Q: Hello Peter. I am planning a trip to Grenada and I would like to have some Eastern Caribbean currency in my hands when I land. I have found a couple of Web sites where I can purchase foreign currency prior to my trip. Have you had any experience purchasing foreign currency online?
–Susan, Morristown, N.J.
A: Why? You won't need it right away. The U.S. dollar is widely accepted in Grenada, and I'm already a big advocate of using your ATM card when you’re abroad to get the best exchange rate. However, if you feel the need to have currency in hand when you arrive, you can either schlep down to the bank to get it or order it online. But don't say I didn't warn you that you'll be paying a higher exchange rate and high commission rates based on the amount you exchange. It's not worth it.
However, if you insist.... Wells Fargo has an online currency-purchase program that’s open to both Wells Fargo account holders and non-account holders. You submit your order online and pay from either your Wells Fargo account or with a credit card. You must order a minimum of $200 and a maximum of $3,000 worth of currency. Only certain currencies are available online, and shipments are sent via FedEx next-day delivery.
Many other retail banks offer online currency purchases, as do specialist companies, such as International Currency Express and OrderCurrency.com.
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