Is it better to exchange money in US or Mexico?

Most businesses will take U.S. dollars, but it's better to convert your currency to pesos. You'll get better deals and it is the currency of Mexico. Many people get pesos from their bank at home before travel. We normally use ATMs when we arrive at the Cancun airport.



People Also Ask

Exchange US Dollars to Pesos Before Traveling to Mexico. You WILL need pesos for many restaurants, taxis, and smaller shops. Grocery stores, markets, and many restaurants will accept cards, but some may add a small fee. Your bank can exchange dollars for pesos before your trip.

MORE DETAILS

Whether in the U.S. or at your destination, avoid airport kiosks or other exchange houses if you can. Those should only be used as a last resort, because they typically offer poor exchange rates and high fees, so you'll get less currency for your money.

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

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.

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 Mexico, every bellboy, chauffeur/driver, or valet parking person expects a tip of 20-50 pesos. Bartenders, waitresses/waiters, and housekeeping staff expect a tip of 15% of your bill, and housekeepers should be tipped about 50 pesos (or more) per day.

MORE DETAILS

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.

MORE DETAILS

Street food and informal cafes offer some of Mexico's best bargains. A hearty lunch at a comida corrida costs $4 to $8 per person, while dinners at most nice restaurants are $20 or less.

MORE DETAILS

Use your best judgment when deciding how much cash to bring with you to Mexico. A good rule to follow is to bring 25% of your total budget in cash. If you happen to run out, use your debit card or prepaid travel card at a verified national bank ATM to get the best exchange rate.

MORE DETAILS

The best way to spend in Mexico is a combination of both cash and your debit card. Larger businesses and those in major cities are likely to accept debit cards, but not all will. Some smaller stores and businesses may only accept cash. For example, market stalls, street food stands and taxis.

MORE DETAILS

Since most major tourist attractions accept both U.S. dollars and pesos, you should bring a little of both.

MORE DETAILS

Travelers are permitted to carry up to $10,000 USD in cash to Mexico, without the need to declare it. The traveler may also transport sums greater than ten thousand dollars, but they are required to advise customs if they are doing this.

MORE DETAILS

All major credit and debit card brands are accepted at millions of retail establishments across Mexico. Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover are the most commonly seen and used brands in Mexico. Visa & MasterCard are the most widely accepted networks. Some places also accept Diners Club.

MORE DETAILS