Mexico is welcoming, colorful and great value — once you’ve got the money basics down. Cash is essential in markets and small towns, tipping is part of the culture, and a little price-awareness keeps you from tourist markups.
Pesos and cards
Carry pesos for markets, taxis, tips and small eateries; cards work in hotels, supermarkets and city restaurants. Always pay in pesos (not your home currency) on card terminals to avoid a poor conversion — the DCC trap.
Tipping (propina)
Tip restaurant staff around 10–15%, round up for drivers, and leave small amounts for hotel help and baggers. Cash tips are appreciated.
Markets and bargaining
Artisan markets (mercados) invite gentle bargaining; supermarkets and shops are fixed-price. For crafts and textiles, compare a few stalls first.
Know your pesos
Peso prices are easy to mix up with dollars at a glance. Currencies shows the true value in your home currency instantly and offline — so a market price, a taxi fare or a dinner bill is clear before you pay, freeing you to enjoy the trip.
Get Currencies on the App Store
Frequently asked questions
How much should I tip in Mexico?
Around 10–15% in restaurants, round up for drivers, and small amounts for hotel staff.
Should I pay in pesos or dollars on card?
Always choose pesos on the terminal to avoid dynamic currency conversion’s poor rate.
Can I convert pesos offline?
Yes — Currencies caches rates so you can convert anywhere, no signal needed.