Common Money Mistakes Tourists Make in Jamaica (And How to Avoid Them)

Common Money Mistakes Tourists Make in Jamaica (And How to Avoid Them)
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Category: Travel Advice • Money & currency

Common money mistakes tourists make in Jamaica

Jamaica isn’t “expensive by default.” Most people lose money through small, avoidable choices—especially around USD vs JMD pricing, exchange rates, and how change is returned. Once you understand the patterns, spending becomes simple.

Stevert McKenzie • Editor, Best Jamaica Travel Guide
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Updated for modern travel habits

The mistakes that quietly cost tourists money

These aren’t usually scams. They’re misunderstandings—USD vs JMD confusion, rate differences, and “change” problems. Fix these, and your trip feels smoother instantly.

1) Exchanging too much money on arrival Common

Many travelers exchange a big amount right away, then realize most resort-area services are priced in USD. When you pay USD-priced services with JMD, you often lose through extra conversions.

Better move: Exchange small amounts first. Add more later based on where you actually spend.
2) Paying in JMD where the price is quoted in USD Sneaky loss

Businesses in tourist zones may convert JMD back into a USD price using their own in-house rate. If your earlier exchange was less favorable, you can lose twice.

Better move: If it’s quoted in USD, pay in USD (especially for tours and transport).
3) Carrying large US bills ($50 / $100) Avoid

Large bills can be hard to break. Some places refuse them, or offer a poor rate to compensate for risk. This shows up most in markets and small shops.

Better move: Carry smaller USD bills ($5, $10, $20) and keep your larger notes for hotels.
4) Assuming one exchange rate applies everywhere Reality

Rates vary by bank, cambio, hotel, and business. Some places use their own “house rate,” which may be different from what you saw earlier.

Better move: When paying in JMD, ask “what rate are you using?” before you pay.
5) Losing money through “change in JMD” without noticing Very common

Many tourists pay with USD and get change in JMD. That’s normal—but if the business uses an unfavorable rate for the change, you quietly lose value.

Better move: Use smaller bills so you don’t need much change—or ask if change can be given in USD.

FAQ

What is the biggest money mistake tourists make in Jamaica?
Exchanging too much into JMD and then spending in tourist areas priced in USD—this often creates double conversion losses.
Is it better to use US dollars or Jamaican dollars in Jamaica?
A mix works best: use USD where USD pricing is common (tourist services), and use JMD for local spending outside tourist zones.
Do exchange rates vary in Jamaica?
Yes—banks, cambios, hotels, and individual businesses can use different rates. Always assume rates can vary.
Should I carry large US bills in Jamaica?
Smaller bills are easier. Large bills can be hard to change and may lead to less favorable rates in smaller businesses.
Travel Advice note: Most money problems in Jamaica come from misunderstanding, not misconduct. Keep it simple: use USD where USD pricing is normal, keep some JMD for local areas, and carry small bills.