Hong Kong travel money tips
Heading to Hong Kong? Here's a quick rundown of how to handle money on the ground — tipping etiquette, when to use cards versus cash, the best ATMs to use, and the most common pitfalls travelers run into. The local currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD, HK$).
Tipping
Most restaurants add a 10% service charge; no extra tip needed. Round up taxi fares; HK$10–20 per bag for porters.
Cards vs cash
Cards in malls and chains, but Octopus card and cash dominate at street stalls, dai pai dongs, and minibuses.
Payment methods accepted
ATMs & cash tip
HSBC, Hang Seng, and Standard Chartered ATMs are everywhere and fee-free for most foreign cards.
Heads-up
- Get an Octopus card at the airport — it works on the MTR, buses, ferries, and 7-Eleven.
- Some tailors and 'bargain electronics' shops in Tsim Sha Tsui inflate prices for tourists; check Google reviews first.
About the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)
The Hong Kong Dollar (HKD, symbol HK$) is the official currency of Hong Kong. Knowing the live HKD rate against your home currency helps you sanity-check menu prices, taxi fares, and souvenir markups while traveling.
More travel tips
See all country tips →Tips are general guidance for travelers, not legal or financial advice. Customs vary — confirm with local sources for important plans.