The currency of Chile is the Chilean Peso (CH$). Bank notes are available in denominations of CH$20,000, 10,000, 5,000, 2,000, and 1,000. Coins are available in denominations of CH$500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1 (although the smaller coins are less common).
 
A 10% tip is customary in all restaurants and bars. The tip is usually not included in the bill but if you want to check, ask, ‘la propina esta includio?’ Carry small change to leave for tips. Carry notes in small denominations especially when taking a taxi, as it’s not uncommon for taxi drivers to be without change.
 
Chile is one of the most expensive countries in Latin America, but still cheaper than Europe, North America and Australia. Backpackers can live comfortably on $30 USD per day. This should cover food and drink in budget restaurants, hostel accommodation, entry into a tourist attraction and public transport. If you want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat and drink in decent restaurants and take the occasional taxi, budget for around $110 USD per day.
 
 
Sample Costs
Metro ticket (one way): CH$400
Bottled water: CH$390
Bar of soap: CH$450
Toothpaste: CH$500
Bottle of shampoo: CH$1900
Bottle of wine: from CH$1800
Soft drink or coffee in a café/restaurant: CH$1000
Draft beer in a bar: CH$1500
Glass of wine in a bar: CH$1200
Lunch in a budget restaurant: CH$3000
Men’s haircut: CH$7000
Woman’s haircut: CH$12,000