Do I need cash for local taxis in American Samoa or can pay by card?

I flagged a taxi near the Fagatogo Market and asked about Venmo or cards - the guy laughed. Taxis in American Samoa operate entirely on cash, and they’re not always easy to find outside central areas. If you’re staying somewhere remote, pre-arrange transport and have the fare agreed upon. Some guesthouses have trusted drivers they call for guests, and even those require cash. No apps, no receipts, no frills. This is one of those places where tech hasn’t taken over yet - charming, but plan for it.

You’ll definitely need cash. No card readers, no apps, not even QR payment systems. It’s a very traditional setup. Tourists paying taxis in American Samoa need to carry enough small change to get around. I used local buses where I could (crazy cheap), but sometimes taxis were unavoidable - like after sunset when buses stopped running. The fare from the airport to Tafuna was $20, and the driver didn’t even have change for a $50. Lesson learned: break your big bills early in the trip.

American Samoa isn’t set up for digital transport - taxis don’t use apps, and there’s zero card acceptance. Cash for taxis in American Samoa is a must, and often exact change helps. I usually carried $5s and $10s just for this. Buses are more predictable and a fraction of the cost, but they don’t run on fixed schedules. If you're planning to move around outside the main town areas, keep at least $50 in small bills daily for transport - and forget about using Google Pay or Apple Pay.

I tried asking a few taxi drivers in Pago Pago about card payment - every single one said “cash only.” There’s no Uber or Bolt, and the ride-hailing apps don’t work here. Taxis in American Samoa are strictly cash-based, so carry small bills. Most rides were around $10-$15 depending on the distance. Also, make sure to agree on a fare before the ride - there’s no meter system. I got stuck once without change and the driver just waved it off, but that’s not something to rely on.