Don’t forget to exchange dollars (USD) before your trip to the USA
If you're planning a trip to the United States, we highly recommend checking the general price ranges in the regions you intend to visit. This will help you set a realistic budget before converting your Swedish kronor (SEK) into US dollars. To make the most of your time abroad, it’s smart to plan ahead—especially when it comes to money matters.
While credit and debit cards are essential, having some cash on hand is equally important. For example, if you come across a great food truck, having a few dollars in your pocket can make all the difference. You wouldn’t want to miss out just because you forgot to exchange your SEK to USD in advance.
Budgeting tips for your trip
Tipping is customary in the U.S., particularly in restaurants. Waitstaff typically expect a tip of at least 15%, and for excellent service, tips can go as high as 20%. Having some cash on hand can make tipping easier, so a small currency exchange beforehand is a good idea.
Be sure to plan your daily travel budget to include expenses like meals, transportation, phone and internet access, and laundry services. A recommended budget ranges from $100 to $250 per day. The average tourist in New York spends around $144 daily, and an overnight stay typically costs about $125. Meals average around $37 per person per day.
$276
Average overnight stay in the U.S.
$37
Average daily food budget per person
Good to know
Sample prices in the USA
$2.75
Public transport ticket in New York
$3
Average cost of a coffee
$29–$699
Price range for a Broadway show
$5–$10
Nathan’s Hot Dog
$6.25
Taxi ride from Grand Central to Times Square
$24
Entry ticket to the MoMA Museum
Travel ideas for your U.S. adventure
A trip to the United States can easily become one of your most unforgettable experiences. There truly is something for everyone—from breathtaking natural wonders to buzzing cities.
Your American dream journey could take you to one (or many) of these iconic destinations:
The Grand Canyon, New York City, Monument Valley, Route 66, Yellowstone, Golden Gate Bridge, the Everglades, U.S. Capitol, Antelope Canyon, French Quarter in New Orleans, Yosemite National Park, Arches National Park, Pacific Coast Highway, Lake Tahoe, The Wave, Venice Beach, The Keys, Zion National Park, Universal Studios Hollywood.
When do you need cash in the United States?
Although card payments are widely accepted in the United States, it is still advisable to carry USD in certain situations.
This is particularly true for tips, which you will be expected to give during your stay. Tipping is a significant part of American culture, and it is very important to pay it – for example to waiters, bartenders, concierges, doormen, porters, tour guides or hairdressers.
Some small businesses, such as food trucks, small independent shops or farmers’ markets, will also often require cash payments.
Some car parks will also require payment in cash.
Finally, if you plan to visit flea markets, local fairs or antique markets, make sure to bring USD in cash, or you may find yourself unable to buy anything.
A few facts about the U.S. dollar
Den amerikanska dollarns valörer
Banknotes: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100
Coins: 1 cent, 5 cents, 10 cents, 25 cents, 50 cents, and $1
The U.S. dollar is one of the most widely recognized and stable currencies globally, making it easy to convert your SEK into USD.
Interestingly, the U.S. dollar is also used in countries outside the U.S., such as Zimbabwe, Ecuador, El Salvador, East Timor, the Marshall Islands, Palau, and Micronesia.
The dollar is often nicknamed "bucks." This term dates back to when deer hides were used for trading by hunters. "Buck" refers to a male deer, and the term stuck even after paper currency was introduced. Fun fact: U.S. banknotes aren't made of regular paper—they’re composed of 75% cotton and 25% linen.
Why exchange U.S. dollars with ChangeGroup?
ChangeGroup is a global leader in currency exchange with over 30 years of experience and full coverage across the Swedish market. Order your USD online to benefit from the best exchange rate in Scandinavia and conveniently pick up your currency at one of our branches in Sweden.
We recommend placing your USD order through our website, where you’ll enjoy the most competitive rates, an easy ordering process, and peace of mind knowing you’ve secured your travel money. You can also collect your order for free from any of our locations in Sweden.
Traveling soon?
Here's how to easily exchange your money:
1. Choose your currency
Determine the amount you need to enjoy your trip abroad.
2. Place an order online
Create an account and finalise your order online to enjoy our best pricing.
3. Pay at the branch
Pick up your currency at one of our branches and pay by cash or bank card.
FAQ about exchanging SEK to USD
It is almost impossible to predict fluctuations in the SEK/USD exchange rate. At ChangeGroup, we update our rates daily to reflect the market as accurately as possible and to offer you the most competitive prices. By planning your exchange from SEK to USD in advance, you can monitor market trends, choose the most favourable moment, and obtain your USD at the best rate.
We offer free collection of your USD at the exchange office of your choice. Check the list of our branches to find the one closest to you.
By choosing to reserve your USD online, you benefit from our best exchange rates. We also remove all fees and commissions from your transaction! You therefore know exactly how many USD you will receive after the exchange.
Do you have a question about our services?
Find the answers to your questions in our FAQs
- How do I order currency via Travel Money Online?
- How does the BuyBack service work
- How much will I be charged when I order travel currency online?
- How much can I order online?
- How do I know which exchange rate is used?
- Will I get the same exchange rate by ordering via your website as from your shops?
- I have placed an order but I did not receive a confirmation e-mail, what should I do?


