Jamaican currency exchange - What to expect!

Jamaican currency exchange can be confusing. Knowing what to expect from currency exchange in Jamaica will make your first few days so much more enjoyable and relaxing.

The value of Jamaican currency changes frequently. At the time of this writing, it is 85 JA (Jamaican Dollars) to 1 USD (U.S. Dollar).

Try this currency converter: You can select the currency of any country and convert to/from Jamaican currency!

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Depending on what day of the week you arrive in Jamaica, you might have limited options for Jamaican currency exchange.

TIP: Change some money into local currency before you leave the airport. This way you won't get confused and pay too much or too little. Be sure to ask for some $100 Jamaican bills for tipping. $100JA is equal to about $1.15US. A $1US is equal to about $88JA.

The best exchange rate will be at the Cambios (like the one at the airport). The banks will have the second best rate, but have limited hours and only be open during the week.

The hotels should be your last resort, but if you are caught short on weekends or evenings, your options will be limited.

Try to plan ahead so you have enough Jamaican currency on hand day to day. One option is to use your credit card where it is accepted for purchases (Jamaican dollars will be converted into your local currency for billing on your card).

Or, you can use your debit card at local bank machines. There might be a fee on the Jamaican end plus one charged by your home bank. Take money for the full day or two rather than going frequently for small amounts.

Understand, that when you pay for something in US Dollars (or your local currency) you will always receive your change in Jamaican Dollars (JA). It is a good idea, therefore, to change enough money, at the Cambio, for a few days at a time.

TIP: Save your receipts in order to exchange any left over Jamaican currency back into your local currency at the airport, prior to departure.

The exchange booth is just beyond the security check-in and near the Duty Free shops in the airport.

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