The 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup spans three countries, 16 cities, and countless unforgettable moments. Whether you're flying into New York, Toronto, or Mexico City, the practical side of traveling to North America can be tricky — especially when it comes to money, tipping, and transportation. This guide covers the essentials so you can focus on the beautiful game.
Currency Basics
You'll be dealing with up to three currencies depending on your World Cup itinerary. The US Dollar (USD) is used in all 11 US host cities and is the world's most widely accepted currency. The Canadian Dollar (CAD) is used in Toronto and Vancouver — US dollars are sometimes accepted at major tourist spots, but you'll get a poor exchange rate, so use CAD whenever possible. The Mexican Peso (MXN) is used in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey — US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas, but pesos will get you better prices.
Pro tip: Avoid exchanging currency at airports — the rates are terrible. Use ATMs affiliated with major banks for the best exchange rates, and notify your bank before traveling to avoid card blocks.
Payment Methods by Country
In the United States
Credit and debit cards are accepted virtually everywhere. Apple Pay and Google Pay work at most retailers. Contactless payments are the norm. You'll rarely need cash except for tips (hotel housekeeping, bellhops) and some street food vendors.
In Canada
Similar to the US — cards and contactless payments are widely accepted. Canada was actually ahead of the US in adopting tap-to-pay technology. Cash is fine but not necessary for most transactions.
In Mexico
Cards are accepted at restaurants, hotels, and larger stores in major cities. However, cash is much more important in Mexico than in the US or Canada. Street vendors, smaller restaurants, markets, and some taxis are cash-only. Always carry pesos for these situations.
Getting from the Airport to Your Stadium
Transportation varies significantly by city, and tipping expectations change with each mode of transport.
Taxis
Available at all major airports. In the US, tip 15–20% of the metered fare. In Canada, tip 15%. In Mexico, use official airport taxi stands (look for "taxi autorizado") and negotiate the fare beforehand — tipping is optional but rounding up is appreciated.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Available in all three countries. Tip 15–20% through the app. In Mexico, Uber is widely used and often considered safer than street-hail taxis for tourists.
Public Transit
The cheapest option. Major host cities have metro or subway systems — New York, Mexico City, Toronto, and Los Angeles all have extensive networks. No tipping required. Buy a day pass for unlimited rides when available.
Rental Cars
Available everywhere, but parking near stadiums will be expensive and limited. In New Jersey and Oregon, gas station attendants pump your gas — tip $1–2. In Mexico, gas station attendants always pump your gas — tip 10–20 MXN.
Eating Near the Stadium
World Cup host cities will have food options ranging from street vendors to upscale restaurants. Fast food and counter service: no tip required, though a dollar in the tip jar is nice. Sit-down restaurants: make reservations early on match days, and tip 18–20% in the US, 15–18% in Canada, 10–15% in Mexico. Street food: no tipping expected, but rounding up is welcomed — in Mexico especially, the street food is incredible and a must-try. Bars and pubs: expect huge crowds on match days, tip $1–2 per drink in the US and Canada, 10–15% in Mexico.
Hotel Tips Throughout Your Stay
Your hotel is your home base during the World Cup. Here's who to tip: Housekeeping — $2–5 USD/CAD per night, or 40–80 MXN in Mexico (leave daily). Bellhop — $1–2 per bag in the US/Canada, 20–40 MXN in Mexico. Concierge — $5–10 for restaurant reservations or ticket help, $20+ for hard-to-get reservations. Doorman — $1–2 for hailing a cab. Room service — 18–20%, but check if gratuity is already included on the bill.
Safety and Cultural Tips
In the United States: Stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas around stadiums. Keep your phone and wallet secure. Most US cities are safe for tourists in well-trafficked areas. In Canada: Generally very safe — Canadians are famously friendly and helpful. In Mexico: Stick to well-trafficked tourist areas and official transportation. Don't flash expensive electronics. Use hotel safes for valuables.
Universal advice
Download offline maps of your host city before arriving. Save your hotel address in the local language for taxi drivers. Keep a photocopy of your passport separate from the original. Stay hydrated, especially in southern US and Mexican cities where heat can be intense during June and July matches.
Essential Apps for World Cup Visitors
Gratiq — Scan your receipt and instantly calculate tips at 15%, 18%, 20%, and 25%. Perfect for figuring out tipping in a new country without doing mental math. Google Translate — Essential for Mexico and helpful in areas where English isn't widely spoken. Uber — Works in all three countries and is your go-to for safe, predictable transportation. Google Maps or Apple Maps — Navigate public transit, walking routes, and driving directions.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 World Cup is going to be an incredible experience. North America is a welcoming, exciting, and diverse continent with amazing food, passionate fans, and world-class cities. The tipping system might be unfamiliar, but with this guide and a bit of preparation, you'll navigate it like a pro.
Remember: when in doubt, tip 20% in the US, 15% in Canada, and 10–15% in Mexico. Keep some local currency in cash. And most importantly — enjoy the World Cup!