Taiwan Travel Money Guide
Everything a Malaysian traveller needs to know about the New Taiwan Dollar — how much to bring, when to exchange, and where to get the best rate in KL.
Taiwan sits between cash and cashless. Department stores, chains and city restaurants take cards, but the best part of any trip — the night markets, small eateries and temples — runs on cash and a tap-and-go EasyCard. Bring a sensible amount of NT$ and you'll glide through both worlds.
When to exchange
The New Taiwan dollar is fairly stable against the ringgit, so timing matters less here than the spread you pay. Not every KL changer stocks TWD deeply, so it's worth comparing a few before you go rather than taking the first counter you find.
Tip: Load an EasyCard early — it covers the metro, buses and almost every convenience store, so you'll carry less loose cash for day-to-day spending.
How much cash to bring
A rough daily budget for a comfortable mid-range trip:
- Food — NT$400–800/day (night-market dishes are NT$50–150 each)
- Local transport — NT$100–250/day on the metro and buses with an EasyCard
- Attractions — NT$200–500/day
Our rule of thumb
For a 6-day trip, carry around NT$6,000–10,000 in cash plus a topped-up EasyCard. At today's rate that's roughly RM850–1,450.
Where to exchange in KL
These three changers currently post the best TWD rates. Tap to see their branches and live rates:
Payment tips on the ground
- Cash for the good stuff — night markets, street snacks and small family shops are cash-only.
- EasyCard does the rest — tap it on transit and at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart and many small stores; top up at any convenience store.
- Cards work in cities — department stores, chains and bigger restaurants take them, but don't rely on cards in rural areas.
- No tipping — it isn't part of the culture; service is included.
