Both options have benefits. Cash is useful for tips, taxis, or small purchases, while a money card can be safer for larger payments. Always check with your card issuer about fees and charges that may apply. Many travellers prefer to carry both for flexibility.
Yes, the US dollar is considered one of the strongest and most stable currencies globally. Its value can fluctuate, but it is the world’s primary reserve currency and is often used as the benchmark in global trade and finance.
The US dollar was first authorised in 1792 with the passage of the Coinage Act. The first coins were minted soon after, and paper notes followed in the 1860s. It has since become the world’s most traded and widely held currency.
The US dollar is not only the official currency of the United States but also used in countries like Ecuador, El Salvador, Panama, and Zimbabwe. It is also widely accepted in territories such as Guam, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands, as well as unofficially in parts of the Caribbean and Asia.
You can purchase USD online through S Money or other exchange providers and collect in-store, at Australia Post, or have it delivered to your home. Alternatively, you can buy in person at money exchange outlets in major cities. Airports should be avoided as they offer some of the worst exchange rates.
Online exchanges like S Money often provide the best overall value when you factor in exchange rates and fees.