What the spread is
The spread is the gap between the exchange rate you are offered and a reference rate for the same pair of currencies, such as the mid-market rate. A wider spread costs more for the same amount.
What NerdWallet found
NerdWallet compares airport exchanges with the current exchange rate published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Its page, printed “Updated Sep 14, 2026”, says some premiums exceed 17%.
Capital One, on 12 March 2026, says currency exchanges may be available at the airport, but “those might charge higher conversion rates than your bank or credit card”.
What it means in money
A rate 14% worse than the reference rate means currency that costs $200 at the reference rate costs $228 at the airport. At 17% it costs $234.
What is not known
The size of the gap at any one airport is not known from these sources: this guide has one publication’s finding and no survey of kiosk rates.