Money & Banking in Thailand — Smarter with DogPay

Whether you’re travelling, working or staying longer in Thailand, understanding the local currency, banking and payment essentials is key. With DogPay, you gain a smarter, clearer way to manage your f...

Whether you’re travelling, working or staying longer in Thailand, understanding the local currency, banking and payment essentials is key. With DogPay, you gain a smarter, clearer way to manage your funds abroad.

1. The Currency: Thai Baht (THB)

Thailand’s official currency is the Thai baht (THB).  

Banknotes include denominations of 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 baht; common coins are 1, 2, 5 and 10 baht.  

While card and mobile payments are widely available in urban and tourist areas, carrying a small amount of cash is still wise for smaller vendors or in remote regions.

2. Currency Exchange, ATM Withdrawals & Payments

• Exchanging cash or withdrawing via ATMs is common in Thailand — but you should be mindful of exchange rates, fees and the currency used for settlement.  

• When paying or withdrawing, if prompted to “settle in your home currency”, always choose the local currency: THB. Choosing your home currency may lead to an unfavourable conversion rate.

• Although ATMs are plentiful in cities, fewer machines exist in rural or outlying areas — always plan accordingly.  

3. Banking System Overview

Thailand boasts a network of major commercial banks with broad ATM and branch coverage — for example, Bangkok Bank, Krung Thai Bank and Kasikorn Bank.  

For longer stays, opening a Thai bank account might be practical; but for travel or temporary stays, an international payment tool like DogPay plus minimal cash often offers greater convenience.

4. Why Use DogPay?

With DogPay as your financial companion in Thailand, you get:

• Multi-currency wallet + smart conversion: Load your account before travel; when you spend or withdraw in Thailand, DogPay converts to THB at optimal rates.

• Transparent fees & no hidden mark-ups: Unlike many physical exchange desks or bank services, DogPay provides clarity on what you’re really paying.

• Payments everywhere: Use your DogPay card or account at merchants, restaurants and online — fewer worries about cash or finding an exchange shop.

• Confidence and security: Monitor your balance, lock your card if needed, and spend abroad with peace of mind.

5. Practical Tips

• Prior to departure, load your DogPay account to cover initial costs like transport and meals.

• During your stay, use DogPay for most spending; keep a small amount of cash for backups.

• If you must withdraw cash: use bank-branded ATMs, withdraw a decent amount in one go, and ensure settlement in THB.

• Activate transaction alerts and card lock features in the DogPay app to stay in control.

6. Final Takeaway

Managing money and banking in Thailand doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With the right tools — especially DogPay — you can handle spending, currency conversion and banking with clarity and ease.

DogPay — your smarter payment partner for Thailand and beyond.