Using ATMs in Thailand – Fees, Limits, and Tips to Avoid Extra Charges

For expats living or traveling in Thailand, managing everyday cash is an essential part of life. From withdrawing Thai baht at the ATM to paying for street food, knowing the best way to handle your money will help you avoid hidden fees and frustrating moments.

💡 Quick Summary:

• Thailand is still mostly cash-based in daily life.

• ATMs are everywhere—but fees can add up fast.

• Credit/debit cards are accepted in malls, restaurants, and hotels, but not in street markets or taxis.

• It’s easy to lose money if you don’t manage currency exchange or ATM withdrawals smartly.

1. Where to Find ATMs in Thailand

ATMs are available at:

• Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart)

• Shopping malls and department stores

• Banks and bank branches

• Train stations and airports

They operate 24/7 and support international cards (Visa, Mastercard, UnionPay, etc.).

2. What You’ll Need

• A debit or credit card with international withdrawal enabled

• A 4-digit PIN

• Preferably, a multi-currency card like Wise or Revolut

3. ATM Fees in Thailand

Thai ATMs charge a fixed fee per withdrawal, typically:

• ฿220–฿250 per transaction for foreign cards

• Your home bank may charge extra (international fee, currency conversion fee, etc.)

💸 Pro Tip: Use ATMs less often but withdraw larger amounts to reduce total fees.

4. How to Avoid or Reduce Fees

• Use cards with no foreign transaction fees (Wise, Revolut)

• Open a local Thai bank account if staying long-term

• Withdraw at bank-owned ATMs rather than random third-party ones

• Always decline conversion if the ATM offers to convert to your home currency — choose “THB” instead of “USD/EUR/etc.”

❗Accepting ATM conversion usually gives you a bad exchange rate.

5. Paying with Cash vs Card in Thailand

Type of Payment

Best for

Notes

💵 Cash

Street food, taxis, markets

Always carry small bills (฿20, ฿50, ฿100)

💳 Credit/Debit Card

Malls, restaurants, hotels

Some small shops still prefer cash

📱 QR Code Payment

Modern cafes, 7-Eleven, Grab, etc.

Linked to Thai bank or mobile wallet only

6. Should You Exchange Money or Withdraw at ATM?

• ATM: Safer, fast, and convenient — but includes fees

• Currency Exchange Booths: Can offer better rates, especially in Bangkok downtown

• Airport exchange booths: Usually worst rate

🟢 Best Combo: Bring some cash to exchange, then use Wise card for ATM and payments

7. Cash Tips for Expats

• Always keep change for public transport, motorbike taxis, street vendors

• Avoid carrying large sums of cash — use hotel safes

• Break large bills (฿500, ฿1,000) at 7-Eleven or supermarkets

• ATMs in tourist areas sometimes run out of smaller bills – be ready

8. Expat-Friendly Banks with Good ATMs

• Bangkok Bank

• Kasikorn Bank (KBank)

• Siam Commercial Bank (SCB)

• Krungthai Bank

These have user-friendly English menus and Visa/Mastercard-friendly ATMs.

9. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Accepting ATM conversion (lose 3–5% per transaction)

• Relying only on one card (always have a backup)

• Not checking daily limits or bank restrictions

• Forgetting to notify your home bank before traveling

Final Thoughts

Cash is still king in Thailand—but smart expats know how to mix local payments, mobile apps, and fee-saving cards. Understanding ATM usage, avoiding unnecessary fees, and always having the right amount of baht in hand can make daily life smoother and cheaper.