Travel guide
Payments and currency in the USA
Plan for cards, dollars, and a backup across cities, rental cars, and smaller places.
Editorial owner: Landul editorial teamLast reviewed: 2026-07-15
Short answer
Cards are widely used, but keep a backup and check your bank's fees. Some services add local charges or deposits that are not included in the first price.
Checklist
- Carry two payment methods with separate cards
- Check deposits for hotels and rental cars
- Use USD prices and check your bank's exchange markup
Common question
Should I carry cash in the USA?
Cards cover many situations, but some cash can be useful as a backup and for small purchases.