Is Thailand cashless?
Mixed#77 of 197 in The Cashlessy Index 2026 · #12 of 32 in Asia
Short answer: Carry baht for street food and markets. Every ATM charges foreign cards a fee, so withdraw larger amounts less often.
Hotels, malls, 7-Elevens and chains take cards, and Bangkok transit takes contactless. Street food, markets, tuk-tuks and island businesses are mostly cash.
Will my card work?
In cities and tourist areas. Hotels, chains and larger restaurants in Thailand take cards; smaller places often do not.
Do I need cash?
A little. Cards cover most spending in Thailand, but carry some cash for small places.
Local currency: Thai baht (THB)
How does tipping work?
Not required. Leave small change or 20-100 baht; service charges are common at hotels.
Mobile payments
Local apps often need a local bank account or phone number.
Getting cash: ATMs
Expect a fee at every ATM
Almost every Thai bank ATM charges foreign cards a flat 250-350 baht per withdrawal. Withdraw larger amounts less often.
Cheapest options
- AEON ATMs (about 150 baht), found in Big C and Makro stores
Your own bank may charge extra. When an ATM offers to convert to your home currency, decline and pay in the local currency.
Good to know
- Always decline the ATM's offer to convert to your home currency.
Frequently asked questions
Is Thailand cashless?
Thailand scores 56/100 on Cashlessy (mixed), ranking #77 of 197 countries. Hotels, malls, 7-Elevens and chains take cards, and Bangkok transit takes contactless. Street food, markets, tuk-tuks and island businesses are mostly cash.
Do I need cash in Thailand?
A little. Cards cover most spending in Thailand, but carry some cash for small places.
Are credit cards accepted in Thailand?
In cities and tourist areas. Hotels, chains and larger restaurants in Thailand take cards; smaller places often do not.
Do you tip in Thailand?
Not required. Leave small change or 20-100 baht; service charges are common at hotels.
Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in Thailand?
Yes. Phone wallets work at most terminals that accept contactless cards in Thailand.
Which ATMs are free in Thailand?
Almost every Thai bank ATM charges foreign cards a flat 250-350 baht per withdrawal. Withdraw larger amounts less often. Best options: AEON ATMs (about 150 baht), found in Big C and Makro stores.
Compare with Asia
Sources
Checked against sources in September 2026. Payment habits change quickly; see how we score.