Your daily budget in Mexico depends on your travel style and destination. On average, budget travelers can expect to spend around MXN 500 to MXN 1,000 per day. For mid-range travelers, the budget may range from MXN 1,000 to MXN 2,500 per day, while luxury travelers could spend over MXN 3,000 daily. Cities like Mexico City, Cancun, and Los Cabos tend to be more expensive, while smaller towns and rural areas offer more affordable options. 

The Mexican Peso (MXN) comes in both coins and banknotes. Coins are available in 5, 10, 20, and 50 centavos, as well as 1, 2, 5, and 10 pesos. Banknotes come in MXN 20, MXN 50, MXN 100, MXN 200, MXN 500, and MXN 1,000 denominations. Carrying a mix of coins and notes makes it easier to pay for both small and larger transactions in Mexico.

Yes, cash is widely accepted throughout Mexico. It is common to pay for everything from street food to transportation in Mexican Peso (MXN). However, in larger cities and more touristy areas, credit and debit cards are often used in restaurants, shops, and hotels. It’s recommended to have a combination of both cash and a Hays Travel Money Prepaid Mastercard® Currency Card for convenience during your trip.

When using a credit or debit card in Mexico, you may incur foreign transaction fees that typically range from 1% to 3% of the transaction. Additionally, some ATMs may charge a fee for withdrawals. To minimize costs, consider using a Hays Travel Money Prepaid Mastercard® Currency Card.

While Mexican Peso (MXN) is the official currency of Mexico, some businesses in major tourist areas may accept US Dollars (USD), especially in places like Cancun and Los Cabos. However, it’s always best to pay in MXN for the best exchange rates and to avoid any unfavourable conversion fees. Using Mexican Peso will save you money on currency conversion and ensure smoother transactions.

Tipping is common in Mexico and is generally expected in the service industry. In restaurants, tipping around 10% to 15% of the bill is standard. For taxis, rounding up the fare or tipping about 10% is appreciated. Hotel staff (housekeepers, bellhops) typically receive tips of MXN 20 to MXN 50. While not mandatory, tipping is a way to show appreciation for good service.

The cost of a meal in Mexico varies depending on the type of dining experience. A simple meal at a casual restaurant or street food vendor may cost between MXN 50 to MXN 150. For a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay around MXN 200 to MXN 500 per person. Upscale restaurants or fine dining in places like Mexico City can cost anywhere from MXN 500 to MXN 1,500 or more per person.

The amount of Mexican Peso (MXN) you should buy depends on your trip length, destination, and personal spending habits. It’s recommended to exchange enough MXN to cover initial expenses like transportation, meals, and small purchases. You can also use a Hays Travel Money Prepaid Mastercard® Currency Card for added flexibility to add funds as required.

The best time to buy Mexican Pesos is when the exchange rate is favourable. Track the MXN exchange rate in the months leading up to your trip and buy your Mexican Pesos when the rate is optimal. Alternatively, you can use a Hays Travel Money Prepaid Mastercard® Currency Card to lock in a favourable rate before departure, helping you avoid fluctuating rates while traveling.

The Mexican Peso (MXN) is the official currency of Mexico. It is not widely accepted outside of Mexico, but in some parts of Central America (like Belize and Guatemala), businesses may accept MXN at a fluctuating exchange rate. It’s best to exchange your Mexican Peso for the local currency when traveling outside of Mexico to avoid poor exchange rates.

We’ll buy back any foreign currency purchased with our Buy Back scheme so you’re not out of pocket after your big adventures.

At Hays Travel you have several quick and easy methods to buy your currency. You can click & collect, call into branch, or choose home delivery.

You can also buy the Hays Travel Money Prepaid Mastercard® Currency Card and load currency before your departure. ATMs are widely available in airports, hotels, and city centres.

Both cash and cards are commonly used in Mexico, but cash is essential for small purchases, especially in rural areas or at street markets. Cards are widely accepted in urban areas, restaurants, and hotels. It’s best to carry a combination of cash for smaller expenses and a Hays Travel Money Prepaid Mastercard® Currency Card for larger transactions.

Carrying cash in Mexico is generally safe, but it’s important to exercise caution, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas. Use a money belt or a secure wallet to protect your Mexican Pesos (MXN). Consider carrying a Hays Travel Money Prepaid Mastercard® Currency Card for larger purchases and to reduce the amount of cash you carry with you.