If you are getting ready for your vacation to Aruba, one thing you may be wondering about is money, and more specifically, what kind of money you need. The florin is the official currency in Aruba, but does Aruba take US dollars? And if so, what is the best currency to use in Aruba?
Yes, Aruba takes US dollars. For American tourists, the best currency to use in Aruba will be the US dollar, but carrying florin with you if you leave the popular tourist areas is a good idea since some local businesses in those areas may not have US dollars to exchange, or may be unfamiliar with correct exchange rates.
In this article we will dive deeper and discuss currency in Aruba, including when it is appropriate to use florin, and what obstacles you may face if you do not know the current exchange rate between US dollars and the florin.
What is the Best Currency to Use in Aruba?
Planning what type of currency to use during your trip is an important step to ensure that things go smoothly during your vacation. In this section let’s discuss your options, and cover these main topics:
- Does Aruba take US dollars?
- When should you use the florin?
- How to get Aruban florins?
- Current Exchange Rate for Aruba
Does Aruba Take US Dollars?
As we discussed above, yes, Aruba takes US dollars. If you are traveling to Aruba, you can plan on using US money during your trip.
If you are an American citizen traveling to Aruba, using US dollars will likely be your best choice. Some menus and prices around Aruba may be listed in florins, so knowing the current exchange rate will help you better understand the true price.
There are certain situations where using the florin may be necessary. Let’s discuss those situations.
When To Use the Florin
The US dollar is widely accepted in Aruba, especially in the heavy tourist areas. But if you plan to travel to other remote areas of Aruba, taking Aruban florins with you would be a smart decision.
The main two problems you may encounter regarding currency outside of the tourism areas are:
- Some local businesses might not have US currency
- Some local cashiers may not know (or adhere to) proper exchange rates
Carrying some Aruban Florin with you as you travel the island is never a bad idea, and make sure you know what the current US dollar to Aruba Florin exchange rate is (posted down below in the article).
If you plan to stick to the heavy tourist areas around your hotel in Oranjestad then it is likely that you will not need to use anything besides the US dollar.
How to get Aruban Florins?
If you need florins while on the island, you can withdraw them from an ATM or exchange other currency at a local bank. When using US dollars around the island, some businesses may give you change in florins (although most will give you change in USD).
Current Exchange Rate for Aruba
Knowing the current exchange rate between US dollars and the florin is important so that if prices are listed in florins, but you pay in US dollars, then you will know how much change you are due and won’t be taken advantage of. It also makes it much easier to read menus and understand what the true price is if the menu is only listed in florins (although most menus will has a US dollar price also).
1 Aruban Florin equals 0.56 United States Dollars at the time this article was posted. Exchange rates can change, so to check the current exchange rate between Aruban florin and US dollars, click here.
Can You Use a Debit Card in Aruba?
Some travelers like to bring a debit card along in case they need to withdraw cash from an ATM. If you are wanting to use your debit card in Aruba, the best thing for you to do is contact your bank, notify them of your travel plans, and ask them if there will be any issues.
Some banks do flag international transactions and lock accounts if they are not made aware of plans in advance (for your security). Your bank will confirm with you whether or not using your debit card in Aruba will be an option.
In general, most experts recommend using a credit card over debit card while traveling in case someone steals your card information – most credit card companies have a limit on how much you will be responsible for if someone uses your card.
Using cash also has its advantages since cash can’t be hacked. But of course carrying too much cash on you can draw attention and raise your risks for being the victim of theft.
No matter whether you bring cash, credit, or debit, remember to keep your money and cards out of plain sight as much as possible, and make sure all bags and wallets are secure.
Do Aruban Taxis Take US Dollars?
We already discussed does Aruba take US dollars, but what about the taxis? As mentioned above, there are certain types of businesses that may prefer florins over US dollars. Are taxis one of those businesses? Do Aruba taxis take US dollars?
Yes, Aruban taxis take US dollars? But although Aruban taxis do take US dollars, knowing and understanding the current exchange rate will help keep you from being taken advantage of.
Taxis in Aruba are supposed to use a fixed rate instead of a meter (source), but knowing current exchange rates can help protect you in case you find yourself in a situation where fixed rates are not being used.
Also, will Uber be an option for you in Aruba? If you are a frequent user of Uber, and are wondering if that is a possibility in Aruba, visit our article that covers Aruba and Uber: Does Aruba have Uber?
Does Aruba Take Euros?
Euros are not accepted in Aruba. If you are traveling to Aruba with Euros, you will need to exchange the Euros for US dollars or Aruban florin, or use a credit card.
5 Money Tips While Traveling to Aruba
- Plan on using the florin or the US dollar. Which one you choose to use is up to you. Which one is easier for you?
- If you want to bring your debit card with you, make sure you call your bank ahead of time to confirm that this will not be an issue and cause your card to be flagged.
- When you arrive, ask the hotel staff where the nearest ATM is. Many hotels have ATMs, but if yours does not, they can give you directions to the nearest. This way you know where you need to go if you need to withdraw money.
- Heavy tourist areas are always succeptible to petty theft such as pick-pocketing. Carry your wallet in a front pocket or using a traveler’s neck wallet will help reduce your risks.
- Make sure you are aware of the current exchange rate, and confirm that you are being given the right amount of change when you make a purchase.
To view other money tips while traveling abroad, click here.