Trying to plan ahead so any know if card payments are common at hostels in Mexico or cash is king?
Many hostels do accept cards now but it really depends on the region. In tourist-heavy zones like Playa del Carmen or CDMX cards are totally fine. But in smaller towns or beach hostels, they often work on tight margins and avoid card fees. You’ll find ATMs everywhere but the fee adds up so planning a bit of cash in advance saves stress. I always travel with a mix of both just in case there’s a power cut or the network’s down.
Used my Visa card at four out of six hostels during my trip. The two that didn’t accept it were both in more rural spots in Chiapas and one had Wi-Fi issues that day. I’ve noticed that even places with a card machine might still ask you to go to an ATM if the connection’s poor. I usually paid online when I could and used cash for everything else including laundry and local breakfast.
Most of the bigger hostel chains like Selina and Casa Pepe had no problem taking my card for everything, even tours and meals. But once I got to Bacalar and stayed in smaller local hostels, they all preferred cash. One of them gave a discount if I paid in cash which made the decision easy. So yes, cards are accepted in touristy areas but having pesos makes your life smoother and sometimes cheaper.
I stayed in a few hostels across Oaxaca, Mexico City, and Tulum. Some accepted cards for booking but asked for cash when you arrive. One place said their card machine “wasn’t working” which I heard more than once during my trip. It’s best to assume you’ll need pesos, especially for smaller or family-run hostels. I’d say keep enough cash on hand for at least two nights just in case.