Best Places to Exchange Currency in Las Vegas

Visiting the United States and heading to Las Vegas? There’s plenty to do in one of the largest vacation spots in the country. But to take full advantage of all the things the city offers, you will need some cash—or at least some way to pay in the local currency—and that usually involves converting your home currency into U.S. dollars. How do you make the exchange? Here are some options.

At Your Hotel

If you’re staying at a larger hotel, there’s a good chance that it has a currency exchange desk. The problem: Once you figure in the exchange rate and the fees, it could be costly. For that reason, as a general rule, avoid exchanging currency at your hotel.

At the Casino

Now we’re talking! If you plan to wait until you get to Las Vegas to exchange your currency, a casino can be a good choice. Most large casinos will gladly exchange your money for a fee. Vegas insiders say that often, the exchange rate casinos offer is a great deal and may well be your best option. Why are the exchange rates better, you ask? Because the casino fully expects you to dump your dollars into slot machines or at the blackjack tables.

At Your Local Bank

It’s a good idea to have some cash in hand before you leave your home country. You probably won’t need a lot, but having some emergency money to cover situations when you can't use a credit card is a good idea. Your local bank is probably the place to go. You will probably pay a delivery fee along with the foreign exchange rate, but it’s probably the better value. 

At an ATM

If you need spending money while in Vegas, your debit card will probably work at an ATM. The only problem is the fees, but some banks have partner ATMs around the world where the out-of-bank user fees are waived. You will only pay the fee your bank charges. Look on your bank’s website for a list of partner ATMs. If you can find one close to you, the fee will likely be 3% or less. 

At the Airport

When you arrive at McCarran International Airport, or whichever airport you fly into, there will be currency exchange desks that will gladly help. Try not to let them because this is probably the worst way to exchange your money. Don’t be fooled by the enticing “no fee” advertisements. The exchange rate will be less than favorable or the fees may be called something else. 

When You're Buying Something

Most people agree that credit cards are the best way to pay when traveling abroad. There’s no lack of 0% foreign transaction fee credit cards. Check the terms of your card to see if your card charges a fee. If it does, and you will be gone for an extended period or plan to travel abroad frequently in the future, consider finding a 0% foreign transaction fee card. If your card does charge a fee, it’s probably not higher than 3%. (If it is, get rid of it.) Even with the fee, your credit card is probably the best way to pay.

The Bottom Line

If you have to exchange your money for U.S. dollars in Las Vegas, stay away from options clearly geared towards tourists, such as hotels and airports. You will pay hefty fees for the exchange. Check the casinos for actual cash exchanges, but your best strategy is to pay with your credit card. If you have the right card, you may avoid transaction fees. The next best choice is an ATM that is part of your home bank's network.