More Peso for Your Pina Colada: How to Make Your Money Go Further in Mexico
28/04/2025
Ah, Mexico. A land of colours, mariachi melodies, and tacos that’ll change your life. But whether you're beach-hopping in Tulum or exploring the ruins of Chichen Itza, there's one thing you'll want to bring – more bang for your buck… or rather, your Mexican Peso. With a little know-how and a sprinkle of savvy, you can turn your travel money into a fiesta of smart spending.
We’ve done the research, so you can sip more, see more, and maybe even splurge a little!
Pocket-Friendly Prices: What Does Stuff Cost in Mexico?
Let’s talk numbers – because while tacos are priceless, they’re also impressively cheap. On average, here’s what you’ll pay:
Street taco: A singular taco costs around 10–20 MXN (40–80p), A small price for a seriously big flavour.
Coffee in a cafe: With a cup of coffee costing 60 MXN (£2.40) at most, why not sip slowly and soak in the atmosphere?
Cocktail at a bar: Cocktails in Mexico cost around 160 MXN (£6), a price worth paying when your sipping away watching a Mexican sunset.
Mid-range hotel: Comfort doesn’t have to cost the earth with the average night at a hotel costing 800–1500 MXN (£30–£60).
Short taxi ride: A short taxi ride is cheap and cheerful, costing around 40–80 MXN (£1.60–£3).
Even in touristy spots, your money stretches like a hammock in a breeze. But if you venture inland or off the beaten path; it stretches even further.
Know Your Coins from Your Coconuts: Understanding the Peso
The Mexican Peso (MXN) is your golden ticket to delicious street food and dazzling souvenirs. But not all Pesos are created equal – well, not when you’re changing currency.
$ Track Exchange Rates – Keep an eye on exchange rates in advance and lock in a great deal before you go. This way, you’ll get the most for your money! Plus, you’ll avoid any surprise rate changes once you’re already on the move.
$ Convenience – Pre-ordering your currency with Hays Travel means you’ll have it ready when you arrive. No need to rush to ATMs or currency exchange kiosks at the airport, so you can focus on enjoying your holiday instead of worrying about money matters!
$ Avoids fees – Exchange rates can be slippery little fish, and airport kiosks may not give you the fairest deals. By bringing currency with you, you can avoid these charges and make your Mexican Peso last longer.
Top 3 Ways to Save Your Mexican Peso
1. Spend Like a Local, Not a Tourist
Tourist traps are like glittery piñatas – pretty on the outside but often stuffed with disappointment (and overpriced nachos). For better value, shop at local markets and eat where the locals eat.
Top Tip: If there’s a queue of taxi drivers outside, you’ve hit the dining jackpot.
2. Souvenirs That Don’t Scream ‘Tourist!’
Ditch the novelty sombrero and hunt for keepsakes with heart. Local crafts like embroidered fabrics and hand-carved trinkets cost less, mean more, and last longer.
Top Tip: Ask who made it – if there’s a story, you’ve found something special, that's made with love.
3. Timing is Everything, So Travel Smart
Off-season travel is your golden ticket – lower prices, quieter beaches, and more room to roam. Skip peak months and discover a Mexico that’s mellow, authentic, and kinder on your wallet.
Top Tip: May and September are sweet spots with less rain and fab flight deals.
Cash is King, but Cards Can Reign Too
While big resorts and restaurants happily accept cards, many local businesses, like market stalls, beach bars, and tiny taquerias, are strictly cash-only. Carry a mix, but don’t go full pirate chest; losing a wad of pesos on the beach is no one’s idea of a good time.
$ Always pay in MXN: When offered the option to pay in your home currency or Mexican Peso, always choose MXN to avoid poor exchange rates and hidden fees.
$ Notify your bank: If you have opted to use your normal bank card before you travel, make sure your bank knows you’ll be in Mexico to avoid any issues with your card.
$ Choose the right card: Want a way not to worry about the above issues? Look for a card with no foreign transaction fees to avoid extra charges. Our Hays Travel Money Card is a great option as it has no hidden fees, multiple currency options, and you can top it up whenever, wherever using the handy App.
Order your travel money via click and collect today to secure a great rate!
Need to purchase your Mexican Peso? Hays Travel is offering great rates online and instore right now! With the convenience of Click & Collect or Home Delivery, plus expert advice with dedicated forex staff in-store, it's never been easier to buy your travel money.
Hurry time is ticking!