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Should I use pesos or US dollars in Mexico?

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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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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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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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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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.

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Dollars or pesos? In most tourist areas in Mexico, it is acceptable to tip in either pesos or dollars, though pesos are more practical for the person being tipped. If you do tip in dollars, be sure to only tip using notes and not coins as coins cannot be exchanged.

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How Much Money to Take to Mexico for a Week? Follow the 25% rule regardless of how many days you will be in Mexico. For example, if your total budget for a seven-day vacation is 1500 USD, you should bring a total of 375 USD or 7,000 MXN. This totals about 50 USD in cash per day.

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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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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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Is It Safe to Carry Cash in Mexico? While it's generally safe, carrying only the amount you need and keeping it secure is advisable. Consider using credit/debit cards, traveler's checks, or secure banking services to minimize the risk of loss or theft.

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There is no restriction on the sale of dollars. However, upon entering or departing Mexico, cash amounts of USD 10,000 or more must be declared and documented.

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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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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.

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