Travel · Southeast Asia
🇹🇭Thailand
ATM fees are high and unavoidable — pick a zero-fee card and withdraw big.
Thailand has a mature banking system but ATMs charge a flat 220 THB (≈£5) fee per withdrawal on foreign cards — regardless of how much you take out. Your card's own forex fee compounds on top. Zero-forex cards like Wise or Starling cut that second layer entirely.
Best cards for Thailand
ATM guide
ATMs are plentiful across Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket and most tourist areas. All charge a fixed 220 THB foreign card fee. AEON ATMs sometimes charge less (150 THB). DCC (Dynamic Currency Conversion) is offered constantly — always decline and pay in THB.
Card acceptance
Cards accepted widely at hotels, malls, and mid-range restaurants in cities. Street food, markets, tuk-tuks, and small guesthouses are cash-only. Budget travellers should carry more cash than city visitors.
Money tips for Thailand
Always decline DCC — when the ATM asks 'Do you want to be charged in GBP/USD?', say NO. Pay in THB.
Withdraw large amounts to amortise the 220 THB flat fee — one 10,000 THB withdrawal is cheaper than five 2,000 THB ones.
AEON ATMs (yellow, found in malls) sometimes charge 150 THB instead of 220 THB.
Wise gives you up to £200/month free ATM withdrawals — front-load this at trip start.
Airport exchange booths at Suvarnabhumi give poor rates. Wait until you're in the city or use a proper ATM.
Cards and options to avoid
Travelex
Post Office Travel Card
Frequently asked questions
Cash in Thailand
Street food, temples, tuk-tuks, local markets — cash dominates. Carry 2,000–3,000 THB for daily expenses.
Local currency
Wise Card
Mid-market rate with transparent fees — one of the lowest true costs for spending abroad.