What is the best way to bring money to Thailand?

Bank Transfer Bank transfers are usually the cheapest option when it comes to funding your international money transfer with Wise. Bank transfers can be slower than debit or credit cards, but they usually give you the best value for your money.



In 2026, the best strategy for Thailand is a 70:30 split between a multi-currency travel card and physical cash. Thailand remains a "cash-heavy" society for street food, local markets, and small islands, so bringing around 10,000 to 20,000 Thai Baht in cash is wise. For larger purchases, the Thai QR Payment system (PromptPay) has become increasingly accessible to tourists via apps like Moreta Pay or Wise, allowing you to scan codes at even tiny stalls. For ATM withdrawals, be aware that Thai ATMs charge a flat fee of 220 Baht (approx. $6) per transaction, so it is best to withdraw the maximum amount (usually 20,000–30,000 Baht) at once to minimize fees. Always choose "Continue Without Conversion" at ATMs to let your home bank handle the exchange rate, which is almost always cheaper than the "guaranteed" rate offered by the Thai machine.

People Also Ask

Will you need cash or credit card in Thailand? You need both. For markets, street stalls, tuk tuks and songtaews, you will certainly need cash. For convenience stores, shopping malls , hotels, larger restaurants and more, you can use your credit card.

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Tipping in Thailand is not customary and there are no requirements to tip anyone, leaving a small gratuity for great service is appreciated, but unlike other parts of the world you will never see a Thai service provider with their hand out expecting to be tipped.

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How Much Does 2 weeks in Thailand Cost? In the 15 days that we spent in Bangkok and Northern Thailand, we spent a total of 14,726 Baht. That's equivalent to about $420 USD. That's for two people for 15 days and includes everything from accommodation to meals and transport.

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A budget of $1000 is enough for a person to live in Thailand for 4-8 weeks. This will include accommodation ($7), 3 meals ($6), 3L of water ($2),transport ($2) per day. This comes to a total of $510 per month.

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Thailand's cost of living is low. For example, the cost of living in Bangkok — the 5th best country for ex-pats in the world — is $2,670 to $3,288 a month. Thailand offers multiple options for accommodations. You can expect to spend anywhere between $650 to $3000 per month on rent.

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If your on holiday and want to experience some things then I'd look for 5000 baht per day. I've spent 2500 baht on a single meal at a high end place. This does depend where you go for sure. 2000 is too tight.

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The average monthly income for foreigners working in Thailand is around $1,500 – $2,000. Of course, this will vary depending on your job, skillset, and industry. But in general, you can expect to live quite comfortably on this salary – especially if you're not used to big-city living.

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Exchange rates are almost always better in Thailand, and a good strategy is to take enough local currency for your first day or so, and change the rest once you arrive.

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Thailand tourist visa holders must be able to prove that they have adequate funds equivalent to at least THB 20,000 per person or THB 40,000 per family. For on arrival Thailand visa, they must be able to prove that they have adequate funds equivalent to at least THB 10,000 per person or THB 20,000 per family.

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