From Braai to Bargain: Squeezing More Out of Your South African Rand
19/05/2025
South Africa. A land of golden savannahs, world-class wine, and sunsets that look like they've been filtered by the gods. Whether you're tracking the Big Five on safari or sipping a chilled Chenin in the Winelands, there’s one thing you’ll want more of – value for your Rand.
The good news? With a dash of planning and a hint of local know-how, your money can go a whole lot further. We’ve crunched the numbers and gathered the hacks so you can soak up the sights and get the most out of your South African Rand.
What Does Stuff Actually Cost in South Africa
Let’s talk numbers – because while adventure is priceless, South Africa makes it delightfully affordable. On average, here’s what you’ll pay:
Street food snack: A hearty helping of something delicious – think boerewors rolls or vetkoek – costs around 30–50 ZAR (£1.30–£2), big flavours for small change.
Coffee in a cafe: A perfectly brewed cup will set you back around 30–45 ZAR (£1.30–£2), giving you every reason to linger longer.
Cocktail at a bar: Cocktails here cost around 70–120 ZAR (£3–£5), and taste even sweeter when you’re sipping as the sun dips behind Table Mountain.
Mid-range hotel: A comfortable stay doesn't cost a fortune, with an average night in a mid-range hotel priced between 800–1500 ZAR (£35–£65).
Short taxi ride: Getting around is easy on the wallet, with short taxi rides typically costing 50–100 ZAR (£2–£4).
Understanding the Rand
The South African Rand (ZAR) is your passport to epic safaris, scenic road trips, and plates piled high with incredible food. But not all Rands are created equal – especially when it comes to swapping your cash.
$ Watch those exchange rates – Keep an eye on rates before you travel and grab a great deal early. Locking in ahead of time means more Rands in your pocket – and fewer headaches later if the rates take a turn.
$ Plan ahead – Pre-order your currency with Hays Travel and you’ll be all set the moment you land. No frantic ATM hunts, no last-minute airport markups – just more time to kick back and start the adventure.
$ Dodge extra fees – Airport kiosks and overseas ATMs love sneaky charges. Sorting your Rand before you go means you’ll dodge those pesky fees and make your holiday budget stretch much, much further.
Top 3 Ways to Save Your South African Rand
1. Swap Dining Out for Braais
Eating out can roast your budget! Fire up the grill and enjoy delicious, affordable braais with friends.
Top Tip: Bring-and-braai nights save cash and create memories – everyone shares the cost (and the fun)!
2. Go Wild in South Africa
Skip pricey tourist experiences and explore South Africa’s stunning parks and free coastal spots instead.
Top Tip: A local adventure beats any pricey attraction – and your wallet will thank you later!
3. Embrace Local Markets
Markets and small shops often offer great prices – explore a little and compare before you buy!
Top Tip: Smile, ask politely, and you might just uncover a hidden gem, and a bargin.
Rand Ready: Cash and Cards Covered
While major hotels, restaurants, and shopping malls across South Africa welcome cards with open arms, plenty of local gems, like roadside farm stalls, craft markets, and small-town cafés, are cash-only. Carry a mix, but don’t channel your inner pirate; nobody wants to lose a stash of Rands on the beach or in the bush.
$ Always pay in ZAR: If you're given the choice to pay in your home currency or South African Rand, always pick Rand. It keeps your exchange rate fair and saves you from sneaky extra charges.
$ Tell your bank you’re travelling: Planning to use your usual debit or credit card? Give your bank a heads-up before you go, so your card doesn’t get blocked when you're trying to pay for that safari day trip!
$ Hays Travel Money Card is a brilliant pick – no hidden costs, loads of currency options, and easy top-ups through the App, whenever you need.
Order your travel money via click and collect today to secure a great rate!
Need to purchase your South African Rand? Hays Travel is offering great rates online and in-store right now! With the convenience of Click & Collect or Home Delivery, plus expert advice with dedicated forex staff in-store, it's never been easier to buy your travel money.
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