Is it safe to exchange money on the blue market?

Yes, but use common sense. Stick to established Western Union locations or well-known exchange houses in busy areas like Florida Street. Avoid street money changers who approach you directly.

Should I bring euros or USD?

USD is strongly preferred. The blue market rate for euros fluctuates more and fewer places accept them. Stick with US dollars in $100 denominations.

Can I use credit cards to avoid the inflation issue?

Credit cards use the terrible official exchange rate, making everything 40-100% more expensive. Use cards only for emergencies or when you've run out of blue market pesos.

How much cash should I bring for a two-week trip?

For a $70/day budget over 14 days, bring about $700 USD in cash (70% of your $1000 budget). Keep the remaining $300 as backup on cards.

How to Budget for Travel in Argentina During High Inflation

Plan for rapid price changes by budgeting 20-30% more than current quotes, bringing USD cash to exchange on the blue market, and booking accommodations that quote prices in USD. Track the blue dollar rate daily and adjust your daily budget accordingly.

Research current blue dollar rates before departure. Check dolarblue.net or ambito.com daily for the unofficial exchange rate. This rate can be 40-100% better than the official rate. Screenshot the rate before you travel as your baseline.
Bring USD cash in pristine condition. Withdraw new $100 bills from your bank before departure. Argentine money changers reject damaged, torn, or marked bills. Plan to bring 70% of your budget in cash to exchange on the blue market.
Book accommodations that quote USD prices. Look for hotels and hostels on Booking.com that list prices in USD rather than pesos. These properties typically honor their quoted rates even as inflation spikes.
Exchange money at Western Union or cuevas. Use Western Union locations for official blue dollar rates, or find cuevas (unofficial exchange houses) in Florida Street or Microcentro. Count your money carefully and only exchange what you need for 2-3 days.
Pay for big expenses in USD when possible. Many tour operators, upscale restaurants, and hotels accept USD cash at favorable rates. Ask before converting everything to pesos.
Track your spending in USD equivalent. Convert peso prices back to USD using the blue rate you received to understand your true daily spend. This helps you adjust if the rate moves significantly.

Is it safe to exchange money on the blue market?: Yes, but use common sense. Stick to established Western Union locations or well-known exchange houses in busy areas like Florida Street. Avoid street money changers who approach you directly.
Should I bring euros or USD?: USD is strongly preferred. The blue market rate for euros fluctuates more and fewer places accept them. Stick with US dollars in $100 denominations.
Can I use credit cards to avoid the inflation issue?: Credit cards use the terrible official exchange rate, making everything 40-100% more expensive. Use cards only for emergencies or when you've run out of blue market pesos.
How much cash should I bring for a two-week trip?: For a $70/day budget over 14 days, bring about $700 USD in cash (70% of your $1000 budget). Keep the remaining $300 as backup on cards.