When you plan a vacation in Thailand, and our compatriots from Kazakhstan do it more and more often, especially in winter, the issue of currency will definitely be one of the first. It would seem that everything is simple: I took the money and flew. But in fact, there are nuances. Where is it better to change? Which is more profitable to take? Card or cash? Below, we’ll sort everything out – just the most important thing, as for friends.
Thai baht – what is important to know in advance
The main currency of Thailand is the baht. He’s a THB. Both banknotes (from 20 to 1000 baht) and coins are in circulation. The most popular ones are 20, 50 and 100 baht, which you will use to pay in cafes, shops, for massages or taxis. So it is advisable to have cash of different denominations with you on the spot – the change here is in price.
For those who are interested in what currency is in Thailand, we simply answer: This is a baht, and you are unlikely to be able to pay with anything else, such as dollars or tenge. Even if you try, the course will be extremely unprofitable.
What should I take with me: dollars, euros or a card?
You’d be surprised how many Kazakhstani tourists are still arguing about dollars or euros. But in fact, everything is simple – take dollars. The bills are only new (after 2006), not crumpled and unmarked. Preferably in denominations of 50 or 100 – they are changed at the best exchange rate.
What currency should I take to Thailand? The most reasonable option is a combination: some of the money is in dollars (cash), the rest is on the card. It is convenient to use the card to pay in supermarkets, hotels, and local travel agencies. But small expenses, the market, or bike rental are just a cache.
Where to change so as not to lose on commission
There are plenty of exchange offices in Thailand, especially in tourist areas. But don’t rush to change everything at once at the airport – the exchange rate is always lower there. It’s better to change a little so that there is enough for the transfer and the first dinner.But exchangers in Thailand, located on the central streets of Pattaya, Bangkok, Phuket or Krabi, often offer a favorable rate, especially popular networks like SuperRich. They are official, licensed, and no one will charge you too much.And most importantly, where can I change the currency in Thailand if I want maximum peace of mind? In banks. It is safe there, the exchange rate is slightly lower than in the best exchangers, but stable. Banks are open on weekdays until 15:30-16:00, they are usually closed on weekends.
The map is good, but not everywhere
Mastercard and Visa work almost everywhere. But in many cafes and small shops, the card is not needed: they simply do not accept it there. ATM withdrawal fees are standard (from 150 to 220 baht), plus possible fees from your bank. Therefore, it is often unprofitable to shoot. It’s better to do it once, but more often, or to have cash with a good margin.
What is happening on the spot
After arriving in the country, you quickly get used to it: baht is used everywhere, price tags on the markets are only in them. And after a day you don’t remember tenge or dollars. Everything is clear, simple, and logical. Therefore, it is important to understand in advance what kind of money is relevant in Thailand and not rely on universal dollars, as is the case, for example, in Egypt.
A few simple tips for last
Due to the fact that our travel experts have been working with tourists who rest in different resorts in Tai for a long time, travelers often share their observations and life hacks. And we are ready to share with you if this trip is the first time for you.:
- Take a small bag or belt for cash – the baht is thin, they are easy to lose.
- Divide the money: some in the hotel safe, some with you.
- If the exchange rate in the exchanger is suspiciously high, check if everything is fair.
- Keep receipts from the exchange – in rare cases they may be needed.
- Check the change: due to the number of zeros and coins, it is easy to make mistakes.
The result. In order for the rest to be peaceful, and the money does not “float away” on the very first day, it is important to prepare in advance. Understand which currency to take and where to change, how much to carry with you, and how much to leave on the card. All these are small things, but they greatly affect the comfort of your vacation. Let the trip be not only bright, but also financially enjoyable. And there are enough baht for fresh mangoes, a massage, and a beautiful excursion.
