Do I need pesos at an all-inclusive resort?

Many parts of the Mexican Caribbean will accept payment in US dollars, so you don't necessarily need to take Mexican pesos with you on vacation. This is especially the case in All-Inclusive resorts.



People Also Ask

The short answer is ABSOLUTELY YES, you need Mexican Pesos. You will need pesos for tips, souvenirs shopping, transportation like taxi/buses, tours, bar/restaurants, etc.

MORE DETAILS

Follow the 25% rule regardless of how many days you will be in Mexico. For example, if your total budget for a seven-day vacation is 1500 USD, you should bring a total of 375 USD or 7,000 MXN. This totals about 50 USD in cash per day.

MORE DETAILS

It's up to you how much you tip, but the recommended amount in Mexico is between 10% – 20% (15% is a good standard in tourist areas) of the bill or ticket price.

MORE DETAILS

In terms of how much money you'll need to have on hand for tipping during your Caribbean vacation, bring a small amount of cash inclusive of smaller bills like 5s and 10s. Some experts recommend that you bring a total of $150 to $200 USD for tips for a 1-week stay.

MORE DETAILS

Dollars or pesos? In most tourist areas in Mexico, it is acceptable to tip in either pesos or dollars, though pesos are more practical for the person being tipped. If you do tip in dollars, be sure to only tip using notes and not coins as coins cannot be exchanged.

MORE DETAILS

Preparing your travel money options beforehand is the key to a stress-free vacation. Credit cards, debit cards, prepaid travel cards and cash are all accepted in Mexico. Outside of a few purchases like transportation fare or local shops, a credit card will be your best bet for everyday purchases.

MORE DETAILS

All-inclusive resort tipping etiquette
  1. Bartender: 20 pesos or $1 every 1-2 drink orders, especially if you order complicated cocktails.
  2. Cart drivers: $1 per trip.
  3. Servers: $5-10 every couple of meals for good service or if your waiter went above & beyond (we usually tipped at dinner)
  4. Shuttle driver to/from airport.


MORE DETAILS

For traveling (even on a backpacker budget) it is perhaps better to consider what 500 pesos (or $25 will buy). That is enough to rent a car for a way (minus non-specified expenses). It is also enough for dormitory accommodation in some of the cheapest hostels in Mexico City for two nights (around $8 per night).

MORE DETAILS