Ways to Top Up Octopus Card and Exchange Cash in Hong Kong
Compared to mainland China or Taiwan, visiting Hong Kong requires carrying more cash since most local establishments accept only cash, and loading funds onto the Octopus card also requires cash.
1. Octopus Card: How to Top Up
Physical Octopus Card: Physical cards can only be loaded with cash at convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and Family Mart, which are extremely common throughout Hong Kong[1]. You can also top up or purchase train tickets directly at ticket machines in MTR stations[2].
Digital Octopus App: You can download the soft card version to your phone and top up using Visa or Apple Pay[4]. However, some users have experienced technical issues with the app after successful top-ups.
Purchase Options: You can purchase an Octopus card at the airport for 150 HKD with 50 HKD as a deposit[1]. Alternatively, you can pre-order through Klook and pick up at counter A13 at the airport with a QR code, and the card comes pre-loaded with 50 HKD[3].
Recommended Amount: For a week-long stay, topping up 200 HKD is sufficient for transportation, with funds often remaining on the card at departure[3].
2. Cash Exchange
Exchange Counters: There are many money exchange counters throughout Hong Kong, particularly in areas like Chung King Mansion. Most readily accept major foreign currencies like USD[3].
Alternative: Alipay: If you have Alipay linked to a Visa card or Vietnamese bank account, some exchange counters accept Alipay conversions at rates around 1 CNY to 1 HKD[3]. However, availability varies—some counters only serve Hong Kong residents, not tourists. It is worth checking with multiple counters.
Recommended Amount: One traveler exchanged approximately 100 USD for an entire trip covering two people, supplementing transportation and dining costs[4].
3. Important Tips
- Most restaurants accept cash or Octopus, but some only take cash, so carrying sufficient cash is essential[3]
- The Octopus card is essential for MTR transportation and works on most buses, including Citybus and NWFB[5]
- Many local shops and restaurants only accept cash, not cards[2]
- Exchange rates at money changers (particularly via Alipay) may be slightly higher than credit card withdrawal fees
- If possible, carry backup payment methods such as a Visa card for emergency purchases at larger establishments
