Caribbean
Money, cards and tipping in Saint Kitts and Nevis
XCDDollar
Money in Saint Kitts and Nevis
Mixed: cards and cash Cards work in hotels, restaurants and bigger shops; carry EC$ or US$ cash for buses, small shops and beach bars. US$1 ≈ EC$2.70 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: A 10% service charge is often added; otherwise tip 10–15%.
- ATMs: ATMs in Basseterre, Frigate Bay and Charlestown; some dispense EC$ only.
- Paying by phone: Contactless cards work in larger places; Apple Pay and Google Pay are patchy.
- Price level: about 69% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| St. Kitts | Mixed: cards and cash | Cards work at hotels, bigger restaurants and shops; cash for minibuses, small bars and beach vendors. USD accepted widely, change often in XCD. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Saint Kitts and Nevis?
A 10% service charge is often added; otherwise tip 10–15%.
Is Saint Kitts and Nevis cashless?
Mixed: cards and cash. Cards work in hotels, restaurants and bigger shops; carry EC$ or US$ cash for buses, small shops and beach bars.
What currency does Saint Kitts and Nevis 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: St Kitts and Nevis
- St Kitts Tourism Authority
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.