Banking

Money exchange

By Alpian9 July 2025

Still ordering foreign currency for your holidays – is that really necessary?

Planning a trip abroad? Many people still instinctively do one thing first: get cash in the local currency. But in 2025, is that really needed anymore? Not quite – and for good reason. Digital alternatives, like Alpian’s multi-currency account, are making foreign cash increasingly obsolete.

Why do people in Switzerland still order foreign currency?

It’s a familiar routine: a trip is coming up, and "get euros from the bank" is still on the to-do list – just like it’s been for years.

One key reason is the sense of security. Cash feels reliable, especially for those who aren’t fully comfortable with digital tools. Having “something in your hand” feels reassuring.

Another factor is habit. If you’ve been exchanging cash before every trip for the last 15 years, you’re unlikely to question it – even if there are now much better alternatives.

There’s also some tech scepticism, particularly among older travellers: What if the card doesn’t work abroad? What if my phone breaks?

These concerns aren’t completely unfounded – but today’s digital banking options are making them less and less relevant.

How does ordering foreign currency the traditional way work today?

If you still want to use cash, you have a few options:

Banks and post offices: Often only available to existing customers, with minimum and maximum order limits.
Home delivery: Many providers will deliver the cash directly to your door, typically within 1 to 2 working days.
Fees and rates: Expect a markup of up to 2% on the exchange rate, plus commissions or flat fees (for example from SBB or PostFinance).

The main downside? You rarely get the real market rate. In other words, you end up with less money for the same budget.

What are the downsides of using cash when travelling?

There are several – and most only become clear when it’s too late:

1. Lost or stolen? It’s gone for good

Cash can’t be blocked or refunded. If it’s stolen or lost, it’s simply gone. Insurance providers report that cash losses are among the most common travel claims.

2. Poor exchange rates

The difference between market rates and what banks charge can easily cost you 5–10%. For example, if you exchange CHF 1'000, you could lose up to CHF 100 – just due to bad rates and fees.

3. Decreasing acceptance

In countries like Sweden or Norway, cash is practically useless. Relying on it can quickly become a problem – many shops and transport providers accept cards only.

4. Leftover notes and added hassle

What do you do with leftover notes after the trip? Reconvert them – often with more fees. And when travelling with cash, you constantly need to exchange, count, and plan.

How does a multi-currency account work – and why is it better?

A multi-currency account lets you hold and manage different currencies in one place. Instead of converting Swiss francs to euros in cash, you keep euros directly in your account – and pay globally with ease.

With Alpian, here’s how it works:

One free account, four currencies: CHF, EUR, USD, and GBP
Currency exchange directly in the app – in real time
Only 0.20% markup on the mid-market rate (0.50% at weekends)

No hidden fees

Includes Visa virtual cards that work in multiple currencies
Fully regulated Swiss provider – with deposit protection up to CHF 100'000

What this means in practice: you can exchange CHF to EUR today, pay in euros during your trip to Italy, and save money, time, and hassle.

Open your free Alpian account now – and access exclusive premium benefits.

The smart alternative: a multi-currency account with Alpian

Take full control of your currencies – with better conditions than most traditional banks can offer. Whether you’re receiving money, exchanging it or spending it, everything happens in one app – instantly and transparently.

Key features and benefits at a glance:

1. Open your account quickly – no paperwork, no branch visit

Opening your multi-currency account with Alpian is fully digital via the Alpian app:

No paperwork, no queues
ID or passport ready for in-app identification
Ready to use in under 10 minutes

Alpian is a Swiss bank regulated by FINMA. Your deposits are protected up to CHF 100'000, just like with any traditional bank.

2. One account, four currencies – full flexibility

Your account includes four sub-accounts automatically:

CHF (Swiss francs)
EUR (euros)
USD (US dollars)
GBP (British pounds)

All under a single IBAN – perfect for international use or receiving payments from abroad. Incoming transfers are credited in the original currency, with no automatic conversion or loss.

3. Exchange when it suits you – in real time

Want to convert CHF to EUR but not at today’s rate? No problem:

Exchange directly in the app, with live market rates
Only 0.20% markup on the mid-market rate (0.50% on weekends)
No extra charges, no hidden surprises

You can convert ahead of your trip when rates are good – or make a spontaneous exchange while travelling.

4. Spend in the right currency – automatically and without fees

Your account comes with access to the Alpian Visa Debit Card – virtual cards are available for free, and a physical card can be ordered separately if needed. It automatically detects which currency to use:

Pay in Italy? It uses your EUR balance
In the US? It draws from your USD account
No foreign transaction fees, no exchange markups
If a currency isn’t available, it’s converted automatically at the best available rate – with only a small markup applied.

5. Keep or reconvert leftover funds – your choice

Got CHF 75 or GBP 40 left after your trip? No problem.
Keep it: Your balance stays in the currency sub-account – ready for your next trip.
Convert it back: You can exchange it to CHF anytime – fully transparently, no hidden fees.

Example:

Before your city break, you convert CHF 300 into around EUR 310. You pay in euros throughout the trip using your Alpian card. At the end, you’ve got EUR 50 left. Keep it or convert it back when the rate suits you.

6. Receive money – perfect for expats and freelancers

Working in Germany and living in Switzerland? Get your salary paid directly into your EUR account at Alpian.

Getting paid by international clients? No issue. With a single IBAN and four currencies, you receive payments without exchange rate risk or automatic conversions.

Want to make payments in CHF? That works as usual – for rent, insurance, or everyday shopping.

This means no constant exchanging – and one place to track all your finances.

Who is a multi-currency account best suited for?

This modern solution isn’t just for "digital natives". It’s especially useful for:

Frequent travellers

If you travel several times a year, Alpian helps you save on every transaction – no more bulky cash.

Expats

If your income and expenses span multiple currencies, this setup makes life easier. Instead of juggling several accounts, manage everything in one app.