From past experience and also from what I've picked up here on the boards, I know that US dollar bills must be newer issue and in good condition before they're acceptable for tips, etc. I'm having trouble getting anything in quantity that doesn't have creases, crinkles, or blemishes. I'll be needed them for OAT's Ultimate Africa (Botswana, Caprivi Strip, and Zimbabwe; South Africa, too, but I plan to use my ATM card there). Leaving September 12. Questions: Has anyone used bills that might have been folded? Should I get out my iron? Has anyone ever used 50s for the guide? It might be easier to get clean 50s rather than clean 20s. At any rate, I'm soon off again to another bank to see what they can do for me. I just got back from my credit union, and most--literally!!--of the 5s, 10s and 20s I withdrew are not in very good condition. Any suggestions?

maybe I'm being a curmudgeon, but since when does anyone question the bill they are getting as a tip? I mean, it's a tip, not payment. I can see someone in a store questioning a bill thinking it might be counterfeit, but, a tip?

Momliz, their banks won't take them, as there are special requirements for returning "damaged" bills back to the US. A damaged bill is as worthless to them as a blank piece of paper.

Basically, Bo2642, you'll want bills that are not marked or torn. For the higher denomination bills, they should be issued 2003 or later. It's okay if they have been folded or crinkled, just not torn. I usually call ahead to my bank and tell them my requirements, then give them a couple of hours to pull everything together. Then, I sit in the bank and check each bill. If I find one that's torn or marked, they exchange it out for me.

I'm with Shay Tay. They don't have to be new or newly minted (in your basement but in good condition. A fold is okay and slight show of use, but not torn, scotch taped or washed in your jeans. They should be recently new, no more than 3-4/yrs old.

As above, I've called my banker ahead of time, advising what I need - denominations, quantity - then go pick up the envelope. I do go thru the contents, and if any of past their usefulness for this purpose, I have the teller exchange them.

It's a pain, but it is what it is. There have been situations where locals simply won't take your bill/s that they feel won't be accepted by their bank.

creased/folded is fine, torn is not

I had a few different bills that were missing just a small piece or had the smallest tear, and I was politely asked if I had a different bill.

I see that you are going to many locations. Is it not possible for you to get your tip money in local currency(either before you leave or once you get to your destination)? On our trip to South Africa earlier this year, the information I received from several sources was that tips in local currency were preferred since the recipients would not then have to pay an exchange fee to get their tips converted from dollars to rand.

I was just about to ask the same thing longhorn55 asked - isn't it just easier to just change out dollars for local shillings and not worry about the condition of the bills? Are there official Travelex or other places to exchange money in the airports or hotels? I see there are even 1000 shilling notes, so that my wallet won't be busting at the seams

Steve

I took the OAT trip in 2005 and they move at a fast clip. In and out of the airport in Joburg & on to the hotel no time to hit the money changers. Dollars as tips weren't a problem the whole course of the trip. In fact I don't remember having a second in Botswana to find a place to change money.
In Zimbabwe, my understanding is that US dollars are the preferred tip due to the runaway inflation.

How about in Egypt? I plan to use local currency but take some USD. Should I follow these guidelines when bringing cash?

Even if you exchange money, you'll have to have bills in good condition.

For local currency I was planning to use the ATM. This is the best way to exchange in Europe, but does the same apply in Egypt?

I ordered Rand online from my bank ( Bank of America). The exchange rate was so-so but the ease and effieciency is great. It will be delivered to my bank within 2-3 business days. I don't have to remember to hit an ATM when I arrive after a 27 hour flight. I will split it up between my husband and I.
I will also bring US bills but will use the Rand, first.

Thanks, ShayTay, Sandi, and All for outlining what are and what are not acceptable bills. I was uncertain about folds, and you cleared that up for me. It took two credit unions and Vons Market, but I finally have what I need for the trip. As always, I appreciate the input.
Barbara

Two additional points:
- When exchanging money, make also sure you've got some (ATM etc.) receipt 'proving' how you got that cash, as most places will ask for it
- In remote areas of the listed countries (excepted Zimbabwe), people will prefer being tipped in local currency so they don't have to wait for weeks for the next opportunity to see a bank. As an example, please tip your Okavango Delta mekoro polers in Pula, not US$