In this paper we study a role of F-centers, hole centers and excitons in energy transfer in Eu-doped BaBrI crystals. Optical absorption spectra, thermally stimulated (TSL) and photostimulated (PSL) luminescence in wide temperature range 7-300 K are studied in undoped and doped with different concentrations of Eu ions BaBrI crystals. Based on experimental and calculated results two possible energy transfer processes from host to Eu$^{2+}$ ions are established.