Quick Takeaway: The official currency of Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB), denoted by the symbol ฿. While exchange rates fluctuate daily based on global markets, 1 USD generally converts to approximately 33–36 THB. Thailand is largely a cash-friendly destination where physical Baht is essential for night markets, street food, and local transportation.
Thai Baht (THB) Denominations & Coins
Thai currency comes in banknotes and coins, all featuring portrait designs honoring the Thai Monarchy.
Banknotes in Circulation
- 20 THB (Green): Perfect for small snacks, water, and tipping.
- 50 THB (Blue): Common for street food dishes and short moto-taxi rides.
- 100 THB (Red): The most frequently used everyday bill.
- 500 THB (Purple): Handy for sit-down meals, Grab rides, and groceries.
- 1,000 THB (Brown/Grey): The highest note. Great for hotel check-ins and shopping malls, but smaller vendors may not have enough change for it.
Coins in Circulation
- Common Coins: 1 THB, 2 THB, 5 THB, and 10 THB (bi-metallic silver & brass).
- Satang Coins: 25 and 50 Satang (100 Satang = 1 Baht), primarily returned as change in supermarkets and 7-Eleven.
Benchmark Currency Exchange Rates (Indicative)
Foreign exchange rates fluctuate continuously. Here is a general reference range for major currencies against the Thai Baht:
| Currency Code | Currency Name | Typical Range in Thai Baht (THB) |
|---|---|---|
| USD | 1 US Dollar | ~33.00 – 36.00 THB |
| EUR | 1 Euro | ~36.00 – 39.00 THB |
| GBP | 1 British Pound | ~42.00 – 46.00 THB |
| AUD | 1 Australian Dollar | ~22.00 – 24.50 THB |
| SGD | 1 Singapore Dollar | ~25.00 – 27.00 THB |
| JPY | 100 Japanese Yen | ~21.00 – 24.00 THB |
Tip: Check real-time daily rates via the Bank of Thailand or private money changers like SuperRich Thailand.
Where to Get the Best Exchange Rate in Thailand
1. Dedicated Money Exchange Booths (Best Rates)
Independent money changers consistently offer much better rates than standard retail banks or airport arrival counters.
- SuperRich (Orange & Green): The gold standard in Bangkok with branches at BTS stations, shopping malls (CentralWorld, Siam Paragon), and Suvarnabhumi Airport (Basement Airport Rail Link level).
- Vasu Exchange & Twelve Victory: Popular and competitive options in Bangkok and tourist hubs.
2. Commercial Bank Booths
Available along popular tourist streets (SCB, Bangkok Bank, Kasikornbank). They are safe and convenient, but their margins are slightly wider than dedicated exchange booths.
3. International Airport Counters (Inside Customs)
Exchange booths located before immigration and right at baggage claim usually offer the lowest exchange rates. If you need cash immediately, change just $20–$50 for airport transit, then exchange the rest in town or on the basement floor of Suvarnabhumi Airport.
Essential Money & ATM Rules for Travelers
- Mandatory Passport Requirement: You must present your physical passport whenever you exchange cash at any licensed booth in Thailand.
- High-Denomination Bills Give Better Rates: Exchanging crisp, undamaged $100 or $50 USD notes gives a higher exchange rate than $1, $5, or $20 bills.
- ATM Withdrawal Fee (220 THB): Thai ATMs charge a 220 THB flat fee for foreign debit cards. Always choose “Without Conversion” (decline the ATM’s dynamic currency conversion) to let your home bank handle the FX rate at a fairer price.
- Cash is King for Local Vendors: Credit cards are widely accepted in malls, supermarkets, and hotels, but night markets, Tuk-Tuks, and beach vendors require physical cash.
