Buy US Dollars

When traveling to the United States, your daily budget will depend on the city and your travel style. On average, you should budget between $50 to $100 per day for a mid-range trip. Cities like New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco may require a higher budget due to their higher cost of living, while smaller cities or rural areas can be more affordable.

The US Dollar (USD) comes in both coins and paper money. Coins are in 1 cent, 5 cents, 10 cents, 25 cents, 50 cents, and $1. Banknotes are available in $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 denominations. It's useful to have a mix of both small change and larger bills for convenience while traveling.

Yes, cash is widely accepted across the United States, especially in smaller businesses, local shops, and rural areas. Credit and debit cards are also commonly accepted, particularly in larger cities and tourist areas. It's advisable to have both cash and the Hays Travel Money Prepaid Mastercard® Currency Card for flexibility.

When using a credit or debit card in the United States, you may incur foreign transaction fees, which usually range from 1% to 3%. To avoid these fees, consider using a the Hays Travel Money Prepaid Mastercard® Currency Card.

While US Dollars are the official currency in the United States, some tourist-heavy areas may accept foreign currencies, including Euros or Canadian Dollars. However, it's best to use US Dollars for all transactions to avoid unfavorable exchange rates.

Tipping in the United States is customary and often expected in restaurants, bars, and for service providers. A typical tip is 15% to 20% of the bill, though you can adjust this based on the service quality. Hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides also expect tips, usually around $1 to $5 depending on the service.

The cost of a meal in the United States can vary significantly depending on the location and type of restaurant. On average, expect to pay $10 to $20 for a meal at a casual restaurant. In major cities like New York or Los Angeles, dining out can be more expensive, with meals costing $30 or more at mid-range restaurants. For affordable options, try local diners or fast-casual eateries.

The amount of US Dollars you should buy depends on the length of your trip and your planned spending.

The best time to buy US Dollars is when exchange rates are in your favor. Track USD exchange rates in the weeks leading up to your trip and consider locking in a good rate by buying US Dollars in advance. The Hays Travel Money Prepaid Mastercard® Currency Card is also a great way to secure a favorable rate before departure.

The US Dollar is used as the official currency in the United States and its territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the US Virgin Islands. Additionally, the US Dollar is widely accepted in countries like Ecuador, Panama, and El Salvador, and it is also used as a de facto currency in some Caribbean islands and African nations.

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.

In the United States, both cash and cards have their advantages. Cards are ideal for larger purchases and offer security, while cash is handy for smaller transactions, tips, or places that don’t accept cards. A combination of both is typically the best option for flexibility and convenience. Consider taking both cash and the Hays Travel Money Prepaid Mastercard® Currency Card.

Carrying cash in the United States is generally safe, but it’s important to exercise caution. Keep your cash in a secure wallet or a money belt to protect it from pickpockets, especially in busy tourist areas. Consider splitting your cash between multiple locations to avoid losing it all at once.