{"id":505958,"date":"2023-11-24T14:11:17","date_gmt":"2023-11-24T14:11:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/?page_id=505958"},"modified":"2026-05-11T02:24:25","modified_gmt":"2026-05-11T01:24:25","slug":"costa-rica","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/travel-money\/costa-rica","title":{"rendered":"Best travel money and currency options for Costa Rica"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"keyTakeaways\">\n  <div class=\"keyTakeaways__header\">\n          <svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"32\" height=\"21\" viewbox=\"0 0 314.16 201.03\" fill=\"none\">\n  <path d=\"M212.32,190.62c-19.66,0-38.8-6.44-54.42-18.24-15.63,11.79-34.77,18.24-54.42,18.24-49.84,0-90.39-40.55-90.39-90.39V9.83h199.24c49.84,0,90.39,40.55,90.39,90.39s-40.55,90.39-90.39,90.39Z\" fill=\"white\"><\/path>\n  <path d=\"M212.32,15.9c46.57,0,84.33,37.75,84.33,84.33h0c0,46.57-37.75,84.33-84.33,84.33h0c-20.75,0-39.74-7.51-54.42-19.94-14.69,12.43-33.68,19.94-54.42,19.94h0c-46.57,0-84.33-37.75-84.33-84.33V15.9h193.18M212.32,3.76H7.01v96.46c0,53.19,43.27,96.46,96.46,96.46,19.47,0,38.46-5.92,54.43-16.84,15.96,10.91,34.95,16.84,54.42,16.84,53.19,0,96.46-43.27,96.46-96.46S265.51,3.76,212.32,3.76h0Z\" fill=\"#232320\"><\/path>\n  <path d=\"M216.34,90.21c.19-1.69,1.76-2.87,3.43-2.6,11.91,1.94,22.41-7.31,20.93-20.1-.45-3.93-2.28-6.56-4.43-9.31-1.05-1.35-.74-3.34.71-4.26,15.6-9.82,31.64-1.91,40.78,13.29,11.21,18.64,11.54,47.15.53,65.94-15.41,26.3-42.91,23.48-56.04-3.04-6.09-12.29-7.47-26.4-5.92-39.93Z\" fill=\"#232320\"><\/path>\n  <path d=\"M105.92,90.21c.19-1.69,1.76-2.87,3.43-2.6,11.91,1.94,22.41-7.31,20.93-20.1-.45-3.93-2.28-6.56-4.43-9.31-1.05-1.35-.74-3.34.71-4.26,15.6-9.82,31.64-1.91,40.78,13.29,11.21,18.64,11.54,47.15.53,65.94-15.41,26.3-42.91,23.48-56.04-3.04-6.09-12.29-7.47-26.4-5.92-39.93Z\" fill=\"#232320\"><\/path>\n<\/svg>        <h3 data-toc=\"false\">Key takeaways<\/h3>\n  <\/div>\n\n    <ul>\n          <li>You may need a mix of cash and card when you\u2019re travelling through the country.<\/li>\n          <li>The currency is the Costa Rican col\u00f3n.<\/li>\n          <li>You can withdraw cash from ATMs or at banks.<\/li>\n          <li>Choose a debit card with low fees (or no fees) for travel from <a href=\"#top-picks\">our top picks<\/a>.<\/li>\n      <\/ul>\n\n  \n  <\/div>\n<h3 id=\"top-picks\" data-toc=\"false\">Low cost travel money cards for going to Costa Rica<\/h3><script id=\"toppicks-datalayer\">\n  window.dataLayerState = [{\"TopPicksData_cardCategory\":\"Low fees + sign-up bonus\",\"TopPicksData_providerLabel\":\"Revolut\",\"TopPicksData_primaryCta\":\"true\",\"TopPicksData_hasReward\":\"false\",\"TopPicksData_position\":1},{\"TopPicksData_cardCategory\":\"No overseas fees card \\u0026 budgeting\",\"TopPicksData_providerLabel\":\"Monzo\",\"TopPicksData_primaryCta\":\"true\",\"TopPicksData_hasReward\":\"false\",\"TopPicksData_position\":2},{\"TopPicksData_cardCategory\":\"No FX fees\",\"TopPicksData_providerLabel\":\"Wise\",\"TopPicksData_primaryCta\":\"true\",\"TopPicksData_hasReward\":\"false\",\"TopPicksData_position\":3}];\n<\/script>\n\n\n  <div id=\"toppicks\" class=\"topPicks rewards--container topPicksF1\" data-count-items=\"3\" data-desktop-count=\"3\" data-niche=\"UKFTM\" data-rewards-component=\"top-picks\">\n        <div class=\"topPicks__list\">\n      <div class=\"u-grid u-grid--alignStretch\">\n                  <div class=\"u-grid__col topPicks__col u-3\/4 u-5\/12@s u-1\/3@l\">\n            <article class=\"topPicks__card luna-card luna-card--stretch\">\n\n              <header class=\"topPicks__header\">\n                <p class=\"topPicks__category\">Low fees + sign-up bonus<\/p>\n              <\/header>\n\n              <div class=\"topPicks__body\">\n                                  <div class=\"topPicks__badgeRow\">\n                                          <p class=\"topPicks__lozenge topPicks__lozenge--promoted\"><span>Promoted<\/span><\/p>\n                                        \n                  <\/div>\n                \n                <div class=\"topPicks__nameRow topPicks__nameRow--empty\">\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                <figure class=\"topPicks__figure\">\n                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/niche-builder\/66db251e3e0db.png\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/niche-builder\/66db251e3e0db.png\" class=\"topPicks__image\" alt=\"Revolut logo\" loading=\"lazy\">\n                                  <\/figure>\n\n                \n                <div class=\"topPicks__ctaRow\">\n                                      <a class=\"luna-button luna-button--success luna-button--fluid topPicks__cta\" href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/redirect\/uk\/travel-money\/revoluttravelmoney-uk-secure.html?nb=1&amp;src_country=uk&amp;redirect_tracking_params=%7B%22placement_type%22%3A%22top_picks%22%2C%22niche_code%22%3A%22UKFTM%22%2C%22product_id%22%3A%224ddde83d-92a3-41cb-a518-97352f192ba8%22%2C%22product_name%22%3A%22Revolut%2B%22%2C%22provider_id%22%3A%22d6fc0821-41db-4faa-a3ab-cd9184210ad9%22%2C%22position%22%3A%221%22%2C%22offer_id%22%3A%2221270%22%2C%22post_id%22%3A%22505958%22%2C%22post_path%22%3A%22travel-money%252Fcosta-rica%22%2C%22post_country%22%3A%22uk%22%7D\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-card-position=\"1\">Go to site<\/a>\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"topPicks__disclaimerRow\">\n                                      <p class=\"topPicks__ctaDisclaimer\">T&amp;Cs apply<\/p>\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                \n                                <div class=\"topPicks__offerRow\">\n                                      <div class=\"topPicks__offer\">\n                      <svg class=\"topPicks__offerIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #1dd751\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#gift\"><\/use><\/svg>\n                      <span class=\"topPicks__offerText\">\u00a320 welcome bonus<\/span>\n                                          <\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n                \n                                  <div class=\"topPicks__descriptionRow\">\n                                          <ul class=\"topPicks__features\">\n                                                                              <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Pay like a local with excellent exchange rates<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                                                        <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Send money in 29 currencies<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                                                        <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Cashback on hotel bookings<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                        <\/ul>\n                                      <\/div>\n                              <\/div>\n\n            <\/article>\n\n                      <\/div>\n                  <div class=\"u-grid__col topPicks__col u-3\/4 u-5\/12@s u-1\/3@l\">\n            <article class=\"topPicks__card luna-card luna-card--stretch\">\n\n              <header class=\"topPicks__header\">\n                <p class=\"topPicks__category\">No overseas fees card &amp; budgeting<\/p>\n              <\/header>\n\n              <div class=\"topPicks__body\">\n                                  <div class=\"topPicks__badgeRow\">\n                                          <p class=\"topPicks__lozenge topPicks__lozenge--promoted\"><span>Promoted<\/span><\/p>\n                                        \n                  <\/div>\n                \n                <div class=\"topPicks__nameRow topPicks__nameRow--empty\">\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                <figure class=\"topPicks__figure\">\n                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/niche-builder\/64d4f89e1aa8f.png\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/niche-builder\/64d4f89e1aa8f.png\" class=\"topPicks__image\" alt=\"Monzo logo\" loading=\"lazy\">\n                                  <\/figure>\n\n                \n                <div class=\"topPicks__ctaRow\">\n                                      <a class=\"luna-button luna-button--success luna-button--fluid topPicks__cta\" href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/redirect\/uk\/travel-money\/monzo-travel-uk-secure.html?nb=1&amp;src_country=uk&amp;redirect_tracking_params=%7B%22placement_type%22%3A%22top_picks%22%2C%22niche_code%22%3A%22UKFTM%22%2C%22product_id%22%3A%224b7deca5-4152-460d-bd12-4d0074d34d61%22%2C%22product_name%22%3A%22Monzo%22%2C%22provider_id%22%3A%22571d60cb-7ae7-4360-858d-d999e56e35a5%22%2C%22position%22%3A%222%22%2C%22offer_id%22%3A%2225676%22%2C%22post_id%22%3A%22505958%22%2C%22post_path%22%3A%22travel-money%252Fcosta-rica%22%2C%22post_country%22%3A%22uk%22%7D\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-card-position=\"2\">Go to site<\/a>\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"topPicks__disclaimerRow\">\n                                      <p class=\"topPicks__ctaDisclaimer\">T&amp;Cs apply<\/p>\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                \n                                <div class=\"topPicks__offerRow\">\n                                      <div class=\"topPicks__offer\">\n                      <svg class=\"topPicks__offerIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #1dd751\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#gift\"><\/use><\/svg>\n                      <span class=\"topPicks__offerText\">Earn interest on your holiday money with a savings pot<\/span>\n                                          <\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n                \n                                  <div class=\"topPicks__descriptionRow\">\n                                          <ul class=\"topPicks__features\">\n                                                                              <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Make fee-free cash withdrawals<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                                                        <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Spend abroad with no fees<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                                                        <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Split costs with friends in seconds<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                        <\/ul>\n                                      <\/div>\n                              <\/div>\n\n            <\/article>\n\n                      <\/div>\n                  <div class=\"u-grid__col topPicks__col u-3\/4 u-5\/12@s u-1\/3@l\">\n            <article class=\"topPicks__card luna-card luna-card--stretch\">\n\n              <header class=\"topPicks__header\">\n                <p class=\"topPicks__category\">No FX fees<\/p>\n              <\/header>\n\n              <div class=\"topPicks__body\">\n                                  <div class=\"topPicks__badgeRow\">\n                                          <p class=\"topPicks__lozenge topPicks__lozenge--promoted\"><span>Promoted<\/span><\/p>\n                                        \n                  <\/div>\n                \n                <div class=\"topPicks__nameRow topPicks__nameRow--empty\">\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                <figure class=\"topPicks__figure\">\n                                                        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/niche-builder\/66db25e6c6685.png\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/niche-builder\/66db25e6c6685.png\" class=\"topPicks__image\" alt=\"Wise logo\" loading=\"lazy\">\n                                  <\/figure>\n\n                \n                <div class=\"topPicks__ctaRow\">\n                                      <a class=\"luna-button luna-button--success luna-button--fluid topPicks__cta\" href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/redirect\/uk\/travel-money\/wise-multucyrrency-uk-secure.html?nb=1&amp;src_country=uk&amp;redirect_tracking_params=%7B%22placement_type%22%3A%22top_picks%22%2C%22niche_code%22%3A%22UKFTM%22%2C%22product_id%22%3A%22bf57b237-53f7-4885-adc9-f9fb9275c9b7%22%2C%22product_name%22%3A%22Wise%2BMulti-currency%2BAccount%22%2C%22provider_id%22%3A%2223bc3143-484a-4e3e-ae68-28e0f4ccea79%22%2C%22position%22%3A%223%22%2C%22offer_id%22%3A%2225128%22%2C%22post_id%22%3A%22505958%22%2C%22post_path%22%3A%22travel-money%252Fcosta-rica%22%2C%22post_country%22%3A%22uk%22%7D\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-card-position=\"3\">Go to site<\/a>\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                <div class=\"topPicks__disclaimerRow\">\n                                      <p class=\"topPicks__ctaDisclaimer\">T&amp;Cs apply<\/p>\n                                  <\/div>\n\n                \n                                <div class=\"topPicks__offerRow\">\n                                      <div class=\"topPicks__offer\">\n                      <svg class=\"topPicks__offerIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #1dd751\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#gift\"><\/use><\/svg>\n                      <span class=\"topPicks__offerText\">More than 150 countries<\/span>\n                                          <\/div>\n                                  <\/div>\n                \n                                  <div class=\"topPicks__descriptionRow\">\n                                          <ul class=\"topPicks__features\">\n                                                                              <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Open an account in minutes<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                                                        <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>Use in more than 150 countries<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                                                        <li><svg class=\"topPicks__featureIcon luna-icon\" width=\"18\" height=\"18\" style=\"--fill: #008024\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\"><use xlink:href=\"#check-circle-fill\"><\/use><\/svg><span>2 free cash withdrawals per month<\/span><\/li>\n                                                                        <\/ul>\n                                      <\/div>\n                              <\/div>\n\n            <\/article>\n\n                      <\/div>\n              <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"toppicks-methodology\" class=\"topPicksMethodology--shortcode luna-accordionGroup accordionGroup\">\n    <div class=\"luna-accordion\" data-accordion=\"accordion\">\n        <div class=\"luna-accordion__summary\">\n            <h4 class=\"luna-accordion__heading\">\n                <button class=\"luna-accordion__action collapsed\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"methodology-expander-0000000001\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-target=\"#methodology-expander-0000000001\">\n                    <span class=\"luna-accordion__title\">How we chose these accounts<\/span>\n                    <svg class=\"luna-icon topPicksMethodology__toggleIcon\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                        <use xlink:href=\"#chevron-down\" data-toggle-icon=\"show\" class=\"topPicksMethodology__toggleIcon-down\"><\/use>\n                        <use xlink:href=\"#chevron-up\" data-toggle-icon=\"hide\" class=\"topPicksMethodology__toggleIcon-up is-hidden\"><\/use>\n                    <\/svg>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/h4>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"luna-accordion__details collapse\" aria-hidden=\"true\" id=\"methodology-expander-0000000001\" data-accordion=\"details\" style=\"height: 0px;\">\n            <div class=\"accordionContent\">The accounts shown above are promoted picks. If we show a \"Promoted for\" pick, this means it's been chosen from among our partners and is based on factors that include special features or offers, and the commission we receive. Keep in mind that our picks may not always be the best fit for you, and it's important to compare for yourself to find a product that works for you.<\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3>Travel card, debit card or credit card?<\/h3><p>Visa and Mastercard are most widely used in Costa Rica, with American Express cards coming in third. You may find ATMs and places that accept Discover cards, though Discover is overall rarely accepted.<\/p><p>Credit cards without foreign transaction fees are a great option for direct purchases, while debit cards are generally good for ATM cash withdrawals. The Q Costa Rica, a Latin America news portal, reported that some Costa Rican merchants might add an illegal surcharge of up to 8% on credit card purchases. Make sure you ask merchants about fees before using your card.<\/p><h3>These are your options for spending money in Costa Rica<\/h3><h4 id=\"debit-cards\"><i class=\"icon-debit-cards-solid icon-size-large\"><\/i> Using a credit card<\/h4><p>Many establishments, such as restaurants, hotels, bars and shops, in San Jos\u00e9 and other large cities take credit cards. But be sure to use a card without foreign transaction fees and ask about hidden fees. Travel credit cards, for example, don\u2019t charge foreign transaction fees, and many offer travel insurance, purchase protection or rental car insurance as part of their many benefits.<\/p><p>If you frequently travel to Costa Rica, consider an airline cobranded credit card to save money on flights, in-flight purchases, checked bags or lounge access.<\/p><p><b>Tips:<\/b><\/p><ul class=\"list-7\"><li>Limit using credit cards to make ATM cash withdrawals to avoid cash advance fees and APR from the moment you make the transaction.<\/li><li>Paying in local currency saves you a currency conversion fee.<\/li><li>Notify your bank you\u2019re travelling to Costa Rica.<\/li><\/ul>\n<div id=\"lazy0000000002\"><\/div>\n<script type=\"application\/json\" id=\"lazyloaded-assets-json-lazy0000000002\" class=\"lazyloaded-assets-json\">{\"critical-scripts\":[],\"scripts\":[],\"styles\":[\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/parent-theme\/shortcodes\/arrow-link\/prod\/arrow-link.b54cdc282fcfbd8bdad2.css\"]}<\/script><h4 id=\"debit-cards\"><i class=\"icon-debit-cards-solid icon-size-large\"><\/i> Potential credit card fees in Costa Rica<\/h4><p> There are 3 potential credit card fees you can incur with your card when travelling in Costa Rica:<\/p><ul class=\"list-7\"><li><b>Foreign transaction fees.<\/b><span> <\/span>You could get saddled with paying a fee of up to 3% of the transaction for each purchase made, depending on your card. To put this into perspective, you\u2019ll pay a fee of up to \u00a349 if you spend \u00a31.617 with your card.<\/li><li><b>Currency conversion fees.<\/b><span> <\/span>When you use an ATM or pay a merchant, you may be offered the option to pay in US dollars instead of the local currency. This is called a dynamic currency conversion (DCC), which usually has a poor exchange rate and higher fees.<\/li><li><b>Hidden fees.<\/b><span> <\/span>Watch out for hidden charges at hostels and hotels when paying with your card. Some may add up to an 8% fee to your bill.<\/li><\/ul><h4 id=\"debit-cards\"><i class=\"icon-debit-cards-solid icon-size-large\"><\/i> Using a debit card<\/h4><p>Debit cards work best for cash withdrawals. Most debit cards come with foreign transaction fees of up to 3% of each transaction. However, there are debit cards without foreign transaction fees or ATM withdrawal fees.<\/p><p><b>Tips:<\/b><\/p><ul class=\"list-7\"><li>Excellent exchange rates with debit cards for ATM cash withdrawals.<\/li><li>Notify your bank you\u2019re travelling to Costa Rica.<\/li><\/ul>\n<div id=\"lazy0000000003\"><\/div>\n<h4 id=\"debit-cards\"><i class=\"icon-debit-cards-solid icon-size-large\"><\/i> Using a prepaid travel card<\/h4><p>If you want to take a debit card that\u2019s not linked to your bank account, a prepaid travel card could be an alternative. The travel card comes with more fees but could be worth it for extra security if your card is lost or stolen.<\/p><ul class=\"list-7\"><li><b>Tip:<\/b> Due to the high fees, consider making ATM cash withdrawals a last resort.<\/li><\/ul><div class=\"u-grid u-grid--gutterCollapse\"><div class=\"u-grid__col u-1\/2@s u-1\/1\"><h5>Pros<\/h5><ul class=\"list-1\"><li>Can load multiple currencies<\/li><li>No cash advance APR<\/li><li>No links to your bank account<\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"u-grid__col u-1\/2@s u-1\/1\"><h5>Cons<\/h5><ul class=\"list-12\"><li>Many fees, including currency conversion fees<\/li><li>May take time to load<\/li><li>No rewards<\/li><li>Potential hidden fees of up to 8% by some merchants<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div>\n<div id=\"lazy0000000004\"><\/div>\n<h4 id=\"debit-cards\"><i class=\"icon-debit-cards-solid icon-size-large\"><\/i> Paying with cash in Costa Rica<\/h4><p>Cash is the most accepted payment method in Costa Rica, especially if you\u2019re travelling in more rural areas where cards are not an option. US dollars are also accepted in the capital, but exchanging them for Costa Rican colones is best.<\/p><div class=\"u-grid u-grid--gutterCollapse\"><div class=\"u-grid__col u-1\/2@s u-1\/1\"><h5>Pros<\/h5><ul class=\"list-1\"><li>Payment flexibility<\/li><li>Convenience<\/li><li>No need for ATMs<\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"u-grid__col u-1\/2@s u-1\/1\"><h5>Cons<\/h5><ul class=\"list-12\"><li>High risk of theft<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><h4 id=\"debit-cards\"><i class=\"icon-debit-cards-solid icon-size-large\"><\/i> Using traveler\u2019s checks<\/h4><p>Traveler\u2019s checks aren\u2019t widely accepted in Costa Rica, but you could exchange them in some of the main banks. This can be an option if you don\u2019t want to carry a lot of cash. However, the other money options are generally cheaper and without the hassle.<\/p><ul class=\"list-7\"><li><b>Tip:<\/b> You may want to consider other money options in Costa Rica.<\/li><\/ul><div class=\"u-grid u-grid--gutterCollapse\"><div class=\"u-grid__col u-1\/2@s u-1\/1\"><h5>Pros<\/h5><ul class=\"list-1\"><li>Security<\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"u-grid__col u-1\/2@s u-1\/1\"><h5>Cons<\/h5><ul class=\"list-12\"><li>Not accepted everywhere<\/li><li>Fees for purchasing and cashing checks<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><h3>Where can I get the best exchange rate for Costa Rican colones?<\/h3><p>You\u2019ll find the best exchange rate for Costa Rican colones at your hotel or any bank. You can also easily withdraw colones from ATMs with your debit card and get a strong conversion rate. You\u2019ll find the worst exchange rates at airports, so try to stay away from those.<\/p><table><tbody><tr><td><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter sml-image-center wp-image-578467 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/5CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png\" alt=\"5 Costa Rican Colon\" width=\"300\" height=\"160\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/5CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=180 180w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/5CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=360 360w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/5CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=600 600w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/5CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=900 900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/td><td><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter sml-image-center wp-image-578481 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/10CostaRicanColon_Supplied_300x160.png\" alt=\"10 Costa Rican Colon\" width=\"300\" height=\"160\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/10CostaRicanColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=180 180w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/10CostaRicanColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=360 360w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/10CostaRicanColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=600 600w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/10CostaRicanColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=900 900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/td><td><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter sml-image-center wp-image-578455 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/20CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png\" alt=\"20 Costa Rican Colon\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/20CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=180 180w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/20CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=360 360w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/20CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=600 600w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/20CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=900 900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter sml-image-center wp-image-578455 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/50CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png\" alt=\"50 Costa Rican Colon\" width=\"300\" height=\"160\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/50CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=180 180w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/50CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=360 360w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/50CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=600 600w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/50CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=900 900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/td><td><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter sml-image-center wp-image-578487 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/100CostaRicanColon_Supplied_300x160.png\" alt=\"100 Costa Rican Colon\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/100CostaRicanColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=180 180w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/100CostaRicanColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=360 360w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/100CostaRicanColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=600 600w, https:\/\/www.finder.com\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/100CostaRicanColon_Supplied_300x160.png?fit=900 900w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><div class=\"has-padding-xsmall\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"live-currency-rate-container\" data-currencies=\"GBP,CRC\">\n    <div class=\"live-rate\">\n        <p class=\"live-rate--header\">Live Rate<\/p>\n        <form class=\"luna-form luna-form--inline\">\n        <div class=\"luna-form__group\">\n            <div class=\"luna-form__field\">\n            <label class=\"luna-label\" for=\"input-cur-from\">\u00a3<\/label>\n            <input class=\"luna-input\" type=\"number\" placeholder=\"amount\" id=\"input-cur-from\" value=\"1\" min=\"1\">\n            <span>=<\/span>\n            <span>\u20a1<\/span>\n            <span>        <span class=\"rate-table--rate\" data-pair=\"GBPCRC\" data-rate=\"1\">\n                            <span class=\"rate--rate-number\" data-pair=\"GBPCRC\" data-from=\"GBR\" data-to=\"CRI\">    1.0000\n<\/span>\n\n    <\/span>\n<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n        <p class=\"live-rate--lastupdated rate-table--refresh-countdown\">\n            Refreshing in: <strong class=\"rate-table--refresh-countdown--timer\">60s<\/strong> | <span class=\"rate-table--refresh-countdown--date\">Fri, Nov 06, 06:16AM<\/span> GMT\n        <\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"has-padding-xsmall\"><\/div><h4>The main banks in Costa Rica are:<\/h4><div class=\"u-grid u-grid--gutterCollapse\"><div class=\"u-grid__col u-1\/3@s u-1\/1\"><ul class=\"list-10\"><li>Banco Nacional de Costa Rica<\/li><li>Banco de Costa Rica (BCR)<\/li><li>Citibank Costa Rica<\/li><li>Banco Promerica \u2013 Costa Rica<\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"u-grid__col u-1\/3@s u-1\/1\"><ul class=\"list-10\"><li>Banco BAC San Jose<\/li><li>Banco Bct<\/li><li>Banco Improsa<\/li><\/ul><\/div><div class=\"u-grid__col u-1\/3@s u-1\/1\"><ul class=\"list-10\"><li>Banco Davivienda (Costa Rica)<\/li><li>Banco General (Costa Rica)<\/li><li>Scotiabank de Costa Rica<\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/div><h5>Using an ATM in Costa Rica<\/h5><p>You\u2019ll find a number of ATMs inside major banks in Costa Rica, available during normal business hours for added security. Most ATMs charge hefty operator fees, but you can avoid these by going with a debit card that waives or reimburses foreign currency exchange and ATM fees.<\/p><h3>Keep your travel money safe in Costa Rica<\/h3><p>Petty crime, such as bag snatching and pickpocketing, is prevalent in Costa Rica. But tourists should exercise additional precautions for incidents of violent crime, particularly in areas frequented by tourists.<\/p><p>Always be aware of your surroundings, and don\u2019t \u201cadvertise\u201d your wealth by wearing flashy jewelry and never physically resist a robbery attempt. Keep your wallet in your pocket, and consider using a money belt to keep your money out of arm\u2019s reach.<\/p><h4>Is it safe to use my credit card in Costa Rica?<\/h4><p>Yes, it\u2019s generally safe to use your credit card in Costa Rica. Always practice good safety habits to better protect your finances, though. Try to:<\/p><ul class=\"list-7\"><li><b>Use an ATM within a bank.<\/b><span> <\/span>In case the ATM holds your card for some reason, you can get it back with ease. Also, ATMs within a bank are much less likely to be tampered with.<\/li><li><b>Take 2 credit cards.<\/b><span> <\/span>If something happens to your primary card, you\u2019ll have a backup in your hotel room safe.<\/li><li><b>Keep your card in sight.<\/b><span> <\/span>Costa Rica isn\u2019t known to have a big card cloning issue \u2014 but just in case, always keep an eye on your card.<\/li><\/ul><h3>Bottom line<\/h3><p>You can freely use plastic in Costa Rica. Save money by finding a card without foreign transaction fees, and ask merchants about hidden fees.<\/p><p>If you need cash, you can either exchange GBP pounds or make an ATM cash withdrawal. Debit cards are typically the best option.<\/p><p>To find out more about paying for your travel abroad, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/travel-money\">check out our travel money guide<\/a>.<\/p><article class=\"luna-card luna-card--alt\"><div class=\"luna-card__block has-padding-small\">Our \u201cBest for\u201d picks highlight top options in specific categories based on our independent evaluation (see our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.finder.com\/uk\/finder-score\">full methodology<\/a>), while \u201cPromoted\u201d tags indicate sponsored placements. Selected products may not suit everyone. We track selected market offers, which may not cover every product. Products are listed in no particular order unless specified, and inclusion or ordering may be influenced by popularity or commercial agreements. Most comparison table data is provided by Defaqto or sourced directly from providers. Always evaluate your own circumstances and consider independent advice before making major financial decisions.<\/div><\/article>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn more about the best card to use if you are going to Costa Rica.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":559,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_focuskw":"best debit card to use in costa rica","_yoast_wpseo_title":"Best travel money and currency options for Costa Rica","_yoast_wpseo_metadesc":"Learn more about the best card to use, if you should use a UK debit card and other ways to take spending money to Costa 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14:22:10\",\"timezone_offset\":\" +00:00\",\"last_update_summary\":\"We included a list of key takeaways to the guide.\"}","_last_major_update":"","_search_priority":0,"feature_finder_bot_teaser_enabled":false,"feature_finder_bot_teaser_message":"","feature_finder_bot_teaser_placeholder":"","feature_finder_bot_teaser_suggestions":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[525],"tags":[],"asset_tag":[],"class_list":["post-505958","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-travel-money"],"apple_news_notices":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.6.1 (Yoast SEO v27.6) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Best travel money and currency options for Costa Rica<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn more about the best card to use, if you should use a UK debit card and other ways to take spending money to Costa Rica.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, 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content=\"https:\/\/cdn.finder.com.au\/finder-us\/wp-uploads\/2020\/12\/5CostaRicarColon_Supplied_300x160.png\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Kliment Dukovski\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@findercomUK\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@findercomUK\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Kliment Dukovski\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"6 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.finder.com\\\/uk\\\/travel-money\\\/costa-rica#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.finder.com\\\/uk\\\/travel-money\\\/costa-rica\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Kliment 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