American Samoa
Travel tips for American Samoa: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.
Cash and cards
Cash is essential. Recent 2025 and 2026 traveler reports indicate cash is required for almost all daily expenses, including food, gas, and village beach access fees. Credit cards are generally only accepted at major hotels, car rentals, and a few large stores.
Try the food
- Palusami: Young taro leaves are wrapped around rich coconut cream and baked in an earth oven until tender and savory.
- Oka (Oka i'a): Fresh raw fish is marinated in citrus juice and served in a refreshing bath of coconut milk with diced onions and cucumbers.
- Panipopo: Soft, fluffy yeast rolls are baked in a pool of sweet coconut syrup until they become sticky and decadent.
Essentials
- Voltage
- 120V, 60Hz
- Driving
- Right side
- SIM tip
- Pick up a local Bluesky SIM card at the Pago Pago airport or their main office in Nu'uuli for the most reliable island coverage.
Etiquette
When visiting villages, dress modestly and be respectful of the evening prayer curfew (sa) by staying off the roads and keeping noise down when the village bell rings.