United States uses the US Dollar (USD) — cards work almost everywhere.
Want the full guide? Get a PDF with cash and card tips for United States — free.
✓ Save it for offline use, and see what else is worth checking before this trip.
United States uses the US Dollar (USD).
In United States, cards work almost everywhere. Cards and contactless/tap-to-pay are accepted almost everywhere, including small purchases — carrying much cash is rarely necessary, though some independent food trucks or rural spots may be cash-only.
Exchange rates at airport kiosks are usually the worst available — a local ATM after you land almost always gets you a better rate, and a small amount of cash exchanged in advance is only worth it for late-night arrivals.
Always choose the local currency when a card terminal or ATM in United States asks — "dynamic currency conversion" into your home currency almost always carries a worse exchange rate.
Banks and airport kiosks quietly add 3–7% to every exchange through worse rates and fees. A Wise account converts your money at the real mid-market rate, holds 40+ currencies, and comes with a card that works at ATMs and terminals in United States like a local one — usually the cheapest way for travelers to spend abroad.
See how Wise works →Disclosure: if you buy through this link, TravelSmarter may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It keeps our tools free.