How to Exchange Currency in Mexico

Traveling to Mexico can be a wonderful and exciting experience and you will need to exchange your U.S. dollars for pesos before you go or when you get there. Exchanging currency in Mexico can be tricky because the exchange rate changes frequently. If you do it right, you will have more money to spend during your trip.

Things You'll Need

• Money
• Map
• Translation book

Instructions

1. Research the currency exchange rate before arriving in Mexico. The easiest and fastest method is through the Internet. Currency in Mexico can change from month to month.

2. Locate a currency exchange place. If traveling by car, look for buildings advertising currency exchange as soon you enter Mexico. Many times the signs will be in both English and Spanish. If traveling by plane, airports in Mexico are equipped with currency exchange shops, usually with signs in English.

3. Get the most money for the U.S. dollar. Small, private shops will offer a higher exchange for the dollar. They know how to take advantage of the constantly changing exchange rate to still make a profit.

4. Exchange currency with relatives or friends who live in Mexico. Relatives are the most likely to give the most for the dollar. They will just hold the U.S. dollars until the exchange rate goes up and make money by exchanging them for pesos at that time.

Tips & Warnings

• Be aware that some currency exchange places will try to take advantage of tourists and undervalue their dollars.

• Always carry at least one major credit card in case of an emergency. Visa is accepted throughout Mexico, and many places also take American Express.

• Never go to the stores and start buying with U.S. dollars. The merchants will not give you fair value for the dollar.

Resources

• Look at the guide to exchanging currency in Mexico at Mexperience.com.