The best currency to take to Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB), as it's the official currency used everywhere, especially for markets, street food, and tuk-tuks, though major cards work in malls/hotels. Bring your home currency (like USD or GBP) to exchange in Thailand for better rates, carrying larger denominations ($50s, $100s, or £50s) in good condition. For cash withdrawals, use ATMs but withdraw the maximum amount to minimize the high per-transaction fee (around 220-300 baht).
You will get good exchange rates in Thailand. Airports will, however, charge a little more commission. For the rest of the world, it is better to carry Thai Baht. Do remember that unless you are staying at an upscale hotel, nobody will take US Dollars or any other currency except for Thai Baht.
For tourists, cash is always the easiest. Debit/credit can work in larger stores/hotels but for stalls, some restaurants and such you're basically limited to cash. Even 7/11 had a 200 baht minimum for CC purchases so you're best having cash around.
Exchanging money in your home country might offer convenience, but often you can secure better rates once in Thailand. Local currency exchange offices are known to provide competitive rates, ensuring you get the most value for your money.
Is it better to exchange money in the UK or Thailand?
If you wish, you can change currency when you get to Thailand. Generally speaking, the exchange rates for THB will be better in Thailand than at home in the UK. However, you need to choose your currency exchange provider very carefully.
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How to carry cash in Thailand?
According to Thailand's official rules, you can bring up to $20,000 USD or the currency equivalent into the country before you have to declare it to customs. If you're bringing Thai baht (THB) into the country rather than a foreign currency, the most you can carry with you is 500,000 THB.
In Thailand, people take politeness very seriously when addressing others – adding “ka” or “krub” at the end of the sentence marks that politeness. So, say “Sa-wad-dee ka (krub)” when you want to say hi or hello, and “kob-khoon ka (krub)” when you want to say thank you.
Where is the best place to buy Thai Baht in the UK?
Which supermarket has the best Thai baht exchange rate? Tesco has the best Thai baht rate right now at 40.0247. You'll need to order online to guarantee this rate; it may be lower if you turn up unannounced and buy over the counter.
Where to exchange currency without paying huge fees? Avoid airports and hotels; instead use local ATMs or online exchange services like Revolut. Exchange booths are another place to avoid – while often conveniently located, the rates are usually poor. You could find yourself paying fees and hefty commissions, too.
Exchanging all of your money in advance also removes the flexibility to benefit from London's competitive rates, which are often better than those available abroad. Because of this, many people choose to exchange only a small amount before they leave.
Is it better to take cash or card to Thailand from the UK?
You'll definitely want to carry cash with you. Here's why: Street food stalls, taxis, markets, and smaller shops are usually cash only. Some restaurants and bars accept cards but may add a 3% fee.
Here's a breakdown of what you might be charged: Local ATM fees: Most ATMs in Thailand charge a standard local fee of 220 THB (~S$8.70) per withdrawal when using a foreign card. However, fees can range between 150-250 THB fee (~S$5.93-S$9.89), depending on the card and ATM you use.
Even 500 for one week would just about be ok for someone who stays in hostels and doesn't drink, doesnt go on day tours, doesn't travel about, doesn't party and only eats street food.
An individual can expect monthly expenses to range from USD $1,500 to $2,500, while a family of four might budget around USD $2,500 to $4,000 on average retiring in Thailand. Key expenses include housing, healthcare, food, and transportation, with housing often being the largest cost.
A Forex Card is one of the safest and most convenient ways to carry money abroad. It works like a debit card, allowing you to swipe at stores or withdraw cash from ATMs in local currency and withdraw charges are quite high in Thailand compared to other country withdraw charges.
Do you have to declare money when entering Thailand?
Any person who brings or takes an aggregate amount of foreign currency exceeding USD20,000 or its equivalent out of or into Thailand shall declare such amount of foreign currency to a Customs Officer.
