Money Matters

The basic unit is the Thai Baht. One Thai Baht is divided into 100 satang. Coins come in values of 25 and 50 satang however more common are the 1, 5 and 10 Baht coins. Even though the 25 and 50 satang coins are virtually worthless (less than one US cent) you do get them as change.

Notes or bills come in 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 baht denominations are color coded for easy identification. It is recommended that you change some of your money into baht at the airport so that you can pay for transport and tip at your hotel etc.

US Dollars and major European and Asian currencies are readily exchanged into Thai baht at market rates that fluctuate daily. Banks and authorised money changers give the best rates. Many shopping centres have one or two bank kiosks or money changers conveniently located within the centre with competitive rates. When changing money be aware that you will get a slightly better rate for a USD100 bill than for a USD20 bill. Traveler cheques are widely accepted but it is better to exchange them for cash at a bank (remember to bring identification when cashing them).

If you happen to be traveling back to Bangkok after visiting other countries in the region (Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam etc.) best to exchange any money you have in that country's currency into US Dollars before you leave the country and exchange your US Dollars into Thai Baht when you get to Bangkok.