Can I use contactless or card to pay for public transport in American Samoa?

Every single public bus I took in American Samoa required cash. There's no card reader, no receipt, and no app to track them. Cash-only transport in American Samoa is the norm, and drivers expect exact fare. I tried offering a $10 for a $2 ride and the driver just waved me on. No problem that time, but it’s best not to push your luck. No one accepts cards for transport - not taxis, not buses. Just load up on small cash early and enjoy the scenic, unstructured rides.

Spent two weeks working from American Samoa and used public transport daily. You’ll need cash - and not just any cash, but small denominations. Aiga buses don’t accept cards, mobile payments, or foreign currency. Drivers are chill but won’t break a $20 for a $1.50 fare. Honestly, the rides were one of the best parts of the trip - great way to meet locals and see the island slowly. If you're staying long, change a small stack of cash into $1s and $5s early on. Trust me, it’ll save you the hassle.

I relied almost entirely on aiga buses in Tafuna and Pago Pago, and every ride had to be paid in cash. Credit cards and payment apps are not accepted on public transport in American Samoa. Drivers rarely have change, so small bills are key. I brought $40 in singles and fives for the week and that was more than enough. The system is very informal, but locals are helpful. If you're used to paying for rides with Apple Pay or transit cards, this will feel old-school - but it's part of the island charm.

You 100% need cash. The buses in American Samoa are colorful, open-air vehicles called “aiga buses,” and they don’t use meters, apps, or card readers. Public transport in American Samoa is completely cash-based - no tap-to-pay, no mobile apps, nothing digital. Fares are usually $1-$2 depending on the route, and the drivers prefer exact change. I kept a stash of $1 bills just for this. Also, they don’t follow fixed schedules - buses stop when waved down, and they’ll drop you anywhere along the route. No tech involved - just cash and a friendly smile.