What is the Thai baht (THB) and how can you recognise it? Basic information about currency in Thailand

What is the official symbol (฿) and international code (THB) for Thailand’s currency?

The official symbol of the Thai baht is ฿, but in exchange offices, airports and financial applications, you will encounter the international code used to denote the currency in Thailand – THB. Look for this abbreviation when checking the current THB exchange rate before travelling to the Land of Smiles.

Remembering these two symbols will make you feel more confident. You will see the symbol ฿ on price tags at local markets, and the code THB will come in handy when exchanging money or setting up payment apps, which I will tell you about later.

What banknotes and coins are in circulation in Thailand and whose image is on them?

All Thai banknotes and coins currently in use – which together make up the currency of Thailand – feature the image of the current king, Maha Vajiralongkorn (Rama X). The current series (17th) of banknotes shows him in his Air Force commander’s uniform, while the coins feature his profile in royal robes. This is information of great cultural significance, but more on that in a moment.

You will mainly carry banknotes in your wallet – the Thai baht comes in several denominations, which are easily distinguishable by their colours:

• 20 ฿ – green
• 50 ฿ – blue
• 100 ฿ – red
• 500 ฿ – purple
• 1000 ฿ – brown (sepia/grey)

The most common Thai coins are 1, 2, 5 and 10 baht. There are also 25 and 50 satang coins in circulation, but as a tourist you will rarely use them – you will get them at most as change in large supermarkets or 7-Eleven shops. My advice? Treat them as a curiosity and a nice souvenir from your trip.

How many satang are there in one Thai baht?

Many people ask what the currency in Thailand is called – it is the Thai baht (1 ฿), which is divided into 100 satang, similar to the zloty and groszy. In practice, however, as a tourist, you will rarely use satang.

Prices at street stalls or in small eateries are almost always rounded up to full baht. So you don’t have to worry about small change. Focus on baht – they will be your main tool for discovering the flavours and charms of Thailand.

Which central bank (Bank of Thailand) is responsible for issuing Thai money?

The Bank of Thailand is responsible for issuing the Thai baht, ensuring the stability and security of the currency. For travellers, this is mainly technical information, but it demonstrates the soundness of the country’s financial system and the fact that Thailand’s currency is well protected.

How and where to get Thai currency? A practical guide to exchanging and withdrawing money

How much is 1 Thai baht worth? How to check the current THB/GBP exchange rate?

The exchange rate of the Thai baht to the Polish zloty, i.e. the conversion rate of the Thai currency to PLN, fluctuates between 0.11 and 0.12 PLN, so 100 baht costs about 11-12 PLN. This is a convenient, simplified Thai baht converter that allows you to quickly estimate costs on the spot.

I recommend checking the current interbank exchange rate on Google Finance or XE.com. However, remember that this is a reference rate. The actual exchange rate of the Thai baht in exchange offices will be slightly less favourable – their owners earn money on this difference (spread).

Is it worth buying Thai baht at a currency exchange in Poland before departure?

I will answer briefly, from my own experience: absolutely not. Buying THB in Poland is one of the most common and most expensive mistakes travellers make. Due to the low popularity of this currency, exchange offices offer terrible rates with a huge spread. You can lose up to several percent on this.

Many people wonder how much cash to take to Thailand. It is better to take a popular currency (USD, EUR) and exchange it on the spot. You can possibly have a small amount to start with, e.g. for water or transport from the airport, although this is not necessary – you can easily exchange money or use an ATM at the airport.

Is it better to take US dollars (USD) or euros to Thailand for exchange?

Thai exchange offices accept both US dollars (USD) and euros (EUR). Can you pay with euros directly in shops in Thailand? Not really, but you can exchange them very easily. However, from my observations, dollars often have a slightly better exchange rate. The differences are small, but they can be significant for larger amounts.

I have a key practical tip for you: if you are wondering what dollars to take to Thailand, opt for new, undamaged banknotes with high denominations (preferably USD 100). Exchange offices in Thailand often offer a better exchange rate for 50 and 100 dollar bills than for those with lower denominations. Crumpled, marked or torn banknotes may not be accepted at all.

Where is the best place to exchange money in Thailand? Why is the Super Rich currency exchange chain so highly recommended?

The best place to exchange currency in Thailand is at private exchange offices, and the leader, especially when it comes to exchange offices in Bangkok, is the Super Rich chain. It comes in two versions – green (Superrich Thailand) and orange (Superrich 1965). Both offer excellent rates, close to the interbank rate.

Their business model is based on a minimal spread and high turnover. Avoid exchange offices at airports, hotels or banks (e.g. SCB, Kasikornbank) – they have much worse rates. The difference can be as much as 5-10%, which when exchanging USD 500 means a loss equivalent to several meals. Look for the green or orange Super Rich sign – it guarantees a fair transaction, regardless of whether you are interested in currency in Phuket, Chiang Mai or the capital of Thailand. Remember to have your passport with you, as it is required for exchange.

How to withdraw cash from an ATM in Thailand and what is the fixed commission (220 THB)?

Withdrawing cash from an ATM in Thailand is simple, but it has one drawback. Regardless of the amount, almost every Thai ATM will charge a fixed commission of 220 THB (approx. £5). This is an unavoidable fee charged by the local operator, and its amount is key information when we are interested in the topic of ATMs in Thailand and commissions.

Your bank in Poland may add its own commission to this amount. Therefore, if you are already using an ATM, withdraw larger amounts at once (e.g. 10,000 – 20,000 THB) to minimise the fixed fee in the transaction. Withdrawing small amounts, e.g. 1,000 THB, is simply not cost-effective.

How to pay in Thailand? Comparison of cash, payment cards and apps

Are Visa and Mastercard widely accepted in Thailand?

Yes, Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, so card payments are generally possible in Thailand, but mainly in tourist areas. You can use them in hotels, shopping centres, larger restaurants, supermarkets (7-Eleven, Family Mart) or when booking flights online.

However, Thailand is still a cash-based economy. Cash reigns supreme at local markets, small eateries, tuk-tuks, massage parlours and small shops in the provinces. Always carry cash with you, as it gives you the greatest freedom and access to authentic experiences.

Why should you always choose the local currency (THB) when paying by card to avoid the DCC trap?

When paying by card or withdrawing money from an ATM, the terminal may offer to settle in the local currency (THB) or your home currency (GBP). The latter solution is seemingly convenient, as you can immediately see how the currency in Thailand is converted into GBP, but there is a trap behind it. Always, without exception, choose the local currency (THB).

Payment in PLN is a trap called DCC (Dynamic Currency Conversion). It involves the use of a very unfavourable exchange rate set by the terminal operator. By choosing THB, you agree to a much better exchange rate from your bank or card operator (e.g. Visa, Revolut). The difference can be as much as 5 to 10% of the transaction value.

Does the Revolut card work in Thailand and is it cost-effective to use?

Yes, Revolut works very well in Thailand and is popular among travellers. Its advantages include favourable exchange rates (similar to interbank rates) on working days and free ATM withdrawals up to a certain limit. However, please note that the local fee of 220 THB still applies.

Personally, I use Revolut as one of my main cards. However, it is worth remembering two things: on weekends, Revolut adds a margin to the exchange rate (it is better to make larger transactions on working days), and it is always a good idea to have a second, backup card.

What are the advantages of using a Wise card when travelling to Thailand?

Wise (formerly TransferWise) is, in my opinion, an even better alternative. It offers a multi-currency card with great exchange rates, but its advantage is a “real” multi-currency account where you can store funds directly in baht.

In practice, this means that you can watch the currency exchange rate in Thailand and exchange GBP for THB in the app when the rate is favourable, and keep it in your account. When you pay with your card, the transaction is made directly in THB, without any additional currency conversion. This gives you more control over your costs. Transparent fees are a hallmark of Wise, which I really appreciate.

How to pay for rides with the Grab app – cash or linked card?

The Grab app, the Asian equivalent of Uber, is the basis of transport in Thailand. You can pay with cash or a linked card. I definitely recommend the second option, i.e. linking a Revolut or Wise card.

Why? It’s convenient. You don’t have to have the exact amount, wait for change or haggle. After the ride, you simply get out and the fee is charged automatically. You save time, avoid misunderstandings and can focus on the sights.

As a tourist, can I use QR code payments (PromptPay)?

Unfortunately, as a tourist, you will not be able to use the Thai QR payment system, PromptPay. It is ubiquitous, but requires a link to a local bank account, which is virtually impossible to set up on a tourist visa.

Therefore, although you will see QR codes everywhere, they will remain a curiosity to you. You will have to rely on cash and payment cards.

What is the minimum amount you can pay by card in popular 7-Eleven shops?

In 7-Eleven shops, which are on every corner, you can pay by card, but only above a minimum amount. This is usually 200 THB (the limit may vary). Below this amount, cash or the local TrueMoney e-wallet is required.

This is another reason to always carry some cash with you for small purchases, such as water or snacks. It is worth remembering this when planning your shopping in these ubiquitous shops.

Culture and safety: How to use whips without getting into trouble?

Why is it forbidden to trample on money and destroy banknotes bearing the image of the King?

This is the most important cultural rule regarding money, and breaking it has serious consequences. Every banknote and coin bears the image of the King, a figure surrounded by the highest respect. Any desecration of his image, even unintentional, is treated as lèse-majesté and is subject to severe penalties, including many years in prison.

Therefore, you must never step on money, even if a coin falls on the ground. Instead of stepping on it with your shoe to keep it from rolling away, bend down and pick it up with your hand. Do not throw money, sit on it or use it in an undignified manner. Treat money with respect, just as you would treat the national flag – it is a symbol of respect for the entire nation and its monarch.

How much tip in baht should you leave in a Thai restaurant or for a massage?

The culture of tipping is not as ingrained in Thailand as it is in the West, but it is a nice and appreciated gesture. Tipping is not mandatory, but it is worth leaving a tip if you are satisfied with the service.

• In restaurants: If a service charge (usually 10%) is not added to the bill, it is a nice gesture to round up the bill or leave 20-50 THB.
• For a massage: After a well-done, hour-long massage, the standard tip is 50-100 THB. This is a really small amount for us, but for the masseuse it is a significant addition to her salary.
• At a hotel: You can leave 20-50 THB for help with luggage or room cleaning.
• Taxi drivers and Grab drivers: They don’t usually expect tips, but rounding up the bill is welcome.

Are prices in baht at Thai markets negotiable?

Yes, haggling is an integral part of shopping at Thai markets, especially for souvenirs and clothing. It is part of the local culture and a game worth playing.

However, remember a few rules: bargain with a smile, never aggressively. A good strategy is to offer 50-60% of the asking price at the start and meet the seller halfway. Do not bargain for food or in shops with fixed prices (e.g. 7-Eleven). It is an art that makes your trip more authentic.

How to distinguish real Thai banknotes from fake ones?

Counterfeit banknotes are not a common problem in Thailand, especially if you use cash from banks or exchange offices. Nevertheless, it is worth knowing the basic security features:

• Watermark: When held up to the light, you should see a clear image of the king.
• Security strip: A metallic thread is embedded in the structure of the banknote.
• Intaglio printing: The inscriptions and image of the king are slightly raised to the touch. You can feel this by running your fingernail over them.
• Paper quality: Genuine banknotes are made of high-quality cotton paper, which is more durable and stiffer than ordinary paper.

The best way to avoid counterfeits is to avoid exchanging money in suspicious places and from random people on the street.

How much cash in baht can you take out of Thailand without a customs declaration?

You can take up to 50,000 THB per person out of Thailand without a customs declaration. When travelling to neighbouring countries (Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, Malaysia, Vietnam) and Yunnan Province, the limit is higher, but amounts over 450,000 THB must be declared (the maximum export is 2,000,000 THB).

For foreign currencies, the declaration limit is the equivalent of USD 20,000 (or USD 15,000 – it is worth checking the current regulations). For tourists, these limits are very high and in practice do not constitute a restriction. You do not need to worry if you have a few thousand baht left at the end of your trip.

Are old series of Thai baht banknotes still accepted in shops?

Yes, older series of banknotes bearing the image of King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) are still in circulation, although they are rarely seen. You can pay with them, although very old or damaged notes may cause surprise.

If you have any problems, you can exchange them at any bank branch or at the Bank of Thailand.

How to plan your travel budget? Sample prices and cost of living in Thailand

How many baht per day does a tourist need for a comfortable holiday in Thailand?

Budget planning is an individual matter, but I can give you a rough estimate to help you set your daily budget and prepare for your trip. The amounts do not include accommodation, the prices of which vary greatly.

Travel style	Average daily budget per person (excluding accommodation)	What does it include?
Economical (Backpacker)	800 – 1,200 THB	Street food and cheap restaurants, public transport, basic attractions.
Average (Comfort)	1,500 – 3,000 THB	Food in restaurants, occasional taxis/Grab, paid excursions, massages.
High (Luxury)	from 4,000 THB	Meals in exclusive restaurants, private transport, drinks in sky bars, shopping.

Thailand is flexible – you can live here on a shoestring or spend a fortune. It all depends on your travel style.

How much does a street food meal cost on average in local currency?

Thai street food is a phenomenon – it is cheap, delicious and available at every turn. It is the best way to experience authentic food. When it comes to prices in Thailand, the local currency makes them very affordable. Here are some examples of costs:

• Pad Thai with chicken: 50 – 80 THB
• Mango sticky rice: 60 – 120 THB
• Tom Yum soup: 80 – 150 THB
• Chicken or pork skewers (Moo Ping): 10 – 20 THB per piece
• Fresh fruit shake: 40-60 THB
• Coconut water from a young coconut: 40 – 60 THB

As you can see, you can eat a full and tasty meal for 10-15 PLN. It is the food that makes travelling in Thailand so affordable.

Do hotels in Thailand require a cash deposit (THB) upon check-in?

Yes, many hotels and guesthouses require a deposit (known as a hotel deposit) upon check-in to cover any damage. Some establishments prefer pre-authorisation on a credit card, which is released upon check-out.

Others, especially smaller ones, may ask for a cash deposit, usually 500-2000 THB per stay. It is fully refundable upon departure. It is worth being prepared for this and having the appropriate amount with you.

Which rare Thai baht commemorative coins have collector’s value?

This is an interesting fact for enthusiasts, which can add variety to your trip. The Bank of Thailand regularly issues royal commemorative coins to mark important events. The most common are the two-colour 10 THB coins, which are in circulation.

Most of them do not have much numismatic value, but looking for coins with other designs is great fun. For tourists, it is more of a souvenir than an investment, but who knows, maybe you will come across a rarer specimen that will spark a new passion? When travelling, it is also worth keeping your eyes open for what ends up in your wallet.