With spring break just around the corner and summer travel not far behind, many Arizonans are gearing up for international adventures. Whether you’re headed to sandy beaches, bustling cities, or long‑planned overseas getaways, preparing your finances is just as important as packing your sunscreen.

One key step is making sure you have the right foreign currency before you go. Yet even seasoned travelers often run into avoidable and potentially costly mistakes. To help make your travel easier, here are the top five missteps people make when purchasing foreign currency and how you can steer clear of them.

1. Waiting too long to exchange currency

One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is waiting until the last minute to buy foreign currency. Many assume it’s easiest to handle everything at the airport, but airport kiosks typically offer some of the least favorable exchange rates and higher service fees.

When you wait until right before departure, especially during peak travel months like spring and summer, you also risk limited availability for certain currencies. Planning ahead helps you secure better rates, avoid long lines, and ensure the denominations you need are ready before you embark on your trip.

2. Relying on high-fee or unreliable exchange sources

Where you buy your foreign currency matters. Travelers often turn to airport counters, hotel desks, or unfamiliar online sources without realizing they could be paying more or exposing themselves to unnecessary risks.

Some third‑party providers have unclear fee structures or inflated rates, while others may not guarantee authenticity. Purchasing currency through a bank like National Bank of Arizona helps ensure transparency, safety, and reliability. You know exactly what you’re getting and what you’re paying for.

3. Misjudging how much cash you actually need

It’s surprisingly easy to over or underestimate the cash you’ll need abroad. Some destinations rely heavily on cash, especially for taxis, street vendors, tips, and small local transactions. Others are more card‑friendly, meaning you may need less physical currency than you think.

Overestimating can leave you with leftover foreign cash that may be difficult or costly to exchange back. On the other hand, underestimating can lead to multiple withdrawals abroad, and those fees can add up quickly. Researching your destination’s norms helps you strike the right balance and avoid unnecessary expenses.

4. Overlooking card fees and costly conversion options

Even if you plan to use credit or debit cards abroad, failing to understand your card’s fee structure can result in surprises. Some cards charge foreign transaction fees on every purchase, while overseas ATMs may add service charges that vary widely by country.

Travelers can also get hit with “dynamic currency conversion,” where merchants charge you in U.S. dollars instead of local currency, often at a poor exchange rate. Choosing to pay in the local currency and knowing your card’s policies ahead of time can help you avoid avoidable fees and keep your travel budget intact.

5. Not considering safety and practicality when handling cash

Carrying cash abroad is convenient, but it requires smart planning. Too much cash can be risky, while too little can limit you in destinations where cards aren’t universally accepted. Many travelers also forget to divide their funds between multiple secure locations or rely too heavily on one card.

A balanced strategy—using a mix of foreign currency, secure payment cards, and digital tools—can give you flexibility and a safety net if the unexpected happens.

Make your spring and summer travel smarter

By avoiding these five common mistakes, you can make international travel more convenient and cost‑effective. With a little preparation, you’ll be ready to enjoy your trip no matter where spring break or summer takes you.

To get started, simply schedule an appointment at any of the following branches for an on-the-spot foreign currency exchange (we recommend calling ahead to make sure they have what you need on hand). You can also order around 80 different foreign currencies ahead of time at any of our branches. 

• Biltmore:  6001 N 24th St Phoenix, AZ 85016
• Wilmot: 335 N Wilmot Rd Tucson, AZ 85711
• Cornerstone:  9878 W Camelback Rd Glendale, AZ 85305
• Flagstaff:  211 N Leroux St Flagstaff, AZ 86001