Caribbean
Money, cards and tipping in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
XCDDollar
Money in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Mostly cash Cards work in hotels and larger restaurants; carry EC$ cash for buses, ferries, small shops and the outer Grenadines. US$1 ≈ EC$2.70 (03 Oct 2026).
Key facts
- Tipping: A 10% service charge is often added; otherwise tip 10%.
- ATMs: ATMs in Kingstown, Bequia and Mustique; few elsewhere, so carry cash to the smaller islands.
- Paying by phone: Contactless cards work only in a few places; mobile wallets are rare.
- Price level: about 55% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bequia | Mostly cash | Cards at hotels and some restaurants; cash needed for taxis, ferries, bakeries and bars. ATM at Port Elizabeth can be out of service. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines?
A 10% service charge is often added; otherwise tip 10%.
Is Saint Vincent and the Grenadines cashless?
Mostly cash. Cards work in hotels and larger restaurants; carry EC$ cash for buses, ferries, small shops and the outer Grenadines.
What currency does Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 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: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
- Discover SVG
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.