Last Updated on October, 2024
I was planning a trip to Mexico and wondered about the best ways to get Mexican Pesos in the U.S. So, as usual, I did some research, and here’s what I understood.
From travel money cards to bank exchanges and online orders, there are several convenient options to consider. Each method has its pros and cons, so it’s important to explore what best suits your needs.
This article will discuss the top choices, helping you find the most cost-effective and convenient way to exchange your money before you start your Mexico travel journey.
Excited? Continue reading…
| Service | Exchange Rate | $1,000 USD Gets You (MXN) | Reviews (Trustpilot) | Additional Information |
| Wise Travel Card | 18.0486 | 17,940.67 | 226,681 reviews | Order your Wise card for $9 USD. It arrives in 14-21 days. You get good rates and low fees for spending in over 150 countries |
| Xchange of America Travel Money | 17.0416 | 17,041.58 | 4,750 reviews | You can buy 60 currencies online. If in stock, they ship the same day with FedEx |
| Wells Fargo Travel Money | 16.8364 | 16,836.43 | 1,188 reviews | Order 70 currencies online or in a branch, delivered in 2-7 days. You can sell back unused foreign notes after your trip |
Contents
Best Places to Get Mexican Pesos in the US
1. Wise
Wise (formerly known as TransferWise) is a financial technology company that provides international money transfer services with low fees and transparent exchange rates.
It offers a travel money card that allows you to hold and spend Mexican Pesos directly. The card can be loaded with multiple currencies, including Mexican Pesos, and converted at low fees using the mid-market exchange rate.
It’s convenient for travel with no hidden fees and ATM withdrawals up to a certain limit each month.
How to Get the Wise Card?
Expand your knowledge about the wise right here.
2. Xchange of America
Xchange of America provides a service where you can order Mexican Pesos online and have them delivered to your home. This service is convenient and secure, ensuring you have cash before your trip.
Delivery fees apply, and it usually takes a couple of days for the money to arrive.
3. Wells Fargo Travel Money
Wells Fargo is also a great option. It allows account holders to order foreign currency online in person. You can pick up Mexican Pesos from a Wells Fargo branch. (Yes, you can trust me unquestioningly.)
The service includes varied fees and potential exchange rate markups. It’s advisable to call ahead to confirm availability and any associated costs.
Banks & Currency Exchanges
Many banks and currency exchange services in the U.S. offer Mexican Pesos. While some banks require you to be an account holder, others provide this service to the general public.
It’s usually best to order in advance, as banks may not keep large stocks of foreign currencies.
Exchange offices often provide instant transactions, but the saddest truth is that they might incur huge fees.
Where to Exchange USD to MXN?
Mexican Pesos Travel Money Card
A Mexican Pesos travel money card, like the one from Wise, is a convenient way to manage your money abroad. With Wise, you can load the card with U.S. Dollars and convert it to Mexican Pesos at low fees and mid-market exchange rates.
The card costs a one-time fee of $9 and can be used in over 150 countries. It allows you to spend and withdraw money without carrying large amounts of cash.
You can also manage and top up the card easily using your phone, making it a secure and flexible option for travelers.
Airports
If you need cash at the last minute, buying Mexican pesos at the airport is an option. Most major airports have currency conversion desks but be aware that they often charge higher fees and offer less favorable exchange rates than other methods.
It’s convenient because you can get your Pesos immediately, but it’s not the most cost-effective choice!!
However, if you prefer to AVOID high fees, it’s better to plan and get your currency from a bank, online service, or a travel money card before you reach the airport.
Order MXN Online for Delivery
GUESS WHAT? Ordering Mexican Pesos online for delivery is a convenient way to get your travel money without leaving home.
Services like Xchange of America and CXI allow you to purchase Pesos online and have cash delivered to your doorstep.
Delivery fees and currency conversion charges apply, but you can receive your money quickly, especially if you pay with a credit or debit card. This method ensures you have cash ready before your trip, avoiding last-minute stress and the need to exchange local currency at the airport.
Buy MXN in Person
You can also buy Mexican Pesos in person at a currency conversion office, bank or credit union. For instance, you can visit a CXI branch to get your Pesos instantly or order in advance and pick them up from a bank like Wells Fargo.
Banks may require you to be an account holder and might take some time to clear your payment and provide the currency. Money exchange offices often hold a variety of currencies in stock, offering immediate exchange services.
This method can help you avoid delivery fees and get your travel money on the spot.
Understood?
How to Get Mexican Pesos in the U.S.?
You have many OPTIONS for buying MXN before leaving the U.S. To get the best deal, it’s smart to compare different methods.
Here’s a simple method to help you choose:
Note: Shopping around ensures you find the best solution for your needs and preferences.
How to Get a Mexican Pesos Travel Money Card?
It’s SUPER EASY! Order a travel money card like Wise or Revolut in the U.S., load it with USD, and convert it to MXN. Spend Pesos without extra fees and withdraw cash from ATMs as needed.
You can also convert leftover travel money back to USD instantly.
| Provider | Spending Fees | Bank ATM Withdrawal | Exchange Rates | Card Delivery Period | Extra Info |
| Wise | No fees if you have enough balance | 2 free withdrawals up to $100/month, then $1.50 + 2% | Mid-market rate | 14 to 21 days | Virtual card available instantly |
| Revolut | No fees if you have enough balance | Some free withdrawals within plan limits, then fees apply | Fair usage fees after plan limits | 7 to 8 days | Virtual card available instantly |
Both cards offer secure, cheap, and easy ways to manage your money.
You can exchange it instantly or let the card handle it when you pay, and you can use a digital card even before the physical one arrives.
Buy Mexican Pesos
At the Bank
To buy MXN at a bank, begin by logging into your online banking account. Navigate to the travel money section and enter the amount of MXN you wish to purchase.
You can pay for the foreign currency either directly or using a card. Once you’ve completed the transaction, you’ll receive a notification when your Mexican Peso is ready for collection at your chosen branch.
Simply visit the branch to pick up your currency in person. It’s advisable to contact the bank beforehand to confirm currency availability and to understand any applicable fees or exchange rate markups.
At the Airport
Next are major airports (as discussed above.) Though choices may be limited and fees higher due to markups, not all airports offer currency exchange, and prices can be steep due to lack of competition.
It’s a convenient option if you’re short on time, but consider checking currency exchange rates and fees beforehand to make informed choices.
How to Get the Best USD to MXN Exchange Rate?
Listen, finding the best provider for exchanging money depends on various factors. Different services set their exchange rates, which can vary based on the currency, amount, payment method, and whether you’re exchanging digitally or for physical cash.
To compare, start with the mid-market exchange rate, which you can check online. This rate serves as a wholesale benchmark, but providers usually add a fee (markup) for retail customers.
It’s smart to look for services with transparent rates close to this mid-market exchange rate.
Remember, you can use a comparison tool to compare live rates for different providers. Enter your amount, review options for USD to MXN rates, and choose based on what suits you best, whether it’s a travel card, online order, or in-person exchange.
Next is the budget.
Budget Needed for an Overseas Trip to Mexico
Your budget for a trip to Mexico can vary a lot depending on what you plan to do, where you’ll stay, and how long you’ll be there. (Isn’t it?)
It’s SMART to decide on a budget in Mexican Pesos early on.
Accommodation and activities are usually the most expensive parts. Remember to budget for food, transportation, and extras like tipping.
Here’s a table with approx. Budget plan.
| Spendings | Costs in Mexico | In USD |
| Accommodation | MX$1,851 | $103.19 |
| Meals | MX$377 | $21.02 |
| Transportation | MX$539 | $30.05 |
| Other | MX$467 | $26.03 |
Other guides:
- Best Bank for International Transfers
- Best Places to Get British Pound Sterlings
- Best Places to Get Canadian Money
Conclusion
As I promised, I’ve discussed everything you need.
Explore the options mentioned in this guide to find the best method that fits your travel plans and budget. Whether you go for a travel money card, bank exchange, or online order, planning ensures you get the most out of your currency conversion.
Start planning today so that you can explore the vibrant culture and beauty of Mexico!
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