Yes. The use of credit and debit cards is widespread in Chile. Look for the ‘Red Compra’ sign near a shop’s entrance or counter. The Red Compra network supports payment by cards issued by Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Club.

Unlike chip and pin card payments in the UK, card payments in Chile are done by swiping the card’s magnetic strip through a card reader. Some cards, such as Revolut cards, won’t support swipe payments unless this setting is activated.

After making a card payment in Chile, the vendor will ask you to sign the receipt. You’ll also be asked to write your passport number on the receipt. Therefore make sure to have your passport by hand if you plan to make card payments in Chile.

Some British banks may charge for international card payments. In addition your bank’s CLP to GBP exchange rate may not be so good. This is how banks make money. Before using your bank card for payments in Brazil it’s certainly a good idea to contact your bank. This will avoid your card becoming blocked due to international transactions that your bank may find suspicious.

It’s recommended to take cash with you when you travel to Chile, especially if you plan to travel around in Chile. Although credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Chile’s urban areas, some smaller vendors may not be able to accept international cards and may ask for payment in cash. Cash is the only accepted payment method if you buy items at a traditional crafts exhibit or at local fairs.

British cards don’t always support swiping payments, which are the norm in Chile. Therefore it’s a good idea to carry Chilean Pesos cash on you as a fallback option.

Cash remains an important method of payment in Chile. Taxi drivers, street vendors and tour guides will often only accept cash payments. Cash, especially smaller banknotes and coins, is also useful for tipping.

A coffee in a cafe in Chile costs between $1200 and $2500 pesos, depending on the area. A three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant will set you back between $9000 and $17000 CLP.

The cost of living in Chile is on average around 25% cheaper than Britain. In more rural areas prices are generally lower.

Waiting staff in Chile depend on tips as part of their income. It’s common to give a tip of 10% of more when in a restaurant.