Paypal Charge to Convert Currency?

InDebted2U_2

I can't find the answer to this on Paypal's site, it just keeps directing me to the currency converter,

If I am paying for something in Euros and my currency is pounds sterling, how much will Paypal charge me for the transaction? Is it a set fee or a % of the purchase price? Can anyone point me to the answer please?

Niloticus1

They seem to have hidden it quite well.... I can't answer the question but I think the best way to scupper PayPal is to use a credit card and click "Currency Conversion Options". You will be given the option to select payment in the foreign currency using the card providers FX rate (check your card provider but usually a good interbank rate).  PayPal will charge a fee of about £3 iirc. The important thing is to use a credit card that doesn't charge a fee for foreign transactions (Nationwide gold visa in  my case). PayPal are getting their £3 fee but not using their outrageous FX rates. I won't allow PayPal to convert currency on principle, moreover I usually try and pay by bank transfer using TransferWise (instead of Paypal) but that's not always possible.

InDebted2U_2

I found out that the answer is that when you click to pay something in Euros, Paypal tells you how much that will cost in GBP (no extra fees), so it's all good.

Stickers31

I was just looking for this - I think there might be something hidden in the exchange rate they use - and not sure I had the option to choose.  I haven't used it for a large amount but worth remembering.  transaction today - xe.com shows 1.18 euros to the pound where paypal have just given me 1.14