Does the Post Office Exchange Currency?

Yes—the UK Post Office exchanges currency in-branch and online with 0% commission on major currencies.

Does the Post Office Exchange Currency? (UK Guide)

Yes, the UK Post Office does exchange currency, and it remains one of the most popular and accessible ways to get travel money for UK residents. Whether you’re heading abroad, coming back with leftover cash, or simply want a trusted place to handle your currency needs, the Post Office offers a convenient service through thousands of branches and its online platform.

This guide explains how currency exchange works at the Post Office, who it’s best for, and how to get the best rates.

What Currency Services Does the Post Office Offer?

The Post Office provides:

  • Foreign currency exchange (buying travel money)

  • Online currency orders with home delivery or branch collection

  • Currency buyback (exchanging leftover notes back to GBP)

  • Travel money card (prepaid Mastercard)

  • Money transfers abroad (via Western Union or MoneyGram)

How to Buy Travel Money from the Post Office

In Branch
You can visit a participating Post Office branch to buy popular currencies such as:

  • Euros (EUR)

  • US dollars (USD)

  • Australian dollars (AUD)

  • Canadian dollars (CAD)

Some smaller or rural branches may require 24–48 hours’ notice to order less common currencies like Thai baht or South African rand.

Online
You can order over 60 currencies via the Post Office website:

  • Choose your currency and amount

  • Pay by debit card or bank transfer

  • Choose to collect from your local branch or have it delivered to your home

Home delivery is free for orders over a certain amount (usually £500), and collection is often ready within 2 days.

Are the Exchange Rates Competitive?

The Post Office advertises 0% commission on foreign currency, but like all providers, it builds its margin into the exchange rate itself.

Generally:

  • Online rates are better than walk-in rates

  • You’ll get better value for common currencies like euros or dollars

  • Less competitive for rare currencies or small amounts

It’s worth using a comparison tool (like TravelMoneyMax from MoneySavingExpert) before you buy.

Does the Post Office Buy Back Foreign Currency?

Yes. You can return leftover banknotes from most major currencies and receive pounds in exchange. The buyback rate will differ from the sell rate, and coins are not accepted.

The Post Office also offers a Buy Back Guarantee (for a small fee) when you purchase your travel money, which locks in a guaranteed return rate in case the value drops during your trip.

Post Office Travel Money Card

This is a prepaid Mastercard that allows you to:

  • Load up to 22 currencies

  • Lock in exchange rates in advance

  • Use for spending and ATM withdrawals abroad

  • Manage funds via an app

It’s a safer alternative to carrying large amounts of cash, and useful for multi-country trips.

Pros and Cons of Using the Post Office

Pros:

  • Widely available across the UK

  • Trustworthy and FCA-regulated

  • Free home delivery over certain thresholds

  • No commission on most currencies

  • Prepaid card available for added security

Cons:

  • Not always the best exchange rate available

  • Some branches have limited stock or opening hours

  • Buyback rates can be less favourable

FAQs

Can I walk in and exchange currency without ordering?
Yes—for popular currencies like euros and US dollars. For others, pre-ordering is recommended.

Do I need ID to exchange currency?
You may be asked for ID (such as a passport or driving licence) when exchanging large amounts due to anti-money laundering regulations.

Can I exchange coins at the Post Office?
No. The Post Office does not accept or issue foreign coins—only banknotes.

Is it safe to order currency online from the Post Office?
Yes. It is one of the safest and most reputable providers in the UK for ordering travel money online.