Planning a trip to Bangkok? One of the most important things to figure out before you go is what currency you’ll need. While you might be tempted to bring US Dollars, in Bangkok, the official currency is the Thai Baht, denoted by ฿.
The Baht Breakdown
The Baht is divided into 100 units called Satang. You’ll likely encounter coins in denominations of 25 and 50 Satang, and 1, 2, 5, and 10 Baht. Bills come in 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 Baht denominations. Fun fact, all Thai Baht bills feature an image of the King of Thailand.
Exchanging Your Currency
While you might be able to use US Dollars in some tourist areas, it’s generally not recommended. Exchanging your currency for Baht is the best way to go. You can do this before you leave your home country, but the rates often aren’t as favorable. Your best bet is to wait and exchange your money at a reputable money changer in Bangkok. Avoid kiosks at the airport, as they tend to have worse rates.
A Few Helpful Tips
- Do some research on the current exchange rate before you go. This will help you get a sense of how much things will cost in Baht.
- Always double-check the exchange rate and the amount of Baht you’re receiving before finalizing a transaction with a money changer.
- Consider bringing a mix of cash and debit cards. While many places accept cards, having some cash on hand is always a good idea for street vendors and smaller shops.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to navigating the currency exchange in Bangkok and enjoying your trip!
