Traveling with an Amex - will I be able to use it widely in Puerto Ricoor should I carry a backup Visa/Mastercard?
Don’t expect smooth sailing with Amex in Puerto Rico. It worked for my hotel stay but was declined in several shops and taxis. Visa was seamless, even for ferries to Vieques. Meals were $15-20, and I spent around $100-120 daily. Amex might work in luxury spots, but Visa or Mastercard is what you really need for Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico accepts cards widely, but Amex isn’t the best option. Large retailers like Walmart and malls might take it, but local restaurants in Old San Juan or Ponce often refused. ATMs didn’t support it either. Meals averaged $20, and I budgeted $110 daily with activities. Visa was flawless for everything. Amex just slowed things down.
My Amex worked for resort bookings but was frustrating for daily life in Puerto Rico. Local food trucks, small bars, and even some tour operators said no. ATMs wouldn’t let me withdraw either. I relied on my Visa debit, which worked perfectly. Meals were $10-15, day tours $60-80, so I spent $100 daily. Amex is okay for hotels, but not practical for exploring. Definitely carry Visa.
In San Juan, I used Amex at large hotels and some chain restaurants, but smaller shops and local cafés didn’t take it. ATMs often rejected it as well. Visa worked everywhere, from Walgreens to car rentals. Meals cost $15-25 in casual places, and I budgeted around $90-120 daily with taxis and sightseeing. Amex is fine for big purchases, but you’ll want Visa or Mastercard for smooth travel across Puerto Rico.