How to Convert International Currency to Dollars

Money certainly makes the world go round. But with so many different currencies around the globe, it's hard to do the math of how much you are actually spending when you are in a foreign country. Here are some tips on how to convert International Currency into Dollars so you'll know exactly where you stand.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine the currency and count how much of each currency you have with you. While places like Europe have primarily gone to the Euro, it's not uncommon to find yourself on a business trip through a few countries with several kinds of money in your pocket. Separate and total that money up.

2. Check out websites (see Resources) for up to the minute price reflections in currency. Remember currency is traded in the marketplace making it more or less valuable against the dollar every single day. Find your currency on those pages in the drop down menu.

3. Input the amount of money, in say Euros for instance. Then click "calculate" or "convert." You will instantly see what the exchange rate will pay you. If you have several currencies, keep a tally of all of your money so you have some idea what you should get at an exchange counter.

4. Go get your money. You'll need to find a currency exchange counter in the country you are in, or of course can wait until you get back to the good old USA. They are generally found at airports in the International section, or local banks. Some hotels will even accept or exchange other currencies and give you the day's going rate.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful of rip offs. Most exchange counters take a small fee for completing the transaction. While obviously a little is fine for the service, some take exorbitant slices. That's why it's a good idea to have a ball park figure of what the money in your pocket is worth before you go inside to exchange.

Resources

• Great currency converter
• Offers a currency converter