Euro Currency Buy Back Calculator
How to Calculate Your Euro Buy Back Rate
Returning from a trip to Europe with leftover cash can be frustrating if you don't know how much your currency is worth upon return. The Euro Buy Back Rate Calculator helps you determine exactly how much domestic currency (USD, GBP, CAD, etc.) you will receive when selling your Euros back to a currency exchange bureau, bank, or travel agency.
Exchange bureaus operate with a "spread"—the difference between the rate they sell Euros at and the rate they buy them back. The buy-back rate is almost always lower than the market mid-rate, meaning you typically get less value back than what you originally paid, unless the Euro has strengthened significantly during your trip.
Understanding the Math
The calculation depends heavily on how the exchange rate is quoted in your country:
- Indirect Quote (e.g., UK): If the rate is quoted as 1 GBP = 1.18 EUR, the calculator divides your Euro amount by the rate (e.g., €100 / 1.18 = £84.74).
- Direct Quote (e.g., USA): If the rate is quoted as 1 EUR = 1.08 USD, the calculator multiplies your Euro amount by the rate (e.g., €100 * 1.08 = $108.00).
Factors Affecting Your Return
When selling back Euros, keep an eye on three specific factors:
- The Spot Rate: The base market value of the Euro against your home currency.
- The Bureau Margin: Currency providers add a margin (often 2% to 10%) to the spot rate to make a profit.
- Commission Fees: Some providers charge a flat fee per transaction regardless of the amount exchanged. This calculator allows you to input these fees to see your "Effective Rate."
Tips for Getting the Best Buy Back Rate
To maximize the cash you get back, avoid exchanging money at airports, where rates are notoriously poor. Look for "Buy Back Guarantees" if you purchased them before your trip, or compare rates between high-street banks and specialized online currency converters. Often, keeping the Euros for a future trip is the most cost-effective option to avoid losing value on the double exchange spread.