Money in the USA: Contactless Cards, Hotel Incidental Holds, Resort Fees & ATMs

Last reviewed: October 25, 2026 · Prices in US Dollars ($ USD) are approximate and for orientation only.

Contactless Cards & the Gas-Pump 'ZIP Code' Workaround

Apple Pay, Google Pay, and contactless Visa/Mastercard/Amex are accepted at 99% of U.S. hotels, restaurants, national park gates, and subways. However, automated highway gas pumps often ask for a 5-digit U.S. billing 'ZIP Code' when you insert a foreign credit card. Workaround: either tap Apple Pay / Google Pay on the contactless reader at the pump (which skips the ZIP prompt), or walk inside the station cashier booth and say 'Can I put $40 on Pump #4, please?'

Hotel Incidental Holds ($50–$150/Night) & Mandatory Resort / Destination Fees

At check-in, nearly every U.S. hotel requires a physical credit or debit card to place a temporary 'incidental hold' of $50 to $150 per night (released 3–7 business days after check-out; use a credit card rather than a debit card so your cash isn't tied up). Additionally, hotels in Las Vegas, New York City, Miami Beach, Hawaii, and San Francisco often charge a mandatory daily 'Resort Fee' or 'Destination Fee' of $30 to $55 + tax per night on top of the room rate—always check the total price including fees before booking.

Key Takeaways & US Travel Tips

• Verify current entry rules on official U.S. government portals (esta.cbp.dhs.gov, nps.gov, recreation.gov).
• Use our interactive US Sales Tax & Tipping Calculator ($), National Parks Pass Calculator ($80), and Amtrak Rail Calculator.
• Save offline maps and our printable American English & Dietary Allergy Show-Cards before departure.