Thailand Travel Forum

I'll be traveling to Thailand in October. In the past, I've always obtained my foreign currency here in the states and I seem to pay an enormous amount in fees. Should I get my currency upon arrival at the airport in Bangkok? And if so, do I bring US$ or buy the currency with my credit card?

You can get currency at the airport. The exchange may not be as good as some places, but good enough to get you into town where you can search for better rates.

I often use the ATM, because I am on the company's money and I don't like to carry a lot of cash while traveling. Atm's charge for the service, plus the credit card company charges, and their exchange rate may not be so good. If you are going for a week, use your credit card for hotels and restaurants, etc. Exchange cash for small things you buy, taxis, skytrain,local restaurant meals, and of course beers (you will need plenty to survive the heat). This way don't have to worry about what to do with all the cash you brough with you.

No, don't buy Baht in the states. When you arrive at the airport you can change some money at that time. I usually change about 100$, enough to get me into town,taxi, eat etc. You will always get a higher rate changing 100$bills vs 50's or 20's. Once in Bangkok, there are bank kiosks everywhere to change money. The rates may vary, but usually by only a couple of baht. Exchanging is easy in Thailand, don't use US$, no need, and if they exchange will give a poor rate. Credit cards can be used but you will be charged a fee by your CC for the exchange. I will sometimes use my CC for hotel bill and usually when I know it is in US$ over the internet.
good luck

With my last two trips, I have not bothered with travellers cheques, or pre-bought currency, and have only used my credit card at ATM's in order to draw money.It is safer and easier, and there are ATM's outside most hotels,and in all majo shopping centres. Enjoy your trip

I just returned from a week in Thailand last month and waited until I arrived to use an ATM to obtain some Thai Baht (It was 32-33 Baht to 1 USD then).

I never use traveler checks and rely on my debit card for ATM cash and then use a major credit card for any hotel, restaurant (always be sure to ask before ordering because some places I went to in Thailand did not have CC machines) and of course any major purchases for tracking and guarantee purposes.

Thanks for the replies. I'm curious - is there a big difference between obtaining cash using an ATM vs. credit card? I prefer using my credit card because of the points I earn.

That is a GREAT follow-up question. I do not know the answer.

I have only used my CC once before for cash due to the fees charged and besides, I find myself a little more limiting on my debit card when I withdraw.

Hi,

Like everyone says, you'll get a better rate exchanging in Thailand.

As for credit card, I found out that if you withdraw cash, it is regarded as a cash advance and points will not be given on cash advance. Also you will be getting interest charged straight away and it's really high. They will also charge you a fee for drawing cash out.

Not worth it in my opinion.

Even if your credit card is linked with a debit account, the atms overseas won't give you the option of choosing which account to take the cash out.

I would suggest bringing the debit ATM card overseas and draw cash out of that account.

Thanks.

Regards,
Merv

"Thanks for the replies. I'm curious - is there a big difference between obtaining cash using an ATM vs. credit card? I prefer using my credit card because of the points I earn."

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Some credit cards come with big ATM fees. You do get a slightly better rate getting money from an ATM vs using cash. Same for travelers checks you get a hair more than ordinary cash but they also have a 33 baht cashing fee. Some credit unions in the US sell travelers checks to their customers without any fees. Only bring the large size ($100) denominations to cut down on fees.

I use my debit card because I don't have any ATM fees to pay with it (credit union pays any fees) and no interest like you get when you use a credit card. I only keep a limited amount of cash in my debit card account and replenish that account with electronic transfers if necessary.

I never use credit cards for cheap purchases, especially in restaurants and shops - too much chance of fraud. Using cash for cheap purchases instead of a CC is safer. Oh yeah, when you withdraw cash from an ATM take out the maximum you can to cut down on lots of ATM fees.