Do You Need Pesos in Cancun? Cancun Currency Guide for 2025

Do You Need Pesos in Cancun?

Official Currency in Cancun Mexico

Here’s what to know about using the official currency in Mexico:

What’s the official currency in Cancun?

Easy Pesos to USD Currency Conversion Trick

If you’re not familiar with paying in pesos, it can be confusing to figure out exactly how much you’re spending.

However, there is a simple trick to convert your pesos to dollars easily in your head – just take off a zero and divide the price on the item by 2!

For example, if something is $500 pesos, you would take off a zero ($50) and divide the amount by 2 to get to a value of around $25 USD.

Now this isn’t exact but it will give you a rough estimate of how much an item costs, which can help you keep track of your budget and spending.

Alternatively, you can pull out the calculator on your phone or use a currency converter app to get the exact value.

💵 Easy MXN-USD Currency Conversion Trick: Take off a zero and divide by 2!

Mexican Peso Bills

Does Cancun Accept US Dollars?

How to Get Pesos for Cancun

Here’s where to get pesos in Cancun:

Withdraw money from the ATM once you arrive

Order pesos from your bank before you arrive

If you’re someone that likes to plan ahead and have everything ready to go before your trip, you might want to consider ordering pesos from your bank before you leave for Cancun.

While this option will cost a bit more than simply withdrawing money once you arrive in Mexico, it’s still cheaper than exchanging currency in Cancun once you arrive.

Plus, you won’t have to deal with finding an ATM once you get there, which can add stress to your vacation.

Most banks have the option to order foreign currency online or through a mobile app but it typically takes 1-3 business days for delivery.

Exchange USD for pesos at the Cancun Airport or currency exchange center

The final option for getting pesos in Cancun is to exchange US dollars for pesos at the Cancun Airport or a foreign currency exchange center.

While this is the most convenient way to get pesos, it’s typically the most expensive option.

You’ll have access to cash right away but the Cancun Airport currency exchange counters typically have some of the highest conversion rates.

And even currency exchange houses outside of the airport will usually overcharge you for their services, so it’s best to avoid taking this route if possible.

Be sure to check the current exchange rate before deciding whether or not this is the best option for you.

Using ATMs in Cancun

Here are some tips for withdrawing money from ATMs in Cancun:

Best ATMs in Cancun

When using ATMs in Cancun, you’ll want to avoid using just any random ATM on the street.

You might find random ATMs in the main tourist areas but these are known to have card skimmers and hackers that can drain your bank account if you’re not careful.

Instead, be sure to use more official ATMs directly at a bank or places like grocery stores or shopping malls for maximum security. You can even find bank ATMs in many Oxxo convenience stores.

Bank Partnerships

Before your trip, it’s a good idea to check with your bank to see if they have any partnerships with banks in Mexico.

Many major banks, such as Bank of America, have bank partnerships with foreign banks, which means you might be able to avoid usage or transaction fees if you use an ATM from one of these partner banks.

If your bank does have a partnership with a Mexican bank, you will likely be able to withdraw money without a usage fee.

However, there is typically still an international withdrawal fee that is a small percentage of the total withdrawal amount.

For example, Bank of America has a partnership with Scotiabank in Mexico. This means you can withdraw money from a Scotiabank ATM in Mexico and avoid a $5 USD usage fee.

However, you will still be charged 3% of the converted US dollar amount that you are withdrawing.

ATM Withdrawal Fees

When withdrawing money from ATMs in Mexico, you will likely be charged a usage fee and/or an international transaction fee that will be a small percentage of the total amount you take out.

Let’s say you are a Bank of America customer and you were to withdraw $2,000 pesos from a Scotiabank ATM in Mexico.

ATM Conversion Rates

Do You Need Pesos for an All Inclusive in Cancun?

No, if you don’t plan to leave the resort, you don’t need pesos for an all inclusive in Cancun.

Additional resort purchases can be placed on the credit card attached to the room reservation and any tips can be made in US dollars.

However, if you plan to leave your Cancun resort or would like to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases, it’s a good idea to get a small amount of pesos before your trip.

Additionally, there are plenty of ATMs in Cancun where you can easily withdraw cash if needed.

Is it Better to Exchange Money in Cancun?

Can You Use a Credit Card in Cancun?

Yes, you can use a credit card in Cancun for purchases at larger establishments like restaurants, stores, and hotels.

You’ll want to use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees for the best value. Generally, Visa, American Express, and Mastercard cards are accepted.

💳 I personally use and recommend the Chase Sapphire Preferred card, which has no foreign transaction fees and great perks for international travel.

Always use a credit card as opposed to a debit card, as debit cards usually have a foreign transaction fee for every purchase.

However, it’s important to note that some smaller businesses only accept cash since there is often a fee associated with using credit cards.

For example, you’ll need cash to pay for taxis, souvenir stalls, street vendors, and local food stands.

Additionally, some places (like spas or salons) may also charge an additional surcharge if you are paying with a credit card – be sure to ask beforehand if the cost of your purchase will be higher with a credit card.

Overall, most major credit cards will work in Cancun but it’s best to come prepared with both cash and at least one credit or debit card just in case.

Tipping in Cancun

Here are a few guidelines for how to tip in Cancun:

Tipping at All-Inclusive Resorts in Cancun

Tipping at all inclusive resorts in Cancun is not required, but is always appreciated.

If you receive outstanding service, feel free to leave an additional tip for servers, bartenders, entertainment staff, or housekeeping.

There is no standard amount for a tip at an all inclusive resort, but whatever you feel is reasonable for the level of service received.

And if you want to have the best service during your trip, it’s not a bad idea to start the week by tipping a little extra to ensure that you’ll receive the same high level of service throughout your stay.

Tipping at Restaurants in Cancun

As a general rule, it’s recommended that you leave 10-15% of your total bill as a tip for restaurant wait staff when dining in Mexico. Of course, higher tips are expected in major tourist destinations like Cancun.

When paying with a credit card at a restaurant, the server will generally bring the credit card machine to your table, where you’ll be asked for the tip amount.

You can just say 15% (or the desired percentage) and this amount will automatically be added to your bill so you won’t have to worry about calculating the tip amount yourself.

It’s also important to know that automatic gratuities are illegal in Cancun, but some restaurants still choose to add them anyways. Always be sure to review the bill carefully for any unexpected charges.

Tipping Taxi Drivers in Cancun

It is not common practice to tip taxi drivers in Cancun so you can feel comfortable just paying the exact amount for the fare.

However, if you’re feeling generous or if the driver helped with your luggage or went out of their way to get you to your destination faster, then you can leave a small tip.

Tipping Tour Guides in Cancun

Tipping tour guides and drivers in Cancun is expected, and tips are typically between 5-10% of the total cost of the tour.

If you feel like your guide went above and beyond during your Cancun or Riviera Maya excursion, it’s fine to tip a bit more at your discretion. Many tour guides make a living off of tips, so they will be grateful for your generosity.

You’ll want to have cash on hand for tips when going on a tour, and these can be paid in pesos or United States dollars.

Cancun Travel Tips to Save Money

• Decline the currency conversion rate at the ATM: When withdrawing cash from an ATM, you’ll be asked if you want to accept the ATM’s currency conversion rate. Always decline this option and instead you’ll be charged at the official exchange rate from your bank.

• Use a credit card instead of a debit card: If you’re going to be paying with a card, it’s best to use a credit card instead of your debit card. Many travel credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred card have no foreign transactions so you’ll save money on costly currency conversion fees on your debit card. Plus, credit cards typically have better protections if something goes wrong with your purchase.

• Check with your bank to see if they have any partnerships with banks in Mexico: If your bank has a partnership with a Mexican bank, you can likely avoid added ATM fees when using your debit card to withdraw money in Mexico.

• Only use official bank ATMs: Do your best to avoid using non-bank ATMs, as these are often less secure and can be setup with card skimmers. Withdrawing money from bank ATMs at grocery stores or shopping centers is a safer option. Some of the most popular local banks in Cancun are Scotiabank, Santander, Bancomer, and Banorte.

• Don’t carry large amounts of cash: It’s best to only carry the amount of cash that you need for your daily expenses in case of theft. Flaunting large amounts of cash can make you a target for theft or getting ripped off. It’s also a good idea to keep a backup credit or debit card (and some cash) in the hotel safe in case anything happens to your primary card.

Cancun Currency: FAQs

🚨 Do you need travel insurance for Mexico? Yes! Most insurance plans in your home country will not cover incidents abroad. I recommend using Travel Insurance Master, which is a handy travel insurance marketplace where you can compare policies. Get a FREE quote by clicking here!

Conclusion: Do I Need Pesos in Cancun?