Trinidad and Tobago
Money in Trinidad and Tobago: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use Trinidad and Tobago dollars (TT$) for most purchases; bring cash for street food, maxi‑taxis and markets, and rely on cards for hotels, malls and larger restaurants. Tip about 10 % in restaurants and TT$1–2 per ride for taxis.
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GuideTrinidad and Tobago
Key facts
- Currency
- Trinidad and Tobago dollar (TTD)
- Cash necessity
- 3 (cash needed for street food, taxis, markets)
- Typical tip
- ≈10 % of bill in restaurants; TT$1–2 per taxi ride
Quick answer
Travelers should carry TT$ for everyday small purchases and use credit/debit cards for larger venues. ATMs in banks or malls provide cash during daylight hours.
Payment summary
| Payment type | Where accepted | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cash (TT$) | Street stalls, maxi‑taxis, markets | Bring enough for small items; change limited |
| Credit/Debit cards | Hotels, malls, larger restaurants | Visa/Mastercard most common; inform bank of travel |
| ATMs | Banks, malls (daylight) | Fees may apply; check exchange rate |
How to handle money
1. Arrive with a small amount of TT$ (≈TT$200) for immediate needs.
2. Locate an ATM inside a bank or shopping centre; withdraw in multiples of TT$50.
3. Use cards for hotel bills, restaurant tabs above TT$100, and shop in malls.
4. Keep receipts; some vendors may give change in coins only.
Tipping guidance
Restaurants: round up the bill or leave about 10 % if service is not included.
Taxis: round up to the nearest TT$1–2; no tip required for short rides.
Hotels: no mandatory tip, but you may leave TT$5–10 per night for housekeeping if you wish.
Guides and drivers: TT$10–20 per day is customary for good service.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Trinidad and Tobago?
The official currency is the Trinidad and Tobago dollar (TTD). US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist spots but are hard to change back.
Should I use cash or a card in Trinidad and Tobago?
Use cash for street food, maxi‑taxis and market stalls; cards work well in hotels, larger restaurants and malls. Carry both.
How much should I tip in Trinidad and Tobago?
Tip roughly 10 % in restaurants, TT$1–2 per taxi ride, and TT$5–10 per night for housekeeping if you wish.
Where can I find ATMs?
ATMs are located inside banks and shopping centres; they operate during daylight hours and may charge a small fee.
Are US dollars accepted?
Some tourist venues accept US dollars, but they are scarce and you may get a poor exchange rate. It’s safer to use TT$.
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