Just landed - wondering what gives the better rate in American Samoa: ATM withdrawal or airport exchange counter?
I had to choose between using the Tafuna airport exchange desk or trying my Visa debit at an ATM. I tested both and the difference was huge - the ATM gave me a mid-market rate, while the counter shaved off nearly 10%. Airport exchange vs ATM in American Samoa isn’t even close - go with the ATM. Just make sure your card works internationally. Mine had a $200 limit per withdrawal, but I did two in a row with no issue. The cash machines are safe, but be patient if there’s a line.
Don’t even think about the airport counter. Their exchange rate was a joke - worse than anything I’ve seen. ATM withdrawals for tourists in American Samoa are safer and way better value. Just avoid standalone ATMs at convenience stores or gas stations - I got hit with a $6 fee once. The bank-linked ones, especially in downtown Pago Pago or Tafuna, gave the best rates and lowest fees. Remember to hit “Decline” on any conversion prompts so your home bank does the exchange.
I had some leftover cash to convert at the airport, but when I saw the rate, I backed out. Used my Wise card at the ANZ ATM instead and saved about $20 on a $300 withdrawal. Exchanging money at American Samoa’s airport is overpriced, and the convenience doesn’t justify the hit. I’d recommend withdrawing small amounts as needed, rather than bringing too much USD and converting it. Also, the ATM line was short, but there’s only one machine - avoid peak arrival times if you can.
I landed in Pago Pago and checked both - the airport exchange kiosk offered a terrible rate. I used the Bank of Hawaii ATM near baggage claim instead and got a significantly better deal. ATM withdrawals in American Samoa give better exchange rates than airport counters, especially if you decline currency conversion. The counter rate was about 7% worse, plus a flat fee. If your bank doesn’t charge ATM fees, it’s a no-brainer. Just make sure to use a major bank ATM, not a hotel one.