How to get your Canadian dollars
Discover the most convenient way to receive your travel money through our range of delivery, collection, and online options.
Home Delivery
Enjoy effortless currency exchange with Home Delivery. Place your order online and have your Canadian dollars delivered directly to your doorstep, with Royal Mail Special Delivery. Free for orders totalling £600 or more.
Store Click & Collect
Streamline your currency exchange with our free Click & Collect service. Simply place your order online and pick up your Canadian dollars from one of our stores. Enjoy a smooth beginning to your travels with our online rates.
ATM Click & Collect
Secure your Canadian dollars with our free Click & Collect ATM service. Order your Canadian dollars online with our online rates and pick up at one of our ATMs.
Buy Canadian dollars with a Travel Money Card
Another great option for spending in Canadian dollars is our Travelex Money Card.
- Safe and secure - card not linked to your bank account
- Choice of 22 currencies, including Canadian dollars
- Seamless spending with Apple Pay and Google Pay
- Manage your Canadian dollars effortlessly via the Travelex Money App
- In case your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, our 24/7 global assistance team is here for you
What to spend your Canadian dollars on
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Entry to Toronto Skypod
29 CAD
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3-mile taxi ride
8.75 CAD
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Tourist t-shirt
10 CAD
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Postcard and a stamp
3 CAD
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Bottle of water
1.50 CAD
Key information about Canadian dollars
Back in 1821, the Montreal Bank issued the first notes and 20 years later, the first Canadian pounds were born. However, by 1858, the Canadian dollar was issued to more closely align with the US dollar, and the Bank of Canada's first banknotes came along in 1934. In 2011 Canada began to produce a more durable polymer note similar to those used in Australia.
The currency code of the Canadian dollar is CAD and its symbol is the dollar sign ($).
Canadian dollar denominations
The most commonly used notes in Canadian dollars are the following bills:
- $5
- $10
- $20
- $50
- $100
There are also $500 and $1000 notes but these aren't seen often because of their high value.
Common questions about Canadian dollars
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When’s the best time to buy Canadian dollars?
Getting the best rates for Canadian dollars depends on multiple factors. The Canadian Dollar's value can shift with oil market changes and trade news, so keep a close watch on our rate tracker to exchange at opportune times. Spend your CAD from the scenic Rockies to the urban centres.
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Where can I spend my Canadian dollars?
Canadian dollars are accepted across Canada and at various points of commerce near Canadian borders.
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Can I buy Canadian dollars with a credit or debit card?
You can purchase your Canadian dollars from us via credit or debit card. Acquiring Canadian dollars through us comes without any credit card handling charges. Do remember to verify any additional fees your card provider may impose.
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Can I sell my unused Canadian dollars?
With us you can! With our Buy Back Promise, we can buy back your unused Canadian dollar notes at any one of our UK retail stores at the original transaction exchange rate up to a maximum value of £250, for just a fee of £4.99. T&Cs apply.
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Can I use my bank card in Canada?
You can use bank cards in Canada. However, transaction fees may be applied by your bank for using your card in CAD. See how the Travelex Money Card can help you spend abroad.
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Can I spend Canadian dollars as cash when abroad?
Yes, cash is still frequently used in Canada. In Canada, blend Canadian dollars for everyday expenses with the Travelex Money Card for more significant transactions.