Cash and cards in Thailand
Both cards and cash are commonly used across Thailand, though cash remains preferred at many smaller shops, street food vendors, and local markets. Thailand is a major global tourist destination, so payment infrastructure like ATMs and card terminals is generally well developed in tourist areas and major cities. In more rural regions, this infrastructure can vary, and carrying some cash is often practical.
Currency exchange booths and ATMs
Currency exchange booths are common in Thai tourist areas, giving visitors a straightforward way to convert foreign cash to baht. ATMs are also widely available and accept international cards, letting you withdraw baht directly. Each method has its own fee structure, so comparing costs before you exchange can help you keep more of your money.
Using a card payment
Cards work at many Thai businesses, particularly in cities and tourist zones. If you use a standard foreign card, your bank typically converts your home currency to baht at the point of sale. If you use a card funded from a crypto wallet, the process is similar: your stablecoin balance converts to Thai baht at the moment of payment or ATM withdrawal.
How Nexus Pay works in Thailand
Nexus Pay is a crypto wallet with a Visa card, funded across six networks and offering in-app coin swaps. When you pay or withdraw cash in Thailand, your stablecoin balance converts to baht at the applicable rate. This gives you one more option alongside exchange booths and traditional cards, letting you spend from your crypto holdings without a separate conversion step beforehand.
Choosing what works for your trip
The right method depends on where you are going and how you prefer to manage money.
- Cash from exchange booths works well for small vendors and markets.
- ATM withdrawals give you baht on demand but come with withdrawal fees.
- Card payments, whether traditional or crypto-funded, offer convenience at businesses that accept them.
Nexus Pay is one card option if you already hold stablecoins and want to spend them directly.
Common questions
What currency does Thailand use?
Thailand uses the Thai baht (THB). Both cash and cards are commonly used, with cash still preferred at many smaller shops and street vendors.
Are ATMs widely available in Thailand?
Yes, ATMs are generally well developed in tourist areas and major cities across Thailand. In more rural regions, availability can vary.
How does a crypto-funded card work in Thailand?
A card funded from a crypto wallet, like Nexus Pay, converts your stablecoin balance to Thai baht at the point of payment or ATM withdrawal, at the rate applicable at that moment.
Should I bring cash or rely on cards in Thailand?
Both are useful. Cards work well in cities and tourist areas, but cash is often needed for street food, local markets, and smaller vendors, especially outside major hubs.