates compare to banks?
The Post Office rates are competitive, often better than you’ll get at high street banks but slightly higher than some dedicated online exchange services.

Can I buy euros from the Post Office without pre-ordering?
Yes, you can purchase euros at branches with a bureau de change. However, pre-ordering is recommended as it typically locks in a better rate and ensures availability.

What identification do I need to buy or exchange euros?
You must present a valid government-issued ID, such as a passport or driving licence. EU/EEA national ID cards and Ireland’s Passport Card are also accepted.

What are some money-saving alternatives to buying euros at the Post Office?
Consider using travel cards like Currensea, Trading 212, Revolut, or Monzo. These options often provide better rates and lower fees, especially if you have time before your trip.