Avoid them. ATMs in Argentina have high fees, low withdrawal limits, and often charge at the terrible official exchange rate.

Will my old, ripped dollar bills be accepted?

No. In Argentina, 'crispy' is the rule. If a bill has a tiny tear or is written on, it will be rejected or exchanged at a massive discount.

Why is the price changing every week?

Due to high inflation, restaurants often print new menus weekly or post prices on chalkboards. Don't be surprised if your morning coffee costs 10% more than it did the day you arrived.

How to Navigate Argentina's Inflation and Currency Chaos

To stretch your budget, bring crispy, high-denomination US dollar bills to exchange via the 'dólar blue' (unofficial) market or use a foreign credit card that benefits from the MEP rate. Avoid using standard ATMs or bank exchanges, as they will charge you at the disadvantageous official government rate.

Bring clean, high-denomination USD. Bring only crisp, unmarked, and new-series $100 bills. Exchange them at 'cuevas' (unofficial exchange houses) or via trusted local contacts to get the 'dólar blue' rate, which is significantly higher than the official rate.
Use credit cards for the MEP rate. If you prefer not to carry cash, use a Visa or Mastercard. Argentina now applies the 'MEP rate' (a market-driven tourist rate) to foreign credit card transactions, which is close to the blue rate and safer than carrying stacks of cash.
Use Western Union for cash. If you need to move money from your bank account to cash, Western Union is the gold standard. The exchange rate is usually very competitive, and you can pick up the cash at various locations throughout major cities.
Pay for everything in cash where possible. Many restaurants and small shops offer a 10-15% discount if you pay in cash (efectivo). Always ask, '¿Hay descuento por pago en efectivo?' before you order or settle the bill.

Should I use an ATM?: Avoid them. ATMs in Argentina have high fees, low withdrawal limits, and often charge at the terrible official exchange rate.
Will my old, ripped dollar bills be accepted?: No. In Argentina, 'crispy' is the rule. If a bill has a tiny tear or is written on, it will be rejected or exchanged at a massive discount.
Why is the price changing every week?: Due to high inflation, restaurants often print new menus weekly or post prices on chalkboards. Don't be surprised if your morning coffee costs 10% more than it did the day you arrived.