Trying to plan ahead so any know if card payments are common at hostels in Marshall Islands or cash is king?
In the Marshall Islands, most budget hotels like homestays and hostels are cash-only. I used cash payments at the Arno Atoll Hostel. Even bigger places prefer Visa or Mastercard payments at reception but cash is favored for daily expenses. I withdrew cash from Bank of Marshall Islands ATM before checking in.
If you’re staying at budget hostels around Majuro or Ebeye, expect to pay mostly with cash. I tried using my card at Majuro Backpackers and they had no card machines. Carrying cash is essential for hostels, taxis, and even small restaurants. US dollars work everywhere, so stock up before arrival.
Heads up-card payments aren’t common at hostels in the Marshall Islands. I checked at the Yamada Inn and they told me cash only. ATMs exist like at the Bank of Marshall Islands in Majuro, but not everywhere accepts cards, so bring enough US dollars in cash and keep a backup plan for payments.
I stayed at the cute little Bikini Lagoon Dive Resort and tried to use my card, but they only accepted cash for the hostel section. Most places on Majuro prefer cash payments, especially smaller hostels and guesthouses. While some upscale hotels might take Visa or Mastercard, cash in US dollars is definitely king here.