Marshall Islands’ remote beauty, rich marine life, and cultural traditions make it a hidden Pacific gem – but understanding money in the Marshall Islands and how currency works is essential due to limited banking infrastructure. Whether you’re island-hopping, paying for accommodations, or buying handmade crafts, knowing how to manage your money is key. This guide outlines what currency to bring, how to get money and currency in the Marshall Islands (US Dollar – USD), cash and card tips, and important dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid payment issues and make the most of your island escape.
How to pay in Marshall Islands – cash or card?
In the Marshall Islands, cash is still the most popular payment method for almost all purchases and expenses. Cards are becoming more common in higher-end establishments. The U.S. dollar (USD) is the official currency.
You can use cash for:
- Public Transportation: Taxis and boats are cash-only.
- Street Vendors and Markets: All local markets and small shops take only cash.
- Small Businesses: Local cafés, stores, and service providers require cash.
- Hostels and Guesthouses: Most budget and family-run accommodations take cash only.
- Tips and Gratuities: Cash tips are common for drivers, guides, and hotel staff.
- Outer Islands: Cash is the only payment option outside Majuro.
You can use card for:
- Hotels: A few larger hotels in Majuro accept cards, but confirm in advance.
- Retail Stores: Some larger stores in Majuro may take cards, but it’s not guaranteed.
- Online Bookings: Flights and some hotels can be booked and paid for in advance by card.
What’s the best currency to take to Marshall Islands?
The United States Dollar (USD) is the official and only currency used in the Marshall Islands so its best to bring that on yoru trip to Marshall Islands.
Other currencies like EUR or GBP are not accepted, and there are no exchange services available, even at the airport.
Where to get currency in Marshall Islands?
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Marshall Islands. They are:
- ATMs, or
- Banks for currency exchange, or
- Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Marshall Islands
Visa and Mastercard transactions are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Marshall Islands
If you’re withdrawing money in Marshall Islands from an ATM, ATMs in Marshall Islands Visa, Mastercard, Plus, Cirrus, JCB and American Express cards. Others such as CUP, Maestro, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange money before travelling to Marshall Islands?
It’s strongly recommended to bring enough US Dollars (USD) before traveling to the Marshall Islands, as USD is the official currency, and ATMs and card acceptance are very limited, especially on outer atolls.
There are a few ATMs in Majuro, but they can be unreliable and may not always accept international cards. Visa and Mastercard are the most likely to work, but it’s essential to check with your bank and have a backup plan.
Currency exchange is virtually nonexistent – bring USD in cash, preferably in small denominations, as change can be difficult to find.
Use a money belt or secure pouch, and plan your cash needs in advance.
Where to withdraw money in Marshall Islands
You can withdraw money in Marshall Islands at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Marshall Islands is that by Bank of Guam.
For a detailed guide, read Cash and ATMs in Marshall Islands.
Where to exchange currency in Marshall Islands
There are no dedicated foreign exchange bureaus in the Marshall Islands. Travelers needing to change non-USD currency will have very limited options and rely mainly on banks.
Popular Banks Offering Currency Exchange Services are Bank of the Marshall Islands (BOMI) and First Hawaiian Bank (limited services for account holders). Both are located in Majuro, and opening hours are usually Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
Tip: Bring cash in USD before you arrive. Credit card acceptance is limited to some hotels and government offices. In outer islands, cash is essential.
You can find good currency exchanges in Marshall Islands using the ATM Fee Saver app – it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 160+ countries, including Marshall Islands. Download now from the App Store or Play Store.
Download ATM Fee Saver now.
Is carrying cash in Marshall Islands safe?
Carrying cash in the Marshall Islands is necessary, as credit cards are not widely accepted, especially outside major hotels. While crime rates are low, the islands’ limited infrastructure means careful planning is essential.
To carry cash safely in the Marshall Islands:
- Bring enough US Dollars for your entire stay – ATMs can be unreliable or unavailable, particularly on outer islands.
- Store your cash in multiple secure places such as a money belt and a zipped bag.
- Avoid carrying large sums of money all at once while out and about.
- Be discreet when paying for items or services, especially at markets or boat docks.
- Use hotel safes when available and avoid flashing cash in public.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Marshall Islands
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
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.
