Cash or charge?
When you are asked “cash or charge?” then you have the choice between cash or credit card payment. There is no need to have much cash with you (risk of loss or theft); you can almost always make a payment with a credit card.
Credit card and Bankpas
In the U.S. It is very common to use ‘plastic money’ instead of real money. In many cases a credit card is even required, e.g. hiring a car, motorcycle, RV or to book a hotel. Sometimes you are asked for identification when making a credit card payment. When you are asked “Debit or credit?” this means payment by bank pas (debit card) or credit card.
There are ATM’s (Automated Teller Machine) in the U.S. Here you can use your credit card or foreign bankcard to withdraw money, if the card is equipped with the Cirrus and Maestro logos. Note that the fee for a credit card withdraws is higher than that of a bankcard.
Gratuity
In the United States and Canada it is customary to pay gratuities in addition to the tour fees. Some tour operators require a specific gratuity while others have a suggested amount. It varies with each tour company and will be provided upon request.