What is the best currency to take to Mexico?

It's best to order pesos via your local U.S. bank before arriving in Mexico to avoid inflated fees. If this isn't an option, you can go into a reputable bank or credit union nearby. If you must use an ATM for cash, this is typically safe too, but remember to convert your currency to pesos for the best deal.



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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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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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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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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.

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

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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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A comfortable daily allowance in Mexico is 70-150 USD per person. This will allow you to do a few more luxurious tours, eat at nicer restaurants, or stay at a mid-range hotel. For cash, bring 25-35 USD for each day of your vacation.

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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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While tipping is a discretionary and optional gesture, at all-inclusive resorts in Mexico, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and others, it is certainly encouraged.

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In general, you'll want to plan on tipping restaurant staff, the concierge, bartenders, housekeepers, the bellman, pool staff, and shuttle drivers at all-inclusive resorts. Impeccable service can always be rewarded with higher tips, but there are some accepted standards for travelers to lean on.

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A: Mexico's tipping etiquette at restaurants and bars usually entails tipping 10-15% of the total bill for good service. Be sure to check if the service charge has already been included in the bill – if so, you don't need to tip extra. Always have some cash on hand, as not all establishments accept tips on cards.

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Tipping is always optional although the people serving you will appreciate the small token of your appreciation in exchange for good service.

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Tipping in Mexico: Taxi
Most taxi drivers in Mexico do not expect a tip. However, if your driver helps you with your luggage, it is courteous to tip around 10 pesos. This standard also goes for Airport Shuttle Operators. A 10 peso tip is typical if you are helped with your bags.

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If you are searching for how to get pesos in Mexico, currency exchanges at the airport or downtown will always offer you a worse exchange rate than your bank. That's how they make money! For this reason, I only suggest using this option when you have some leftover pesos before your return flight at the airport.

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That's why, unless you are from the US and don't want to use Pesos due to unfamiliarity, I would always recommend that you use Pesos.

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Credit cards are widely accepted at most places of business throughout Mexico, especially in tourist areas. Besides small towns and certain food trucks or shops, you can use a credit card to pay for most things.

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