How to Buy XRP Safely (Step by Step)
Buying XRP is straightforward once you know the steps — and doing it safely matters more than doing it fast. This guide walks through choosing a reputable exchange, setting up your account properly, and moving your XRP somewhere you control.
The 20-second version
Pick a well-known, regulated exchange, complete identity verification, fund your account, and place an order for XRP. For anything you'd be upset to lose, withdraw it to a wallet you control rather than leaving it on the exchange.
Before you buy
First, make sure you understand what you're buying — our what is XRP guide covers the basics. XRP is available on most major exchanges, but availability can vary by country, so check that it's offered where you live.
A fair warning
XRP's price is highly volatile and can move sharply on legal and regulatory news. Only ever invest money you can afford to lose, and never borrow to buy crypto. This guide is education, not financial advice.
How to buy XRP, step by step
- Choose a reputable, regulated exchange. Established names like Coinbase, Kraken or Binance are widely used — check which operate legally in your country.
- Create your account and complete identity verification (KYC). This is a legal requirement on regulated platforms and helps protect your account.
- Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA) using an authenticator app, not SMS, before you deposit any money.
- Deposit funds using a bank transfer or card. Bank transfers usually have lower fees than cards.
- Place your order for XRP. A 'market' order buys at the current price; a 'limit' order lets you set the price you're willing to pay.
- Once bought, decide where to keep it. For anything beyond pocket money, withdraw it to a wallet you control — see how to store XRP safely.
Coinbase is a beginner-friendly, regulated exchange that lists XRP in many regions. We may earn a commission at no cost to you if you sign up through our link — it never changes our verdicts.
A note unique to XRP: destination tags
XRP has one quirk worth knowing. When sending XRP to some exchanges, you may be asked for a destination tag (sometimes called a 'memo') alongside the wallet address. This is a number the exchange uses to credit the right account.
Don't skip the destination tag
If an exchange asks for a destination tag and you leave it out, your XRP can be lost or delayed. Always include the exact tag the exchange gives you, and send a small test amount first.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Buying on an unregulated or unknown platform to save a few pounds.
- Skipping 2FA, or using SMS-based 2FA which is easier to hijack.
- Leaving large amounts on an exchange long-term instead of self-custody.
- Forgetting the destination tag when transferring XRP.
- Acting on hype, urgency or a 'tip' rather than your own understanding.
Key takeaways
- Use a reputable, regulated exchange that operates legally where you live.
- Complete verification and turn on app-based 2FA before depositing.
- Always include the destination tag when XRP requires one.
- XRP is volatile — only buy what you can afford to lose, and never borrow.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to buy a whole XRP?
No. XRP is divisible, so you can buy a small fraction. You decide how much to spend, not how many coins to buy.
What is a destination tag?
It's a number some exchanges require alongside the wallet address so they can credit XRP to the right account. If you're asked for one, include it exactly — leaving it out can cause your XRP to be lost or delayed.
Should I leave my XRP on the exchange?
For small amounts or active trading it's convenient, but the exchange holds the keys. For larger holdings, move it to a wallet you control.
Keep reading
What Is XRP? A Plain-English Guide
A beginner-friendly explanation of what XRP is, how it differs from Bitcoin, its link to Ripple, and how to th
How to Store XRP Safely (Step by Step)
Keep your XRP safe: hot vs cold wallets, hardware wallets, the XRP reserve requirement, destination tags, and
How to Buy Bitcoin Safely (Step by Step)
A careful, beginner-friendly walk-through of buying Bitcoin on a regulated exchange — verifying your account,