US/Canada to Samoa 40–80% OFF
Cheap flights discovered by AI^✨

Samoa recently reinforced surveillance for dengue fever following regional outbreaks in the Pacific throughout late 2024 and 2025. While no vaccination certificates are required for entry from North America, health officers at the airport may screen passengers showing fever symptoms. Pack plenty of DEET-based insect repellent, as mosquito activity is highest during this current wet season (November to April).

The US Dollar remains strong against the Samoan Tala (WST) as of December 2025. You will get approximately 2.70 to 2.80 Tala for every $1 USD, giving American travelers excellent purchasing power. A substantial meal in a local cafe currently costs around 25-30 Tala (roughly $10 USD), making dining out very affordable. Most resorts peg their prices closer to international standards, so the exchange rate benefit is most noticeable in local markets and village stays.

Ferry services are operating normally, but the schedule is heavily booked for the holiday period. The Lady Samoa III and newer vessels are prioritizing vehicles with advance bookings. If you plan to take a rental car across to Savai’i in the next few weeks, you must book your ticket at the Mulifanua Wharf office at least 3-5 days in advance. Walk-on passengers can usually still buy tickets on the day of travel, but arrive 90 minutes early to ensure a spot.

Samoan culture is conservative, especially in villages. Swimwear is acceptable at resorts and tourist beaches, but you should cover up with a lavalava (sarong) or t-shirt when walking through villages or visiting town. Women should avoid revealing clothing, and men should wear a shirt when not swimming. If you attend a church service, which is a highlight for many visitors, dress formally—shoulders covered and skirts or lavalavas below the knee.

Yes, Samoa uses Type I plugs, the same angled two-pin or three-pin outlets found in Australia and New Zealand. The voltage is 230V, which is double the standard 120V used in the US and Canada. Check your electronics—most phone and laptop chargers are “dual voltage” (110-240V) and only need a plug adapter. If you have appliances like hair dryers that are 110V only, leave them at home or you will fry them instantly.

Tipping is not a traditional custom in Samoa and is not expected by locals. However, it is appreciated for exceptional service in tourist-focused restaurants or by tour guides. If you want to leave a gratuity, a small amount of 5-10 Tala is considered generous. In traditional contexts, a small gift or donation (meaalofa) is more culturally appropriate than a cash tip, but for standard tourism interactions, a simple heartfelt “fa’afetai” (thank you) is sufficient.

Yes, but you will need a temporary Samoan driver’s license. Most rental agencies can issue this for a fee of about 20 Tala ($7 USD) upon presenting your valid US or Canadian license. Note that Samoa drives on the left side of the road, and speed limits are low (25mph in towns, 35mph elsewhere). Watch out for pigs, dogs, and pedestrians on the road, especially at night when street lighting is minimal.

Samoa has strict biosecurity laws to protect its agriculture. You cannot bring in fresh fruits, vegetables, seeds, honey, or meat products. If you are bringing hiking boots or camping gear, ensure they are scr\\ubbed clean of all soil and dirt before packing. Undeclared prohibited items can lead to confiscation and an on-the-spot fine of 400 Tala (approx $150 USD). Drone usage is permitted but requires declaring the device at customs upon entry.

If you have at least a week, absolutely visit Savai’i. It is the “real Samoa”—slower, more traditional, and home to spectacular volcanic landscapes like the Alofaaga Blowholes. Upolu has the waterfalls, the airport, and the restaurants, but Savai’i offers empty beaches and a glimpse into the Fa’a Samoa (Samoan way) that is harder to find near the capital. The ferry ride takes only 60-90 minutes, making a 2-3 night side trip very feasible.