Credit Cards In San Pedro, Belize: Navigating Your Options

Major credit cards such as Mastercard, Visa, and American Express are accepted in San Pedro, Belize. Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in major towns and tourist areas take these credit cards. However, smaller vendors and businesses in remote areas may only accept cash or traveller's cheques. It is worth noting that while US dollars are widely accepted in Belize, it is not common to receive US dollars in return when paying with them. Instead, change will usually be given in Belize dollars at the $1 US to $2 BZ exchange rate.

Major credit cards accepted

Major credit cards such as Mastercard, Visa, and American Express are accepted throughout San Pedro, Belize. Most hotels, restaurants, and shops in major towns and tourist areas take these cards. However, smaller merchants, street vendors, and establishments in remote areas may only accept cash or traveller's cheques. It's worth noting that cash is the standard form of payment in Belize, and many locals do not own credit cards.

While Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted, American Express is less so, especially by smaller businesses. Some sources suggest that Mastercard and Visa are the only cards taken by many places. Additionally, some credit card companies may charge a "transaction fee" of 1-3% on all foreign transactions, and American Express is known to charge high fees to merchants.

It's always a good idea to carry more than one card and have a backup payment method, as card acceptance can vary, and some cards may not work due to various reasons. It's also recommended to notify your credit card company of your travel plans to avoid any blocks on your charges due to suspicious foreign transactions.

Surcharges on credit cards

While credit cards are widely accepted in San Pedro, Belize, it's important to be aware of potential surcharges that may be applied to your transactions. Here are some details about surcharges on credit card usage:

According to a 2014 article, it is illegal and criminal for businesses in Belize to impose surcharges on credit card transactions. This is because Belize falls within the Latin American and Caribbean regulation on credit cards, and the banks in Belize abide by Visa and Mastercard regulations, which prohibit surcharging. However, it is always a good idea to check with your specific card provider for any updates or changes to their policies.

Credit card surcharges are fees that merchants or businesses add to the cost of a purchase when a customer chooses to pay using a credit card instead of cash. These surcharges are intended to cover the merchant's cost for processing the credit card transaction. Surcharges are typically a percentage of the overall purchase cost and can range from 1% to 4%.

Rules and Regulations

While credit card surcharges are becoming more common and are legal in many places, there are specific rules and regulations that must be followed. Merchants must clearly disclose the fees before the transaction, list the surcharges on receipts, and ensure that the surcharge does not exceed the cost of the payment processing fee. Additionally, debit card transactions are usually excluded from surcharges.

How to Avoid Credit Card Surcharges

As a consumer, you have the option to avoid surcharges by using cash or debit cards for your purchases. You can also choose to shop at businesses that do not charge these fees. It is always a good idea to review the policies of the merchant or business before making a purchase to understand any potential fees or surcharges that may be applied.

Using US cash in Belize

The Belize dollar is the official currency of Belize, but it is pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of BZ$2 to US$1. This means that the two currencies are interchangeable, and you can use US dollars at most businesses in Belize. However, smaller establishments may only take Belize dollars, and you cannot use US coins.

When using US cash in Belize, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, prices may be listed in US dollars, but you may receive your change in either US or Belize dollars. Secondly, it is recommended to bring smaller US dollar bills ($1, $5, $10, and $20) as larger bills may be hard to cash in smaller villages or shops. Additionally, make sure that your bills are in good condition, as some places may not accept bills that are bent, torn, or worn.

ATMs in Belize usually accept foreign cards, but they only dispense Belize dollars. Many ATMs also have a daily limit, and you will be charged two separate fees for each withdrawal. Therefore, it is a good idea to bring enough US cash to cover your expenses, especially in smaller villages or towns.

Credit cards are also gaining popularity in Belize, but they may not be widely accepted outside of restaurants, bars, tour offices, and hotels. Major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted, while Discover and Amex are rarely accepted due to their high merchant fees. It is worth noting that some establishments may include a 2-5% surcharge for credit card use.

Overall, using US cash in Belize is convenient due to the fixed exchange rate between the US dollar and the Belize dollar. However, it is important to be mindful of the preferences of smaller establishments and the potential fees associated with ATM withdrawals and credit card usage.

ATMs in Belize

In Belize, ATMs are available in most major towns and urban centres, including San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Hopkins, San Ignacio, Punta Gorda, Dangriga, Belize City, and Belmopan. The Belize Bank has established the only nationwide ATM network in the country, with 45 ATMs distributed across Belize. Belize Bank ATMs accept all cards bearing the VISA, MasterCard, Plus, and Cirrus logos.

It is important to note that ATMs in Belize only dispense cash in Belize dollars (BZ$) and not US Dollars. There is often a withdrawal limit per transaction, which can range from BZ$500 to BZ$800, depending on the bank. Additionally, you may be charged two fees when using ATMs in Belize: one from your bank for international use and another from the local Belize bank.

Some banks in Belize that accept foreign ATM cards include Belize Bank, Atlantic Bank, and ScotiaBank. It is recommended to notify your bank and credit card company before travelling to Belize to avoid any issues or suspicions with foreign transactions.

Cash or card in Belize

The Belize dollar (BZD) is the official currency of Belize, with a rate of BZ$2 per US$1. US dollars are also widely accepted in Belize, and you can pay with either US or Belize dollars at most businesses. However, smaller establishments may only take Belize dollars.

It's important to note that Belizean coins cannot be exchanged for US coins, and vice versa. So, while you can pay with US dollars, you will receive Belizean dollars in change.

When using US dollars in Belize, make sure that the bills are in good condition. A few years ago, banks in Belize stopped accepting US bills with any marks or tears.

Using Cards in Belize

Major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are accepted in most major towns and tourist areas in Belize, including San Pedro. However, smaller merchants and establishments in remote areas may only accept cash or traveller's cheques.

Some businesses may charge a surcharge of up to 5% for credit card use, so it's a good idea to ask before using your card. Additionally, banks generally assess a 3-6% fee for credit card transactions, so cash is often preferred.

ATMs are available in most major towns and tourist areas in Belize, including San Pedro. These ATMs accept foreign-issued cards, but there may be fees and withdrawal limits. For example, Belize Bank charges a BZ$3 ATM fee and has a maximum withdrawal limit of BZ$500.

It's recommended to notify your bank and credit card company before travelling to Belize, to avoid any issues with foreign transactions.

Frequently asked questions