Caribbean
Money, cards and tipping in Antigua and Barbuda
XCDDollar
Money in Antigua and Barbuda
Mixed: cards and cash The EC dollar is pegged to the US dollar (2.7:1). Hotels and restaurants accept US dollars and cards; carry EC dollars for buses and small shops. US$1 ≈ EC$2.70 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: 10% service is often added; if not, leave 10–15%.
- ATMs: ATMs in St John's and tourist areas dispense EC dollars; expect bank fees and your own bank's fee.
- Paying by phone: Contactless cards work in hotels and larger shops; Apple Pay and Google Pay are limited.
- Price level: about 69% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Antigua | Mixed: cards and cash | Cards work in hotels and most restaurants; carry EC dollars for minibuses, markets and small shops. US dollars are widely accepted but at rounded rates. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Antigua and Barbuda?
10% service is often added; if not, leave 10–15%.
Is Antigua and Barbuda cashless?
Mixed: cards and cash. The EC dollar is pegged to the US dollar (2.7:1). Hotels and restaurants accept US dollars and cards; carry EC dollars for buses and small shops.
What currency does Antigua and Barbuda use?
The Dollar (XCD). US$1 ≈ EC$2.70 (03 Oct 2026).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Antigua and Barbuda
- ArriveAntigua
- Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.