Can You Use US Dollars In The Philippines?

Normally when visiting other countries, especially a country like the Philippines you have to consider how much money will you need to convert into that country’s currency. And try to get the balance between bringing too much or not enough money. So can you use US dollars in the Philippines?

No, generally US dollars and euros are not accepted in the Philippines. The currency used in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). There are some tourist areas that might accept US dollars to pay for goods and services. The problem with this is that the exchange rates that will be used will not be great.

In this post, we will go through should can you use US dollars in the Philippines. Let’s get started!

Learn More About The Philippines

Can You Use US Dollars In The Philippines?

No, normally US dollars are not accepted in the Philippines. The currency used in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). There are some tourist areas and hotels that might accept US dollars to pay for goods and services. The problem with this is that the exchange rates that will be used will not be great.

Should I Bring Cash To The Philippines?

The max amount of Philippine Peso you can carry into the Philippines is around 50,000 PHP which is roughly about $1,000 USD. And for a foreign currency, you can bring up to $10,000 USD. Anything higher will need to be approved.

You should exchange money before visiting the Philippines. The amount depends really on your budget and the length of your visit. A holiday to the Philippines can be expensive without the additional costs of exchanging money.

You should bring some money that is your home currency as you can get better exchange rates in the Philippines.

If you are planning out your budget and wondering how much to bring to the Philippines. If you estimate that on average you are going to spend on average $100 USD a day and you are visiting for 14 days. This includes accommodation and food as well as activities.

You would need $1400 USD which is around 70,000 PHP. In this case, you could exchange $900 USD and bring $500 USD and exchange it in the Philippines as you need it. As you get a better exchange rate in the Philippines.

Only use the ATM card when your cash is gone or in an emergency. As the exchange rates on bank cards are poor well as fees may be applied.

Is The Philippines Expensive?

How expensive a place is depends really on the person but in general, the Philippines is reasonably cheap compared to other places around Southeast Asia. It is not hard to get a nice place to stay at a good price. The food is reasonably priced but the Philippines is not known for its food.

Can I Use A Credit Card In The Philippines?

Yes, you can use credit cards all over the Philippines and it is a reasonably safe country to do so. However small local family-run businesses will more likely not have the facilities to accept debit or credit cards. It is worth having enough cash just to be safe.

In large cities and touristy areas, credit cards are generally accepted. But also there may be an extra 2% to 3% fee added to the total price to cover their credit card fees.

Sandugo monument at the Blood Compact Shrine

Should I Tip In The Philippines?

No there is no need to tip in the Philippines. Tipping is not expected in the Philippines, so there is no requirement to tip anyone, but small tips for good service are appreciated.

In bars and restaurants, it is customary to leave behind any loose change in coins as a tip.

Wrapping Up

Finally, US dollars and euros are not accepted in the Philippines. The currency used in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Some tourist areas might accept US dollars to pay for goods and services. The problem with this is that the exchange rates that will be used will not be great.

And that’s it for now! I’d love to know if this guide on whether you can use US dollars in the Philippines has helped you. Let me know if you have any questions and let me know if there is more to add.