What 60 Argentine Pesos Can Actually Buy You Today
When you pull out a handful of cash in Buenos Aires or a small town in Patagonia, the first question that pops up is often: “What can I actually get for 60 Argentine pesos?” The answer isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. Prices swing with location, season, and even the day of the week, but there are plenty of everyday items that comfortably sit within that budget.
Everyday Essentials You Can Grab for 60 Pesos
Even a modest sum can cover a few basics that keep daily life running smoothly. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll typically find on the shelves of local kiosks and supermarkets:
- Toothpaste and a toothbrush – most generic brands cost around 40 ARS, leaving a little change for a small pack of floss.
- Soap bar – a standard 100 g bar is usually priced between 20 and 30 ARS.
- Pack of tissues – a 10‑sheet pack often sells for about 15 ARS.
- Basic feminine hygiene products – a single pad or tampon typically costs 10–15 ARS.
These items are widely available in corner stores, and because they’re not tied to brand premiums, you can usually stay under the 60‑peso mark without hunting for discounts.
Food and Drink Options Within Reach
Food is where the magic of Argentine culture really shows, and even a tight budget can treat you to a taste of local flavor. Below are some popular choices that usually fit inside the 60‑peso envelope.
- Empanada – a single baked or fried empanada from a street vendor costs roughly 30‑45 ARS, depending on the filling.
- Mate tea – buying a small bag of yerba mate (enough for a few servings) can be done for about 50 ARS.
- Fast‑food combo – a basic hamburger, fries, and a soda at a national chain often totals around 55 ARS.
- Pizza slice – a piece of classic Argentine pizza, especially the “fugazza” style, is typically priced between 30 and 50 ARS.
- Ice cream cone – a single scoop from a local heladería usually runs 20‑35 ARS.
If you’re in a more tourist‑heavy area, expect the prices to creep upward, but even then, a modest snack is rarely out of reach.
Transportation and Small Services
Getting around and taking care of minor errands can also be covered by 60 pesos, though the exact cost depends on the city’s size.
- City bus ticket – most urban bus fares sit between 18 and 30 ARS per ride.
- Subway (Subte) ride – a single trip in Buenos Aires costs roughly 30 ARS.
- Taxi short hop – a brief, 2‑kilometre ride during off‑peak hours may be negotiated for about 55 ARS.
- Phone prepaid credit – a small top‑up of 60 ARS adds a few megabytes of data and a handful of minutes.
- Printing a page – many internet cafés charge 5 ARS per black‑and‑white page, so you could print a dozen pages comfortably.
These options give you enough flexibility to move between neighborhoods or keep your phone alive without breaking the bank.
Tips for Stretching Your Money Further
While 60 Argentine pesos can already cover several basics, a few savvy habits can make it stretch even farther. Look for “combo” deals in fast‑food chains; they often bundle a sandwich, drink, and fry for a small discount. In markets, buying items by weight rather than pre‑packaged can shave off a few pesos. Finally, keep an eye out for “día del descuento” promotions—certain days of the month when stores lower prices on staple goods.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I buy with 60 Argentine pesos in a big city?
In metropolitan areas like Buenos Aires, you can typically afford a modest meal (such as a empanada and a drink), a short bus or subway ride, and a few personal care items.
Is 60 pesos enough for a coffee?
A standard café latte at a mid‑range coffee shop usually costs around 80 ARS, so 60 pesos might only cover a simple espresso or a small café con leche at a local kiosk.
Can I use 60 pesos for a souvenir?
Yes—handcrafted keychains, small magnets, or a local postcard often fall well within that price range, especially when bought directly from artisans.
