Money in the US: Complete Payment Guide for Dutch Travelers in 2026

Planning a trip to the United States from the Netherlands? One of the most practical things to sort out before you go is how you will handle money and payments. The US payment system differs from what you are used to in the Netherlands from the near-total dominance of credit cards to the unfamiliar tipping culture. This guide covers everything Dutch travelers need to know about spending money in America in 2026.

Currency in the United States

The US dollar (USD, $) is the official currency. Unlike the eurozone, the US uses paper bills and coins for cash transactions.

US bills come in denominations of $1, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 and they are all the same size and color. Unlike euro notes which vary in size and color, US dollars look very similar so pay close attention when handing over cash.

Coins include the penny (1 cent), nickel (5 cents), dime (10 cents), and quarter (25 cents). Dimes are the smallest coin despite being worth more than nickels or pennies another difference from the euro system.

Cash vs Card: What Dutch Travelers Should Know

The biggest payment difference Dutch travelers will notice is Americas heavy reliance on credit cards. While the Netherlands is overwhelmingly a debit card and contactless society, the US runs on credit cards.

• Most US businesses expect credit cards, not debit cards or cash
• Many hotels, car rental agencies, and airlines require a credit card for deposits
• Debit cards from Dutch banks (ING, ABN AMRO, Rabobank) work at ATMs but may be declined at US merchants
• Some smaller businesses and restaurants are cash-only always carry some cash
• Contactless payments (tap-to-pay) are widely accepted in major cities
• Apple Pay and Google Pay work wherever contactless payments are accepted

A credit card with no foreign transaction fees is the single most useful payment tool for your US trip. Without one, you may face additional charges on every purchase.

Best Payment Methods for Dutch Travelers in the US

Credit Cards (Recommended)

Visa and Mastercard are accepted virtually everywhere in the US. American Express is also widely accepted but less so than Visa/Mastercard. Before your trip:

• Check if your Dutch credit card charges foreign transaction fees (typically 1-2%)
• If it does, consider a card specifically for travel with no foreign fees
• Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid fraud blocks
• Bring at least two cards in case one is lost or blocked
• Some Dutch credit cards (like ICS Gold) offer travel insurance check your benefits

Debit Cards and ATMs

Your Dutch debit card (pinpas) can withdraw cash from US ATMs, but be prepared for fees:

• Dutch banks charge 1-3 EUR per ATM withdrawal abroad (check your banks fee schedule)
• US ATM operators may charge their own fee ($2-5 per transaction)
• Withdraw larger amounts less often to minimize per-transaction fees
• Use bank-affiliated ATMs (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo) rather than independent machines in convenience stores
• Your PIN works on the Maestro or Cirrus network most US ATMs accept both

Pro tip: The Wise (formerly TransferWise) debit card offers competitive exchange rates and low ATM withdrawal fees, making it an excellent option for Dutch travelers.

Digital Wallets and Contactless

Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are widely accepted in the US, especially in major cities and chain stores. Tap-to-pay works at most terminals just look for the contactless symbol. This is often the most convenient option as it combines card security with phone convenience.

Exchange Rates and Conversion Fees

Getting the best exchange rate matters, especially for longer trips. Here is what you need to know.

The worst exchange rates come from airport currency exchange kiosks, hotels, and tourist-area exchange bureaus. These typically add 5-10% hidden fees on top of the market rate.

The best exchange rates come from using your credit or debit card directly, as card networks use near-market rates. The key is avoiding cards that charge additional foreign transaction fees.

• Credit card rates: very close to market rate (if no foreign transaction fee)
• ATM withdrawals: market rate plus bank fees plus ATM operator fee
• Wise/Revolut: near-market rate with minimal fees
• Travel money cards: often worse rates than advertised
• Airport exchange: worst rates avoid unless absolutely necessary

Tipping in the US: What Dutch Travelers Must Know

Tipping in the United States is very different from the Netherlands. In the US, tips are a significant part of service workers income, not just a bonus for good service.

For a full breakdown of tipping rules, check our dedicated guide:

Here is a quick summary:

• Restaurants: 15-20% of the pretax bill (unless gratuity is already included for large groups)
• Bartenders: $1-2 per drink or 15-20% of the tab
• Hotel housekeeping: $2-5 per night
• Hotel porters: $1-2 per bag
• Taxi/rideshare (Uber/Lyft): 10-15% of the fare
• Tour guides: $10-20 per person per half-day tour
• Coffee shops and fast food: optional a dollar or loose change in the tip jar

Tip in cash when possible, or add it to your card payment. Many restaurants present the payment terminal with tip options already calculated at 15%, 18%, 20%, or a custom amount.

Sales Tax in the US: A Hidden Cost

Unlike the Netherlands where VAT (btw) is included in displayed prices, US sales tax is added at the register. This means the price you see on the tag is not what you will actually pay.

• Sales tax varies by state: 0% (Oregon, Delaware) to over 10% (some cities)
• Each state, county, and city sets its own rate
• Typical range: 6-10% added to the purchase price
• Groceries and unprepared food are often exempt from sales tax
• Hotels and car rentals have additional occupancy and tourism taxes (10-15% extra)

Always budget 8-12% above the listed price to account for taxes. This is especially important for large purchases like hotel bookings.

Using Dutch Bank Cards in the US

Here is how the major Dutch banks perform in the US:

ING Netherlands

• Debit card works at US ATMs via Maestro/Mastercard network
• 2.25 EUR fee per foreign ATM withdrawal
• 1.25% foreign exchange fee on purchases
• Contactless payments work where Maestro is accepted

ABN AMRO

• Debit card works at Visa/Maestro ATMs
• 1.25 EUR fee per foreign counter withdrawal
• 1% foreign exchange fee on card purchases
• ABN AMRO World Card has no foreign transaction fees

Rabobank

• Debit card works internationally via Maestro
• 2 EUR fee per foreign ATM withdrawal
• 1% foreign transaction fee
• Rabo WereldBonus card offers better travel conditions

Money-Saving Tips for Dutch Travelers

1. Get a credit card with zero foreign transaction fees before your trip
2. Withdraw larger amounts less often at ATMs dont visit an ATM every day
3. Use Apple Pay or Google Pay linked to your no-fee card for contactless security
4. Set up a Wise or Revolut account for competitive exchange rates and low fees
5. Carry $100-200 in small bills ($5, $10, $20) for cash-only situations
6. Always pay in USD when given the choice (dynamic currency conversion uses terrible rates)
7. Keep receipts for purchases over $100 you may need them for customs on your return
8. Check if your travel insurance covers lost cash or card theft

What to Do If You Lose Your Card or Cash

Losing your wallet in the US is stressful but manageable. Here is what to do:

• Call your Dutch bank immediately to block the card (save their 24/7 international number before you travel)
• File a police report for theft needed for insurance claims
• Use your second card or digital wallet as backup
• Access emergency cash via Western Union or MoneyGram if needed
• Contact the Dutch embassy or consulate for emergency assistance
• Many credit cards offer emergency card replacement within 24-48 hours

To be safe, keep a backup card and some emergency cash in a separate location from your main wallet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Dutch debit card in the US?

Yes, most Dutch debit cards work at US ATMs via the Maestro or Cirrus network. However, they may not work at all US merchants many US point-of-sale systems expect credit cards. Always carry a credit card as backup.

Should I exchange euros for dollars before my flight?

No you will get a much better exchange rate by withdrawing from a US ATM or using your card directly. Avoid airport currency exchange kiosks. If you want some cash on arrival, order a small amount from your Dutch bank (around 100-200 EUR) or withdraw at a US airport ATM.

Is contactless payment common in the US?

Yes, contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, tap-to-pay cards) are now very common in the US, especially in major cities and chain stores. Even many small businesses have upgraded their terminals. It is one of the most convenient payment methods for travelers.

Do I need to tell my bank I am traveling to the US?

It depends on your bank. Some Dutch banks automatically allow international usage, while others may block unexpected foreign transactions. Check with your bank before departure at minimum, save their international customer service number.

What is dynamic currency conversion and why should I avoid it?

Dynamic currency conversion (DCC) is when an ATM or payment terminal offers to charge you in euros instead of USD. Always decline this the exchange rate they offer is typically 3-5% worse than the market rate. Always pay in the local currency (USD).

Are traveler's checks still accepted in the US?

No traveler checks are largely obsolete in the US. Very few businesses accept them, and those that do often impose restrictions. Do not rely on traveler checks for your trip.

The Bottom Line

Managing money in the US as a Dutch traveler comes down to three things: use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees as your primary payment method, carry $100-200 in cash for emergencies and cash-only places, and always pay in USD when given the choice.

The US payment system takes some getting used to, but with the right preparation you will avoid unnecessary fees and enjoy a smooth trip. For more practical tips, check out our US Travel Checklist for Dutch Citizens.

And do not forget to read our complete guide to tipping in the US to avoid awkward situations at restaurants and hotels.

Safe travels and happy spending!