Why your leftover euros could turn into wasted money after a trip to Germany
Travellers returning from Germany are being urged to spend or exchange their leftover foreign cash before heading home. With many banks no longer offering currency conversion, handling spare coins or banknotes has become trickier than before. Experts recommend planning ahead to avoid losing small amounts of money.
The Association of German Banks has advised tourists to use up any remaining euros at the airport before their return flight. Even small sums, worth just a few euros, can be spent on snacks, drinks or last-minute souvenirs. This avoids the hassle of trying to exchange them later.
Exchanging foreign currency in Germany has grown more difficult in recent years. Many banks have stopped converting banknotes and coins back into euros, citing low demand. Foreign coins, in particular, are rarely accepted for exchange at all. For those holding larger amounts of foreign money, keeping it for a future trip is an option. However, there is always a risk that banknotes could become invalid if a country redesigns or phases out its currency. The Deutsche Bundesbank oversees the withdrawal of old euro notes in Germany, though no current deadline exists for their expiry. Less common currencies pose an even bigger challenge. Travellers with dollars, pounds or other foreign banknotes are advised to exchange them before leaving their holiday destination. Once back in Germany, finding a bank willing to convert them may prove difficult.
The shift in banking policies means tourists must now take extra care with leftover cash. Spending small amounts before departure or exchanging foreign money while still abroad remains the simplest solution. Without these steps, unused currency could end up as wasted money.
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