Cash or Card in Thailand? Getting the Balance Right

Thailand sits in an awkward middle ground: modern enough that cards work in plenty of places, traditional enough that cash is essential daily. The sensible answer is both, which starts when you buy Thai baht from a commission-free provider such as Travel FX before you fly.

Where cards work

Hotels, department stores, chain restaurants, larger dive shops and domestic flights all take cards without fuss, though some smaller businesses add a card surcharge.

Where only cash works

Street food, markets, taxis, tuk-tuks, ferries, small guesthouses, national park fees and tips. In rural areas, assume cash for everything.

The practical split

Carry a few days of baht, keep a card for big bills and emergencies. Travel FX has supplied over 60 currencies online for more than 18 years, backed by around 32,800 Trustpilot reviews.