Tijuana - Post Report Question and Answers
Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
Yes, almost everywhere will take a credit card. ATMs are fine, just be smart with your surroundings. There is one in the consulate. Unlike other US diplomatic posts one cannot cash check/have currency exchanged at the consulate. - Apr 2023
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Haven't had any issues the few times I've used mine in TJ, but most people use cash. People use the ATM in the consulate for pesos and ATMs in the U.S. for dollars. - Nov 2017
You have to watch for fake card scanners. We used the ATM at the consulate and one at a nicer mall area. No issues. - May 2015
Generally safe and well known banks and establishments. Never use one at a gas station. Some dispense both pesos and US$. - Mar 2015
Don't. We use strictly cash here. I haven't had a bad experience but I do not trust the system given the reputation. - Apr 2014
No issues. Give your bank notice you will be in Mexico so they don't freeze your cards. - Feb 2014
For ATMs, stick to banks and well-lit grocery stores. You get a better rate withdrawing pesos than withdrawing dollars in the US and converting it to pesos at an exchange house. - Apr 2011
Inside a well-lit store or bank only! - Mar 2011
It is not recommended to use ATMs unless in a grocery store or very public place with good lighting. The consulate does have an ATM machine that works every now and again. - Dec 2010
You can use credit cards and dollars almost everywhere without a problem. Once you find out which neighborhoods are safe, you can use the ATMs and local banks as well. - Aug 2010
I haven't heard of many problems but most people at the Consulate either use the consulate's ATM, ATMs in San Diego, or a nearby bank. - Mar 2008
