Thailand Currency Guide 2026

Thai Baht (THB) · ฿

35 THB = $1 (approx.)

Cash: EssentialCards: GoodATMs: Abundant

Cash is Essential in Thailand

Many places are cash only — always carry local currency

Daily Budget Guide

🎒

Budget

$20–35 (guesthouse, street food, public transport)

🏨

Mid-Range

$50–100 (hotel, sit-down restaurants, tuk-tuks)

Luxury

$150+ (luxury hotel, fine dining, private tours)

ATM Tips for Thailand

Thai ATMs charge a flat 220 THB ($6.50) foreign transaction fee per withdrawal — withdraw maximum amounts

Kasikorn Bank (green ATMs) and Bangkok Bank are most compatible with international cards

Maximum withdrawal is typically 20,000–30,000 THB per transaction

Some ATMs default to "bank's exchange rate" — always choose your home currency to avoid dynamic currency conversion

Card Payment Tips

Cards widely accepted at 7-Eleven, major malls, hotels, and most restaurants in Bangkok

Street food, local markets (Chatuchak), tuk-tuks, and songthaew are cash only

The 220 THB ATM fee makes cash cards (Wise/Revolut) significantly cheaper than regular debit cards

Contactless payments are increasingly available at 7-Eleven and larger chains

Currency Exchange Tips

✓ Best method

SuperRich exchange counters (orange or green) in Bangkok offer some of Thailand's best rates. Kasikorn and Bangkok Bank ATMs are reliable for international cards.

✗ Avoid exchanging at

  • ×Airport exchange (worst rates)
  • ×Hotels and resorts
  • ×Informal street exchangers

Tipping in Thailand

Not mandatory but customary. 20–50 THB ($0.60–1.50) at restaurants. Round up taxi fares. 100 THB for excellent service.

Useful Denominations

1,000 THB for accommodation and larger bills
100 THB most versatile everyday note
20/50 THB for street food, songthaew, and tips

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Thai ATMs charge fees?

Yes — virtually all Thai ATMs charge foreigners 220 THB ($6.50) per withdrawal regardless of bank. Always withdraw the maximum amount to minimise this cost. Use a Wise or Revolut card to reduce overall fees.

Is Thailand mostly cash or card?

Thailand still relies heavily on cash. Street food, local markets, taxis, and many smaller restaurants are cash only. Cards work at 7-Eleven, major malls, hotels, and larger restaurants.

What is the best currency to bring to Thailand?

USD, GBP, EUR, and AUD are all easily exchanged. SuperRich exchange counters offer the best rates in Bangkok — look for the orange or green stores near BTS stations.

How much cash should I bring to Thailand?

Plan for 1,000–1,500 THB ($30–45) per day for budget travel. Withdraw at reputable ATMs and carry enough cash for day trips and markets where cards aren't accepted.

Before you go to Thailand

Thailand Packing List

Everything else you need for your Thailand trip