Currency in Thailand – Info about Thai Baht, ATMs and exchange rates

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Want to know more about the currency in Thailand? They use Thai Baht (THB), and here’s more info about ATMs, money and exchange rates before your trip.

I will also answer some of the most frequently asked questions about money and currency in Thailand.

Quick facts about Thai Baht (THB)

Name: Baht.
Date of Introduction: 1897.
Coins: 1, 2, 5 and 10 Baht.
Banknotes: 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 THB
Subunit: 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 Satang (Thai cents)
Abbreviation: ฿t
Currency code: THB

Can you pay by card in Thailand?

Card payments are increasing in Thailand, but it’s still a cash-based society and many restaurants and shops don’t accept cards, not even in Bangkok. Tourists are recommended to always carry cash while traveling around the country.

Should you exchange money before your trip?

It’s possible to exchange Thai Baht in most countries around the world, but the rate given is almost never favorable, so you’ll end up losing money if you exchange before your trip. If you want to get Thai Baht from an exchange office it’s better to do so in Thailand.

However, It’s recommended that you use local ATMs to take out cash instead to avoid currency fees.

Exchange currency in Thailand

There are several exchange offices in Thailand that will trade any of the major currencies, and they often offer better rates than in your home country. Superrich is usually very good, and if you’re going to exchange money, I would definitely go there.

However, as mentioned, you’ll get more value for your money by withdrawing cash from a local ATM, using a travel card without fees.

Photo: Ranta Images / Shutterstock.com

ATMs in Thailand

There are plenty of ATMs in Thailand, even on the islands, so you will never be far away from an ATM. When using a foreign debit or credit card, the language will automatically change into English, and then you just follow the instructions as usual.

All major debit and credit cards are accepted by the Thai ATMs. Always remember to choose without conversion, and that you want to be charged in Thai Baht. Otherwise, you will get a poor exchange rate from the local bank.

ATM fees in Thailand

All foreign cards are charged a local ATM fee in Thailand no matter which card you have. This is in addition to your own bank’s fees. The fees range from 220-250 baht, so it’s better to take out as much cash as possible and limit your withdrawals.

Always use a travel card with zero fees in order to get the best exchange rate and avoiding atm fees from your bank.

ATM limits

Most ATMs in Thailand have a daily withdrawal limit. Krungsri Bank is the bank that I have found having the highest limit of 30 000 baht per day. Their fee is 220 baht per withdrawal.

Photo: Black_Kira / Shutterstock.com

More about Thailand’s Currency – Baht

The Thai Baht was introduced as the currency of Thailand already in 1897 after replacing a former Thai currency known as Tical. The Thai Baht is given out by the Bank of Thailand – BoT, which has its headquarters in Bangkok.

The currency code for the baht is THB, and the subunit (equivalent to cents) is called Satang, and 1 baht is equal to 100 satang. Until 1932, Thailand had its currency connected to the amount of gold.

How much is 100 Thai Baht?

100 THB =2.9 EURO
100 THB = 3.2 USD
100 THB = 4.3 CAD
100 THB = 4.7 AUD

Thai money in various denominations

Coins: 1, 2, 5 and 10 Baht.
Subunits (cents): 1, 5, 10, 25 and 50 Satang
Banknotes: 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000 THB

Frequently asked questions about Money in Thailand

Can you pay with US dollars in Thailand?

Some businesses in tourist areas will accept payments in US dollars, however in regular shops, restaurants and other establishments, the only accepted currency in Thailand is the Thai baht.

Is it better to change money in Thailand?

Yes, the exchange offices in Thailand offer much better rates for exchanging thai bahts than in your home country. However, it’s still better to take out cash from a local ATM with a travel card without fees.

What is the best currency to use in Thailand?

The best currency to use in Thailand is the Thai baht, which is the official currency of Thailand. The second-best is US dollars or Chinese Yuan, but it’s much better to use the local currency.

Are credit cards accepted in Thailand?

Yes, most luxury hotels and up-scale restaurants as well as shopping malls will accept credit cards in Thailand. However, smaller shops, local restaurants, buses, taxis, etc will likely not accept cards.

How do I avoid ATM fees in Thailand?

There is no way to avoid the local ATM fees in Thailand, but you can avoid your own bank’s fees by using a travel card without fees.

Can you use debit cards in Thailand?

Yes, you can use debit cards in Thailand in establishments that accept card payments as well as ATMs.

Can I use Revolut in Thailand?

Yes, you can use your Revolut card in Thailand.

How much money do you need a day in Thailand?

This highly depends on your spending and preferences, but most tourists will need a minimum of 1000 baht per day, which is equivalent to about 30 USD.