Canada is a modern, highly digital country, but knowing where to use cash, credit, debit, or mobile wallets is crucial. This guide covers the Canadian Dollar (CAD), ATMs, tipping etiquette, contactless payments, common costs, budgeting, safety tips, and frequently asked questions for travelers.
Canada’s currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD), symbol $, sometimes written as C$ to distinguish from other dollars. Notes are available in $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 bills, all polymer with vibrant colors. Coins include 5¢ (nickel), 10¢ (dime), 25¢ (quarter), $1 (loonie), $2 (toonie). Most urban stores accept cards or mobile payments; cash is sometimes preferred for small vendors, local markets, and tips.
ATMs are widely available across Canada, usually operated by major banks such as RBC, TD, Scotiabank, CIBC, and BMO. Using ATMs inside banks or malls is safer than standalone street machines. Notify your bank before travel to avoid international blocks. Many terminals accept contactless Visa/Mastercard, Interac debit, and Apple/Google Pay.
Canada is digital-friendly: tap-and-go cards and mobile wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay work almost everywhere. For rideshare, food delivery, and transit apps, preloaded cards or PayPal/Apple Pay often work seamlessly.
Costs vary by city and season. Budget travelers can manage moderate expenses using public transport and local eateries; mid-range visitors enjoy hotels and restaurants comfortably.
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City hotel/night | $80–$150 | $180–$350 | Downtown vs outskirts; breakfast included sometimes |
| Meal per person | $10–$20 | $25–$50 | Cafés vs sit-down restaurants |
| Coffee/tea | $2–$5 | $5–$8 | Chain vs specialty café |
| Public transport | $3–$5 | $10–$15 | Single ride vs day pass |
| Intercity train/bus | $25–$80 | $100–$200 | Book in advance for discounts |
| SIM + Data (30 days) | $30–$50 | — | Passport needed for registration |
| Tour guide (half day) | $50–$100 | $120–$200 | Depends on city and package |
| Attractions (per ticket) | $10–$30 | $35–$60 | Museums, national parks, and landmarks |
Tipping is customary: 15–20% in restaurants is standard, $1–$2 per drink in bars. Taxi drivers or rideshare drivers often receive round-ups. Hotel porters usually get $1–$2 per bag. Always ask for receipts for major expenses; digital copies are acceptable.
Canada is safe, but remain vigilant. Use hotel safes, carry a minimal wallet for day trips, and prefer indoor ATMs. Check your card statements and keep receipts. Avoid accepting help from strangers at ATMs or counting cash in public.
Plan daily expenses for transport, meals, and attractions. Carry a mix of cash and digital payments. Track spending via phone apps or notes. Share costs easily among friends using apps or card transfers.
Avoid exchanging money at airports. Use city exchange counters or online services that offer real-time rates.
Save on attractions and transport with passes like Toronto CityPASS or Montreal Museum Pass.
Download apps like Splitwise or Trail Wallet to manage daily spending and avoid surprises.
Major banks like RBC, TD, and Scotiabank allow international students and workers to open accounts with a passport, study/work permit, and local address proof.
Many banks offer zero-fee student accounts, free Interac transfers, and cash bonuses for new customers.
Most payments in Canada happen via debit cards linked to local accounts, making life easier for long stays.
Immediately block your card using the bank’s 24/7 helpline. Keep photocopies of your cards separately for reference.
Western Union and MoneyGram operate in most Canadian cities, offering quick international transfers from family abroad.
Visa & Mastercard provide emergency replacement cards and cash services if you lose your wallet while traveling.
Check live exchange rates and convert currencies instantly on your phone.
Multi-currency cards that help avoid high FX fees when paying in CAD.
Canada’s popular system to send or receive money instantly using just an email.
Bring a primary and backup card plus small CAD cash. Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in cities. Cash is useful for parking meters, tips, and small local shops.
Use ATMs inside bank branches, malls, or airports. Avoid street ATMs at night. Enable alerts and keep receipts. If an ATM fails, wait for automatic reversal before retrying.
Yes, tap-and-go cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, and Interac e-Transfer are widely accepted across urban Canada. Verify amounts before confirming.
Restaurants: 15–20% if not included in service. Taxi or rideshare: round up or tip $1–$2 per ride. Hotel porters: $1–$2 per bag. Market vendors do not expect tips.
Yes, non-residents can claim GST/HST refunds on eligible goods (e.g., souvenirs) over $100 CAD, purchased within 60 days, and exported. Submit receipts at designated airport counters or mail applications.