See exactly how many dollars you lose by exchanging cash at Toronto Pearson (YYZ), Billy Bishop (YTZ), or Winnipeg (YWG) compared to Currency Mart city branch rates.
The Airport Kiosk Trap: Airport currency exchange booths (e.g. ICE, Travelex) advertise "0% Commission", but secretly pad their exchange rate with a 12% to 18% markup plus an administrative fee of $7.50 to $9.95. On an average $1,500 CAD family holiday budget, exchanging at Pearson (YYZ) or Winnipeg (YWG) loses over $210 CAD compared to picking up your cash in advance at Currency Mart.
| Feature | Airport Kiosks (YYZ / YTZ / YWG) | Currency Mart Retail Branches |
|---|---|---|
| Average Rate Markup | 12.0% to 18.0% above spot | 0.8% to 1.5% wholesale margin |
| Transaction / Convenience Fee | $7.50 to $9.95 per exchange | $0.00 (No hidden fees) |
| Loss on $1,500 CAD Exchange | -$185 to -$240 lost | $0 lost (Max cash in pocket) |
| Physical Cash In Stock | Often limited to USD/EUR; poor exotic rates | 30+ currencies in stock (Pesos, Yen, Pounds, etc.) |
| Pickup Convenience | Rushed, stressful lines while boarding flight | 4 relaxed city branches or delivery to your door |
Airport currency exchange kiosks (such as ICE or Travelex at Toronto Pearson YYZ or Winnipeg YWG) typically charge exchange rate markups between 12% and 18% above the interbank rate, plus a fixed service fee of $5.00 to $9.95 per transaction. On a $1,000 CAD exchange, travellers commonly lose between $120 and $180 CAD compared to city rates.
Airport kiosks must pay astronomical concession rent to airport authorities (often millions per year), 24/7 security overhead, and take advantage of captive travellers who have no alternatives before their flights. City retail specialists like Currency Mart operate outside airport boundaries with wholesale volumes, passing the savings to customers.
Exchanging currency at a dedicated city branch like Currency Mart in Toronto (Downtown Yonge St, North York Fairview Mall) or Winnipeg (Downtown, St. Vital) is dramatically cheaper. You save 10% to 15% in cash compared to airport booths and pay zero transaction fees.
Yes, airport kiosks exist post-security and in arrivals, but financial experts strongly advise against using them for anything other than small emergency cash ($20–$50). You can reserve cash at Currency Mart ahead of time and pick up before heading to Pearson or Winnipeg airport.
Skip airport markups and big bank spreads. Collect authentic physical banknotes at our 4 retail branches or order securely online for home delivery across Canada.