Avoiding currency scams when travelling to Fiji
Planning a trip to Fiji? While the islands are famous for their hospitality, currency scams can be a hidden trap for tourists. Discover how to land in Nadi with confidence and keep your holiday budget safe.
Fiji is a dream destination for many Australians, offering a unique blend of vibrant culture, world-class diving, and that famous, soul-warming hospitality. When you land in Nadi and hear your first "bula!", it’s easy to let your guard down and slip into a state of total relaxation. However, this relaxed state of mind is exactly what opportunistic street-side money changers count on. While Fiji is a welcoming paradise, the informal currency market can be a minefield for the unwary traveler.
Many Aussies find themselves needing local Fiji dollars (FJD) for a taxi, a local market snack, or a village tour shortly after landing, only to realize that the "convenient" exchange booth they just used wasn't as helpful as it seemed.
The danger isn't always obvious; it often starts with a friendly smile and a rate that looks slightly better than what the official banks offer. These unregulated spots are where subtle scams thrive—from rigged calculators that miscount the conversion to the "slow count" where notes mysteriously disappear during the transaction.
This is a common point of friction for tourists who haven't planned their cash needs, leading to immediate stress and a loss of holiday funds. Prepare for your trip by reserving your travel money online in advance!. This simple step is your strongest shield against being short-changed or, even worse, being handed counterfeit notes that can lead to serious legal trouble with local authorities.
The risk of unregulated exchange in tourist hubs
The agitation of losing $20 or $50 to a clever money changer might not break your holiday budget, but it certainly sours the experience. In tourist hubs like Denarau, Sigatoka, or Suva, some independent kiosks use distraction techniques to confuse travelers. They might count the money in front of you but do it in a way that makes it difficult to track the total, or they might provide the change in very small denominations to make it harder for you to verify the amount on the spot.
Beyond the missing cash, there is the growing issue of counterfeit currency. If you inadvertently try to pay a reputable hotel or a tour operator with a fake note obtained from a backstreet booth, you are the one who faces the consequences. You lose the value of the money and gain a massive amount of stress. Why risk your peace of mind when you can secure your funds through a provider trusted by Prosegur with 30+ years of experience? We combine Prosegur’s world-leading secure cash logistics with ChangeGroup’s three decades of expertise in helping international tourists navigate their travel money safely.
Security check | Prosegur Change (Reserve & Collect) | Street / Informal kiosks |
Authenticity | Bank-grade verification on every note | High risk of counterfeit notes |
Rates | Locked-in online rates | Hidden fees & "tourist" margins |
Commission | 0% commission on online orders | Often high or built into the rate |
Trust | 30+ years of global expertise | Unregulated and unaccountable |
If it’s your first time heading to Fiji or even if you’ve been before it’s natural to have a few questions about money, currency, and how to pay for things on the islands.
Below, we answer some of the most frequent doubts Aussie travelers have before flying to this tropical paradise.
Common questions when travelling to Fiji
While some major resorts might let you pay in AUD, they will almost always apply a conversion rate that is heavily skewed in their favor. For local markets, transport, and village visits, FJD is essential. Landing with local cash in hand is the best way to avoid being stuck in a situation where you are forced to use an unreliable exchange service.
Real FJD notes have distinct security features, such as a clear window thread and a watermark of a ginger flower when held to the light. If the paper feels too smooth, the colors look dull, or the ink looks smudged, be wary. The best way to ensure authenticity is to get your money from a reputable source before you fly.
Yes. You can reserve your currency online through Prosegur Change and collect it at our branches in major Australian airports. This ensures you have your travel money sorted before you even board the plane, allowing you to enjoy the Fiji spirit the moment you land.
Be aware of your surroundings in crowded markets or transport hubs, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash at once. While many resorts and tourist areas accept cards, smaller vendors and local services often prefer cash so it's important to carry Fijian dollars, ideally in smaller denominations.
Secure your Fiji dollars before you fly
Don’t let a currency scam be the story you tell about your trip to paradise. Enjoy significant savings with excellent rates and 0% commission on a wide range of currencies, including FJD. By choosing a service backed by 30 years of global expertise, you’re not just buying currency; you’re buying the freedom to enjoy your holiday without looking over your shoulder. Reserve your Fiji dollars online today and start your journey with total confidence.
Being familiar with the local currency helps you avoid confusion, spot unusual exchange rates, and feel more confident when handling cash in Fiji.
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