United States Currency Guide
The currency of United States and how to prepare for payments — all on one page.
Currency
US Dollar
USD · $
Checking rates
Check with your bank app or card issuer before you go
The rate and fees you actually pay differ by bank and card issuer.
Payment Tips to Remember
Always pay in the local currency
If a terminal asks whether to charge in your home currency, always choose the local currency. Choosing your home currency triggers DCC (dynamic currency conversion), which adds a hidden markup.
Set up a travel card before you fly
Prepaid multi-currency travel cards let you convert money in the app beforehand and pay like a debit card locally. Fees are usually lower than cash exchange counters, and you can freeze the card instantly from the app if lost.
Airport exchange counters: last resort
Airport counters are convenient but tend to offer some of the worst rates. If you need cash, exchange via your bank's app before departure or consider withdrawing from a local ATM.
Check ATM fees on screen
Local ATMs may add their own operator fee. Check the fee shown on the confirmation screen before proceeding. If the ATM offers conversion to your home currency (DCC), choosing the local currency is usually better.
Keep some small cash
Every country has places that don't take cards — markets, tips, small transport. Carrying a small amount of cash in separate places keeps you covered.
Cards for Abroad
Explore the Wise multi-currency card
One account holding 40+ currencies, converting and paying at mid-market based rates. Handy for multi-country trips — no need to exchange for each currency separately.
Learn more
Local data
Get an eSIM for United States before you go
Activate mobile data with a QR code instead of swapping SIM cards. Buy it before departure and switch it on the moment you land.
Airalo
Yesim
Saily
Drimsim
Check prices and availability on the booking sites.
City Guides in United States
New York City
New York is the most populous city in the United States, wielding global influence in commerce, finance, art, and fashion. As home to United Nations headquarters, it also serves as a hub of international diplomacy.
Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States, an independent federal district that belongs to no state. Beyond its global political influence, it's notable for being a planned city designed from the outset to serve as the seat of government.
Chicago
Chicago ranks among the three largest cities in the United States and is the biggest city in the Midwest, including Illinois. Together with surrounding cities, it forms a vast metropolitan area with a vibrant urban landscape.
San Francisco
San Francisco sits at the tip of the San Francisco Peninsula in Northern California and serves as a leading center of the region's culture and economy. With a large population packed into a small area, it has a lively urban atmosphere.
Boston
Boston is one of the most historic cities in the United States and a leading center of economy and culture in New England. Built around a harbor on Boston Bay, it offers both seaside charm and historic appeal.