Currency

The Russian ruble, the Lithuanian lita, the Latvian lat and the euro (in Estonia) are the currencies you’ll be using on this trip. Better rates of exchange are usually available in your destination countries, although it is worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We strongly suggest bringing a combination of cash, ATM/debit cards and credit cards with you to make purchases. We suggest informing your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so they don’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.

At this time, it is extremely difficult to exchange U.S. traveler’s checks in Russia. We suggest that you bring U.S. currency in small denominations to spend during your stay there. U.S. currency is most likely to be accepted for exchange if it is brand-new and clean. Credit cards are not widely accepted in Russia.