The US dollar is the strongest for travelers now

Travel can be surprisingly affordable these days – you’ll find cheaper rooms, meals, and transportation in many places. The US dollar is strong against many foreign currencies at the moment. A strong dollar means that every US dollar buys more local money, so your budget spends more on vacation.

The strength of a currency is like a seesaw. Therefore, when one country’s money rises, another country’s money goes down. The US dollar has been on the winning side of this swing against many countries, especially in places where economic problems have made their domestic money worth less compared to the US.

Countries where your dollar goes the furthest

Argentina

1 dollar ≈ 1,350 pesos (as of October 14, 2025)

One US dollar is equal to a huge pile of pesos. Budget hotels or hostels in Buenos Aires can cost less than $20 per night, and a casual meal or coffee often costs just a few US dollars.

turkey

1 dollar ≈ 42 lira (as of October 14, 2025)

A mid-range hotel in Turkey may cost between $30-$60 per night, kebabs or street meals often cost $2-5, and taxi/metro rides are only a few dollars each.

However, the inflation rate in Türkiye is very high, so expect higher prices and some volatility.

South Africa

1 dollar ≈ 17 rand (as of 14 October 2025)

In South Africa, average hotel rates can range between $50 and $80 per night, and budget-friendly meals can cost between $5 and $10. The cost of coffee, beer and transit is a fraction of American levels.

South Africa’s inflation rate is low (about 3.3% as of August 2025), so prices are stable. One measure: A McDonald’s Big Mac in South Africa costs only about $2.85, less than half the price of a Big Mac in Argentina.

Japan

1 dollar ≈ 151 yen (as of October 14, 2025)

Although prices vary, Hotels.com data shows that three-star hotel rooms in Osaka cost just $152 per night, and $190 per night in Kyoto or Tokyo (compared to more than $300 per night in New York). Meals are also reasonable: a sushi or ramen set often costs less than $10 to $15.

Inflation is around 3% (slightly above the Bank of Japan’s target of 2%), so prices are not rising. Overall, Japan offers a real bargain: accommodation and dining costs can be up to 50% less than in comparable American cities.

South Korea

1 dollar ≈ 1,425 won (as of October 14, 2025)

Seoul has many affordable accommodation options (such as $80-$150 per night for three-star hotels), and street or sidewalk meals are often priced at $3-$5.

Inflation is low (about 1.7% in August and 2.1% in September), so daily costs are stable.

How to make the most of a strong dollar when traveling

• Determine the time of your exchanges: Watch prices using the mobile app or browser extension, and “strike when the dollar is strongest.” Secure large payouts as soon as the price is right. If a hotel offers free cancellation and the rate is great today, book it now. Many travelers also set alerts on rising or falling prices so they can transfer part of the cash when the dollar reaches its peak.
• Trade smart and pay right: Skip the bad airport kiosk prices. Use reputable banks or online platforms to exchange cash, preferably at local branches in your destination or through a fee-free ATM card. Carry some local currency for immediate needs, but avoid transferring your entire budget at once – currency markets may rebound. At checkout, always choose to pay in local currency. Don’t let any merchant charge you USD fees through dynamic conversion (you’ll pay hidden profit).
• Use free payment methods: A credit or debit card that has no foreign transaction fees will save money on every purchase. Many cards also offer favorable exchange rates. Use local ATMs to get cash for small expenses, and use your travel card for hotels, restaurants and larger purchases.
• Budget for fluctuations: Even a strong dollar can fluctuate by a few percentage points in days. Don’t bet everything on one peak. Experts suggest transferring money in tranches or keeping a small reserve of US dollars to use if your local currency suddenly weakens. In practice, setting aside about 10-20% of your travel funds as a buffer can help in case prices move after the exchange.