12 clever ways to use leftover foreign currency

You’ve unpacked your suitcase, sorted through your travel pictures, and maybe you've even thrown in a load of laundry. And yet, one thing from your trip is still untouched: your leftover currency. So, what exactly should you do with leftover currency when you return home from your trip?

Here are 12 practical (and a few fun) ways to spend those euros, yen, pounds, or pesos.

1. Exchange it back

Many people don’t know you can take your leftover currency and convert it back to your local currency. You can do this at banks, airport kiosks, and exchanges. Just watch for the fees; it can get expensive very quickly and isn't worth it for small amounts.

Pro tip: If you only have leftover coins, don’t bother exchanging them. Many exchange services only accept bills. But don’t worry! We’re going to cover how to handle those pesky coins below.

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2. Save it for your next trip

If you travel often, save your leftover currency for your next trip. Put it in an envelope with the country name so you won’t have to fumble to determine if those bills are from Japan or South Korea. The next time you travel, you’ll feel like a pro with cash ready for tips, food, or transport out of the airport.

3. Donate it 

Many charities, airports, and airlines will collect leftover currency for donations. Look for airport donation bins (often outside security or departure terminals). You can also check if your favorite charity accepts foreign currency. 

4. Give it to kids (or a curious adult in your life)

Do you have kids or young family members interested in exploring the world? Foreign currency can also be a fantastic way to engage them in geography, culture, and travel. You can also give it to a friend who always fantasizes about where to go — maybe this will be the nudge they need to book their trip!

5. Use it for DIY projects or home decor

Leftover currency can make for some fun and unique craft projects if you're crafty. Transform coins into magnets, create a travel shadow box, or use the bills in your next scrapbook. Framed currency can also be a fun wall art souvenir of your travels.

6. Pay it forward to another traveler

Have a friend heading to the same country soon? Give them all of your leftover currency. They'll appreciate it, whether it’s a few euros or a handful of Singaporean dollars. And maybe they’ll even pay it forward themselves when they come back.

7. Spend it strategically

With the frequency of travel delays these days, it may be a good idea to hold on to your leftover currency until you know your travel plans won’t change. When you do, use the money wisely: get a coffee or a snack, buy that cheesy souvenir (who doesn’t need another keychain, anyway?), or even buy daily products you use at home to take back with you. 

8. Put it in a multi-currency bank account

A multi-currency bank account for technology-savvy travelers can be a game-changer. Use apps like Revolut or Wise to store different currencies and avoid dealing with exchange rates every time you travel. Once you deposit your leftover currency, you’re good to go for your next trip.

9. Use it for tips before you head home

If you’re staying in a hotel, eating out, or using a local service provider, leftover currency can be a thoughtful tip before you head home. Housekeeping staff, servers, and taxi drivers often appreciate tips, and it’s a good way to use up the small bills or coins you might not be able to exchange. Just be sure that tipping is customary in the country you’re visiting — and you’re tipping the appropriate amount.

10. Sell it online 

Did you know that there’s a market for leftover currency online? Collectors and enthusiasts may be looking for rare coins or unique bills. Just go to an online marketplace like eBay, enter your currency, and see if you have exactly what someone is looking for.

11. Start a travel jar

Put your leftover coins and small bills into a jar labeled with your next dream destination. Over time, it adds up, and there’s something satisfying about seeing a tangible reminder of your travel goals sitting on your shelf.

12. Load it on a gift card 

Here’s a fun one! Some global chains let you load foreign currency onto their gift cards while you’re abroad that you can use when you get back home. Starbucks is a popular example, but it’s not the only one. Check with businesses like McDonald’s, IKEA, Apple, Google Play, and popular hotel chains. This is a convenient way to avoid carrying cash home and ensures your leftover currency still gets spent. But always double-check with the store or chain about their gift card policies in the country you're visiting.

Leftover currency doesn’t need to get thrown in a drawer and forgotten. All those extra bills and coins can have value beyond their monetary worth. So the next time you unpack your suitcase and find a stash of leftover currency, try one of these ideas!

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