Fiji’s crystal-clear waters, lush islands, and welcoming culture make it a dream destination, but understanding how to manage money is key to a hassle-free stay. Whether you’re booking island-hopping excursions, enjoying a traditional lovo feast, or shopping for local handicrafts, this guide covers everything you need to know—what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Fiji (Fijian Dollar (FJD)), cash safety tips, and essential dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid hidden fees and make the most of your time in Fiji’s tropical paradise.
How to pay in Fiji – cash or card?
In Fiji, cash stays the go-to payment method for many, but there is a noticeable shift as digital transactions slowly gain traction. According to a survey conducted in 2014, a significant 88.8% of Fijians expressed a preference for cash transactions, highlighting convenience as their main motivation. The COVID-19 pandemic has really pushed us towards cashless payment methods, resulting in a notable rise in mobile money wallet transactions.
You can use cash for:
Public Transportation: Buses, minibuses, and taxis primarily run on cash payments.
Local Markets and Street Vendors: Transactions at traditional markets and street stalls are predominantly cash-based.
Small Businesses: Many small or family-run shops and eateries prefer cash transactions.
Tips and Gratuities: It’s customary to tip in cash for services such as dining, tour guides, and hotel staff.
Rural Areas: Only accept cash.
You can use card for:
Hotels: Major hotels, especially in urban and tourist areas, accept credit and debit cards.
Restaurants and Cafés: Many dining establishments, particularly in cities, facilitate card payments.
Retail Stores: Shopping malls, branded stores, and supermarkets in larger cities commonly accept cards.
Online Services: E-commerce platforms, online bookings for flights, accommodations, and other services typically require card payments.
Fuel Stations: While many accept cards, it’s advisable to confirm beforehand, as some may prefer cash.
What’s the best currency to take to Fiji
Fijian Dollar (FJD) is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Fiji. When it comes to managing your finances, using the local currency for payments or withdrawals can be a smart choice. Not only does it often come with lower fees, but in some cases, you might even find options that are completely fee-free!
You can also use US Dollar widely.
Establishments don’t accept Euros or Pounds here.
Where to get currency in Fiji
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Fiji. They are:
ATMs, or
Currency exchange, or
Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Fiji
Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less often.
Types of cards at ATMs in Fiji
If you’re withdrawing money in Fiji from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Plus, Cirrus and UnionPay cards. Others like JCB, Amex, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Fiji
Bringing a small amount of Fijian Dollars (FJD) before traveling can be useful for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, and small purchases. However, exchange rates outside Fiji are often less favorable, and many foreign banks do not stock FJD, making it difficult to obtain in advance.
Withdrawing FJD from ATMs in Fiji convenient, as ATMs are widely available in airports, cities, and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards, but check with your bank for international withdrawal fees.
It’s best to exchange currency at banks or authorized exchange bureaus in Fiji, as they offer more competitive rates than airports or hotels. If exchanging at the airport, do so only for a small amount to cover initial expenses.
Carrying a mix of cash and cards is advisable. If bringing USD, AUD, or NZD, you can exchange them easily at banks or exchange bureaus for good rates. Some hotels and resorts may accept foreign currency but often at a poor exchange rate. Paying in FJD ensures the best value.
Where to withdraw currency in Fiji
The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Fiji are those owned by popular banks such as:
BSP
Bank of Baroda
ANZ Bank
BRED Bank
There is a Global ATM Alliance member bank – Westpac which allows fee-free withdrawals for member banks in Fiji.
Where to exchange currency in Fiji
Usual places to exchange currency in Fiji are licensed exchange bureaus or banks.
Currency Exchange Offices: In Fiji, currency exchange offices are commonly referred to as Forex or Foreign Exchange bureaus. These are widely available in tourist areas, shopping centers, and airports. Notable providers include No1 Currency, which has several branches across Fiji, including a location at Nadi International Airport in the pre-immigration area of the departure terminal. Another provider is Lotus Foreign Exchange (Lotus FX), known for offering competitive rates. Additionally, Western Union runs exchange counters at Nadi Airport and in major towns like Nadi.
Banks: Major banks such as Westpac, ANZ, and Bank of South Pacific (BSP) offer currency exchange services. These banks have branches throughout cities and towns, providing reliable services. Operating hours are typically from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays, with some branches open on Saturdays until noon.
Discovering great currency exchanges is a breeze with the ATM Fee Saver app. It conveniently directs you to the closest currency exchange right on the map! This app is your go-to resource for forex locations across more than 100 countries, including the beautiful islands of Fiji.
Avoid airport exchanges and those no-fee exchange offices: When it comes to currency exchange at airports, travellers often find themselves facing less favourable rates and higher fees. It is a common pitfall that can catch many off guard.
Safety of carrying cash in Fiji
Carrying money in Fiji is generally safe, but it’s important to exercise caution. Petty crimes, such as theft from hotel rooms and purse snatching, are common, and theft and assault, including armed and sexual assault, may occur. It’s advisable to be vigilant, especially at night in urban areas. Avoid displaying large amounts of money in public and be cautious when exchanging money at hotels or withdrawing from ATMs or banks. Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are always secure.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Fiji
If you have a fee-free card, it is a smart choice to use it! This means your bank won’t charge you for swiping, and the merchant or POS won’t add any extra fees either. Plus, using your card allows you to take advantage of its insurance benefits. It’s a great way to avoid tying up cash for large purchases, especially since card swipe fees are typically lower than withdrawal fees. So, go ahead and swipe away!
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
