Money exchange converts between about 160 currencies using mid-market reference rates updated daily. It is free and starts with your home currency and the local currency where you are.
Mid-market reference rates, updated daily. Banks, cards and exchange counters add their own fees and margins, so the rate you get will be a little lower. Rates by Exchange Rate API.
About the Money exchange
Money exchange is a simple currency converter made for travelers. It covers about 160 currencies and uses mid-market reference rates that update daily. Big flags make it easy to see which currency is which, and a swap button flips the direction in one tap. It pre-sets your home currency and the local currency where you are, so you can check a menu price or a taxi fare in seconds. It suits anyone comparing prices, budgeting a trip or deciding where to change money.
How it works
- Open the page; your home currency and the local currency are already set.
- Type the amount you want to convert.
- Change either currency from the list of about 160, or tap swap to reverse.
- Compare the result with the rate your bank or exchange counter offers.
Features
Why it helps on a trip
Tips
- Check the mid-market rate before you visit an exchange counter so you can see how much they keep.
- When a card terminal offers to charge you in your home currency, compare its rate with this one before you accept.
- Rates update daily, so treat the result as a close guide rather than an exact price.
Frequently asked questions
Does the Money exchange tool cost anything?
No, it is free, needs no account and has nothing to install. It runs in any phone or computer browser. It guesses where you are from your device's time zone and your home country from the browser language, to pre-set the two currencies, and you can change either one. Rates are mid-market reference rates, updated daily.
What is the mid-market rate?
The mid-market rate is the midpoint between the price at which banks buy a currency and the price at which they sell it. It is a fair reference point, but it is usually not the rate you receive. Banks, card providers and exchange counters add a margin or fees on top, so the amount you get is a little lower.
Why is the rate at the exchange counter different?
Exchange counters and banks make money by offering a rate below the mid-market rate, and some add a fixed fee or commission as well. Airports and tourist areas often have wider gaps. Comparing the counter's rate with the mid-market rate shown in Money exchange tells you how much you are paying for the service.
Should I pay in local currency or my home currency abroad?
When a card machine or ATM offers to charge you in your home currency, this is called dynamic currency conversion. The rate it uses is often worse than your own bank's rate. In many cases, choosing the local currency costs less. Check your card's foreign transaction fees too, since they vary between cards.
How often are the exchange rates updated?
Money exchange uses reference rates from ExchangeRate-API, updated daily. Currency markets move during the day, so the rate can shift a little between updates. For everyday travel decisions, like checking a restaurant bill or a hotel price, a daily rate is close enough. For large transfers, ask your bank for its live rate.