Is cash still widely used?
Rarely. Canada has embraced contactless (Interac Flash) payments enthusiastically. Cards are accepted virtually everywhere — including remote gas stations on the Trans-Canada Highway and small-town diners. Cash is becoming increasingly uncommon.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are widely available. RBC, TD, and Scotiabank machines are the most common for foreign cards.
- Fees are typically $3-5 CAD per withdrawal for foreign cards plus home bank fees
- Good availability even in smaller towns and national park gateway communities
- Some very remote northern areas may have limited ATM access
Card acceptance
Excellent. Visa and Mastercard are accepted universally. Interac is the dominant local debit system. Contactless tap payments are standard and widely preferred.
Tips for travelers
- Tipping 15-20% is expected in restaurants — similar to the USA
- GST/HST tax is added at the register and varies by province
- Cash is rarely needed except for very remote areas
- Farmers markets and craft fairs often have a mix of cash and card vendors