The best currency to take to Mexico is the local currency, the Mexican peso. US dollars are also highly exchangeable at local banks and currency exchange offices.
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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.
For most tourist that are in Mexico for a week and will be in tourist areas, you will find most places accept US Dollars. But there is the rate at what they will accept them. See our section below on this. Tip: Mexican law says that all prices must be marked in Pesos.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
International Cell Phone PlansMany carriers in the United States, like Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint, and others include international travel to Mexico and Canada in their plans. In that case, you're good to go. Enjoy using your phone in Mexico.
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.
About $10-15 per day. Bring pesos (the local currency) and a lot of $1 bills. If you are planning an activity, like sailing, bring 20% of that activity fee for a tip.
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.