Best way to optimize my exchange?

[Canadian Harmony]

I leave next Wednesday and I'm stockpiling cash right now. Should I exchange it at the bank or at the airport?

 

[bankr63]

Leave it in your bank account. I take US$100 tops in cash for incidentals.

Use your debit or credit card for all purchases. Works especially well if you have a credit card that does not charge forex fees; that is really the cheapest option. Some of these even offer cash back. Not enough time to get one if you don't already have one. Otherwise, I personally would bite the bullet and exchange at my bank (go to a major branch if you have a lot). Sometimes an airport kiosk may have a better rate; but IMO usually not. Note another recent thread here; if you have over $1000 you get a better rate at the bank. But seriously, don't go down carrying $1000 cash...

One other tip for cards, I always have two different payment cards. Leave one in the hotel safe in case the other one is lost or compromised.

 

[MalDisney]

What credit card do you recommend (in terms of no forex fees)?

 

[Aladora]

What credit card do you recommend (in terms of no forex fees)?

I have the Amazon.ca Visa card.

 

[samsteele]

I also have the amazon.ca Visa card. Little perk is that it gets you into the Chase lounge at Epcot (in the American Pavilion). I had never tried a Coke free style machine before so that was an experience. Much to the amusement of the young boys behind me, I splashed ice & pop over my hand rather than in my cup. Not much else up there but nice AC and a cold drink in a blue room with plushy carpet.

 

[bankr63]

Amazon.ca as well here, but Marriott and Sears MasterCard also have no forex (Sears not 100% certain anymore since it is no longer Chase). I understand the original Rogers card had this as well, but the benefit was dropped and is now only on their premium card. And if I read their ads correctly, your rewards can only be used to but stuff from Rogers (at Rogers list prices). Meh...

 

[MalDisney]

Does Disney accept Amazon Visa and Marriott card? Looking for something to eliminate forex fees. Thanks everyone for your help.

 

[Aladora]

Does Disney accept Amazon Visa and Marriott card? Looking for something to eliminate forex fees. Thanks everyone for your help.

I've used my Amazon Visa multiple times in the USA, both at DL and WDW.