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Is it better to bring cash to Cancun?

Cash is a necessity in Cancun, given that many restaurants and gift shops don't accept credit cards. Like many other airports around the world, the Cancun airport is jam-packed with money exchange kiosks looking to convert your money into Mexican pesos.



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Cash is a necessity in Cancun, given that many restaurants and gift shops don't accept credit cards. Like many other airports around the world, the Cancun airport is jam-packed with money exchange kiosks looking to convert your money into Mexican pesos.

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The best currency to take to Cancun is Mexican pesos (MXN) as this is the official currency of the country and will save you money when paying for purchases. However, U.S. dollars are also widely accepted, so it's possible to use dollars when traveling in Cancun.

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While still at home, you can exchange currency at your local bank. Experts suggest only changing enough to cover travel and transportation costs until you are settled at your destination, as the costs of exchanging money at home can be prohibitive.

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They are fantastic for tacos and other fast food. With 100 Pesos, tourists can also buy ice cream, fruits, or juice from the local food markets. If they do not want to spend their money on food, they can purchase a ticket to enter Tulum ruins, Chapultepec Castle, Museo Nacional de Antropologia, etc.

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The best currency to take to Mexico is the local currency, the Mexican peso. US dollars are also highly exchangeable at local banks and currency exchange offices. However, instead of converting physical banknotes, the cheapest way to pay in Mexico is to use a multi-currency travel debit card like Revolut or Wise.

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Something in the range of 10–15% should do it if they're already getting a service charge. In any case, familiarize yourself with the resort's gratuities policy before your trip to avoid over- or under-doing it.

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To show your appreciation for the meal, tip your server around 15%. Raise that up to 20% if you were wowed. Note that some establishments automatically charge a service fee, so keep an eye out so that you don't tip twice. Bartenders should get 20 pesos (US$1) per drink or 10–15% of the total bill.

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9 travel tips for your next trip to Cancun
  • Pre-book your airport transfer. ...
  • Make full use of Cancun's public buses. ...
  • Choose the right hotel for your budget. ...
  • Don't spend all your time on the beach. ...
  • Sign up for tours to nearby destinations. ...
  • Eat and shop in Downtown Cancun. ...
  • Take it easy on your first day.


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Credit cards are gold around these parts but it's still a good idea to bring cash along when you travel, even on an all-inclusive vacation. While you won't be paying for meals or drinks, it's a good idea to make friends with your bartender at the beginning of the trip by leaving a tip up front.

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Carry at least two cards on your trip to Mexico, preferably connected with Visa or Mastercard. If you just take an American Express card, you won't get to use it in many places. Think no foreign transaction fees.

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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).

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While some merchants in Mexico may accept US Dollars, it is not widely accepted and you may receive a poor exchange rate. It's recommended to use Mexican Pesos when in Mexico.

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Is $500 dollars enough for Mexico? The good news is, in certain parts of Mexico it's still possible to live and travel on just $500 a month! It's even possible to live in Mexico comfortably on $500 per month, as long as you plan your trip correctly.

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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.

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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.

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Is $500 dollars enough for Mexico? The good news is, in certain parts of Mexico it's still possible to live and travel on just $500 a month! It's even possible to live in Mexico comfortably on $500 per month, as long as you plan your trip correctly.

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