What Currency Is Used in Puerto Rico?

What currency is used in Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico uses the US dollar (USD), because it is a United States territory. For travelers from the mainland US, this makes things wonderfully simple: there is no currency exchange, no conversion fees, and no foreign transaction charges, and you use the exact same cash and cards you use at home. Prices are in dollars, and cards are widely accepted across the island, with ATMs readily available for cash. For international visitors, Puerto Rico works just like traveling to the United States for money purposes, so you would exchange to US dollars. It is one of the least complicated aspects of visiting the island.

Do you tip in Puerto Rico?

Yes, tipping in Puerto Rico follows the same customs as the mainland United States, since it is US territory. In restaurants with table service, tip 15 to 20 percent of the bill, and check whether a service charge has already been added, which some tourist-area restaurants do. Tip bartenders a dollar or two per drink, taxi drivers around 15 percent, tour guides, hotel housekeeping a few dollars per night, and porters a dollar or two per bag. Tipping is expected in service situations rather than optional, just as at home. If a service charge is already on the bill, additional tipping is at your discretion.

What power adapter do you need for Puerto Rico?

You do not need a plug adapter or voltage converter if you are coming from the United States, because Puerto Rico uses the same electrical system. Outlets are Type A and Type B, the standard US flat-prong plugs, on 120 volts, so all your American devices, chargers, and appliances work exactly as they do at home. This is another convenience of the island's US-territory status. Travelers from Europe, the UK, Australia, and elsewhere will need a plug adapter for Type A and B outlets and should check that their electronics accept 120-volt input, though most phone and laptop chargers are dual voltage and adjust automatically.

Can you drink the tap water in Puerto Rico?

Yes, tap water in Puerto Rico is generally safe to drink, as the island's public water systems are regulated under the same US Environmental Protection Agency standards as the mainland. In San Juan and other developed areas, tap water is treated and considered safe. That said, some travelers prefer bottled water for taste, and after major storms or hurricanes, temporary advisories can affect certain areas, so it is worth checking for any local boil-water notices, especially in more rural or recently affected regions. Under normal conditions in the main tourist areas, tap water is fine to drink, and you can refill a bottle rather than buying bottled.