Is it better to carry USD or pesos in Mexico?

This is just part of traveling and it is also more respectful to countries to use the national currency. Many Mexicans make it easy to use Dollars and this certainly makes it easier for many tourist that come to Mexico. You will however make the best use of your money if you exchange it and use Pesos.



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The best currency to bring to Mexico is a mix of pesos and US dollars. Use the dollars to pay for tours, entrance fees, accommodation, and travel. For everything else use pesos.

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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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We would always suggest tipping a minimum of 10% at restaurants in Mexico. Check the bill and see if a service charge for gratuity was included.

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So, how much spending money should I bring to Mexico? On a mid-range budget, you should expect to spend $110 USD ($2200 MXN) per person daily. This accounts for 3 meals a day, transportation fare, and one activity per day(tours, attractions,etc.). Add $10 USD ($200 MXN) if planning to drink alcohol.

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It's best to order pesos via your local U.S. bank before arriving in Mexico to avoid inflated fees. If this isn't an option, you can go into a reputable bank or credit union nearby. If you must use an ATM for cash, this is typically safe too, but remember to convert your currency to pesos for the best deal.

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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.

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When given the option, pay in pesos: When paying at restaurants or stores in Cancun, you'll likely be given the option to pay in pesos or USD (even when paying with a credit card). Always choose pesos, as you'll get a better exchange rate.

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So don't be stingy. Budget for gratuities and have cash on hand to reward waiters, bellhops, bartenders, and tour guides. Tipping in the local currency, pesos, is of course the most convenient option for the recipient, but you can also dole out U.S. dollars.

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Yes, US dollars are accepted pretty much everywhere in Cancun, from restaurants and bars to stores and hotels. While dollars are accepted in Cancun, you'll get the best exchange rate by using pesos instead.

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TOUR AND ACTIVITY GUIDES
If you're on a tour with a lot of people (20-100 people), each person should leave a tip of at least $5 U.S. (90 pesos). If you're on a tour with very few people (e.g., four people in your family), the group should leave a tip that is equivalent to 15-20% of the cost of the tour.

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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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Restaurants. In restaurants, 15% of a check is a good rule of thumb to follow; if you're in a big group you may find that a service fee is automatically added to the check (look out for that). If you feel you have been given particularly great service, 20% will be greatly appreciated.

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According to numbeo.com, 200 Pesos or $10.00 will get a meal at an inexpensive restaurant (ranging from $4.00 to $15.00 and averaging around $7.50 per meal). Some other costs in Mexico to give an idea of the prices there are: McMeal: $6.00. Domestic Beer: $1.95 (0.5 Liter Draught)

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