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Money Matters - ATM ands Currency Exchangers
The Thai currency unit is called the baht. The two best ways for acquiring baht is through and ATM and Currency Exchangers. There are 6 different colored notes and 5 coins.
The most convenient way is the ATM of course. There are many banks in Thailand so you'll find many different ATM locations everywhere. Just recently, as of writing, all major bank's ATMs charge a B150 surcharge. Which is expensive already considering your own local back will most likely charge a surcharge too.
However there is one bank called Aeon that is currently fee free. You can search for their branches here at Aeon Bank ATM locations. Since Aeon is a relatively new their ATMs are not not so easy to find. Currently the most convenient ATMs can be found in MBK and Siam Discovery Center shopping malls. (Note: All ATMs in Bangkok only accept 4 digit PIN.)
Many banks also have currency exchange booths located throughout the commercial districts and tourist attractions. But you will see that their exchange rates aren't so favorable. One authorized money exchanger I recommend is called Super Rich. You'll see that they offer excellent rates. You will get better rates when exchanging larger notes; for example $100 USD note will get you better rates than exchanging $1 USD notes. One of the most convenient branch is at the Chit Lom BTS station. Head towards exit #1 and you should see the branch.
- Notes: B20 green | B50 blue | B100 red | B500 purple | B1000 beige (Note: There is a B10 note too, it's brown color and not much in circulation inside Bangkok).
- Coins: 25 satang | 50 satang | B1 | B2 | B5 | B10 (Note: 100 satang = B1)
The most convenient way is the ATM of course. There are many banks in Thailand so you'll find many different ATM locations everywhere. Just recently, as of writing, all major bank's ATMs charge a B150 surcharge. Which is expensive already considering your own local back will most likely charge a surcharge too.
However there is one bank called Aeon that is currently fee free. You can search for their branches here at Aeon Bank ATM locations. Since Aeon is a relatively new their ATMs are not not so easy to find. Currently the most convenient ATMs can be found in MBK and Siam Discovery Center shopping malls. (Note: All ATMs in Bangkok only accept 4 digit PIN.)
Many banks also have currency exchange booths located throughout the commercial districts and tourist attractions. But you will see that their exchange rates aren't so favorable. One authorized money exchanger I recommend is called Super Rich. You'll see that they offer excellent rates. You will get better rates when exchanging larger notes; for example $100 USD note will get you better rates than exchanging $1 USD notes. One of the most convenient branch is at the Chit Lom BTS station. Head towards exit #1 and you should see the branch.
Super Rich Money Exchange at Chit Lom BTS station
Notice that Thai notes bears the image of the beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej. And just like anything with the King's image you should handle the money with care. For example if you drop a B10 coin on the floor by accident and it starts rolling, don't step on it. It's a major insult to the King and if a Thai person sees it they'll give you an unfriendly stare. So remember to pick it up with your hand.
Credit Cards
You won't have a problem using credit cards in major shopping malls, restaurants and hotels. You should keep in mind though that most establishments that accept credit cards usually tack on a small service charge, about 2% - 4%.
Also most merchants will give ask if you want to pay in your local currency or exchange it into Thai baht. The conversion will cost you an extra 3% fee (which most merchants may not mention). So make sure you ask the merchant what types of fees or service charges you will incur for using a credit card before making the purchase.
Also most merchants will give ask if you want to pay in your local currency or exchange it into Thai baht. The conversion will cost you an extra 3% fee (which most merchants may not mention). So make sure you ask the merchant what types of fees or service charges you will incur for using a credit card before making the purchase.
Money Tip
Keep the B100 and B500 notes separate. Their colors look the same in areas not well lit such as inside a taxi or bar and nightclub.