Should I exchange money at the airport or in Cancun?
The best place to change travelers checks (does anyone still use those?) is at a money exchange place or 'Cambio' in downtown Cancun. The Cambios in the Cancun hotel zone normally offer an inferior rate but may be more convenient.
People Also Ask
Money Exchange at Cancun AirportProminent centers to exchange currencies in Cancun Airport are located at Terminals 2, 3, and 4. They are easily accessible and are safe outlets for you to make transactions. However, exchanging your currency at the airport gives bad exchange rates and charges high fees.
It is cheaper to exchange money at the bank (or by using an ATM) than the airport. That's because currency exchange stores and kiosks at the airports mark up the exchange rate to make a profit. They know that travelers who just got off a plane probably need money right away.
It's recommended that you buy pesos before you land in Mexico, just in case you need the cash. According to this USA Today article, the most economical way to do this is to buy pesos from your bank in the U.S. Most banks will do this for free, especially if you're not withdrawing a significant amount of money.
If you are extremely budget conscious, you might be able to get by on 2,500 to 3,000 pesos (not including lodging expenses). On the other hand, one could easily spend 15,000 or more. It depends on where you eat, what you drink and the activities you enjoy.
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.
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.
Avoid (or at least minimize) cash exchange.On average, at a bank you lose about 8 percent when you change dollars to euros or another foreign currency.
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.