Should I take dollars or pesos to Cancun?

Should I exchange money before I travel to Cancun? Speaking of cash, yes, you'll want to exchange your currency for Mexican pesos before traveling to Cancun. You'll get a better rate from your local bank or credit union than you'll find at the airport once you've arrived in Mexico.



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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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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 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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On average Waiters in Cancun earn around $2.17 an hour + Tips. It's customary to tip from 10-20% depending on the size of the Bill and the quality of service. Always check your Bill before tipping as some restaurants will automatically add a service charge to your Bill.

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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.

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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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Pesos, being the national currency of Mexico, will be accepted absolutely anywhere. US dollars will be accepted throughout the Cancun Hotel Zone, but the further you venture into 'real Mexico' the more problems you may find in using USD for everyday purchases.

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Pesos, being the national currency of Mexico, will be accepted absolutely anywhere. US dollars will be accepted throughout the Cancun Hotel Zone, but the further you venture into 'real Mexico' the more problems you may find in using USD for everyday purchases.

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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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If you pay in U.S. dollars rather than Pesos, expect the rate to be inflated, he added. If anything, Lanno said you can ask to see a rate card, which all taxis should have, but it's rumored that some of them have different cards with higher rates on them.

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Before your trip, exchange money at your bank or credit union, which likely offers better rates and fewer and/or lower fees. See if your bank or credit union will buy back any leftover foreign currency for when you return.

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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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