Canadian Dollar Exchange Rate 2024
CURRENT EXCHANGE RATE (2024):
• 1 CAD = ~$0.74 USD
• 1 USD = ~$1.35 CAD
• Rate fluctuates daily
• Check current rates before travel
• Best sources: Bank of Canada, XE.com, Google Finance
Currency Exchange Options
BANKS (Best Rates)
• TD Canada Trust, RBC, Scotiabank, BMO
• Locations: Throughout Halifax and major towns
• Hours: Generally 9 AM - 5 PM weekdays
• Requirements: Government ID
• Fees: $5-10 service fee typical
AIRPORT EXCHANGE
• Halifax Stanfield International Airport
• Location: International Arrivals area
• Hours: Extended hours during flight arrivals
• Rate: Typically 2-3% less favorable than banks
• Convenience: Good for small amounts
ATMs (Most Convenient)
• Available throughout Nova Scotia
• Networks: Plus, Cirrus, Interac
• Fees: $2-5 CAD per transaction
• Rate: Usually close to official bank rate
• Tip: Notify your bank before travel
Payment Methods Accepted
CREDIT CARDS: Visa, Mastercard widely accepted
AMERICAN EXPRESS: Accepted at most hotels and restaurants
DEBIT CARDS: International debit cards work at most ATMs
CONTACTLESS: Tap payments up to $250 CAD
CASH: Still preferred at small businesses, farmers markets
Money-Saving Tips
BUDGET PLANNING:
• $1 USD = ~$1.35 CAD (use 1.35 multiplier)
• $100 USD meal = ~$135 CAD
• $200 USD hotel = ~$270 CAD
• Gas prices in CAD per liter (not gallon)
AVOID:
• Currency exchange at hotels (poor rates)
• Tourist area exchange booths
• Using USD cash (you'll get poor change rate)
• Multiple small ATM withdrawals (fees add up)
Historical Exchange Rates
2024: $0.72-0.76 USD per CAD
2023: $0.73-0.78 USD per CAD
2022: $0.75-0.82 USD per CAD
2021: $0.78-0.83 USD per CAD
2020: $0.69-0.78 USD per CAD (COVID volatility)
Tax Information
HST (HARMONIZED SALES TAX): 15%
• Applied to most goods and services
• Included in posted prices at some places
• Added at checkout at others
• Non-residents can claim HST rebate on accommodations
Tipping Guide
RESTAURANTS: 15-20% of pre-tax bill
TAXIS: 10-15%
HOTELS: $2-5 CAD per night for housekeeping
TOUR GUIDES: 10-15% for good service