Should I exchange money before I travel to Malaysia?

It is generally recommended to exchange some money before traveling to Malaysia, especially if you are coming from a country that uses a different currency. While you can easily exchange currency upon arrival at the airport or in major cities, exchanging money in advance can offer several advantages:

• Better exchange rates: Currency exchange providers in your home country may offer more favorable rates compared to those at the airport or in Malaysia, particularly if you exchange a larger amount. This can help you get more Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) for your money.
• Convenience: Having some MYR on hand before your trip can make your arrival smoother, as you won't need to immediately search for a currency exchange service. This is especially useful if you arrive late at night or on a weekend when exchange offices may be closed.
• Smaller denominations: When exchanging money in advance, you can request smaller bills (RM10, RM20, RM50) which are more practical for making purchases, tipping, or paying for public transportation upon arrival. Large bills like RM100 may not be accepted by some merchants.
• Reduced risk: Carrying a small amount of cash in MYR reduces the risk of having to exchange money at unfavorable rates if you run out of local currency during your trip.

However, it's important to note that you don't need to exchange all your money before traveling, as ATMs are widely available in Malaysia and most major credit cards are accepted. Consider exchanging a portion of your budget to have on hand upon arrival, and use ATMs or credit cards for the rest of your spending.