Ultimate Money Guide To Cash, Cards, & ATMs In Thailand

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It’s almost time to head to Thailand, but there’s one last thing to figure out–how to pay for things when you’re there!

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You may be wondering if you need to carry Thai baht (THB), if ATMs in Thailand offer fair exchange rates, or if your credit card will be widely accepted in Thailand.

I’ve been traveling nonstop for the past 3+ years, and I’ve now been to more than 60 countries, including the 8 months I spent in Thailand. My savings would not have lasted this long if I had to pay debit and credit card fees!

While cash in Thailand is king, especially outside major tourist spots, understanding the nuances of accessing cash or using a card in Thailand can save you from unnecessary fees, poor conversion rates, and hassle.

ATMs are your best bet in Thailand, generally offering better rates than money exchanges. Many businesses in Thailand don’t accept credit card payments or will charge you a fee to use one.

So, here’s everything you need to know about cash, ATMs, and credit cards in Thailand!

👉 Check the current conversion rate for Thai baht here.

A person holding Thai banknotes—100 baht and 50 baht—in a hand, likely inside a vehicle. The background shows a driver and various signs, with some green and white ATM-related signage visible. The image highlights the use of cash in Thailand, often withdrawn from ATMs in Thailand, as a common payment method.

How to Use ATMs in Thailand to Withdraw Cash

ATMs are available nearly everywhere in Thailand: across major cities, at every 7-Eleven, in front of grocery stores, in shopping malls, and at airports. They can be harder to find in smaller, off-the-beaten-path villages, but you’ll rarely be far from one.

The word for a cash machine in Thailand is just “ATM” so you can always ask for one!

ATMs in Thailand accept most major cards, such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and UnionPay. They display all the accepted logos.

While it’s convenient (and safer) to pull out cash as you go, keep in mind that every transaction at an ATM in Thailand usually incurs a fee of about 220 baht (~$6.50 USD), which can add up quickly.

Some ATMs, like those from AEON Bank, charge a lower fee of 150 baht (~$4.40 USD), but they are less common. Krugsri Bank charges 220 baht (~$6.50 USD) but has a higher ATM withdrawal limit of 30,000 baht (~$880 USD), so this may be the best ATM to use in Thailand for travelers.

Using an ATM in Thailand isn’t much different from anywhere else. Here is how to get cash in Thailand:

Insert your card and enter your PIN: Always give the card slot a little wiggle to check for skimming devices, and cover the keypad while entering your PIN so nobody can see it. Thailand ATMs accept cards with magnetic strips and chip-and-pin cards. Your four-digit or six-digit PIN should work fine.

Select Language: If the machine doesn’t automatically offer English, you can change the language manually.

Understand the Fees: You’ll be prompted to accept the ATM fee (all cash machines in Thailand charge foreigners a fee). If you need the cash, you must accept it. Thailand ATMs usually charge 220 baht (~$6.50 USD).

Decline the Conversion Rate Offered: Always choose to be charged in local currency, in this case, Thai baht. ATM conversion rates are typically poor, and letting your own bank handle the conversion results in better rates. Decline it!

Complete Your Transaction: Enter the amount of Thai baht you want to take out (it helps to do the math beforehand). Most ATMs limit withdrawals to 20,000 baht (~$590 USD) per transaction, and your bank likely has a daily limit. Don’t forget to take your card, cash, and receipt. The card is often returned last, unlike in other countries where you get the card first.

💳 I always use this inexpensive, credit-card-sized RFID blocker in my wallet to keep my personal information safe from high-tech thieves. Travel with confidence, knowing your cards and passport are secure!

A row of ATMs from different banks in Thailand, including Krungsri and Krungthai Bank, located in a well-lit indoor area. The ATMs are commonly used for withdrawing cash in Thailand, with signs indicating the availability of Thai baht for travelers, and the acceptance of credit cards.

Important Tips for Using ATMs / Cash Machines in Thailand

To minimize fees:

Withdraw Large Amounts: It’s more cost-effective to withdraw larger amounts if you are charged a transaction fee.

Check Your Bank’s Policies: Some banks charge a fee for using an ATM outside their network, so you may pay two fees every time you take out cash. Other banks, like Charles Schwab in the US, reimburse all ATM fees. Check if yours does or if it has partnerships with Thai banks that might allow for reduced fees.

Understand Your Limits: Most ATMs have a withdrawal limit of around 20,000 THB (~$590 USD) per transaction, but your home bank might also have a daily withdrawal limit. Adjust these limits with your bank beforehand to fit your travel budget needs.

Use Debit/ATM Cards: Withdrawing cash from an ATM with a credit card is usually more costly than using a debit card due to cash advance fees and higher interest rates applied from the moment of the transaction.

Safety tips:

Use Bank-Attached ATMs When Possible: These are generally safer and give you immediate access to help if the machine retains your card.

Prevent Fraud: Always give the card slot a little wiggle to check for skimming devices, and cover the keypad while entering your PIN so nobody can see it.

Prepare for Remote Locations: In less populated areas, it’s wise to have enough cash before you go, as ATMs might run out of cash or be non-existent. You’ll never have a problem finding ATMs in Bangkok or other big cities.

Store Your Cards Separately: Don’t carry all your credit and debit cards in the same place. Keep a backup credit card and debit card in a separate bag or secure location. That way, if a bag goes missing or your card gets compromised (that’s happened to me before!), you still have a credit and debit card.

Carry What You Need: Only carry the cash you need for the day. Store the rest of your money in a secure spot like a hotel safe or a hidden compartment in your accommodation. Thailand is generally very safe, but you don’t want to be an easy target!

🚨 Never access your online banking over public Wi-Fi – it’s not secure! Always use a VPN to protect your financial information—I personally use this one for secure and private connections.

A solo female traveler (me) taking a selfie at the Chiang Mai Immigration office, showcasing the background with the office signage, relevant to visitors extending their visa. — If you need to extend your visa, you’ll need cash.

Yes, You Need Cash in Thailand (Cash vs Credit Card)

When I first traveled to Thailand, adjusting to the cash-centric culture was a bit of a shift, especially after visiting places where tapping a card or using ApplePay is the norm. In Thailand, however, cash still reigns supreme.

While credit cards are becoming more widely accepted in large hotels, tourist-focused restaurants, and through apps like Grab, the reality on the ground is different. When you wander into the night markets or decide to rent a scooter, you’ll find that cash is essential.

Many smaller businesses that do accept credit cards might impose a minimum spend or add an extra fee on top of your purchase. For instance, even visiting a 7-Eleven or supermarket requires meeting a minimum spend to use your card.

During my eight months in Thailand, I quickly learned that while I’d prefer to use my credit card to accumulate travel points, there were many days when it never left my wallet.

So, while you might be tempted to rely on your credit card, always have some Thai baht in your pocket. This way, you’re prepared for all the fun and unexpected experiences Thailand offers without any payment hassles.

A bank teller counting cash and coins in Thailand, with a small stack of Thai baht notes and several coins on the counter. The transaction highlights the common use of cash in Thailand, with ATMs and credit cards also playing a significant role in the financial system.

Exchanging Money in Thailand

Many travelers ask me about changing money in Thailand (e.g., bringing US Dollars, euros, or British Pounds and exchanging them for Thai baht).

You can do that instead of using ATMs, but you want to ensure you’re getting a good exchange rate and not being charged too many fees.

Many exchange services in Thailand advertise “zero commission,” which means they’re likely making a nice profit on the exchange rate. Double-check the current mid-market rate with an online currency converter to see if it’s a good rate or not. I use the XE Currency app (it’s free).

The exchange services at the airport are almost always the worst rates available because they know travelers have limited options there. So if you can, I’d wait to find a place in the city instead.

Currency exchange places will only accept crisp bills that are in pristine condition and aren’t old, so keep that in mind if you plan to exchange money in Thailand.

I still believe that ATMs are the best way to get cash in Thailand—they’re just so much easier!

🤩 My favorite way to get to know a new city is by taking a food tour. This Northern Thai Food Tour will change your life. You’ll try hidden restaurants, street stalls, and local markets that most tourists never find and be transported in an iconic red rod daeng truck with a small group of hungry travelers. Come hungry because you’ll be trying more than 15 different dishes!

Me on a scooter wearing a pink helmet, in front of a viewpoint of green rice fields. — You’ll need to pay in cash and leave a cash deposit for a scooter rental in Thailand.

Can I Use My Credit Card in Thailand?

As Thailand’s economy continues to embrace digital payments, using credit and debit cards is becoming more common.

However, the reality varies significantly depending on where you are in the country. I rarely have a chance to use my credit card in Thailand!

Many hotels, upscale restaurants, and stores accept credit cards in major tourist destinations and large urban centers like Bangkok and Chiang Mai. However, once you step outside these areas, cash is still essential.

Many smaller businesses, local eateries, and especially street vendors do not accept cards, and those that do might impose a minimum spend or add a surcharge for card payments.

Visa and Mastercard credit cards are often accepted, but American Express often isn’t. Carrying a Visa or Mastercard as a backup is a good idea.

Be aware that using your credit card in Thailand (or anywhere outside your home country) can incur extra costs. Many banks charge a foreign transaction fee when the credit card is used abroad, so you’ll want to double-check before you leave home. These fees can add up!

My old credit card used to charge me an extra 3% foreign transaction fee every time I used it abroad, so I switched to a new credit card that doesn’t. If you travel frequently, consider a travel-specific credit card, like Chase Sapphire, which doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees and offers travel benefits like points on travel and dining.

When using your credit card to purchase, always opt to be charged in Thai baht. The conversion rates offered directly by merchants or ATMs are generally not favorable. Letting your bank handle the conversion typically results in a better rate.

While it’s less common now, some banks still recommend notifying them of your travel plans to avoid having your card flagged for fraud and frozen. This simple step can prevent a lot of stress on your trip.

A solo female traveler (me) drinks from a fresh coconut using a straw at the Chiang Mai Sunday Night Walking Street, surrounded by other visitors and colorful market stalls. — You’ll need cash to enjoy Thailand’s night markets!

FAQs About Cash Machines in Thailand

Which ATMs to use in Thailand?

ATMs are widespread across Thailand, typically charging a fee of about 220 baht (~$6.50 USD). You’ll find them attached to banks (the most secure option), in front of 7-Eleven, supermarkets, malls, airports, and around town. AEON Bank usually charges a lower fee, and Krungsri Bank offers a higher withdrawal limit, but otherwise, they’re all the same.

Should I bring cash to Thailand or use ATM?

It’s best to withdraw cash from ATMs in Thailand, as they typically offer better exchange rates than money exchange services. However, it’s a good idea to always have some cash on hand for emergencies.

How to avoid ATM fees in Thailand?

To avoid ATM fees in Thailand, withdraw larger amounts less frequently, use a bank that reimburses international ATM fees (like Charles Schwab in the US), and always decline the ATM’s currency conversion offer to get a better rate from your bank.

What is the best way to withdraw money in Thailand?

The best way to withdraw money in Thailand is by using ATMs attached to major banks. ATMs tend to offer better exchange rates than money exchange services. Withdraw larger sums to minimize fees, and always decline the ATM’s conversion rate to get a better rate from your own bank.

Should I carry baht or USD to Thailand?

Always carry Thai baht when in Thailand. While USD might be accepted in some tourist areas, Thai baht is the official currency, and you’ll need it for most transactions, especially in local spots. Any place that accepts USD will likely be offering a poor exchange rate. It’s easy to withdraw Thai baht from ATMs in Thailand.

Should I change money before going to Thailand?

It’s not necessary to change money before arriving in Thailand. ATMs, including at the airport, are widely available and offer better exchange rates than most currency exchange services. However, having some local currency upon arrival can be handy.

Can you use a credit card in Thailand?

You can use credit cards in Thailand at many hotels, large restaurants, and shops, especially in tourist areas. However, cash is still more commonly used, and smaller businesses may not accept cards or may charge extra fees.

Is it better to use cash or card in Thailand?

Using cash in Thailand is better, especially outside major tourist areas. While cards are accepted in many places, smaller vendors and local markets often only take cash, and using cash helps avoid extra credit card fees.

Passenger view of getting around Chiang Mai via tuk tuk. Back of the head of a male driver inside a red tuk tuk.

Final Thoughts: Money in Thailand

Navigating ATMs and cash in Thailand is easy if you’re prepared.

Remember, while ATMs are conveniently located across Thailand—in front of 7-Eleven stores, attached to banks, inside shopping malls, in front of supermarkets, and at airports—they all charge a fee, usually about 220 baht (~$6.50 USD).

For cost-effectiveness, withdraw larger amounts less frequently or use a bank card like Charles Schwab (I use this in the US) that reimburses ATM fees.

Though credit cards are gaining acceptance, particularly in upscale venues and through apps like Grab, you’ll still need cash for the many local spots that don’t accept cards.

Now that you know how to handle money in Thailand, remember to stay connected. These are the best SIM card options in Thailand for travelers, ensuring you stay connected affordably and effectively during your adventures.

Ultimate Money Guide to Cash, Cards, & ATMs in Thailand