Does Bali use dollars? Live rates for all dollar currencies.
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Does Bali use dollars?
If you are from a country that uses dollars, you are probably wondering, does Bali use dollars from my country?
In this article, we'll also ask whether you can use these dollar currencies in hotels, shops, and restaurants or not.
Related:
The 7 main dollar currencies you can use Bali
1. United States Dollar (USD)
Being a global currency, the US dollar is widely accepted in Bali, and many American tourists use it during their visits. So, yes, US dollars are accepted in Bali.
2. Australian Dollar (AUD)
Australia is one of the main sources of tourists for Bali, and Australian dollars are commonly used by Australian visitors in Bali.
3. Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Canadian tourists visiting Bali often use Canadian dollars for their transactions, although the USD is also widely accepted.
4. Singapore Dollar (SGD)
Singaporeans frequently travel to Bali, and the Singapore dollar is commonly used by visitors from Singapore.
5. New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
New Zealanders visiting Bali may use the New Zealand dollar for their transactions, although the USD is also accepted.
6. Hong Kong Dollar
The Hong Kong dollar is accepted in Bali money changers.
7. Brunei Dollar (BND)
Bruneian tourists visiting Bali may use the Brunei dollar, which has the same value as the Singapore dollar.
Can you use these dollar currencies in hotels, shops, spas and restaurants?
This is where things get interesting.
The best way to use dollar currencies in Bali is to change them at a reputable money changer.
If you try to use them at a hotel, you will get a poor exchange rate. It is better to change 'on the street' and come back to your hotel to pay the bill.
Some shops, spas and restaurants might accept dollars, but they will probably not offer a very good rate, and they will give you change in Indonesian Rupiah. Again, it is much better to change at a money changer first.
If you have a currency other than the US dollar should you change to US dollars at home?
This used to be the case; many travelers would change their home currency to the almighty US dollar before they left home and then change those US dollars into Indonesian Rupiah when they arrived.
This was a bad deal because you lost money twice in conversion (and commission). This is no longer required.
The good news is that these days, the exchange rate for other dollars into Rupiah is now very fair and rates are updated twice a day. Furthermore, reputable money changers in Bali do not charge commission.
So just bring your own dollars and change them directly into Rupiah.
What about using credit cards?
VISA and Mastercard are accepted in Bali. VISA is the most popular. The conversion rate will depend on your bank, but you can almost guarantee it will not be as favorable as the rate you will get if you bring your dollars to Bali and change them at a money changer.
Should I bring a credit card to Bali?
Although your bank may fleece you on the conversion rate, you might like the security of a credit card for at least part of your money. Carrying all your cash is always a worry. A credit card gives you peace of mind and can be quickly canceled if lost or stolen.
A good compromise is to keep two-thirds of your money in cash and one-third in credit cards. That way, you can get a better exchange rate on the majority but have the security of a backup with your credit card.
For further safety, if you are traveling as a couple, split cash equally between you and your partner because theft rarely gets you both. Reassuringly, theft is actually rare in Bali.
Is American Express accepted in Bali?
It is, but like everywhere else, Amex is a dying brand. You are better off bringing a VISA card.
Are US travelers' checks (or traveler's cheques) accepted in Bali?
Traveler's checks or cheques are accepted in Bali at the bigger money changers, but the rate will be poor. Cash is definitely better.
What US Bali currency?
If you are wanting to know what the current exchange rate is for the US dollar to Indonesia Rupiah check out our Bali Exchange Rate Calculator & The Best Bali Money Changer
What is the best money changer for dollars in Bali?
We recommend the BMC group of money changers, and we have a map you can use to quickly find bali money changers one of their outlets (we receive no benefit whatsoever for this recommendation).
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